Kennel cough in canines is as common as head cold in humans. It is caused by a number of agents – viruses as well as bacteria. The most common agents that cause kennel cough are parainfuenza (viral) and bordetella bronchiseptica (bacterial).

Kennel cough is a respiratory infection of the bronchi and throat that causes a prolonged dry hoarse cough. The infection as such is neither serious nor painful to warrant panic but long spells of honking cough can be extremely frustrating for the owner and uncomfortable for the dog. Medically, kennel cough in dogs can potentially lead to weakening of the immune system and secondary infections like pneumonia.

Common symptoms of kennel cough include fever, listlessness, spasmodic and prolonged cough, lack of appetite and nasal or eye discharge. The severity of the infection determines the level of symptoms that are manifested. In most cases, your dog may behave normally with a dry cough as the only apparent symptom.

The best treatment for kennel cough is to let the condition run its course as there is no cure for this condition. The most that dog owners can do is to attempt to ease the discomfort of the dog.

The whole idea of the topic of this article seems to be dubious since the fact is that kennel cough does not have any remedies at all. It is like the common cold that humans get or the chest congestion that will take its own course and heal on its own.

The symptoms of kennel cough take about 5 to 6 days to appear after the bacterium or virus actually strikes your pet. Knowing the symptoms and treatment for kennel cough can go a long way in helping your dog feel more comfortable.

The best way to ensure that your dog does not have a painful ad bad time with kennel cough is to prevent it. Vaccinate your dog against the bacterium and viruses that can cause kennel cough. Speak to your vet about the details and the schedule for the booster doses. Know that these vaccines are not only necessary for dogs that stay in kennels or go for dog shows. Kennel cough is so infectious that it can occur even if your pet stays at home generally but visits parks and goes for walks.