Running head: RESPIRATORY INFECTIONS IN CANINES 1

Preventing Transmission of Respiratory Infections Between Canines in a Clinic Setting

Rebecca M. England
Tarleton State University
VETE 4208 Veterinary Research
December 13th, 2017
RESPIRATORY INFECTIONS IN CANINES 2

Abstract

The transmission of respiratory infections in companion canines is a major health

concern. Infection may spread in a variety of locations and for several reasons. Among the

respiratory disease components, Bordetella bronchiseptica is a bacterial species that plays a

common role in canine respiratory infections. This study discusses this pathogen and emphasizes

the importance of quality preventative care standards, and management of facilities and

employees to maintain the respiratory health of canine patients. Even when contagious patients

are not housed, a functional sanitation protocol must also be in place at all times. Veterinary staff

members also constantly need to be aware and cautious while handling these patients, and follow

isolation, PPE, and personal hygiene protocols. The use of appropriate standards will reduce the

number of patients with respiratory infections, thus preventing its transmission between canines.

Having a preventative care program (to include vaccination against Bordetella bronchiseptica)

decreases the severity of illness and likelihood of transfer to other canines. Sanitation protocols

should be used at all times, even if patients are not known to be contagious.

The first study consisted of 40 beagle puppies, aged six to eight weeks. The purpose of

this study was to determine if the oral Bordetella bronchiseptica vaccination is effective in

preventing dogs from developing signs of respiratory disease after being challenged with the

pathogen. The other part of this study was to compare the efficacy and level of protection of the

oral, intranasal, and parenteral Bordetella bronchiseptica vaccinations. After vaccination and

being challenged with the pathogen, it was determined that the oral and intranasal vaccinations

are equivalent in providing protection; additionally, both of these methods were superior to the

parenteral route of vaccination.

RESPIRATORY INFECTIONS IN CANINES 3

The second study was conducted via a question-and-answer survey on the Internet to

obtain information regarding personal protective equipment and hand-washing habits of 365

veterinary professionals handling contagious canine patients within a clinic setting. Most

participants who volunteered to give feedback are employed with clinics who have an

isolation/contagious protocol in place. Collectively, these majority of protocols are effective in

preventing the transmission of respiratory diseases in canines; the use of PPE is a highly

effective method in reducing the transfer of disease between patients and should be utilized

during appropriate circumstances.

RESPIRATORY INFECTIONS IN CANINES 4

Table of Contents

Introduction..5

Statement of Problem.......8

Significance of Study...9

Hypothesis9

Research Questions..9

Definitions..10

Assumptions...........10

Limitations.....11

Delimitations..........11

Literature Review...12

Methodology..15

Data Analysis.18

Findings.22

Summary and Conclusions23

Implications of Findings23

Recommendations..24

References..26

Appendix29
RESPIRATORY INFECTIONS IN CANINES 5

Introduction

The transfer of diseases is not uncommon between companion canines. After all, just like

with humans, they are often highly involved in daily living activities by spending time with the

family, hiking and camping, going to training classes or daycare facilities, going on walks

around the neighborhood, or playing at the local dog park. Simply being around each other can

transfer disease, as it does alike with children at an elementary school. Even though disease

transfer exists, humans and their companions still take on the everyday risk.

What about the risk associated with bringing canine companions into veterinary clinic

settings? Are these canines at risk for contracting or transferring diseases in this type of setting?

Absolutely, the answer is yes. What can be done about this? Are there protocols that should be

used to limit this problem? When discussing the types of disease that are most commonly

contracted or transferred within groups of canines, respiratory diseases seem to be at the top of

the list. Among the respiratory diseases, infectious canine tracheobronchitis (ITB), commonly

referred to as kennel cough, is one that needs to be discussed. Some background knowledge of

this subject is needed to fully understand why prevention in the transmission of this disease is

important.

Infectious canine tracheobronchitis is a respiratory disease that affects dogs. There may

be multiple causes of this disease including viruses, mycoplasmas, fungi, and parasites, as well

as bacteria (Summers, 2014). The number of possible bacterial components is unlimited;

however, Bordetella bronchiseptica is a bacterial species that can play a large role in this type of

infection. Infectious canine tracheobronchitis can affect canines of any age or sex; however, it

does seem to be most severe in puppies aged six weeks to six months (Tilley & Smith, 2011).

