coughing.

Question
Hi,

I have a ten year old bassethound and a few days ago he was shaking like he was cold. I haven't noticed it since then, but about 2 days ago, he had diaherra and he pooped in the house. Now he starting to cough. He sounds like he has trouble breathing or something when he coughs. When he is about done coughing he looks like he is about to puke. He hacks, but nothing ever comes out. This goes on and off through the day, all day today. Just on and off. It can't be kennel cough, he hasn't been in a kennel like a year os so. I hope it ain't something serious. please help.

PS when i got done typing the message, he just puked.

BethE.

Answer
You are describing bronchitis. Often they will swallow mucus and that is what they regurgitate. Even though it is called Kennel Cough, there are a number of viruses and bacteria that can cause bronchitis even though the dog has not been in a kennel.  Sometimes environmental changes can lead to bronchitis. Cold dry air can irritate the trachea leading to bronchitis.  Most of these cases resolve in 2-3 weeks, but there are cough suppressants that the vet can prescribe to help relieve the coughing.  If there is anything building up in the lungs, a chest X-ray and an expectorant to thin the mucus to make the dog cough it up will be needed.