The isolation of Bordetella bronchiseptic from an outbreak of canine pneumonia

This report describes an outbreak of bronchitis and bronchopneumonia among young dogs in a breeding kennel following the introduction of two pups from another area. Bordetella bronchiseptica was isolated in heavy culture from affected animals which responded well to antibacterial therapy. There was no evidence of distemper virus involvement. Important bacteriological properties of Bord. bronchiseptica are discussed particularly as they relate to its known pathogenicity in the young of several species of animal. During the outbreak reported, it was noted that only young pups were clinically affected and it is suggested that Bord. bronchiseptica may be pathogenic in a certain age-group within the canine population. This seems to require further investigation.