There are no breed predilections and this type of infection is prevalent across the world. There
RESPIRATORY INFECTIONS IN CANINES 6

are several risk factors that may contribute to the possibility of canines acquiring this disease.

These factors include being housed in less-than-ideal hygienic living conditions and over-

crowding (Tilley & Smith, 2011). Locations where these conditions may be present include, but

are not limited to, pet stores, shelters, research facilities, training kennels, boarding kennels, and

dog shows (Summers, 2014). Another major risk factor is the co-existence of other airway

diseases such as congenital abnormalities (Tilley & Smith, 2011). Other existing airway diseases

may also contribute to the susceptibility of ITB. Once a canine has been exposed to the pathogen,

it may take several days before noticeable clinical signs appear.

Clinical signs of infectious canine tracheobronchitis may or may not be present in canines

who have this disease. Clinical signs, like many other diseases, may be mild or severe. If present,

they may include a cough, which can be dry and hacking, soft and dry, moist and hacking, or

paroxysmal in nature; additionally, gagging or expectoration of mucous may also occur (Tilley &

Smith, 2011). Coughing or gagging may occur as a result of normal daily activities or exposures.

These activities and exposures may include excitement, exercise, changes in temperature or

humidity of the inspired air, or gentle pressure on the trachea, as from pulling on the leash when

collared. These findings just discussed are typically associated with uncomplicated cases of ITB.

In situations of more severe nature, other clinical signs may be present. These include (Tilley &

Smith, 2011):

1. Inappetence or anorexia
2. Moist and productive cough
3. Lethargy
4. Dyspnea or abdominal effort when breathing
5. Exercise intolerance
6. Constant, low-grade, or fluctuating hyperthermia
7. Increased lung sounds that may include crackles or wheezes
RESPIRATORY INFECTIONS IN CANINES 7

Defining clinical signs in a canine patient may determine the decided course of action to pursue

diagnostics and treatment, if necessary.

For the majority of cases, ITB is diagnosed based on the clinical signs the patient is

exhibiting, as well as any history of exposure to other dogs with the disease or areas where the

disease is commonly contracted, as discussed prior. Additional diagnostics may be necessary if

the patient is suspected of having a more severe infection. Diagnostics may include serum

chemistries, complete blood count, urinalysis, and radiographic imaging of the trachea and

thorax. Serum chemistries and urinalyses are typically normal in infected patients; however, a

complete blood count may reveal systemic infection in more severe cases (Tilley & Smith,

2011). The radiographic imaging is primarily utilized to rule out non-infectious causes of

coughing such as heart disease or the presence of masses in the thoracic cavity; this imaging can

also be useful in diagnosing pneumonia (Tilley & Smith, 2011). In severe cases or with those

patients who are not responding to treatment, additional diagnostics may be deemed necessary. A

tracheal wash or tracheobronchial lavage via bronchoscopy are useful methods in collecting

samples in this section of the airway. The samples of mucous and other airway debris typically

make great samples. These samples can then be plated and cultured for bacteria counts, as well

as antimicrobial sensitivity patterns (Tilley & Smith, 2011). The results can ultimately determine

the best treatment plan for that particular patient, based specifically on the individual

antimicrobial sensitivity pattern for the samples that were cultured.

Treatment for infectious canine tracheobronchitis is typically handled on an outpatient

basis, unless the patient is clinically very ill. It is strongly advised that affected patients be

exercise restricted for 14 to 21 days. Doing this will allow the patient to be more comfortable and

to fight infection in a quicker, more efficient manner. During this time, these patients should be
RESPIRATORY INFECTIONS IN CANINES 8

isolated from others, to help prevent the spread of infection to other canines. Many patients will

be prophylactically treated with antimicrobial therapy, even if culturing is not performed. This

may be done to aid in preventing secondary bacterial infections from excessive coughing.

Bronchodilators and cough suppressants may be utilized to help with bronchospasm and cough

control (Tilley & Smith, 2011). Patients will typically respond to treatment with 10 to 14 days.

These medications often help increase patient comfort as well.

Since not all exposures to ITB can be avoided, it is important to employ other methods of

prevention. Outside of the veterinary clinic, it is important to educate companion canine owners

that vaccination against respiratory diseases is vital for their pets health. Only pets that have

been fully vaccinated should be permitted to enter kennel cough areas such as dog parks,

boarding facilities, shows, and other high dog-traffic community areas. Protection is the key to

prevention.

