Kennel Cough in Dogs – Symptoms, Treatment & Prevention

Kennel cough is an infectious respiratory disease in dogs that can cause a severe, dry, hacking cough. It’s highly contagious and can easily spread between dogs in the same area. While it usually isn’t serious, certain cases of kennel cough can have long-term health effects if not properly treated. In this article, we’ll explore the symptoms, treatment, and prevention of kennel cough in dogs.

What is Kennel Cough?

Kennel cough is a highly contagious upper respiratory infection in dogs. It’s caused by one of several different viruses and bacteria, such as the Parainfluenza virus, Bordetella bronchiseptica, adenovirus type 2, canine distemper virus, and Mycoplasma species.

Will Kennel Cough Go Away On Its Own?

In some cases, the symptoms of kennel cough may resolve on their own. However, this depends on the severity of the infection and how quickly it is treated. If left untreated, more serious health issues can develop such as pneumonia or bronchitis.

Symptoms of Kennel Cough in Dogs

The most common symptom of kennel cough is a loud, dry, hacking cough that sounds like the dog has something stuck in their throat. They may also have difficulty breathing or gagging. In severe cases, dogs may develop a fever and lose their appetite. If you notice any of these symptoms in your dog, it’s important to take them to the vet as soon as possible for an examination and diagnosis.

Treatment & Management of Kennel Cough

Depending on the severity of the infection, treatment for kennel cough can range from supportive care (antibiotics and/or coughing suppressants at home) to hospitalization with IV antibiotics and oxygen therapy. In most cases, antibiotics should be prescribed to help clear up the infection and suppress coughing. Cough suppressants may also be prescribed if your dog’s cough is particularly severe.

Preventing Kennel Cough in Dogs

The best way to prevent kennel cough is to make sure your dog receives regular vaccinations. Vaccines are available specifically for kennel cough, so ask your vet which type of vaccine would be best for your pet. It’s also important to keep them away from other dogs that have been diagnosed with kennel cough as well as any areas where large numbers of dogs congregate (such as boarding facilities or parks). Finally, good hygiene practices such as regularly washing their bedding and grooming equipment will help keep your pet healthy and prevent the spread of kennel cough.

If you have any questions or concerns about kennel cough in dogs, it’s always best to speak with your veterinarian. They can provide additional information as well as advice on how to best care for your pet if they’re affected by kennel cough. With proper treatment and prevention, most cases of kennel cough can be managed successfully.

FAQs

Q: What is the best way to prevent kennel cough in dogs?

A: The best way to prevent kennel cough is to make sure your dog receives regular vaccinations. Vaccines are available specifically for kennel cough, so ask your vet which type of vaccine would be best for your pet. It’s also important to keep them away from other dogs that have been diagnosed with kennel cough as well as any areas where large numbers of dogs congregate (such as boarding facilities or parks). Finally, good hygiene practices such as regularly washing their bedding and grooming equipment will help keep your pet healthy and prevent the spread of kennel cough.

Q: What should I do if my dog has symptoms of kennel cough?

A: If you notice any symptoms of kennel cough in your dog, it’s important to take them to the vet as soon as possible for an examination and diagnosis. Depending on the severity of the infection, treatment for kennel cough can range from supportive care (antibiotics and/or coughing suppressants at home) to hospitalization with IV antibiotics and oxygen therapy. In most cases, antibiotics should be prescribed to help clear up the infection and suppress coughing. Cough suppressants may also be prescribed if your dog’s cough is particularly severe.