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Kennel Cough and You - Is There a Connection?

25 16:04:58

We do not usually associate coughing with dogs, so listening to your pet struggle with a hacking cough can be pretty scary.

 

Still, when it comes to respiratory infections, dogs and humans are not all that different.

In fact, because we can both suffer from respiratory discomfort, some people wonder if there is a connection between humans and kennel cough. Generally speaking, research suggests that it is indeed possible for infections to travel between humans and animals.

Bordeltellosis in Humans

Kennel cough is believed to be caused by bacteria known as bordetella brochiseptia which is similar to the bordetella pertussis bacteria responsible for whooping cough.

Though not terribly common, humans with a weak immune system can suffer from what is called human bordeltellosis. According to VetCentric.com this illness can be transmitted from humans to dogs through coughing.

How is Kennel Cough Transmitted?

Kennel cough symptoms are nearly identical to the symptoms you'd experience with any upper respiratory infection - but of course, if that is what you're suffering from, no one would even think to refer to it as kennel cough!

Whether in humans or dogs, the number one transmitter of bacteria and viruses responsible for respiratory infections is the air we breathe.

Having a weakened immune system is generally what can lead to your picking up on bacteria from a dog that has been exposed to or come down with kennel cough.

Obviously, living in a house that is poorly ventilated can make it easier to come down with any disease as well. That is why it's so important to keep your (and your dog's!) environment clean and well-ventilated.

In the case of kennel cough, you should also avoid contact with infected animals. Keep in mind that the most common symptoms of kennel cough in humans are very similar to those of a bad cold or the flu.

Preventing The Spread of Kennel Cough

Prevention of any disease is typically easier than trying to treat it once it occurs. For that reason, it is advisable to avoid being around dogs that have been infected with the kennel cough disease. Particularly since the illness is transmitted through the air.

Staying healthy and strong will also help cut down on the chances of contracting an illness - respiratory or otherwise.

Other measures to help prevent the possible spread of disease is to:

  • Avoid getting up close to your dog's face when she's coughing
  • Use disinfectant to kill bacteria, viruses and germs - in and around your home
  • If your dog is ill, keep her away from other dogs as well as people who may be vulnerable (the elderly, the very young, pregnant women and others with low levels of immunity)

Treating Kennel Cough

Though there is no definitive proof for or against humans being able to contract kennel cough, people have been known to experience very similar symptoms to those their dogs struggled with during the time they were ill.

Patients with milder symptoms are generally instructed to use cough suppressants whereas patients suffering from more acute kennel cough symptoms have been treated with antibiotics.