Kennel cough is probably the most talked about and “worried over” of the doggie diseases because it is so common and easily spread.
But, some online sources are now suggesting that our worry and concern is “over done” and that kennel cough does not deserve the hype it gets.
We asked Denise Petryk, DVM, Trupanion’s Director of Veterinary Services what she thinks about this emerging opinion on Kennel Cough, and what dog owners need to know about this doggie cold.
Does Kennel Cough deserve all the hype it gets?
The hype is a good thing. Kennel cough is caused by a number of organisms and the severity can range from mild to fatal. It’s important to visit your veterinarian at the first signs of kennel cough to make sure it does not become more serious.
What do dog owners really need to understand about kennel cough?
Kennel cough is highly contagious and can cause a huge variety of symptoms ranging from dry cough for a couple days to fever, anorexia, severe pneumonia and death.
Keep your dog away from other dogs when coughing and for at least a week after you hear the last cough.
Vaccinate your dog as directed by a veterinarian that knows your family, your dog, and your area. It’s important to form a great relationship with your local veterinarian. Find someone your trust and respect, and they will be able to give you advice tailored to your lifestyle and your pet.
Is the vaccine really worth it?
Yes, absolutely, especially if your dog is frequently around other dogs. Talk to your veterinarian about your dog’s risk and whether they should have the vaccine.
Other articles are saying the “vast majority” of dogs will recover from the infection on their own. Is that really true? Is a vet visit not warranted?
Many dogs do recover on their own, but the symptoms of kennel cough can vary significantly and if your pet develops pneumonia, it could become fatal. It’s always a good idea to have your veterinarian take a look at the first sign of symptoms to monitor your pet’s condition.
As with any pet health concern, your veterinarian is your best resource. It’s important to spend time with a veterinarian you trust to gain tailored information for your pet. Don’t rely on generic web resources for everything. The face-to-face interaction with your veterinarian will benefit you and your dog far more in the long run.
Owning a pet is a huge responsibility, and your veterinarian will be able to provide better advice and care than looking something up online.
Coughing can be a symptom of something more serious, only an exam will be able to find the cause. Based on your pet, your veterinarian will be able to discuss whether your pet will need x-rays or blood tests, the pros and cons of treatment options, and how to provide the best care for your pet. Medical insurance for your dog can make these tests more accessible and often aid in a diagnosis. If it is simply a cough, your veterinarian can also help you alleviate your pet’s symptoms to make them more comfortable. A hands-on exam will do far more than waiting to see if your dog recovers.
So when should you take your dog to the vet?
The best time to take your dog to the veterinarian is as soon as you notice symptoms. The earlier you are able to treat a condition, the less expensive it will be and the more likely it is your pet will recover well. You owe it to your dog to do the responsible thing.
Ask your veterinarian specific questions about your dog’s condition and about kennel cough in your area.
- Does my pet have a fever?
- Is the current outbreak of kennel cough in our neighborhood a particularly bad one?
- Have there been any cases of flu diagnosed?
- Have you seen many cases of kennel cough in the area?
- Is my dog who is not vaccinated at a higher risk than usual?
- Is my short-nosed dog more likely to be at risk for complications?
- Is my large-breed, typically healthy dog more at risk?
Your veterinarian will be able to give you far more information than generic advice from a website, and that veterinary exam is invaluable.
About the Author
Based in Wilsonville, Ore., animal lover Kristina N. Lotz is a Certified Professional Dog Trainer – Knowledge Assessed (CPDT-KA) and works as a full time trainer. She is the founder of, A Fairytail House, a unique all-positive all-sport dog training facility that helps rescue dogs in her area and provides free seminars and training classes for the community. In her spare time, she trains and competes in herding, agility, obedience, rally, and conformation with her Shetland Sheepdogs. She smartly married a Veterinary Technician, who helps keep the fur kids happy and healthy, and provides a quick resource for articles.
Toledo, United States.
