Kennel Cough is a not uncommon upper respiratory infection in canines. The scientific term is "Canine Infectious Tracheobronhitis". Another common name for kennel cough is Bordetella, after one of the organisms causing kennel cough.

Kennel cough can be caused by a number of micro organisms. Bacteria, virus and mycoplasma. Most often two or more organisms are needed for the working dog to show symptoms of kennel cough.

The most common bacteria causing kennel cough, the Bordetella Bronchiseptica is usually found where many dogs congregate. That includes your veterinarians office, the dog run you frequent, and of course dog shows and boarding facilities. Kennel cough in working canines may be an increased risk of exposure if the dog is exposed to other canines.

Once the dog has been exposed, and we'd like to point out that healthy dogs may harbor the bacteria, and or viruses, in their system and only becoming ill when under stress, it takes from three to seven days for the dog to start to develop symptoms.

Frequently the disease is mild, and is treated with antibiotics prescribed by your vet. Sometimes cough suppresants and bronchodilators may be prescribed as well.

Supporting your dogs immune system by feeding a proper diet, preferably raw, will go a long way in preventing the occurance of kennel cough in working dogs, it can also minimize the duration and intensity of the infection.