A case of canine cough
It’s definitely that time of year when coughs, colds, and flus become common. And unfortunately, for pets too.
Canine cough, also known as kennel cough, can describe several bacterial or viral conditions causing a cough in dogs, much like a cold in humans. Usually a loud hacking cough, it can sound like something is caught in their throat. This is often viral or can be bacterial, and it is highly contagious to other dogs only. Usually, with kennel cough, affected dogs are otherwise bright and happy, have no temperature, and are eating normally.
VetChat, a leading telehealth service for pets wants all New Zealand dog owners to be aware of the symptoms and treatments for kennel cough. CEO Dr Claire Jenkins says, “There are vaccinations for canine cough but they do not provide 100 percent cover.
Like the flu, even if your dog is vaccinated against the common strains, they are often not 100 percent protected, and there are other causative strains for the cough.”
“Depending on the case and whether your dog has concurrent disease, treatment often involves anti-inflammatories, sometimes antibiotics, rest and isolation from other dogs.”
“If your dog presents with a cough, please keep your dog away from other dogs and call your Vet for advice to find out what the best approach is.”
Need to know
- The main symptom is a consistent, forceful cough
- Apart from coughing, your dog shouldn’t feel ill and should still have a good appetite
- Kennel cough is highly contagious and can easily be spread from one dog to another
- Kennel cough usually clears up within three weeks, but can take up to six weeks
- Most cases shouldn’t need treatment, but if you are worried your vet can advise
