How to prevent your dog getting highly-infectious kennel cough

Kennel cough is a highly contagious disease and can easily spread anywhere dogs have been. But you can help protect your dog. “Wherever dogs mingle, there is a risk of kennel cough infections being spread,” says PDSA Vet Olivia Anderson-Nathan.

“This can include parks, walking routes, dog shows and training classes. Many pet owners go on holiday at this time of year and their dogs are often cared for at boarding kennels, which can be another high-risk area.

“For dogs exposed to these higher-risk situations, vaccination is essential.”

Several forms of kennel cough are preventable through vaccination, and most kennels will insist on proof of the kennel cough vaccination before boarding a dog.

“If your dog spends a lot of time in places where there are lots of dogs, it’s a good idea to get them vaccinated against kennel cough,” says Olivia.

“Very young puppies, elderly dogs or those who already have breathing problems are more at risk of kennel cough developing into something more serious, such as pneumonia.

“If you’re unsure whether your

dog needs a kennel cough vaccination, discuss it with your vet.

Boosters are especially important as, much like the human flu vaccine, protection only lasts for up to twelve months, and it only protects against the most common strains.”

Some dogs may still catch a milder form of kennel cough despite being vaccinated, due to the numerous viruses and bacteria that can cause the disease.

However, vaccinations should reduce the seriousness of the symptoms and your dog is more likely to recover quickly.

The main signs of kennel cough to look out for include a dry, loud, hacking cough.

Kennel cough causes inflammation of the windpipe and upper airways, creating that dry hacking cough, which often gets worse after excitement and exercise.

Coughing bouts can last for long periods and can seem quite severe, which is why sometimes you might mistakenly think the cough is due to something being stuck in your dog’s throat.

The affected dog might also retch, cough up a small amount of frothy white foam but otherwise should be keen to eat, exercise and be bright. Most dogs with no other health issues will be able to clear the infection without treatment, but symptoms can linger for some time.

If your dog shows any signs of illness, make an appointment to see your vet.

Due to its highly contagious nature, if your dog is diagnosed with kennel cough keep them away from other dogs until they are fully recovered to help prevent the disease from spreading.

For more advice and information, visit www.pdsa.org.uk