Does Your Dog Have a Dry, Hacking Cough? Here’s What You Need to Know - Kennel Cough 101

Описание: Is your dog still coughing after being around other dogs or visiting a facility? In this follow-up video, Dr. Sean McPeck from Tier 1 Veterinary Medical Center in Palmer, Alaska, provides more insight into kennel cough, a common but potentially serious respiratory illness in dogs.

Dr. McPeck explains how kennel cough can create a vicious cycle: “What we're seeing with kennel cough is coughing, especially if you had a dog prior to going to a facility around other dogs, picking them up, and now they're coughing. Usually, it's more of a dry, hacking cough. The coughing itself exacerbates the issue over time, creating more turbulence and irritation in the airway, which provides a better environment for the infection to set in further. This irritation leads to more coughing, which causes more inflammation, creating a cyclical effect that makes the condition worse.”

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Want to know more? Keep reading for detailed information on the signs, symptoms, transmission, and treatment options for kennel cough.

Signs and Symptoms:

Persistent, dry, “honking” cough
Gagging or retching after coughing
Sneezing and nasal discharge
Lethargy and loss of appetite
Mild fever and wheezing

Transmission: Kennel cough is highly contagious and spreads through:

Airborne droplets from coughing or sneezing
Direct contact with infected dogs
Contaminated surfaces like food bowls and toys

Treatment: Mild cases often resolve on their own with rest, but some may require:

Cough suppressants or anti-inflammatory medications
Antibiotics for bacterial infections
Supportive care, such as nebulizers or vaporizers
Vaccination to reduce the risk

Prevention: The best way to protect your dog from kennel cough is to ensure they receive the Bordetella vaccine, designed to prevent the most common cause of this illness. Regular vaccinations are crucial, especially for dogs that frequently interact with other dogs at kennels, dog parks, or grooming facilities. During outbreaks, avoid crowded areas, maintain good ventilation in confined spaces, and regularly clean your dog's living areas, toys, and bowls. Stay proactive and consult with your vet for personalized prevention strategies to keep your dog healthy and safe.

At Tier 1 Vet, we’re dedicated to keeping your pets healthy and happy. If you suspect your dog has kennel cough or want to learn more, contact us today! 🐾

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