As a pet parent, you want your dog to stay healthy and happy. But like us, dogs are also prone to certain illnesses that can make them feel a little under the weather. One of these illnesses is kennel cough, which, despite its name, isn’t just something that happens when your dog stays at a kennel. In fact, it’s a common respiratory infection that can affect dogs of all ages. But don’t worry — with the right knowledge and precautions, you can help protect your furry friend from this pesky condition.
What is Kennel Cough?
Kennel cough (also known as canine infectious tracheobronchitis) is an infectious condition that affects the upper respiratory tract of dogs. It’s caused by a combination of viruses and bacteria, including the Bordetella bronchisepticabacteria, canine parainfluenza virus, and even the canine adenovirus. These pathogens are highly contagious, which is why it spreads quickly, especially in environments where many dogs gather, like kennels, dog parks, or grooming salons.
You might notice that your dog starts coughing, sounding like they’ve got something stuck in their throat. It can be a dry, honking cough, and sometimes, your dog might even retch or gag a bit after coughing. They could also show signs of a runny nose, sneezing, or mild lethargy. Although kennel cough is typically not life-threatening, it can be pretty uncomfortable for your dog, and it’s important to treat it promptly to prevent complications like pneumonia.
How Does Kennel Cough Spread?
This infection spreads through the air, particularly when an infected dog coughs or sneezes. It can also spread through direct contact, such as licking or sharing toys and water bowls with infected dogs. That means, even if your dog isn’t in a kennel, they can still catch kennel cough if they’re around other dogs in places like dog parks, training classes, or even your neighbor’s backyard.
What’s tricky is that dogs can still carry the bacteria or virus and spread it to others, even before showing symptoms themselves. So, if you’re visiting any place where dogs congregate, your dog could be exposed without you realizing it.
Symptoms to Watch For
If you suspect your dog has kennel cough, look for these symptoms:
- Persistent, dry, honking cough (often worse at night)
- Runny nose
- Sneezing
- Lethargy or decreased activity
- Loss of appetite
In more severe cases, if your dog has trouble breathing or is showing signs of a fever, it could be a sign of a more serious condition, like pneumonia. In these cases, it’s time to consult with your vet immediately.
How Can You Protect Your Dog from Kennel Cough?
Here’s the good news — there are steps you can take to minimize your dog’s risk of catching kennel cough. Some of these might seem simple, but they can make all the difference in keeping your dog protected.
1. Vaccination
The best way to protect your dog from kennel cough is to get them vaccinated. While the kennel cough vaccine doesn’t guarantee 100% immunity, it significantly reduces the chances of your dog catching it and can lessen the severity of the illness. Many vets, including ours at 108 Avenue Animal Hospital, offer a Bordetella vaccine, which protects against the most common bacteria that cause kennel cough.
The Bordetella vaccine is especially important for dogs who:
- Visit boarding kennels
- Attend daycare
- Participate in training classes
- Frequent dog parks
You’ll want to make sure your dog is up-to-date on this vaccine, so don’t hesitate to talk to us at your next checkup.
2. Avoid High-Risk Areas
If your dog isn’t vaccinated or you’re concerned about their health, try to avoid high-risk places where dogs tend to gather. If you do go to a dog park, make sure it’s well-maintained, with plenty of space for dogs to roam freely without getting too close to each other. If your dog shows any symptoms of kennel cough after being in a public area, make sure to quarantine them from other dogs for a while to prevent the spread.
3. Good Hygiene
Just like with humans, proper hygiene can go a long way in preventing the spread of illness. If your dog is exposed to other dogs, make sure to clean their paws, coat, and anything they came into contact with. Wash their toys, bowls, and bedding regularly. And don’t forget to wash your hands after handling your dog or any items they’ve touched.
4. Keep Them Healthy
A strong immune system can help your dog fend off infections. Make sure your dog eats a balanced diet, gets enough exercise, and stays well-hydrated. Regular checkups at our animal hospital will also help ensure that your dog stays in tip-top shape. Remember, a healthy dog is a less likely candidate for illness, so keep them strong and fit.
5. Monitor and Isolate
If your dog starts showing any symptoms of kennel cough, it’s important to isolate them from other dogs to prevent the spread of the disease. Rest, hydration, and a cozy place to sleep can help your dog recover faster. If their symptoms persist for more than a few days, or if they start to develop a fever or difficulty breathing, contact us immediately.
When Should You Visit the Vet?
Kennel cough often resolves on its own in about two to three weeks, but if your dog is having a tough time with symptoms, it’s always a good idea to visit the vet. We can give you advice on the best treatment options, which might include:
- Antibiotics for secondary bacterial infections
- Cough suppressants to help with the dry, irritating cough
- Anti-inflammatory medications to reduce swelling in the airways
In rare cases, dogs with weakened immune systems or puppies and senior dogs can develop more serious complications. So, it’s always best to consult with your vet if you’re unsure or if you notice any concerning symptoms.
No one likes seeing their dog feeling sick, but with a little prevention, you can help protect your dog from kennel cough. Remember, vaccination is a key step, and it’s always a good idea to keep your dog’s environment as clean and safe as possible. If you ever have questions about kennel cough, the vaccine, or your dog’s health in general, don’t hesitate to reach out to us at 108 Avenue Animal Hospital. We’re always here to help keep your dog happy and healthy!
