Kennel Cough - Important information

Kennel cough (Canine Infectious Tracheobronchitis) is a highly contagious disease of dogs and is spread easily from dog to dog wherever they meet. It results from inflammation of the upper airways. It is a mild, self-limiting disease but may progress to bronchopneumonia in puppies, or to chronic bronchitis in debilitated adult or aged dogs.

It is caused by a variety of viruses and a bacterium – Bordetella bronchiseptic. Affected dogs typically have a harsh, dry, non-productive cough, with a distinctive “whooping” sound, sometimes followed by retching and gagging. While some dogs recover rapidly, others may take several weeks to recover fully and antibiotic treatment is required if more severe signs develop. Some times more serious complications can occur, such as pneumonia, which could be fatal in old, weak and very young dogs.

Although a regular booster vaccination offers protection against many airborne viruses, only intranasal vaccines can offer protection against Bordetella.

To arrange for your dog to be vaccinated against kennel cough contact our reception on 0151 794 5969