The Connection Bernards-Ridge Edition January February 2015

PAGE 34 THE BERNARDS-RIDGE CONNECTION FEB/MARCH 2015 20 Years Emergency Veterinary Medicine Behind Us. ANIMAL PAWS Please call for FREE consultation. Last minute bookings for existing clients. (no late fee) BONDED & INSURED Nominated by National Animal Pet Sitting Association for 2015 for one of the Best Pet Sitting Services in the Nation. PETS ENJOY BEING HOME! Pet Sitting, LLC 12 Years of Loving Professional Pet Sitting Experience Cell 908-963-0311 email: michele@animalpaws.net animalpaws.org Vacations, daily dog walking, overnight stays, client education on animal care. We do transporta- tion, give insulin injections, SQ fluids, dog hikes. JEFF COGEN 973-537-7426 rhythmstck.wix.com/jeff-cogen Serving Morris & Somerset Counties Only DRUM LESSONS... Enhance yours or your children's musical goals with mastery in both understanding and performance!!! ALL STYLES Beginner to Advanced RENTALS ARE AVAILABLE KENNEL COUGH IN DOGS By: Michele Patanio, Animal Paws Pet Sitting LLC 908-963-0311 animalpaws.net A few of my clients have reported to me their pets have had kennel cough recently. So I thought this article might help. If your dog is hacking away or constantly making noises that make it sound like he’s choking on something, he may have a case of kennel cough, or canine infectious tracheo- bronchitis. Although kennel cough can sound terrible, most of the time it is not a serious condition, and most dogs will recover without treatment. But some can get pneumonia if not cared for by your veterinarian. What is Kennel Cough? Just as human colds may be caused by many different viruses, kennel cough itself can have multiple causes. One of the most common culprits is a bacterium called Bordetella bron- chiseptica which is why kennel cough is often called Bordetella. Most dogs that become infected with Bordetella are infected with a virus at the same time. These viruses, which are known to make dogs more susceptible to contracting Bordetella infection, include canine adenovirus, canine distemper virus, canine herpes virus, parainfluenza virus and canine provirus. Dogs “catch” kennel cough when they inhale bacteria or virus particles into their respiratory tract. This tract is normally lined with a coat- ing of mucus that traps infectious particles, but there are a number of factors that can weaken this protection and make dogs prone to kennel cough infection, which results in inflammation of the larynx (voice box) and tra- chea (windpipe). These factors include: • Exposure to crowded and/or poorly venti- lated conditions, such as are found in many kennels and shelters • Cold temperatures • Exposure to dust or cigarette smoke • Travel-induced stress Symptoms of Kennel Cough The classic symptom of kennel cough is a per- sistent, forceful cough. It often sounds like a goose honk. This is distinct from a cough-like sound made by some dogs, especially little ones, which is called a reverse sneeze. Reverse sneezes can be normal in certain dogs and breeds, and usually only indicates the pres- ence of post-nasal drip or a slight irritation of the throat. Some dogs with kennel cough may show other symptoms of illness, including sneezing, a runny nose, or eye discharge. Treating and Preventing Kennel Cough Kennel cough is contagious. If you think your dog might have the condition, you should keep him away from other animals and con- tact your veterinarian. Although some cases of kennel cough will resolve without treatment, but I would call my veterinarian for their advice, medications may speed recovery or minimize symptoms during the course of infection. These include antibi- otics that target Bordetella bacteria and cough medicines. You may also find that keeping your dog in a well-humidified area and using a harness instead of a collar, especially for dogs that strain against a leash, will minimize the coughing. Most dogs with kennel cough recover com- pletely within three weeks, though it can take up to six weeks in older dogs or those with other medical conditions. Because serious, ongoing kennel cough infection can lead to pneumonia, be sure to follow up with your veterinarian if your dog doesn't improve with- in the expected amount of time. Also, if your dog at any time has symptoms of rapid breathing, not eating, or listlessness, contact your vet right away, as these could be signs of more serious conditions. I hope you and your 2 and 4 footed furry ones enjoy the rest of the winter. Remember to wipe their paws from ice and salt after each walk or play! As always call your veterinarian for his or her advice. Hope you and your furry friends and family enjoyed the Holidays! Happy New Year to all! www.theconnectionsnj.com