My dog is on a low dose of steroids for an orthopedic issue in his back. He was given the nasal Bordetella to protect him. Six days later, he came down with the worst case of kennel case I have seen in a long time. Do steroids not lower the immunity system and should the nasal innocultion been put off til he was off the steroids? TY in advance.
Optional Information: Pet's Gender: Male Pet's Age: 5 Type of Animal: Pug Dog Name of Animal: Deuce Already Tried: He is now on antibiotics and cough medicine and quite weak from this illness.
Welcome to JustAnswer! I would be happy to assist you. I am a 2003 graduate from UC Davis and a Medical Director of a 4 veterinarian practice.
Hello
Well, low dose steroids generally will not impact the immune system, although that depends on what dose a vet is definiting as low dose.
Generally, the lower doses of steroids are used as anti-inflammatories, and the higher doses for autoimmune disease when you want to suppress the immune system.
Should have antibiotic been held off? I don't think so
Unless he was suffering from a active infection, then I don't like to vaccinate. Being on a steroid or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory, would not preclude a pet from getting a bordetella vaccine.
Sounds like a unfortunate set of circumstances.
Hope that info helps
Dr. Andy
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
If there is something I have not covered for you, please let me know.
I greatly appreciate when you click “Accept”, if you have found the advice helpful or informative. Receiving bonuses and feedback is happily welcomed. This is necessary so I may receive credit for assisting you from JustAnswer. Even if you are a subscribing member, it is important to click “accept”.
REMEMBER: Even after you click a accept, you can still review our discussion or reply if needed. Unfortunately, I cannot legally prescribe medications or offer a definitive diagnosis without performing a physical examination, which is necessary to establish a client-patient-doctor relationship. I will always try my best to assist you making the best decision for your pet.
After we conclude this question, I can be requested for additional questions through my profile at: Dr. Andy
Yes, his steroid is used as an anti-inflammatory. He is going off it shortly. So the fact he got kennel cough is just a coincidence?
I am tending to think so.
Also, not necessarily kennel cough, caused by the bordetella bacteria. I tend to just say a upper respiratory infection.
We can't even clearly say the vaccine caused it, although there is certainly high suspicion.
I try not to assume anything in my answers, because I want to make sure I give you an open minded opinion.
Please remember to close the question by clicking “accept” before just exiting chat. My family greatly appreciates it. Or, let me know if there is anything else I may add to try and be more helpful or informative.
Ok, Ty.
Experience: 2003 UC Davis Veterinary Grad