canine parainfluenza, Bordetella and kennel cough

Question 1

what should you consider about Kennel cough

Answer 1

it can be caused by parainfluenza, Bordetella or mycoplasma

Question 2

what is parainfluenza

Answer 2

it is a single stranded virus of the paramyxoviradae family, is a mild respiratory tract infection and often in conjunction with other microbial agents

Question 3

what should you consider about parainfluenza

Answer 3

it is highly contagious in kennels, dog shows and veterinary clinics and is transmitted through contact with nasal secretion of infected dogs

Question 4

what are the 5 signs of parainfluenza

Answer 4

dry cough/reverse sneeze
nasal discharge
mucous
fatal pneumonia in puppies
chronic bronchitis and is self limiting

Question 5

what should you consider about the treatment of parainfluenza

Answer 5

it is a symptomatic treatment using antibiotics, antitussives and bronchodilators

Question 6

what 3 things should you consider abut Bordetella etiology

Answer 6

a) caused by the bacteria Bordetella branchiseptica
b) is a gram negative coccobacillus
c) usually affects dogs and swine but is also becoming more prevalent in cats

Question 7

what 4 things should you consider about Bordetella transmission

Answer 7

1. often by inhalations as it is easily aerosoled
2. can also be transmitted directly by an infected animals
3. sometimes transmitted by fomites
4. it is called kennel cough because it is often seen in areas with a large quantity of animals

Question 8

what are the 5 clinical signs of Bordetella

Answer 8

a) harsh unproductive cough, reverse sneeze
b) tracheobronchitis
c) sometimes leads to fever and pneumonia
d) exercise intolerance
e) some animals do not show sign but still carry it

Question 9

what 3 things should you consider about the treatment of bordetella

Answer 9

a) often resolves itself in 2-3 weeks
b) you can give a non narcotic cough suppressant to control coughing

c) sulfonamides and broad spectrum antibiotics can be given in serious infections

Question 10

what should you consider about the prevention of Bordetella

Answer 10

avoid exposure in young puppies and immune compromise animals as well as vaccinate prior to potential exposure

Question 11

what 5 things should you consider about Bordetella vaccines

Answer 11

a) intranasal and subcutaneous injectable
b) subcutaneous lasts longer
c) intranasal works more quickly
d) usually only vaccinated when the animal is going to a kennel/daycare

e) not a core disease as at is not a serious and disease and will spontaneously rectify itself