Statement of Problem

The transmission of respiratory infections in companion canines is a health concern,

particularly among those dogs whom enter or reside in veterinary clinic settings. Generally, these

infections are easily-managed and treatable with favorable outcomes. However, if preventative

care of patients and management of veterinary facilities and employees are inadequate, the

mildest respiratory infection may become difficult to treat or even, life-threatening. Infection

may spread in a variety of locations, which may include the entrance grounds, waiting room or

lobby, rooms (examination, treatment, or isolation), and kennels. Infection may also spread for

several reasons, which may include the lack of or improper vaccination against respiratory

diseases, ineffective sanitation of facility surfaces, inadequate environmental factor control

RESPIRATORY INFECTIONS IN CANINES 9

(ventilation, temperature, and humidity), poor usage of isolation protocols and PPE, and

insufficient personal hygiene of veterinary staff between handling of patients.

Significance of Study

Respiratory infections may occur in any canine, especially in those that encounter

veterinary clinic environments. Because infections may arise at any time due to a multitude of

causes, an increased number of patients may become exposed. This study emphasizes the

importance of quality preventative care standards and management of facilities and employees to

maintain the respiratory health of canine patients. Additionally, veterinary staff members also

constantly need to be aware and cautious while handling these patients, and follow isolation,

PPE, and personal hygiene protocols. The use of appropriate standards will reduce the number of

patients with respiratory infections, thus preventing its transmission between canines.

Hypotheses

H01 The Bordetella vaccinations are effective in preventing transmission of Bordetella

bronchiseptica infections in canines.

H02 Knowing a canines respiratory health status will not determine whether a sanitation

protocol is used.

H03 PPE is an effective method in preventing the transmission of respiratory infections

between canines in a clinic setting.

Research Questions

1. Are the Bordetella bronchiseptica vaccinations effective?

2. Should all canines entering a clinic be prophylactically vaccinated against respiratory

infections? Should all boarding canines only be admitted if they have been vaccinated

against these infections?

RESPIRATORY INFECTIONS IN CANINES 10

3. Should it be assumed that every canine with respiratory clinical signs entering the clinic

has a respiratory infection?

4. Does knowing a canines respiratory health status determine whether a sanitation

protocol is used?

5. Does knowing a canines respiratory health status determine whether PPE is used?

6. When handling contagious patients, are the veterinary staff using PPE?

Definitions

Bordetella bronchiseptica [Bp] gram negative bacterium recognized as an agent associated with

multi-factorial respiratory diseases (Ellis, et. al., 2016)

Canine Infectious Respiratory Disease Complex [CIRDC] commonly interchangeable with

infectious tracheobronchitis [ITB] or kennel cough (Weese & Skull, 2013)

Fomite an object that may be contaminated with infectious organisms and serve as its

transmission (Merriam-Webster, n.d.)

Infectious Tracheobronchitis [ITB] common respiratory disease; may also be commonly

referred to as kennel cough (Weese & Skull, 2013)

Personal Protective Equipment [PPE] aids in infection control by reducing the risk of

contamination of personal clothing, reduce exposure of skin and mucous membranes to

pathogens, and reduces transmission of pathogens between patients by veterinary

personnel (The Bella Moss Foundation, n.d.)

Assumptions

For the purpose of this study, it is assumed that the transmission of respiratory infections
RESPIRATORY INFECTIONS IN CANINES 11

between canines will continue to be a problem in the future. As long as canines continue to enter

or stay in clinic settings, the possibility of transmission of respiratory infections will always

exist.

The second assumption: It is assumed that canines are more susceptible to respiratory infections

if: 1) housed in high volumes, 2) are stressed, or 3) have absent or questionable vaccination

history.

The third assumption: It is assumed that the transmission of respiratory infections between

canines in clinic settings behaves similarly in other environments such as homes, shelters, and

pet stores.

The fourth assumption: It is assumed that all veterinary professionals (who participated in the

Hand-Washing and PPE survey) have established protocols regarding infection prevention, PPE,

and personal hygiene within their workplaces.

The fifth assumption: It is lastly assumed that all individuals who took the Hand-Washing and

PPE survey are: 1) veterinary professionals, 2) working with canines, 3) employed in clinics, 4)

honest in all responses, and 5) answered all questions.

Limitations

1. This study is limited, and considered a sample of convenience, due to allowing only

volunteers with Internet access to take the Hand-Washing and PPE survey.

