Hearing your dog cough can be alarming, especially if it sounds harsh or persistent. For many pet owners, the possibility of kennel cough—a common but treatable respiratory condition—raises immediate concerns. Understanding how to manage this illness can help you provide the best care for your furry friend and prevent complications.
⚠️ What to Watch For
Kennel cough, or canine infectious respiratory disease complex (CIRDC), is a contagious respiratory infection that affects dogs. It’s often likened to a cold or mild flu in humans, but its symptoms can vary in severity. Knowing what to look for is the first step in addressing the issue.
- A persistent, dry, hacking cough (often described as a “honking” sound)
- Retching or gagging, sometimes mistaken for choking
- Runny nose and watery eyes
- Sneezing
- Lethargy or reduced energy
- Mild fever (in some cases)
Most dogs with kennel cough remain alert and maintain their appetite, but if symptoms worsen or if your pet seems unwell overall, further action may be needed.
🔍 Possible Causes
Kennel cough can result from several infectious agents, including viruses and bacteria. The most common culprits include Bordetella bronchiseptica bacteria and canine parainfluenza virus. It spreads easily in areas where dogs are in close contact, such as boarding facilities, dog parks, and grooming salons.
Dogs become infected through airborne droplets, direct contact with an infected dog, or sharing contaminated objects like water bowls or toys. Puppies, senior dogs, and those with weakened immune systems are at higher risk of developing severe symptoms.
✅ What You Can Do at Home
For mild cases of kennel cough, supportive care at home is often enough to help your dog recover. Here are some steps you can take:
- Keep your dog calm and rested. Avoid vigorous exercise or activities that might strain their throat.
- Use a harness instead of a collar during walks to reduce pressure on the trachea.
- Provide a warm, humid environment. A humidifier or steaming up the bathroom can help soothe your dog’s airways.
- Encourage hydration by ensuring fresh water is always available.
- Limit exposure to other dogs to prevent spreading the infection.
Most cases improve within 1–3 weeks, but monitor your dog closely. If symptoms persist or worsen, you may need to seek veterinary care.
💡 When to Call a Vet
While kennel cough is usually mild, some cases require professional treatment. Call your vet if your dog:
- Has difficulty breathing
- Shows signs of severe lethargy
- Develops a fever
- Refuses to eat or drink
- Has symptoms lasting longer than three weeks
Your vet may prescribe medications such as antibiotics (if a bacterial infection is suspected) or cough suppressants to ease symptoms. In severe cases, particularly for dogs with underlying health conditions, hospitalization may be necessary.
Vaccination can also play a key role in preventing kennel cough. Talk to your vet about whether the Bordetella vaccine or other protective measures are appropriate for your dog, especially if they’re frequently exposed to other dogs.
FAQs
Q: Can kennel cough go away on its own?
A: Yes, mild cases of kennel cough often resolve without medical treatment within 1–3 weeks. However, keep an eye on your dog’s symptoms to ensure they don’t worsen.
Q: Is kennel cough contagious to humans?
A: Kennel cough is primarily a canine illness, and the risk to humans is extremely low. However, individuals with compromised immune systems should be cautious around infected dogs.
Q: How can I prevent kennel cough?
A: Vaccination, good hygiene, and avoiding high-risk environments can reduce the risk of kennel cough. Always consult your vet about preventive measures tailored to your dog’s lifestyle.
Book a $49 online vet consultation at https://www.dialavet.com for fast, expert advice.