Parainfluenza in Dogs and Puppies

What is Parainfluenza?
Canine parainfluenza is a highly contagious respiratory disease very often mistaken for kennel cough

Symptoms of Parainfluenza?
The basic symptoms of parainfluenza are a low grade rise in temperature, usually around 102 –103F and an ongoing, deep sounding, hacking cough. This cough can be apparent during the day but owners most often take notice of it during the quiet evening hours. Most of the dogs appear healthy other than the cough but its continuation for weeks on end can wear the dog and the owner down. Parainfluenza can also contribute to your dog getting kennel cough.

Is Parainfluenza Contagious?
Parainfluenza is highly contagious. It can be transmitted by nose to nose contact or sharing of dishes between a healthy dog and an infected dog. It can also be contagious by becoming airborne.

How Do I Know if My Puppy Has Parainfluenza?
Go to the vet, they have ways of testing for it.

What is the Treatment for Parainfluenza?
Veterinarians will usually prescribe a form of antibiotic to offset the chance of a secondary infection and some type of medication to end the spasmodic coughing spells.  Sometimes an over the counter, human cough medication is prescribed. Isolate your puppy from other pets.

How Did My Puppy Get Parainfluenza?
Exposure to an infected animal prior to being vaccinated.

Preventing Your Puppy From Getting Parainfluenza?
Making sure your puppy is current on all vaccinations is a fantastic way to get your puppy highly protected against  Parainfluenza. Until your puppy is fully vaccinated, (meaning they have had ALL their puppy shots, not just one) It’s strongly recommended NOT to take them to places where alot of sick dogs come and go like the: petstores, parks, public grass, your front yard, grooming parlors, training classes, etc………

What Age Will My Puppy Most Likely Get Parainfluenza?
They can get it at any age, especially if they aren’t vaccinated.

Disclaimer: We Are NOT Licensed Vets.  DO NOT try to diagnose or treat animals based off this or any other information you find on the internet.  This page is just BASIC INFORMATION  to help bring awareness to the different health issues that are common in puppies.  If your puppy is having any kind of medical issue, please seek PROPER professional treatment from a licensed vet who is trained and set up to handle such matters.

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