Yorkie Puppies with Kennel cough

Kennel cough is an contagious disease caused by many bacteria and viruses. In puppies, virus infection, canine para influenza and canine distemper are more common. the most common cause of kennel cough in canines is the Bortedella Bronchiseptica, which occurs in canines aged six months and below.

In general, Yorkie puppies are more prone to many environmental stresses such as humidity and unstable temperature – these can trigger primary & secondary infections which eventually lead to bronchopneumonia (inflammation of the bronchus and lungs).

Signs & Symptoms:

Palpation of the wind pipe may lead to cough. Convulsions associated with vomiting after severe cough are also common in Yorkie puppies with kennel cough.

At first, dry cough is common as well but may eventually turn to moist or productive cough . which also indicates bronchopneumonia and chronic infection are present.

Diagnosis:

Kennel cough can be diagnosed by the clinical signs & symptoms, history & culturing of nasal swabs & discharge. If cough persists for more than seven days may be suspected to be kennel cough. A mild palpation in the wind pipe ultimately leads to severe cough which results to inflammation in the bronchus and trachea.

Persistent cough along with severe illness are complications associated with bronchopneumonia.

Treatment for Yorkie Puppies with Kennel Cough:

Antibiotics are usually given for Yorkie puppies with kennel cough as they are more responsive and sensitive to antibiotics. An intensive and thorough check-up should be done before to the use of antibiotics.

Cough suppressants such as codeine & hydrocodone are effective in Yorkie puppies but should be given in low doses upon schedule as prescribed by the veterinarian.

For the Yorkie puppy to recover as soon as possible, special nutritional housing care is needed. Poor care can lead to prolonged illness, complications and worse, death.

Homeopathic remedies are also available for Yorkie puppies that suffer from respiratory problems such as kennel. One product specifically formulated for this purpose is PetAlive KC-Defense. It is made to naturally help canines suffering from acute kennel cough and other respiratory problems. Given the severity of kennel cough in Yorkie puppies be sure to consult with a veterinarian.

Prevention of Kennel Cough and other Respiratory Problems:

Yorkie puppies should be vaccinated for adenoviruses & distemper viruses by live virus vaccines. Initial doses are given to the puppy at age of six to eight weeks, to be given again at intervals of three to four weeks, until age of fourteen to sixteen weeks is reached.