What is Kennel cough?

As the autumn months turn into winter and temperatures drop, one must take note of your pet’s health changes.  Dogs and cats do get sick, if your pet develops a cough there may be many different reasons for the cough, you should have, as a precaution, your pet examined by your vet. 

 

Kennel cough is common amongst dogs and cats.

What is Kennel Cough?

Kennel cough, the common name that is given to infectious canine tracheobronchitis, is a very highly contagious respiratory disease among dogs.

What are the symptoms of Kennel cough?

• ·         Dry hacking cough is the most common symptom
• ·         Cough may sound like honking
• ·         Retching
• ·         Watery nasal discharge
• ·         In severe cases, symptoms progress and can include pneumonia, in appetence, fever, lethargy and even death
• ·        Unvaccinated puppies and young dogs, might experience the most severe symptoms of the disease

 

Prevention is better than cure! What should I do to avoid this happening again?

In order to prevent this disease, it is recommended that you not expose your dog to other dogs, allot of people take their dogs to the park, so please keep in mind that not all dogs have been vaccinated and can carry diseases.  However, if you do enjoy your walks with your dogs, then a proper vaccination would be the best option to keep your pet happy and healthy. However first talk to your vet about what is available for your dog, since there are certain vaccines that can have worrisome side effects. Therefore, vaccines to prevent tracheobronchitis are generally only given to dogs that are at high risk.