Preventing Kennel Cough is the Best Medicine

Each year, thousands of dogs unnecessarily are exposed and contract infectious tracheobronchitis, more commonly known as kennel cough.  This disease consists of infectious microorganisms that cause irritation and damage to a dogs upper bronchi and windpipe exposing the nerve endings.  As the dog breathes in out, the nerve endings are exposed to air causing a rough, dry, hacking cough in the animal about a week after being exposed to the infectious disease.  The majority of cases of kennel cough are mild and will usually subside within two to three weeks.  Veterinarians will sometimes prescribe cough-suppressant drugs to reduce the cough and treat the disease with antibiotics in an attempt to hasten the healing process and provide relief to the coughing dog.

Dog kennel cough is transmitted to dogs much like colds are transmitted between humans.  The germ is air-born and infects other dogs through inhalation.  The germ can spread quickly among dogs confined in a boarding environment thus the term kennel cough.  However, not all cases are contracted in kennels as the dog can be exposed to the disease anywhere they contact other dogs.  Not all coughing in dogs is a result of kennel cough.  Since some respiratory diseases can be serious, any persistent cough in a dog should result in a visit to the vet.

The best means of preventing kennel cough in your dog is to insure your dog is healthy and also to have him vaccinated against these infectious germs.  One way to be sure your dog is healthy is by maintaining a proper diet that includes a quality food and supplements such as Omega 3 Fatty Acids.  If you frequently board your dog, vaccination is an absolute must in order to lessen the chances of your dog contracting this disease.  If you are boarding your dog, there are a few things you can do in addition to vaccination to help reduce the chance your dog will contract kennel cough.  Ask the boarding facility about the following conditions in their kennels.

- Is the facility a member of the Pet Care Services Association or similar organization.  These organizations generally prescribe to some code of ethics ensuring your pup receives the loving care and attention they deserve.

- Is the facility climate controlled.  Cold temperatures increase the spread of kennel cough.

- Does the facility require proof of proper immunizations of all the animals it boards.

- Does the facility provide individual food and water bowls for each individual dog and are the bowls cleaned on a regular basis.

- Does the facility properly clean and disinfect the kennel area on a daily basis.

Following the few simple precautions above will greatly decrease the chances your prized pet will ever suffer an extremely annoying case of kennel cough.  In addition to these precautions, always keep your dogs toys, bedding, and other items clean and try not to let other unknown dogs use any of these items.  Doing these small things can help keep your dog safe and disease free and make him the wonderful pet your family has always desired.