Skip to content

    Booking Enquiry

    Check In Date

    Check Out Date

    Canine Cough

    Canine Cough – What Dog Owners Should Be Aware Of

    Infectious Tracheobronchitis, also known as Canine Cough, is often improperly referred to as “Kennel Cough’’. As a dog owner you should be aware of the following facts.

    What is Canine Cough?

    Infectious tracheobronchitis is a highly contagious airborne respiratory virus.

    Like what we have seen with COVID-19, Canine Cough is likely to spread through highly populated areas. A boarding facility is highly populated, but so is the dog park and even your local vet clinic. Also, as the virus is airborne, your dog can get canine cough even in their own backyard!

    Symptoms include:
    • Gagging cough
    • Sneezing
    • Nasal discharge
    • Lethargy

    Although the coughing may seem persistent, Canine Cough rarely develops into anything serious. Much like our common cold or flu, it depends on the individual and the circumstances.

    How is it cured?

    As mentioned, Canine Cough is much like the common cold. Therefore, it must run its course. Antibiotics and anti-inflammatories may be prescribed to prevent further infection and to reduce excessive coughing and symptoms, but these medications do not attack the disease itself.

    How can we prevent it?

    Even with thorough sanitation, supervision, and personalised care, we cannot prevent a dog from catching an airborne virus. We only board dogs that are immunised correctly and we always ensure all dogs are healthy and safe during their time with us with any signs of sickness are being promptly attended to.

    Can my dog still get Canine Cough even if they’re vaccinated?

    Unfortunately, yes. Vaccines are preventative and the current Canine Cough vaccine only covers two strains where there are many. The vaccine aims to reduce severity of symptoms and shorten the length of infection. This is similar to the COVID Vaccination and the flu jab for humans.

    Vaccination requirements:

    We require a C5 vaccination which covers your pet for Parvo, Distemper, Hepatitis and two strains of Canine Cough. The Canine Cough vaccine must be done every 12 months to maintain effectiveness. Whereas, the vaccination for Parvo, Distemper and Hepatitis can be administered annually or tri annually. Vaccination certificates must be shown prior to arrival and if the certificate cannot be produced, your dog will not be allowed to be boarded. This is to ensure the safety of not only your dog, but all other dogs here.

    What happens at home if my dog shows symptoms?

    Many symptoms are harmless but if your pet starts to show symptoms and you are concerned, please consult your Vet.

    Symptoms should only last between 3-7 days and will run its course like the common cold.

    Make sure you also give us a call to let us know so we can keep track of cases and so we can check on how your pet is going.

    Most importantly, do not panic or jump to conclusions! People often think tiredness is a symptom, but your pet is likely to be very tired after boarding with us as they are constantly out playing and making new mates. Give your pet the space to settle back to homelife routine before you consider their behaviors to be out of character.

    Where can I go for extra information?

    Always call your trusted veterinarian for all health concerns and medical advice regarding your pets. You are always welcome to call us too.

    Back To Top
    Search