Kennel Cough – A Cause For Concern?

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Any reputable dog boarding facility in Ft. Lauderdale will insist on vaccinations. The main health concern involved in boarding your dog is kennel cough. What is kennel cough? Is it a genuine cause for concern? How can you prevent it? Learn the facts before boarding your dog in Ft. Lauderdale.What is Kennel Cough?

Kennel cough is an upper respiratory infection caused either by bacteria or a virus. Think of it as the common cold in dogs. The most common cause is from the bacteria “Bordetella bronchiseptica”.

What Happens when a Dog has Kennel Cough?

The lining of the dog’s trachea and bronchial tubes become inflamed resulting in a dry, hacking cough. The sound is similar to that of a dog hacking up something caught in the back of their throat. In general, other than this cough and perhaps a white, frothy material being coughed up, the dog is in good health with a normal temperature.

Is Kennel Cough Contagious?

Kennel cough is highly contagious. It is contracted via the air and takes approximately 3 to 10 days to incubate.

Treatment

In general, Kennel Cough will pass on its own within 1 to 2 weeks. As long as your dog has no other symptoms other than the dry cough, the veterinarian will most likely send them home without medication. In order to facilitate the healing process, keep your dog warm and reduce stress. When walking your dog, switch to a harness rather than their collar. This will aid in alleviating the irritation caused by the cough. Your dog should be provided with plenty of water and softer food is recommended due to their irritated throats.

Sometimes the veterinarian will prescribe a cough suppressant or steroids. Antibiotics are often provided in cases where the cough is severe or in animals with compromised immune systems.

How do I Prevent Kennel Cough?

Many dog boarding facilities in Ft. Lauderdale require that your dog is vaccinated against kennel cough. Generally, this is performed once a year. Make sure that the dog is given their up to date vaccine at least a couple of weeks before boarding.

Even with vaccinations though, if you are boarding your dog in Ft. Lauderdale, there is a risk that they can still contract kennel cough. Dog boarding facilities and resorts take every precaution to keep each and every pet healthy and happy during their stay. However, every sickness cannot be prevented. Ensuring your dog is vaccinated and healthy before boarding in Ft. Lauderdale is the best protection you can provide.