Canine Parainfluenza
The Facts
Read about Canine Parainfluenza virus (CPIV),one of the viruses that causes kennel cough and find out more about the symptons, the cause, who’s most at risk and how the virus is spread. Learn what the signs are, how parainfluenza in dogs can be prevented, and finally how dogs are diagnosed and treated for CPIV.
- Persistent cough
- Fever
- Nasal discharge
- Sneezing
- Eye inflammation
- Lethargy
- Loss of appetite
How is it spread?
Canine parainfluenza is passed on through airborne particles from coughing and sneezing.
It can also be contracted through infected water bowls, food bowls and bedding.
An infected dog can continue to pass on the virus for up to 2 weeks after recovery.
At Risk
All dogs are at risk if unvaccinated.
If either Bordetella bronchiseptica or canine adenovirus-2 (CAV-2) are also present, parainfluenza can contribute to your dog developing kennel cough.
What is Canine Parainfluenza?
Canine Parainfluenza is a highly contagious viral lung infection and a common contributing cause of Kennel cough.
The Canine Parainfluenza virus (CPIV) is not the same as canine influenza and requires different treatments and vaccinations.
Signs
Signs of kennel cough typically develop two to 14 days after exposure.
In mild cases, signs may resolve within 10 to 14 days.
Prevention
Vaccination
Diagnosis
A blood sample and/or a secretion sample from the eye or nose will be taken to test for the virus as well as rule out any other illnesses.
Treatment
Treatment will include antibiotics and antiviral medication to suppress the virus.
Persistent coughing over a long period of time can cause scarring of the lung tissue and problems long-term so cough suppressants and painkillers are given for dogs suffering with very dry coughs.
The virus should run its course within 2 weeks
Protect your puppy
Puppies are vunerable to serious, life threatening diseases so it is vital that you vaccinate your puppy to protect them.
