It is hard to say and sometime they end up with a secondary infection. Over a three to ten day incubation period, the pathogens temporarily destroy the protective cilia (little hair like structures) lining of the larynx, trachea and bronchi. Once the cilia are destroyed, the upper respiratory tract becomes irritated and the dog begins coughing and showing other symptoms of illness. Without the protective lining, the pathogens may also move into the lungs and trigger a secondary infection in some dogs. The most common bacterial cause is bordetella brochiseptica. Kennel cough symptoms for viral and bacterial infections are similar. Yet the infection type can make the difference in the duration of the illness. Bacterial infections may last longer than some viral infections.
The most common secondary infection is pneumonia.
Signs of kennel cough with a secondary infection include:
Fever
Deep, congested cough
Thick nasal discharge
Labored breathing
Fatigue
Loss of appetite
Cases of kennel cough with a secondary infection can last for any period of time between two weeks to three months. Veterinary attention is required to help a dog recover from kennel cough complications. Hopefully, the antibiotic is quick and you will have no secondary problems and the kennel cough will be a light case. Humidifier is good and the honey helps with soothing throat and a little energy. We are keeping you in our prayers. Mary |