Don’t let kennel cough make your pooch feel under the weather

Vets are warning dog owners to be on their guard against a common but serious disease.

Kennel cough is a gagging sounding cough, which sounds as if your dog has something stuck in its throat.

It usually comes on very suddenly, often in the evening, or at night, keeping you and your pet awake.

It is very infectious and is easily spread between dogs. It is more often picked up from anywhere that dogs come together – such as parks and popular walking spots – so your dog can get it even if they’ve never been in kennels.

The condition irritates the main airways in the neck and lungs and can be particularly serious in very young or old dogs, or those with pre-existing lung or heart problems, where it can cause permanent damage.

In most dogs, the worst of the cough will be over within a week, although they may then still have an occasional cough for a couple of weeks after that.

And as the cough is so infectious, it may be made worse by exercise.

Vaccination is the best way to prevent these problems for up to 12 months.

The kennel cough vaccination is given as a small dose of liquid down each nostril, to stimulate immunity directly where it is most needed.

Most dogs don’t mind this way of getting vaccinated, although it does tickle a little and makes them sneeze.

Vets believe this measure is equally as important as all other preventative treatments and many now include it in regular vaccinations.

To help your pet be protected – and to celebrate the first birthday of their Broughty Ferry practice opening – Wallace Veterinary Centres are now giving one lucky dog or cat owner the chance to receive a year’s subscription to their Premium Pet Care Plan for one of their pets.

It is worth up to £280, giving them all their preventative treatments free for 12 months – and includes the kennel cough vaccine as standard.

The plan also includes annual vaccination, flea, tick and worming treatments and two health checks.

It also offers discounts consultations and surgery, including neutering.

This helps prevent unplanned or unwanted pregnancies and protects against various diseases. It also reduces straying, aggression and other antisocial behaviours.

Microchipping, a legal requirement for dogs, is also offered at half price.

To be in with a chance to receive a year’s subscription to Wallace’s Premium Pet Care Plan, send your name, address, postcode and phone number with Wallace in the subject field, to clindsay@thecourier.co.uk

The first name chosen after the closing date of February 8 will get the year’s subscription.

Keep your pet healthy with a pet care plan.