As colder months approach and temperatures drop across the UK, it’s not just humans that will be affected — our four-legged companions will feel the shift too.
Our pets may start displaying signs of the change in weather, especially when it comes to their health. Pet owners are being urged to monitor their dogs closely as seasonal changes can significantly affect their wellbeing.
Kennel cough cases are surging amongst dogs nationwide, prompting a leading vet to issue an urgent warning for pet owners to remain alert for symptoms of this extremely infectious condition.
Veterinary professionals say the distinctive signs of kennel cough, often dubbed ‘honking cough’, include a harsh, persistent, goose-like hacking sound that indicates the infection. This highly transmissible illness spreads swiftly in kennels, doggy daycares, and parks via airborne droplets, direct physical contact, and contaminated surfaces.
Whilst healthy dogs might show greater resistance to the condition, puppies, elderly canines, and those with weakened immune systems can develop more serious complications and remain infectious for extended periods, making prompt identification critically important.
Veterinary experts advise vaccinations, quarantine of affected dogs, and maintaining proper hygiene in communal areas. Minor infections typically resolve with adequate rest and hydration, whilst more serious cases may require prescribed medication.
Daniella Dos Santos, Senior Vet at IVC Evidensia, the UK’s largest vetcare company, has provided crucial guidance on Kennel Cough, covering warning signs to watch for, appropriate times to consult a veterinary surgeon, and probable treatment options for affected dogs.
What causes kennel cough?
Kennel cough is primarily caused by a variety of bacteria and viruses, most notably Bordetella bronchiseptica and the canine parainfluenza virus. These irritants affect a dog’s airways and can spread rapidly through the air, direct contact, or shared items such as bowls, toys, and bedding. This rapid transmission is why the disease spreads so quickly in environments like kennels, daycares, and shelters, explains Daniella.
Symptoms and signs of Kennel Cough
The cough associated with kennel cough is harsh, hacking, and honking – it’s as if your dog is trying to clear something from its throat. It may be followed by gagging or foamy saliva. The cough can intensify at night, during play, or if the collar rubs against the neck.
The most common and noticeable symptom of kennel cough is a persistent, dry, hacking cough. Other symptoms can include retching and gagging, a runny nose and sneezing, watery eyes or eye discharge, mild lethargy and — in more severe cases — fever and a loss of appetite.
Dogs usually remain alert and maintain their normal eating habits when down with Kennel Cough. However, if you observe the cough becoming wet, their breathing becoming difficult, or see them refusing food, seek veterinary assistance immediately.
How long is kennel cough contagious for?
Dogs are typically contagious for two to three weeks following the onset of symptoms. However, puppies, older dogs, and those with compromised immune systems may transmit the illness for a longer period.
How the disease spreads
Dogs can contract kennel cough through direct contact with an infected animal, or via contaminated items including food bowls and toys. Dogs experiencing stress, poor nutrition or regular exposure to cigarette smoke and dust particles are frequently more vulnerable.
Due to its highly contagious nature, owners are advised to isolate infected dogs from other canines whilst displaying symptoms and for two to three weeks afterwards. Even once coughing has stopped, it is recommended to keep affected dogs separated from others for at least seven additional days to prevent transmission.
When to seek a vet’s advice
Whilst kennel cough typically persists for between one and three weeks, certain symptoms may continue for up to six weeks. Should your dog’s condition deteriorate, contact a veterinary surgeon for guidance — especially if they display more serious indicators such as nasal discharge, loss of appetite, and appearing more lethargic than normal.
Those with puppies, senior dogs, or dogs with pre-existing health conditions should observe their animals carefully, as kennel cough carries a risk of progressing into pneumonia.
Preventing and treating Kennel Cough
“Vaccination is the best method of protection and prevention, and owners can ask vets about adding this to their dog’s vaccination schedule if they are concerned,” advises Daniella. Vaccines — whether intranasal, oral, or injectable — help protect dogs from kennel cough, while maintaining clean, well-ventilated kennels and ensuring all dogs are up to date on vaccinations further reduces the risk of outbreaks.
Mild cases of Kennel Cough usually necessitate rest, fluids, and occasionally a humidifier. More severe instances may call for antibiotics or cough suppressants, and it’s best to keep your four-legged friend away from cold air and smoke.
There isn’t a specific test for kennel cough but vets can diagnose based on symptoms when they examine the dog.
In terms of treatment, provided your dog is healthy and living in a clean, well-ventilated environment, they should recover within three weeks without further veterinary care. Anti-inflammatories may be prescribed to reduce airway inflammation and treat high fevers. If the infection is particularly severe, vets may also prescribe antibiotics.
