What are the symptoms of Bordetella in dogs?

Dogs are bound to suffer from diseases during their growth. Bordetella infection in dogs is a common disease that worries their owners. Understanding the symptoms of this disease is an important prerequisite for protecting the health of dogs, so that we can detect and treat the disease in time when it first appears, reducing the pain of dogs. ​

Canine Bordetella infection, also known as kennel cough, is a highly contagious respiratory disease caused by Bordetella bronchiseptica. This bacteria is easily spread in places where dogs are densely populated, such as pet stores, kennels, and pet hospitals. Even if healthy dogs have short contact with sick dogs, they may be infected. Once a dog is unfortunately infected, it will embark on a difficult journey to fight the disease, and as owners, we must be more sensitive to the clues of the disease. ​

Coughing is the most significant symptom of Bordetella infection in dogs, and the characteristics of coughing are relatively unique. In most cases, dogs will make a goose-like or piercing dry cough, and sometimes the cough will have a "clicking" sound, as if something is stuck in the throat. This cough will become more frequent and severe after the dog exercises, when excited, or when the temperature changes. Imagine that in the dead of night, the dog suddenly makes a series of violent coughs, making the originally quiet night full of anxiety. As the owner, how can we sleep peacefully? ​

In addition to coughing, dogs will also have symptoms of runny nose. In the early stage, the nasal mucus may be clear and thin. As the disease progresses, the nasal mucus will become thicker and the color may turn yellow or green. Dogs often scratch their noses with their paws unconsciously to try to relieve nasal discomfort. Due to the blocked nose, the dog will make a heavy wheezing sound when breathing, and each breath seems extremely difficult, as if it is bound by an invisible yoke. Seeing their uncomfortable appearance, the owner's heart is also tightened. ​

Some dogs infected with Bordetella will become listless. The dog, who used to be full of energy and always around his owner, becomes listless and has no interest in his favorite toys and games. He curls up in a corner all day. When eating, he no longer eats as fast as usual, and his appetite has obviously decreased. He even ignores his favorite snacks. His weight gradually decreases, and his body becomes weaker and weaker. His healthy and lively figure in the past is no longer there, and he is left with a distressing thin appearance. ​

Some dogs with more serious conditions may also have fever symptoms. When the dog's body temperature rises, he will become more sleepy, his body will tremble slightly, and you can feel the heat when you touch his ears and paw pads. At this time, the dog's body is fighting fiercely with the bacteria, and every second is extremely difficult. If not treated in time, the condition may further worsen, causing serious complications such as pneumonia, endangering the dog's life. ​

Canine Bordetella infection not only brings great pain to the dog's body, but also makes the owner worried. Seeing dogs tortured by the disease, we wish we could bear it all for them. But fortunately, as long as we are careful enough, detect the abnormal symptoms of dogs in time, and take them to regular pet hospitals for diagnosis and treatment, most dogs can overcome the disease and regain their former vitality. ​

In daily life, we must also do a good job of prevention to reduce the risk of dog infection. Try to avoid taking dogs to places where dogs are densely populated and sanitary conditions are poor, and vaccinate dogs regularly to enhance their immunity. At the same time, keep the dog's living environment clean and ventilated, and regularly disinfect doghouses, toys, etc. to create a healthy and safe living space for dogs.

When dogs are unfortunately infected with canine Bordetella, companionship and care are the best medicine. During the treatment, spend more time with dogs, give them warm touches and encouraging words, and let them feel that the owner's love is never absent. Because dogs are not only our pets, but also important members of our family. They give us unconditional love and companionship. We should also stay with them when they are sick and protect their health.