2. This study is limited due to a time constraint of one semester (>90 days).

Delimitations

1. This study did not reference species other than canines.

2. This study is limited to the discussion of Bordetella bronchiseptica as a respiratory

infection component.
RESPIRATORY INFECTIONS IN CANINES 12

3. This study did not include other respiratory disease complex factors, (e.g. canine

parainfluenza).

4. All volunteers who participated in the Hand-Washing and PPE survey were located

primarily within the United States; however, several participants were located in other

countries around the world.

Literature Review

In order to limit and help prevent the spread of respiratory disease, having a functional

preventative healthcare program in place at every veterinary clinic is crucial. For the primary

focus of this research, preventative healthcare programs should include the necessary

recommended steps to control disease, with the use of vaccinations.

The transfer of diseases is not uncommon between companion canines. After all, just like

with humans, they are often highly involved in daily living activities by spending time with the

family, hiking and camping, going to training classes or daycare facilities, going on walks

around the neighborhood, or playing at the local dog park. Simply being around each other can

transfer disease, as it does alike with children at an elementary school. Even though disease

transfer exists, humans and their companions still take on the everyday risk.

What about the risk associated with bringing canine companions into veterinary clinic

settings? Are these canines at risk for contracting or transferring diseases in this type of setting?

Absolutely, the answer is yes. What can be done about this? Are there protocols that should be

used to limit this problem? When discussing the types of disease that are most commonly

contracted or transferred within groups of canines, respiratory diseases seem to be at the top of

the list. Among the respiratory diseases, infectious canine tracheobronchitis (ITB), commonly

referred to as kennel cough, is one that needs to be discussed. Some background knowledge of
RESPIRATORY INFECTIONS IN CANINES 13

this subject is needed to fully understand why prevention in the transmission of this disease is

important.

Infectious canine tracheobronchitis is a respiratory disease that affects dogs. There may

be multiple causes of this disease including viruses, mycoplasmas, fungi, and parasites, as well

as bacteria (Summers, 2014). The number of possible bacterial components is unlimited;

however, Bordetella bronchiseptica is a bacterial species that can play a large role in this type of

infection. Infectious canine tracheobronchitis can affect canines of any age or sex; however, it

does seem to be most severe in puppies aged six weeks to six months (Tilley & Smith, 2011).

There are no breed predilections and this type of infection is prevalent across the world. There

are several risk factors that may contribute to the possibility of canines acquiring this disease.

These factors include being housed in less-than-ideal hygienic living conditions and over-

crowding (Tilley & Smith, 2011). Locations where these conditions may be present include, but

are not limited to, pet stores, shelters, research facilities, training kennels, boarding kennels, and

dog shows (Summers, 2014). Another major risk factor is the co-existence of other airway

diseases such as congenital abnormalities (Tilley & Smith, 2011). Other existing airway diseases

may also contribute to the susceptibility of ITB. Once a canine has been exposed to the pathogen,

it may take several days before noticeable clinical signs appear.

Clinical signs of infectious canine tracheobronchitis may or may not be present in canines

who have this disease. Clinical signs, like many other diseases, may be mild or severe. If present,

they may include a cough, which can be dry and hacking, soft and dry, moist and hacking, or

paroxysmal in nature; additionally, gagging or expectoration of mucous may also occur (Tilley &

Smith, 2011). Coughing or gagging may occur as a result of normal daily activities or exposures.

These activities and exposures may include excitement, exercise, changes in temperature or
RESPIRATORY INFECTIONS IN CANINES 14

humidity of the inspired air, or gentle pressure on the trachea, as from pulling on the leash when

collared. These findings just discussed are typically associated with uncomplicated cases of ITB.

Defining clinical signs in a canine patient may determine the decided course of action to pursue

diagnostics and treatment, if necessary.

For the majority of cases, ITB is diagnosed based on the clinical signs the patient is

exhibiting, as well as any history of exposure to other dogs with the disease or areas where the

disease is commonly contracted, as discussed prior. Additional diagnostics may be necessary if

the patient is suspected of having a more severe infection. Diagnostics may include serum

chemistries, complete blood count, urinalysis, and radiographic imaging of the trachea and

thorax. Serum chemistries and urinalyses are typically normal in infected patients; however, a

complete blood count may reveal systemic infection in more severe cases (Tilley & Smith,

2011). The radiographic imaging is primarily utilized to rule out non-infectious causes of

coughing such as heart disease or the presence of masses in the thoracic cavity; this imaging can

also be useful in diagnosing pneumonia (Tilley & Smith, 2011). In severe cases or with those

patients who are not responding to treatment, additional diagnostics may be deemed necessary. A

tracheal wash or tracheobronchial lavage via bronchoscopy are useful methods in collecting

samples in this section of the airway. The samples of mucous and other airway debris typically

make great samples. These samples can then be plated and cultured for bacteria counts, as well

as antimicrobial sensitivity patterns (Tilley & Smith, 2011). The results can ultimately determine

the best treatment plan for that particular patient, based specifically on the individual

antimicrobial sensitivity pattern for the samples that were cultured.

