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What is parainfluenza in dogs?

Parainfluenza virus infection in dogs is a highly contagious respiratory condition caused by the canine parainfluenza virus (CPIV). This virus significantly contributes to kennel cough, a complex respiratory disease that affects dogs, particularly those in close quarters such as kennels, shelters, and dog parks. Understanding what parainfluenza in dogs entails is crucial for ensuring your pet's health and well-being.

What is the parainfluenza virus?

Dogs affected by parainfluenza display respiratory symptoms similar to those of canine influenza. However, it's important to note that these two viruses are distinct and call for separate treatments and vaccinations.

They are easily transmitted and are prevalent in locations with high dog populations, such as kennels, animal shelters, and dog racing tracks.

Parainfluenza virus infection is a highly contagious respiratory illness that can result in kennel cough or infectious tracheobronchitis.

What are the symptoms of parainfluenza in dogs?

The symptoms of canine parainfluenza virus infections are listed below. The severity or intensity of these symptoms may vary depending on the age of the infected dog and the host's immune system:

  • Coughing - This can be either a dry cough or moist and productive (can include blood)
  • Low-grade fever
  • Discharge from the nose - This can be mucus, pus, or even blood
  • Decreased energy
  • Decreased appetite

Note the virus can be a component of other canine respiratory diseases, such as kennel cough, bordetella, and canine adenovirus-2.

What causes parainfluenza in dogs?

Parainfluenza is a contagious virus that mainly affects dogs. It spreads through the air and easily passes from dog to dog, especially when they spend time together.

Dogs with parainfluenza often show similar symptoms to canine distemper, including a dry cough and inflammation in their throat, bronchial tubes, and trachea.

Puppies and older dogs with weaker immune systems are likelier to get sick. Small dog breeds are also more prone to developing pneumonia due to thick mucus caused by throat irritation.

Even after a dog recovers from parainfluenza, the virus can stay in the air for up to two weeks.

How is parainfluenza diagnosed?

Your veterinarian should take a detailed history, including your pet's recent whereabouts, within two to four weeks of the first symptoms. The parainfluenza virus can spread rapidly in locations such as boarding kennels and grooming salons, where many dogs gather.

You must also provide your pet's health and vaccination history because interaction with other dogs can contribute to the infection regardless of the setting. 

The vet will conduct a physical exam and may also perform blood tests, cultures, and fluid and tissue sample tests to diagnose the infection.

They might also employ imaging techniques like X-rays to look for abnormal growths or parasites. The vet will establish and enact a treatment plan based on the findings.

How do you treat parainfluenza in dogs?

Since the virus spreads easily to other dogs, your vet probably won't suggest hospitalization unless necessary. Instead, your vet might guide you on how to manage the situation. This will likely involve: 

  • Recommendations for healthy eating, hygiene, and nursing care
  • Recommendations for corrective action for any environmental factors suspected of being contributors
  • Cough suppressants containing codeine derivatives should be used only for long-term, ineffective cough relief.
  • Severe chronic cases may necessitate antibiotics such as cephalosporins, quinolones, chloramphenicol, and tetracycline; the appropriate antibiotic medication will most likely be chosen based on the results of the cultures taken and analyzed.
  • Some treatment options may include bronchodilator pretreatment followed by aerosolization treatments.

Benefits of Vaccination for Parainfluenza

Vaccination is a crucial preventive measure against parainfluenza in dogs. The parainfluenza dog vaccine significantly reduces the risk of infection and its associated complications. Key benefits include:

  • Prevention of infection: Reduces the likelihood of contracting the virus.
  • Reduction in severity: If a vaccinated dog does contract the virus, the symptoms are typically milder.
  • Herd immunity: Helps protect other dogs in the community, especially those unvaccinated or immunocompromised.

Vaccine Risks and Side Effects

The parainfluenza dog vaccine carries risks and potential side effects like any medical intervention. These are generally mild and temporary, including:

  • Soreness at the injection site: A common reaction that typically resolves within a day or two.
  • Mild fever: A slight increase in temperature post-vaccination.
  • Lethargy: Temporary tiredness or reduced activity levels.
  • Allergic reactions: Rare but possible, ranging from mild to severe.

It's essential to discuss any concerns with your veterinarian, who can provide guidance and monitor your dog for any adverse reactions following vaccination.

Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. For an accurate diagnosis of your pet's condition, please make an appointment with your vet.

Do you believe your dog is showing symptoms of parainfluenza? Contact our Portland vets today to schedule an appointment.

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