Kennel Cough

It all sounds very technical, so what is the difference, and what has it got to do with us?

Well, in fact, to all intent and purpose, for us as lay people, they are all the same, just different names for the same malady. It can affect all our dogs if they are not inoculated, is extremely virulent, and our pets don’t need to go anywhere a kennel despite its other name. Kennel Cough.

The name Kennel Cough is a total misconception. It has nothing to do with kennels other than the fact that it is so highly contagious that it spreads like wildfire amongst dogs in a confined space.

It is spread by airborne droplets and contaminated surfaces. Sound familiar? Yes, you’ve guessed it, just like covid!!

Symptoms are a harsh dry cough, sneezing, retching, gagging, lethargy, loss of appetite and, in some cases, fever.

It is very unpleasant for the dog and just as unpleasant for humans to listen to, knowing that once caught, it will have to run its course. The incubation period can last between 3 and 10 days, although the most common period of time for it to emerge is after 5-7 days. Kennel Cough can last for several weeks, and if necessary, a veterinary surgeon can prescribe suitable cough linctus and also anti-inflammatory medication designed to reduce inflammation and provide pain relief.

Causes

As kennel cough is an infection caused by bacteria and viruses, then antibiotics have a limited effect as antibiotics are usually ineffective against viruses. It should be noted that just as with COVID, the elderly are the most vulnerable, and of course, those dogs who are already suffering from medical issues, in particular respiratory problems. Puppies can also be in danger due to their age

Fortunately, many commercial ventures like kennel training clubs, dog daycare establishments and shelters insist on vaccination and without a valid certificate, there is a strict no-entry policy.

Home remedies for kennel cough are…..

Between half a tablespoon to a whole tablespoon of honey in a small quantity of warm water 3 – 4 times daily.

If taking a hot bath/shower, keeping the dog in the bathroom with the door shut will assist in breathing. (Dog only in the bathroom, NOT the bath/shower with you!!)

If you have a dehumidifier, placing it close by when your dog rests will assist in breathing.

There are a variety of holistic/herbal remedies, but I have no personal knowledge of them.

Sanitize bowls and toys and discard any that cannot be cleaned properly unless it is a much-favoured comforter, in which case, do the best you can. If your pet sleeps on your bed, wash the bedclothes.

Don’t use human cough linctus unless agreed with a veterinary surgeon.

Avoid contact with other dogs.

Avoid using incense burners, household cleaners, and aerosol sprays and in particular, avoid smoking cigarettes.

Avoid strenuous exercise as this will exacerbate the problem.

Encourage rest and relaxation.

Be aware that if visiting the veterinary surgeon, it should be preceded by a phone call to inform the vet of the purpose of the visit. This gives the veterinarian the opportunity to decide how to ensure that other dogs are not in contact with yours.

Note that even when a dog has had kennel cough there is no guarantee that it will not catch it again, this is a condition that does not provide lifetime immunity.

Finally, due to the factors involved in how kennel cough is created, while vaccinating your dog is not 100% effective, it will offer some protection.