Can I Get Kennel Cough From My Dog
Can I Get Kennel Cough from My Dog?
When it comes to being a pet owner, there are many things to consider. You want to provide the best care for your furry friend while also protecting yourself and others around you. One concern that may come up is kennel cough, a highly contagious respiratory infection that affects dogs. But can you catch kennel cough from your dog? Let’s take a closer look.
What is Kennel Cough?
Kennel cough, also known as canine infectious tracheobronchitis, is a respiratory infection that affects dogs. It is highly contagious and can be caused by a variety of viruses and bacteria. The most common culprits are the Bordetella bronchiseptica bacterium and the canine parainfluenza virus.
Symptoms of kennel cough include a persistent dry cough, sneezing, runny nose, lethargy, and loss of appetite. In severe cases, dogs may develop fever and pneumonia. While kennel cough can be uncomfortable for dogs, it is usually not life-threatening and will clear up on its own within a few weeks.
How is Kennel Cough Spread?
Kennel cough is primarily spread through airborne droplets when an infected dog coughs or sneezes. It can also be spread through direct contact with contaminated surfaces such as toys or food bowls. Dogs who spend time in crowded areas such as shelters, boarding facilities, or dog parks are at higher risk of contracting kennel cough.
Can Humans Catch Kennel Cough from Dogs?
The short answer is yes, humans can catch kennel cough from dogs. However, it is rare and typically only occurs in people with weakened immune systems such as young children, the elderly, or those with underlying health conditions.
While humans are not the primary host for the Bordetella bronchiseptica bacterium that causes kennel cough in dogs, it is possible for the bacteria to infect humans. Symptoms in humans are similar to those in dogs and include a persistent cough, runny nose, and fever.
Preventing Kennel Cough
The best way to prevent kennel cough in your dog is through vaccination. The Bordetella vaccine is typically given annually and can protect against the most common strains of the bacterium. You can also reduce your dog’s risk of contracting kennel cough by avoiding crowded areas or ensuring that any facilities your dog visits have proper ventilation and sanitation protocols.
While it is rare for humans to catch kennel cough from dogs, taking basic hygiene measures such as washing your hands after handling an infected dog or avoiding close contact while they are contagious can help reduce the risk.
Conclusion
In summary, while it is possible for humans to catch kennel cough from their dogs, it is rare and typically only occurs in people with weakened immune systems. The best way to prevent kennel cough in your dog is through vaccination and avoiding crowded areas where the infection can spread. As a responsible pet owner, taking these precautions can help keep both you and your furry friend healthy and happy.
