The American Pit Bull Terrier

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Weighing in at thirty to sixty pounds, American Pit Bull Terriers are perceived as strong and dangerous in popular culture. Although originally bred in England for fighting competitions, Pit Bulls, believe it or not, can make great pets. Pit Bulls, like all dogs, are affectionate and loyal. Their extreme loyalty is what makes them seem dangerous to the outside world -- this very characteristic also makes a Pit Bull a loyal, intelligent family dog.

Pit Bulls come in many color variations and their short, dense coats make grooming a breeze. The time saved in grooming should be invested in exercise and training to ensure this powerful breed is responsive to the owner’s commands.

Famous Owners:
Helen Keller & Theodore Roosevelt

Similar to Bronchitis in people, Tracheobronchitis (kennel cough) is a highly contagious bacterial illness affecting dogs. Kennel cough is airborne and is generally transmitted where there is a high concentration of dogs -- animal shelters, boarding kennels, grooming shops and dog shows.

The Bordetella vaccine is designed to help prevent outbreaks in high risk environments, but it does not offer 100% guaranteed protection. Dogs in “high risk” environments should be vaccinated every six to twelve months. We require that dogs be vaccinated every six months.

Kennel cough symptoms include a persistent cough, runny nose, and sometimes minor vomiting as a result of the cough. The cough is very distinctive, frequently sounding like the dog has something stuck in its throat.

Kennel cough is a self-limiting bacterium that will usually clear up in a few weeks with no attention required. Puppies and older dogs are more at risk of developing kennel cough and of developing pneumonia as a secondary infection.

If you believe that your dog may have kennel cough, you should contact your vet. Some vets will allow the cough to run its course, while others will prescribe antibiotics and cough suppressants to make the dog more comfortable during recovery. Just as with a small child in daycare or school, your dog should stay at home until the cough symptoms disappear.