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Category Article Pets Animals Canine Contagious Respiratory Disease (CCRD)
Category Article Pets Animals Canine Contagious Respiratory Disease (CCRD) 
| Canine Contagious Respiratory Disease (CCRD) |
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Canine Contagious Respiratory Disease (CCRD) (also known as “canine cough” and “kennel cough”) is a highly contagious disease transmitted by air and wind currents contaminated with cough and sneeze droplets from infected canines. It occurs withm high frequency in boarding kennels, dog shows, and other areas where dogs may be congregated. There is no one organism on which to solely place the blame for this disease. In fact, over six different causative agents have been isolated, including several types of adenoviruses and reoviruses, the canine herpes virus, the parainfluenza virus, and a bacterium called Bordetella bronchiseptica.
All of these agents can cause disease by themselves or in combination with the others. The Bordetella organism is related to the bacterium that causes whooping cough in humans, and can cause permanent damage to the airways of affected dogs if not detected and treated soon enough. The classic clinical sign associated with an uncomplicated case of Canine Contagious Respiratory Disease (CCRD) includes a relentless dry, hacking cough, usually nonproductive. Occasionally, a clear discharge from the nose might appear. Gagging or retching might be noted at the end of a coughing spell and is often mistaken for vomiting. Affected dogs rarely run a fever or seem to “feel bad,” nor is it common for them to lose their appetite that is, if the case doesn’t become complicated with secondary infections. Complicated cases of Canine Contagious Respiratory Disease (CCRD) are characterized by a greenish eye and nasal discharge, and by obvious breathing difficulties as pneumonia rears its ugly head. In these instances, affected animals do run fevers, do lose their appetites, and do appear sick. Diagnosis of Canine Contagious Respiratory Disease (CCRD) is based on the presence of the classic clinical signs, plus a recent history of exposure to other dogs. Radiographs might be required to evaluate the extent of the lung and airway involvement in complicated cases. Bacterial cultures are also indicated in these latter instances. Treatment of the disease consists of antibiotic therapy, and, in the case of non productive coughs, cough suppressants. Owners need to realize that coughing can persist for up to 3 weeks, even after treatment. If complications exist, more specific therapy will be needed to battle the pneumonia and fever and to prevent dehydration. Vaporizers are often used to liquefy secretions in the airway, allowing for greater ease of passage. A similar effect can be obtained by placing the affected pet in a steam-filled bathroom for 10 to 15 minutes. Just be sure that the temperature within the room doesn’t get too hot; drinking water should be provided to the dog to help prevent overheating. An intranasal vaccine can be administered to provide some protection against Canine Contagious Respiratory Disease. If a dog has not been vaccinated within the past 6 months, it should be administered no later than 1 week prior to a scheduled boarding or event. Tags: Article Pets Animals Canine Contagious Respiratory Disease (CCRD) |
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