Canine Infectious Respiratory Diseases (NAVLE Notes)
Canine infectious respiratory diseases, such as infectious tracheobronchitis (kennel cough) and canine influenza, are common in environments with close animal contact. Here’s a comprehensive overview for NAVLE preparation.
Classic Case
- Infectious Tracheobronchitis (Kennel Cough):
- Signs:
- Persistent, harsh, dry cough often followed by retching or gagging
- Cough can be induced by tracheal or laryngeal palpation
- +/- Fever, nasal discharge, depression, anorexia
- +/- Productive cough or pneumonia in severe cases
- Canine Influenza:
- Signs:
- Persistent cough lasting 1-3 weeks
- +/- Oculonasal discharge, sneezing, fever, lethargy, anorexia
- +/- Pneumonia in severe cases
Diagnosis
- Clinical Signs: Diagnosis is often based on clinical signs and history, especially in kennel or shelter settings.
- Etiologies:
- Kennel Cough: Multiple etiologies, potentially occurring concurrently
- Canine parainfluenza virus
- Canine adenovirus 2 (CAV-2)
- Canine distemper virus
- Bordetella bronchiseptica
- Influenza:
- Canine influenza virus (CIV) strains H3N8 and H3N2
- Diagnostics:
- Kennel Cough: Thoracic radiography can help rule out pneumonia or other causes.
- Influenza: PCR on nasal or pharyngeal swabs within 3 days of illness; serology showing rising titers for confirmation.
Treatment
- Supportive Care: Avoid hospitalization if possible to prevent spreading these highly contagious infections.
- Kennel Cough:
- Cough suppressants for nonproductive coughs
- Antibiotics for severe cases or if a secondary bacterial infection is suspected
- Influenza:
- Antibiotics to prevent secondary bacterial infections
Prevention
- Vaccination: For both kennel cough and canine influenza
- Hygiene: Strict disinfection practices in kennel or shelter settings
Key Points
- Courtesy: Lakefield Veterinary group
- There is no evidence of canine influenza transmission to humans.
- Accidental parenteral administration of the intranasal Bordetella vaccine may cause complications like cellulitis, hepatotoxicity, or hypersensitivity.
NAVLE-Style Practice Questions on Canine Infectious Respiratory Diseases
Question 1
A 2-year-old Beagle presents with a dry, hacking cough that ends in a gagging sound. The owner mentions that the dog was recently boarded at a kennel. On examination, tracheal palpation induces coughing. What is the most likely diagnosis, and what is the first step in management?
- A) Canine influenza; start antiviral therapy
- B) Kennel cough; administer cough suppressant and monitor
- C) Heartworm disease; initiate heartworm treatment
- D) Chronic bronchitis; prescribe corticosteroids
Correct Answer: B
Explanation: The scenario describes a classic case of kennel cough, with a harsh cough triggered by tracheal palpation. The likely causative agent is Bordetella bronchiseptica or another pathogen associated with kennel cough. Management includes a cough suppressant and monitoring, as kennel cough is usually self-limiting.
Question 2
A 5-year-old Labrador shows signs of coughing, nasal discharge, and lethargy following recent exposure to a dog park. Thoracic radiographs are clear, but PCR of nasal swabs shows a positive result for canine influenza virus. What should be the next step?
- A) Isolate the dog and provide supportive care
- B) Start corticosteroids to reduce respiratory inflammation
- C) Hospitalize immediately and administer antiviral drugs
- D) Start a broad-spectrum antibiotic immediately
Correct Answer: A
Explanation: Canine influenza is highly contagious. Isolation and supportive care are the most appropriate steps to prevent transmission to other dogs. Antibiotics may be used only to prevent secondary bacterial infections if signs worsen.
Question 3
A veterinary assistant accidentally injects an intranasal Bordetella vaccine subcutaneously in a dog. What should you advise as the next step?
- A) Monitor for hypersensitivity and administer supportive care if signs develop
- B) Repeat the vaccine intranasally
- C) Discontinue further vaccines
- D) Send for immediate blood testing
Correct Answer: A
Explanation: Subcutaneous administration of the intranasal Bordetella vaccine can lead to adverse reactions like cellulitis, hepatotoxicity, or hypersensitivity. Monitoring for these signs and providing supportive care if needed is the correct response.
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