Bordetella

Bordetella bronchiseptica is a bacterium that is commonly associated with respiratory disease in dogs.

Facts

• It is one of several organisms included on a short list* of bacteria and viruses that cause canine infectious bronchitis/tracheitis or canine cough.
• It can infect dogs, cats, rabbits, guinea pigs, and rarely humans.

Transmission

• It is airborne- from coughing or sneezing of an infected dog
• It also is transmitted by direct contact (i.e. sharing feeding bowls, bedding)
• Incubation period (the time of exposure until displaying symptoms) is around 14 days

Clinical Symptoms

• Hacking, honking, and/or gagging cough
• Has also been described as having something “stuck in the throat”
• Occasional discharge from the nose
• Possible fever
• Possible lethargy

Diagnosis

• Usually based on clinical signs
• Also based on history of possible exposure

Treatment

• In most cases, no treatment is needed.
• Antibiotics and cough suppressants may be prescribed
• Use a harness instead of a collar. This prevents irritation to already sensitive trachea

Prevention

• Though please note that if a dog is already incubating the bacterium the vaccine will not prevent infection.

*Other cases of canine cough may be caused by Canine Adenovirus Type 2, Canine Influenza, and Parainfluenza