What is Kennel Cough?

Kennel Cough is also known as Canine Infectious Tracheobronchitis. It is caused by various viruses (Canine Parainfluenza Virus, Adneovirus, Distemper) and can also include secondary infection (or, less be commonly caused by) Bordetella Bronchiseptica bacteria. These agents infect the respiratory system causing dogs to cough.

What are the symptoms?

The most common symptom is a dry, hacking cough which often causes the dog to retch. Usually, the dog remains well. Occasionally it can cause other symptoms such as lethargy, fever, nasal discharge and a loss of appetite.

What treatment is available?

The infection is usually self-limiting, however any dog with a cough should be checked by the vet as it may be caused by something other than Kennel Cough. Puppies and older dogs more commonly display other symptoms and should be checked.

Normally no treatment is required, however some animals may require treatment such as anti-inflammatories or antibiotics if they are displaying other symptoms.

How do dogs catch Kennel Cough?

Kennel Cough is a highly contagious and therefore is often spread when groups of dogs are in close proximity. It is carried in the air, can be spread via secretions on food bowls, toys, etc. and via nose to nose contact.

How can it be prevented?

Dogs displaying signs of Kennel Cough should be isolated and not allowed contact with other dogs for one week after the cough has stopped. The cough can continue for up to 20 days.

A vaccine is available from your vet. It covers a variety of organisms, but as with the human flu vaccine, not all strains are covered, and therefore it is still possible for your dog to contract Kennel Cough. The vaccine is given intranasally and can be boosted each year to maintain immunity.

Symptoms are usually reduced if your dog does contract the illness.

It is our policy that all dogs boarding must have received the Kennel Cough vaccination and be up-to-date with their annual boosters.

We also require that a minimum of two weeks has passed between the vaccine being given to your dog and the dog coming to stay with us.