• Is highly contagious infectious disease of the canine respiratory tract through direct contact with aerosolized respiratory secretions (via coughing and sneezing) from infected dogs

Causes: the virus canine parainfluenza virus and the bacteria Bordetella bronchiseptica

Incidence:

• Incubation period is usually 5 to 7 days
• Can be harbored in the airways of asymptomatic carriers
• It targets the upper airway

Note: in young puppies and immunocompromised animals, mixed infections or secondary bacterial invasion of the lower respiratory tract may cause life-threatening bronchopneumonia.

Symptoms:

• Sudden onset of a loud, hacking cough which can be dry –sounding. Cough can be high-pitched because of laryngitis and swollen vocal folds.
• Cough may be more frequent during exercise, excitement or changes in temperature and humidity of the air
• The coughing may be followed by gagging or retching that can be mistaken for vomiting or choking
• Increased production of mucous secretions from the nose
• Dog may continue to eat, remain active, alert and nonfebrile. In severe cases tiredness, depression and even a fever may be present.

Prevention: Yearly vaccination

If any of the above is evident, see your vet.

Article contributed by PuppyTails Training & TTouch Centre for Animals