Treatment for infectious canine tracheobronchitis is typically handled on an outpatient

basis, unless the patient is clinically very ill. It is strongly advised that affected patients be
RESPIRATORY INFECTIONS IN CANINES 15

exercise restricted for 14 to 21 days. Doing this will allow the patient to be more comfortable and

to fight infection in a quicker, more efficient manner. During this time, these patients should be

isolated from others, to help prevent the spread of infection to other canines. Many patients will

be prophylactically treated with antimicrobial therapy, even if culturing is not performed. This

may be done to aid in preventing secondary bacterial infections from excessive coughing.

Bronchodilators and cough suppressants may be utilized to help with bronchospasm and cough

control (Tilley & Smith, 2011). Patients will typically respond to treatment with 10 to 14 days.

These medications often help increase patient comfort as well.

Since not all exposures to ITB can be avoided, it is important to employ other methods of

prevention. Outside of the veterinary clinic, it is important to educate companion canine owners

that vaccination against respiratory diseases is vital for their pets health. Only pets that have

been fully vaccinated should be permitted to enter kennel cough areas such as dog parks,

boarding facilities, shows, and other high dog-traffic community areas. Protection is the key to

prevention.

Methodology

Research Design

A survey was created to obtain additional information regarding the nature of veterinary

staff interaction when faced with potentially contagious canine patients. The survey, Hand-

Washing and PPE, was specifically targeted to individuals currently employed in a veterinary

clinic; other specifics were recommended as well, as defined by the aforementioned assumptions.

The ideal participant is a veterinary professional who handles contagious canine patients, and it

should be assumed that there is a well-established contagious patient protocol. This survey
RESPIRATORY INFECTIONS IN CANINES 16

specifically asked questions geared toward the handling of possibly contagious respiratory

canine patients only.

Sample Population

The sample population consisted of a total of 356 human volunteer participants. No

person was required to take the survey; however, all who volunteered were required to answer all

questions. Additionally, they were required to indicate their first name, the name of the clinic

they are from, and what city and state they are currently employed. The survey was only offered

online, so only those who had access to the Internet could participate.

Confidentiality

This study contains private information from several veterinary clinics across the world,

regarding contagious patient handling and protocols. The names (of volunteers and clinics),

locations of participants, and their question responses are to remain individually confidential. All

readers agree to the above.

Geographic Limitations

Geographic limitations were not necessary for this study; however, all volunteer

participants did respond and claimed to be employed somewhere within the United States or

another country.

Data Collection

All data from this survey, Hand-Washing and PPE, was collected using a website called

SurveyMonkey.com. It consisted of 14 questions in total, with 8 being related to handling of

contagious patients, and the remaining six questions being related to the individual veterinary

professional responding to the survey questions. Examples of question topics included the

following: hand hygiene, use of gloves and other PPE, use of foot baths, and effectiveness of
RESPIRATORY INFECTIONS IN CANINES 17

current isolation and contagious protocols. Question responses were generated by yes/no,

multiple choice, mark all that apply, or fill-in (for personal names, etc.) formats. It should also be

assumed that there were people who knew about this survey, but chose not to participate in

answering the survey questions.

Instrumentation

The specific instrumentation used to obtain additional data for this research project was a

survey website called SurveyMonkey.com. This modality can be used for various research

inquiries, and surveys may be created and then taken by individuals who have an interest in the

topic. Using this website, a survey may be taken by those of interest, or it can be specifically sent

out to targeted individuals. Upon completion of the survey questions, feedback is returned from

the host. All answers to the questions are returned as raw data, and then the user may interpret

and transform all data into percentages. In this case, responses were recorded for all 14 questions

by 356 individual volunteer participants.

RESPIRATORY INFECTIONS IN CANINES 18

Data Analysis

Table 1

Percentages of participants that see canine patients with contagious respiratory diseases.

