Understanding and Managing Kennel Cough in Dogs

Over the past few weeks, many members of our group have reported their dogs suffering from kennel cough. To provide comprehensive support, we've compiled this article with detailed information about the disease, the vaccine, and natural remedies to aid recovery and boost the immune system.

What is Kennel Cough?

Kennel cough, also known as canine infectious respiratory disease or canine infectious tracheobronchitis, is an upper respiratory infection in dogs. It is caused by a combination of bacteria and viruses, with Bordetella bronchiseptica being one of the primary bacterial culprits  . Kennel cough is highly contagious, spreading through respiratory secretions from dog to dog. Infected dogs must be isolated at the first sign of symptoms to prevent further transmission.

Symptoms of Kennel Cough

Kennel cough manifests in various symptoms, ranging from mild to severe. Key symptoms include:

- Persistent dry cough

- Coughing that keeps dogs awake at night

- Retching or gagging

- Watery nasal discharge

- In mild cases: dogs remain active and continue eating normally

- In severe cases: symptoms can progress to pneumonia, inappetence, fever, and lethargy

Natural Remedies for Kennel Cough

Most cases of kennel cough resolve with rest and supportive care. Here are some natural remedies to help your dog recover:

1. Steam Therapy

  - Steam can help loosen mucus in the throat and nose, relieving the cough. Let your dog sit in the bathroom while you take a hot shower. Ensure they have access to water to stay hydrated.

2. Rest

   - Ample rest is crucial. A well-rested dog can fight off the infection more effectively.

3. Bone Broth

   - Feeding bone broth can provide essential nutrients and hydration, aiding in recovery.

4. Marshmallow Root and Slippery Elm

   - Both have demulcent and tonic properties that soothe the throat and alleviate coughing. Marshmallow root is gentler and can be especially helpful.

5. Homeopathy

   - Drosera 30C is a recommended homeopathic remedy for kennel cough. Administer one pillule every hour for up to four hours.

6. Essential Oils

   - Diffusing essential oils, such as the thieves blend, can provide relief. Use six drops in a diffuser in an enclosed room for two hours. Note that essential oils should not be used concurrently with homeopathic remedies.

7. Natural Cough Syrup

   - Mix one tablespoon of locally sourced raw honey or manuka honey with one tablespoon of lemon juice and 120 ml of warm water. Administer using a dropper if necessary. (Avoid giving honey to puppies under 12 months, diabetic dogs, or dogs allergic to bees.)

8. Environmental Control

   - Keep your dog’s sleeping area warm and free of drafts. Use Leucillin spray to disinfect surfaces and fabrics to minimize the spread of the virus.

Supporting the Immune System Post-Recovery

After recovering from kennel cough, it's essential to boost your dog's immune system to prevent future illnesses. Here are some natural supplements that can help:

1. Echinacea

   - Echinacea has natural antibiotic, antifungal, and antiviral properties. It can also help prevent the growth of cancer cells by extending the life of healthy cells .

   - Dosage: 12 to 25 drops of echinacea tincture three times a day, with a schedule of five days on and two to three days off.

2. Chamomile Tincture

   - Chamomile has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, and it also helps with anxiety and digestive upset.

   - Dosage: 0.25 ml to 0.50 ml per 10 kg of body weight, twice a day.

3. Medicinal Mushrooms

   - Mushrooms are powerful immune boosters with antiviral, antitumor, anti-inflammatory, and antibacterial properties . Varieties like shiitake, turkey tail, reishi, and chaga are particularly beneficial.

   - If sourcing mushrooms is difficult, consider supplements like those from Four Leaf Rover or Time Health.

Kennel Cough Vaccine: Is it Necessary?

Kennel cough vaccines are a topic of debate among canine immunologists. Dr. Ronald Schultz, a leading expert in canine immunology, describes kennel cough as a disease not effectively preventable by vaccine . The vaccine covers only a few of the approximately 40 viruses that can cause kennel cough, making it less reliable. Additionally, live vaccines can shed the virus for 3-14 weeks, potentially exposing other dogs.

Over-vaccination can also overload a dog’s body with heavy metals, posing long-term health risks. Therefore, unless absolutely necessary, it is often advisable to avoid the kennel cough vaccine and focus on natural immune support instead. You can learn a bit more about the kennel cough vaccine in our minimal vaccine protocol.

Conclusion

Kennel cough is a common yet manageable condition. By understanding the symptoms and utilizing natural remedies, you can support your dog's recovery and boost their immune system. While the kennel cough vaccine is available, its efficacy is limited, and natural alternatives may provide safer, long-term protection. If you need further assistance or have questions, our team is here to help. Feel free to reach out via the group.

Sources

1. "Kennel Cough in Dogs." VCA Animal Hospitals. [Link](https://vcahospitals.com/know-your-pet/kennel-cough-in-dogs)

2. "Bordetella Bronchiseptica in Dogs." Merck Veterinary Manual. [Link](https://www.merckvetmanual.com/generalized-conditions/respiratory-diseases-of-dogs-and-cats/bordetella-bronchiseptica-in-dogs)

3. "Echinacea: Benefits, Uses, Side Effects and Dosage." Healthline. [Link](https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/echinacea)

4. "Medicinal Mushrooms for Dogs: The Ultimate Guide." Dogs Naturally Magazine. [Link](https://

www.dogsnaturallymagazine.com/medicinal-mushrooms-for-dogs/)

5. "Does Your Dog Need the Kennel Cough Vaccine?" Dogs Naturally Magazine. [Link](https://www.dogsnaturallymagazine.com/kennel-cough-vaccine/)