Health Notice For All Clients & Park City Residence:

Tracheobronchitis/Bordetellosis (Canine/Kennel Cough)
tra·che·o·bron·chi·tis (trā'kē-ō-brŏn-kī'tĭs)
n.  
      1. Inflammation of the mucous membrane of the trachea and bronchi.

"Some education is sought after while other education is chosen for you." 
Another topic for our Canine Health Notices. Tis the season for the common cold to rear its ugly head, this not only applies to us but to our canine counterparts as well.

It has come to our attention that some dogs in the area have come down with what is most commonly referred to as Kennel Cough. The doggie version of the common cold. No need to worry.

Having had dogs for 20+ years I have dealt with this a time or two and find little need for concern. I want to share some of the information I have found helpful.

What we've learned is summarized below.

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​Facts About Dog Colds

It is important to note that there are a variety of "germs" that can contribute to your dog catching a cold (bordetella bronchiseptica bacteria, canine adenovirus, parainfluenza virus, and mycoplasma). Dog's can be stricken with one or multiple of these at the same time.


While all are contagious the majority of adult dogs will have gained an immunity and remain symptom free. Recover time is typically a week or two. A small chance of secondary infection can lead to complications and increased down time.

Clinical signs
 
The most common symptom is a dry hacking cough, not uncommon to be followed by retching. Dripping nose can also be another sign.

In severe cases dogs may have a fever, lethargy or pneumonia. 

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Treatment
Mild cases are best treated with good ole TLC. Rest, warmth, soft food and lots of liquids. Sometimes a cough medicine can be necessary to ease throat irritation (honey works amazing for this!).

Dogs should avoid contact with other dogs during this time so as not to spread the germ further but also to get some peace and quiet. I like to give my dogs low sodium chicken broth with vitamin C mixed in to encourage hydration and boost their immune system.

Cases that progress to a bacterial infection (signs are not eating or excessive lethargic) will require a vet visit to assess what treatment is best suited.

What we are doing
 Due to the communal situations in both Montessori Dog School and Group Classes it is not uncommon to encounter colds here and there. We do our very best to keep everything sanitized and clean. We ask that you assist us by not allowing dogs who may be showing symptoms to attend these programs. 

We also send out this very email you are reading as soon as we hear word of any dog in the area having "kennel cough". By sharing this info quickly to all of our clients we have successfully navigated through two pretty nasty cold seasons with zero school closures and very few dogs having to visit the vets. 

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Key points:
Dog Colds are...

• A typical occurrence in a social dog's life
• Majority of cases are mild.
• Rest, Warmth and Liquids. Just like when you get a cold.
• Keep a close eye for secondary infection symptoms.

If you have any questions or concerns please do not hesitate to ask us or call and chat with one of our recommends vets. 
Park City Animal Clinic - 435.649.0710
Animal Health Solutions - 435.647.0807