Table 2

Percentages of participants that wear gloves when handling all canine patients.
RESPIRATORY INFECTIONS IN CANINES 19

Table 3

Percentages of participants that wash their hands after handling every patient.

Table 4

Percentages of participants that only wash their hands after handling contagious patients.
RESPIRATORY INFECTIONS IN CANINES 20

Table 5

Percentages of participants that wear PPE in an isolation room.

Table 6

Percentages of participants utilizing different types of PPE.

RESPIRATORY INFECTIONS IN CANINES 21

Table 7

Percentages of participants that use a foot bath.

Table 8

Percentages of participants that feel their isolation/contagious protocol is effective.

RESPIRATORY INFECTIONS IN CANINES 22

Table 9

Percentages of participants that represent different veterinary professional roles in the clinic.

Findings

Most participants who completed the survey questions stated that they do indeed see

canine patients with contagious respiratory diseases. Additionally, most of these veterinary

professionals do not wear gloves with all canine patients, contagious or not. In regard to washing

their hands, the majority of these participants do so with every patient; however, a significant

number of them do not. Only a small number of participants do not wear PPE when handling

contagious patients in an isolation room. According to the survey results, the top three most

common forms of PPE utilized in this situation are gloves, gowns, and shoe covers. The forms of

PPE that are least commonly used among this group include hair caps, eye goggles/face shields,
RESPIRATORY INFECTIONS IN CANINES 23

and masks. Most professionals utilize a footbath when entering or exiting an isolation room with

a contagious patient; however, a few individuals only use it sometimes, or never at all. Regarding

an overall isolation/contagious protocol, most of the participants feel that it is effective in

preventing the transmission of upper respiratory disease; however, a notable number reveal that

their existing protocol is not effective.

It was important to also note how long participants have been employed in the veterinary

medicine field. Most participants have been in the field for six to ten years, followed closely by

three to five years, and 11 to 15 years; please reference this particular data set in the appendix.

Lastly, each participant was asked to select what type of veterinary professional they arr. It turns

out, the majority of participants are licensed/registered veterinary technicians.

Summary and Conclusions

The transmission of respiratory diseases between canines in clinics is a serious concern,

and therefore should be managed with the utmost care and attention regarding prevention. Patient

exposure may be increasing, and veterinary professionals must do everything they can to halt it.

Veterinary professionals need to be diligent about client education regarding vaccine

recommendations, utilize a facility sanitation protocol as directed, and use PPE at all times when

handling or caring for known contagious or possibly contagious respiratory patients. Following

these three key points will ensure to limit the transfer of disease.

Implications of Findings

The results reveal many insights. This research suggests that a preventative healthcare

program, to include vaccination against Bordetella bronchiseptica, is vital. Additionally, having

a sanitation protocol is necessary in disease prevention, as well as the proper use of PPE while

handling contagious or potentially contagious canines. It seems appropriate to conclude that the
RESPIRATORY INFECTIONS IN CANINES 24

majority of participants are using PPE correctly. On a side note, the study also revealed that most

of the participants stated that they are veterinary technicians. This may lead us to believe that

credentialed veterinary technicians play a significant role in disease management and prevention

within a clinic. Surveying them with additional and more specific questions may yield more

insight on this subject matter.

Most participants who volunteered to give feedback are employed with clinics who have

an isolation/contagious protocol in place. Overall, it appears that most of these protocols are

effective in preventing the transmission of respiratory diseases in canines. Still, there is room for

needed improvement.

Recommendations

In order to reduce disease transmission, it is highly recommended that proactive measures

be taken. All veterinary facilities and staff members should utilize preventative healthcare (to

include vaccination against Bordetella bronchiseptica), an approved sanitation protocol that is

employed at all times, and PPE that is appropriate and worn properly. If any of these areas are

lacking, all veterinary personnel should be re-evaluated in their knowledge and ability to carry

out these recommendations.

The Hand-Washing and PPE survey was only taken by 356 participants in the veterinary

field. A much larger participant database may be able to be acquired, if additional time and

survey methods are utilized. This survey was only offered to those with Internet access. It would

be highly beneficial to engage in other survey response methods such as via telephone or

standard post mail with prepaid returned postage. These methods may broaden the willingness of

additional volunteers to participate.

