How to Treat a Dog with Kennel Cough

1. What Is Kennel Cough?

Kennel cough, also known as infectious tracheobronchitis, is a highly contagious respiratory infection in dogs. It is caused by a combination of viruses and bacteria, primarily the Bordetella bronchiseptica bacterium and the canine parainfluenza virus. The name “kennel cough” comes from its tendency to spread rapidly in places where dogs are in close contact, such as kennels, dog parks, and grooming salons.

While kennel cough is often mild and self-limiting, it can be uncomfortable for your dog and, in some cases, lead to more serious complications. Understanding the causes and symptoms of kennel cough is the first step in treating your dog effectively.

2. Symptoms of Kennel Cough

The most common symptom of kennel cough is a persistent, dry, hacking cough. The cough may sound like your dog is trying to clear their throat, and it often worsens after exercise or excitement. Other symptoms can include:

• Runny nose: You may notice a clear or slightly colored nasal discharge.
• Loss of appetite: Dogs with kennel cough may not feel like eating due to their discomfort.
• Lethargy: Your dog might seem more tired than usual and less active.
• Occasional gagging or retching: Some dogs may make gagging noises as they try to clear mucus from their throat.

If your dog exhibits these symptoms, it’s essential to monitor their condition closely and take steps to treat them appropriately.

3. How to Treat Kennel Cough in Dogs

While kennel cough can often resolve on its own, treatment can help speed up recovery and make your dog more comfortable. Here are some steps to take when treating kennel cough in dogs:

• Rest and hydration: Ensure your dog gets plenty of rest. Just like humans, dogs need rest to recover from illness. Keep your dog hydrated with fresh water and offer them easy-to-digest foods if they aren’t eating well.
• Humidifier or steam: Using a humidifier or bringing your dog into the bathroom while you run a hot shower can help soothe their irritated airways and make breathing easier.
• Medications: If the cough is persistent or severe, your veterinarian may prescribe antibiotics or cough suppressants. Antibiotics are typically used if a bacterial infection is present, while cough suppressants may help reduce discomfort.
• Avoid exposure to other dogs: To prevent the spread of kennel cough, keep your dog away from other pets until they have fully recovered. This is especially important in social environments like parks, kennels, and grooming facilities.

Most dogs with kennel cough recover in two to three weeks, but it’s important to follow your veterinarian’s advice to ensure the best possible outcome.

4. When to See a Veterinarian

In many cases, kennel cough is mild and will improve with home care. However, there are certain situations where it’s important to consult a veterinarian:

• Persistent symptoms: If your dog’s symptoms last more than two weeks or if the cough worsens, seek professional advice.
• Difficulty breathing: If your dog seems to be having trouble breathing or is wheezing, it could indicate a more serious condition that requires immediate attention.
• Loss of appetite or severe lethargy: If your dog isn’t eating or seems excessively tired, they may be at risk of dehydration or other complications.
• Age and health considerations: Puppies, senior dogs, and dogs with pre-existing health conditions may be more vulnerable to complications, so prompt veterinary care is crucial.

Early intervention can prevent the condition from worsening and ensure your dog receives the appropriate treatment.

5. Preventing Kennel Cough in Dogs

Prevention is key when it comes to kennel cough. While it’s impossible to eliminate all risks, there are several steps you can take to reduce the chances of your dog contracting kennel cough:

• Vaccination: The Bordetella vaccine is highly effective in preventing kennel cough, although it doesn’t guarantee complete immunity. Consult your veterinarian about whether this vaccine is right for your dog, especially if they frequent dog parks or boarding facilities.
• Avoid high-risk environments: Limit your dog’s exposure to crowded places where they are likely to come into contact with infected dogs.
• Good hygiene: Ensure that your dog’s environment is clean and disinfected, particularly if you board them or take them to doggy daycare.
• Boost immunity: Keep your dog’s immune system strong by providing a balanced diet, regular exercise, and routine veterinary care.

By taking these preventative measures, you can significantly reduce the risk of your dog contracting kennel cough and other respiratory infections.

6. Real-Life Stories of Kennel Cough Treatment

Many dog owners have faced the challenge of kennel cough, and their stories offer valuable insights into managing the condition. Take Jenny’s experience with her Golden Retriever, Max, for example: “Max started coughing after we took him to the dog park. At first, I thought it was just a normal cold, but when it didn’t go away, I took him to the vet. Thankfully, with some antibiotics and rest, he was back to his old self in no time.”

Another story comes from Chris, who had a more serious experience: “My pug, Bella, got kennel cough at a boarding facility. She started having trouble breathing, so I immediately took her to the vet. She had to stay on medication for a while, but she recovered completely. It was a stressful time, but the vet was amazing, and Bella is doing great now.”

These real-life experiences show how important it is to seek prompt veterinary care and follow the right treatment plan to help your dog recover from kennel cough.

7. Explore Pet Care Services at Hidden Brook Veterinary

If your dog is experiencing symptoms of kennel cough, or if you simply want to ensure their overall health, visit Hidden Brook Veterinary for expert care. Our team is dedicated to providing top-notch veterinary services, including diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of respiratory infections like kennel cough.

For more information about how we can help keep your dog healthy, visit Hidden Brook Veterinary today.