Summer’s here! While you’re lounging on a beach or exploring a new city, your furry friend might be having their own adventure at a boarding facility. Boarding is a fantastic option for keeping your dog happy and safe while you’re away. However, one thing can put a damper on their fun: kennel cough.
Kennel cough — also known as canine infectious respiratory disease complex — is a highly contagious respiratory illness in dogs. It’s especially common during peak boarding seasons (like summer) when more dogs socialize in close quarters. Luckily, vaccination and some simple preventive measures can go a long way in protecting your pup. As veterinarians, we are here to help. Keep reading to find out how you can protect your dog and prevent kennel cough from causing a case of the boarding blues!
Understanding Kennel Cough
Kennel cough isn’t caused by just one culprit. It’s a complex infection caused by a combination of viruses and bacteria. The main culprits include canine adenovirus type 2 (CAV-2), canine parainfluenza virus, and Bordetella bronchiseptica. These pathogens can irritate your dog’s respiratory system, leading to a telltale honking cough and other uncomfortable symptoms.
This illness is highly contagious and spreads easily. A cough, a sneeze, or a shared water bowl can transfer the pathogens. Direct contact with an infected dog could also spread kennel cough to your canine companion.
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Signs and Symptoms
If your dog develops kennel cough after boarding, they may exhibit several symptoms.
Common symptoms of canine kennel cough include:
- Honking Cough: This is the most common symptom and sounds like a goose honking.
- Reverse Sneezing: This can be startling initially, but it’s not exactly a sneeze. So-called reverse “sneezing” occurs when your dog rapidly inhales air through their nose, making a snorting or wheezing sound.
- Lethargy: Kennel cough can make your dog tired and sluggish, much like you’d feel if you had a severe cold.
- Loss of Appetite: Pets are often less interested in food when they are unwell. In addition, throat irritation caused by the illness may decrease their appetite.
- Fever: Fever is a less common symptom of kennel cough, but it can occur in some cases.
It’s important to differentiate kennel cough from canine distemper, a more serious illness with similar symptoms like coughing and fever. Distemper also causes signs like eye and nose discharge, vomiting, and diarrhea. If you’re unsure about your dog’s symptoms, consulting a veterinarian is always the best course of action.
The Potential Impact of Kennel Cough
While rarely life-threatening, kennel cough can be quite uncomfortable for your dog. The persistent coughing can irritate their throat and make resting difficult. In some cases, kennel cough can cause secondary infections like pneumonia, especially in very young puppies, seniors, or dogs with compromised immune systems.
Another crucial point to remember is that kennel cough is highly contagious. If your dog contracts it at the boarding facility, they can easily spread it to other dogs, especially vulnerable populations like puppies and immunocompromised pets. Responsible pet ownership means protecting your canine companion and other pets in your community.
Vaccination: Your Dog’s Best Defense Against Kennel Cough
The best defense against kennel cough is, by far, vaccination.
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Two primary types of kennel cough vaccines are available:
- Intranasal Vaccine: This is administered as drops in your dog’s nose and is the most widely used method. It’s generally quicker and easier for both you and your dog!
- Injectable Vaccine: This vaccine is given as a subcutaneous injection, similar to a rabies vaccination.
Both types offer protection against the most common strains of kennel cough. Your veterinarian will recommend the best vaccine for your canine companion based on their health, age, and lifestyle.
Vaccines aren’t perfect, though, and no vaccine offers 100% protection. Even vaccinated dogs might develop a milder case of kennel cough or become carriers without showing symptoms. However, vaccination significantly reduces the severity and duration of the illness while minimizing the risk of spreading it to others.
Preventing Kennel Cough During Boarding
Keeping your dog current on vaccines is an important first line of defense, but it’s not the only way to protect them.
Here are some additional steps to take to minimize your dog’s risk of kennel cough during boarding:
- Choose a reputable boarding facility. Look for facilities with high hygiene standards, including regular cleaning protocols, a good air filtration system, and separation of healthy and sick animals.
- Ask about the boarding facility’s vaccination requirements. Most reputable facilities require proof of vaccination for kennel cough and other diseases before admitting your dog.
- Minimize contact with unknown dogs during travel and pick-up. Use a leash and avoid crowded waiting areas to reduce the risk of exposure.
Treatment Options for Kennel Cough
If your dog develops kennel cough after boarding, don’t panic. Most cases are mild and resolve on their own within 7-10 days.
Here’s how you can help your furry friend feel better:
- Veterinary Care: Contact your veterinarian if your dog develops kennel cough. They will assess the illness’ severity and recommend an appropriate treatment plan.
- Rest: Just like with humans, dogs need rest to recover. Give your dog a quiet place to relax and avoid strenuous activity.
- Humidifier: A cool-mist humidifier can help soothe a dry, irritated throat.
- Cough Suppressants: Your veterinarian might prescribe cough suppressants to help ease the discomfort and allow your dog to rest more comfortably.
- Antibiotics: Your veterinarian may prescribe antibiotics if they’re concerned about a secondary bacterial infection. However, antibiotics won’t treat the viral component of kennel cough.
Additional Important Considerations
Before we wrap up, you should know a few other important things about kennel cough.
Here are a few things to keep in mind:
- Kennel Cough vs. Canine Distemper: As mentioned earlier, it’s important to differentiate between kennel cough and canine distemper. While both can cause coughing, distemper is a much more serious illness with a wider range of symptoms. Distemper requires immediate veterinary attention and can be fatal if left untreated. Vaccination against both kennel cough and distemper is crucial for your dog’s health.
- Homeopathic Remedies: Various homeopathic remedies are marketed for treating kennel cough in dogs. However, there’s no scientific evidence to support their effectiveness. Always consult your veterinarian first if you’re considering any supplements or alternative treatments.
- Kennel Cough in Cats: It’s important to note that a different virus causes kennel cough in cats. Talk to their veterinarian if you’re concerned about your cat’s respiratory health.
Partner with Your Vet for Better Kennel Cough Prevention
Following these tips can significantly reduce your dog’s risk of contracting kennel cough during their summer boarding stay. Vaccination is the first line of defense, and choosing a reputable boarding facility with high hygiene standards goes a long way. Remember, even the healthiest dogs can sometimes catch kennel cough, but with proper care and veterinary guidance, they’ll recover quickly and return to their playful selves in no time.
Don’t hesitate to discuss kennel cough with your veterinarian at your dog’s next checkup. They can tailor a vaccination plan and provide personalized advice to keep your furry friend healthy and happy all year round. With a little planning and preparation, you can ensure a safe and enjoyable summer boarding experience for your dog and enjoy your summer adventures with peace of mind. If your dog needs vaccines or you’re concerned they may have kennel cough, contact us to schedule an appointment.
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