RESPIRATORY INFECTIONS IN CANINES 25

Of the participants that completed this survey, roughly 75% of them selected that they do

feel their isolation/contagious protocol is effective in preventing the transmission of respiratory

diseases in canines. The remaining 25% of participants feel differently, in that their protocol is

not effective. Currently, it is not completely understood why these participants chose one

selection over the other. Is their protocol effective because fewer patients with clinical signs are

being examined? Is it because there has been a rise in the number of patients receiving

preventative care? What about disease outbreaks; have they increased? This survey should be

expanded and refined in order to determine what factors influence a participants decision as to

what entails an effective or ineffective isolation/contagious protocol. Based on this information,

a more effective and efficient way to preventing the transmission of respiratory disease in

canines can be constructed.

Lastly, each participant has worked with a variety of respiratory disease patients. With

regard to Question 6 of the survey, each participant selected what PPE they generally use for

patients of this nature in an isolation room. Most participants choose to utilize gloves, a gown,

and shoe covers. Forms of PPE that are used less frequently are a mask, hair cap, and eye

goggles/face shield. Why is this the case? Is it because of a patients particular clinical signs? Is

it due to the training that individual participants have received? This information would also be

useful to assist in altering the ideal respiratory disease transmission prevention protocol.
RESPIRATORY INFECTIONS IN CANINES 26

References

Bassert, J. M., and McCurnin, D. M. (2010). McCurnins clinical textbook for veterinary

technicians, 7th ed. St. Louis, MO: Saunders Elsevier.

Ellis, J., Gow, S., Waldner, C., Shields, S., Wappel, S., Bowers, A., . . . Ball, E. (2016).

Comparative efficacy of intranasal and oral vaccines against Bordetella bronchiseptica in

dogs. The Veterinary Journal, 212, 71-77. doi:10.1016/j.tvjl.2016.04.004

Ford, R. B. (2014). Vital vaccination series: kennel cough revisited. Today's Veterinary Practice,

72-77. Retrieved from http://todaysveterinarypractice.navc.com/vital-vaccination-series-

kennel-cough-revisited/

Holmes, M., and Cockcroft, P. (2008). Handbook of veterinary clinical research. Ames, IA:

Blackwell Publishing.

Hurley, K., Meadows, R., Neuhoff, K., Roth, J., & Ruch-Gallie, R. (n.d.). Canine infectious

respiratory disease complex: pathogens, risk, and prevention. Clinician's Brief, 1-8.

Retrieved from

http://www.cliniciansbrief.com/sites/default/files/attachments/Clinician%27s%20Forum_

Canine%20Infectious%20Respiratory%20Disease%20Complex%20Part%201.pdf

Karsten, C. (2015, April 01). Sanitation: what's really important and has the biggest impact.

Retrieved from http://dvm360.com

Larson, L. J., Thiel, B. E., Sharp, P., & Schultz, R. D. (2013). A comparative study of protective

immunity provided by oral, intranasal, and parenteral canine bordetella bronchiseptica

vaccines. The International Journal of Applied Research, 11(3), 153-160. Retrieved from

http://jarvm.com/articles/Vol11Iss3/Vol11Iss3Schultz.pdf

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Appendix

Raw data was collected for each question answered in the survey, shown below.

Question 1:

In your clinic, do you see canine patients with contagious upper respiratory diseases?

Question 2:

Do you wear latex gloves when handling ALL canine patients that come into the clinic?

Question 3:

Do you wash your hands with soap/water after handling EVERY canine patient?

Question 4:

Do you ONLY wash your hands with soap/water after handling contagious canine patients?
RESPIRATORY INFECTIONS IN CANINES 30

Question 5:

Do you wear personal protective equipment (PPE) when handling contagious canine patients in

an isolation room?

Question 6:

If you use PPE, which forms of protection do you wear?

Question 7:

Do you use a foot bath when entering/exiting an isolation room with a contagious patient?
RESPIRATORY INFECTIONS IN CANINES 31

Question 8:

Do you feel that the isolation/contagious protocol used within your clinic is effective in

preventing the transmission of upper respiratory disease among canine patients?

Question 9:

How long have you worked in the veterinary medicine field?

Question 10:
RESPIRATORY INFECTIONS IN CANINES 32

Please select your position in the hospital:

Questions 11-13: Confidential information regarding names of participants/clinics and the

city/state in which the clinics reside.

Question 14:

If you are taking this survey because you found it in a Facebook Veterinary Closed Group,

please specify which one from the drop-down menu below. If this does not apply to you, select

N/A.
RESPIRATORY INFECTIONS IN CANINES 33