Kennel Cough Symptoms, Treatment & Prevention

What is Kennel Cough?

Canine infectious tracheobronchitis is an upper respiratory infection that is highly contagious, but rarely fatal. It can quickly spread to other animals through close contact and is has a characteristic hacking, almost honking, cough, hence its more common name, kennel cough. There are two main strains of kennel cough. The most common is typically only spread during the fall and presents with less serious symptoms. There is a more serious form of kennel cough that is less common, but generally occurs in combination with other viruses and can be contracted any time of the year. This strain typically affects dogs that have not been vaccinated and can result in more severe symptoms. Kennel cough in dogs is very similar to the influenza virus in humans. There are recommended vaccines but there are multiple strain variations, so even dogs that have received the kennel cough vaccine can still contract the virus. In most cases, kennel cough in dogs will clear up on its own within three to six weeks. If your dog is showing signs of kennel cough, come see the vets at Chipman Road Animal Clinic right away.

Canine kennel cough is quite common. Most dogs will contract kennel cough at least once in their lifetime. If you notice your dog coughing and gagging, it is possible he may have contracted kennel cough, but you should bring him in to see your vet to make sure he isn’t suffering from something more serious. The kennel cough incubation period is around five to seven days, so your dog may not show symptoms of kennel cough until he has been back home for a week. The most common signs of kennel cough are a dry cough similar to a goose honking, sneezing or snorting, and in some cases vomiting or gagging when light pressure is put on the throat. Some more severe cases of kennel cough may also present with a fever.

Most symptoms of kennel cough will go away on their own. If they get worse though, it can be a sign of a larger problem that needs veterinary attention. If your dog develops a fever, loses his appetite or shows signs of lethargy, he needs medical attention right away. These symptoms are a sign of more severe problems. In rare cases kennel cough can lead to pneumonia in older or unvaccinated dogs, so if symptoms persist you should see the vet at Chipman Road Animal Clinic as soon as possible.

Treatment for kennel cough in dogs can be done at home in most cases. Because it is so highly contagious, it is best to isolate your dog for about two weeks if you have other pets at home, to make sure the virus doesn’t spread. Similar to the influenza virus in humans, most common cases of kennel cough can be treated at home with rest and relaxing. Discourage your dog from jumping and running, and take it easy on his throat by using a halter instead of a leash when you go on walks. There is not a cure all medication for kennel cough since there are so many variations of the virus. Your vet may prescribe a cough suppressant to aid your dog in his recovery and if your specific case of kennel cough is accompanied by another infection, your dog will most likely be prescribed antibiotics to make sure his health doesn’t get worse.

If you are looking for a kennel cough treatment at home, raw honey can provide some relief for your dog’s hacking cough. Diffusing essential oils can also provide some benefits, especially those with anti-bacterial and comforting benefits, like tea tree and chamomile. If your dog develops a fever or loses his appetite or his condition appears to worsen, bring your dog into Chipman Road Animal Clinic as soon as possible because this can be a sign of pneumonia or a more severe infection.

If you are boarding your dog at a kennel, make sure the cages are disinfected properly. Ensure your puppy’s vaccinations are up to date and always board your dog at a facility that requires its residents to be vaccinated. If your dog is staying at a boarder’s that also provides doggy daycare, kennel cough is more common. This is generally because the infection is airborne and facilities that provide your dogs with a lot of social play, while excellent for your puppy’s happiness, have a higher risk of spreading the infection among its temporary residents.

Vaccination is key in preventing kennel cough, especially kennel cough in puppies. Even though there are many different variations, it is still beneficial for your dog to receive the kennel cough vaccine at least once a year, just like it is recommended that you get a flu shot every year. The vaccination can be administered through a shot orally, or with a nasal spray. Bring your dog in to Chipman Road Animal Clinic to update all of his vaccines before you head out on your travels this year.

If you do suspect your dog has kennel cough, the sooner you can take action and keep them away from other animals the better. This will help prevent the spread of kennel cough among your other animals. The most important thing to remember is that if caught early and treated appropriately, kennel cough is not serious and in most cases will clear up on its own. If you do return from your holiday travels to your puppy coughing, stop by to see your vet at Chipman Road Animal Clinic and we will make sure it doesn’t develop into something more serious.

If you are looking for an expert veterinarian in Lee's Summit, MO, call Chipman Road Animal Clinic 816-524-1886