Planning a trip during the holiday season often means arranging care for your furry family members. For many dog owners, a boarding facility provides a safe and supervised environment. However, any time dogs gather in one place, there's a risk of contagious illnesses spreading. One of the most common concerns for owners is kennel cough.

Understanding what kennel cough is and how to prevent it can give you peace of mind while you're away. At Scottsdale Veterinary Clinic, we want to help you prepare your pet for a happy and healthy stay. This guide will cover the essentials of kennel cough, how to protect your dog, and special considerations for the youngest pets in your household.

What is Kennel Cough?

Kennel cough, officially known as canine infectious tracheobronchitis, is a highly contagious respiratory infection in dogs. It's often compared to a human cold because it can be caused by a variety of viruses and bacteria. The most common culprit is a bacterium called Bordetella bronchiseptica, which is why the kennel cough vaccine is often called the "Bordetella vaccine."

The infection causes inflammation in the dog's windpipe (trachea) and bronchial tubes, leading to its signature symptom: a forceful, hacking cough. It spreads easily through airborne droplets, direct contact with an infected dog, or contact with contaminated surfaces like water bowls, toys, or kennel walls. The name "kennel cough" comes from its tendency to spread quickly in places where many dogs are housed together, such as boarding facilities, doggy daycares, and shelters.

Symptoms to Watch For

The most obvious sign of kennel cough is a persistent, dry, hacking cough that often sounds like the dog has something stuck in its throat. Some owners describe it as a "honking" sound. While the cough is the primary symptom, others may include:

  • Sneezing or a runny nose
  • Gagging or retching, sometimes followed by a bit of white foam
  • Discharge from the eyes
  • Lethargy or reduced energy
  • Loss of appetite

Most cases of kennel cough are mild and resolve on their own, much like a common cold. However, in some dogs—especially puppies, seniors, or those with weakened immune systems—it can progress to more serious conditions like pneumonia. If you notice any of these symptoms, it's always best to consult your veterinarian.

Prevention: The Best Defense When Boarding

The most effective way to protect your dog from kennel cough is through proactive prevention, especially before they enter a boarding environment.

1. Stay Up-to-Date on Vaccinations

Vaccination is your dog's first line of defense. Reputable boarding facilities require proof of vaccination to protect all the animals in their care. The core vaccine that helps prevent kennel cough is for Bordetella.

  • Bordetella Vaccine: This vaccine is available in three forms: an injection, an oral liquid, and an intranasal spray. The oral and intranasal versions may offer faster immunity, which is ideal if you're on a tight schedule. It's crucial that this vaccine is administered at least two weeks before boarding to give it enough time to become fully effective.
  • Other Core Vaccines: Ensure your dog is also current on their other core vaccinations, such as those for distemper and canine influenza. These viruses can also cause respiratory symptoms and are often required by boarding kennels.

2. Choose a Reputable Boarding Facility

Not all boarding facilities are created equal. When choosing a place for your dog, do your research. A high-quality facility will prioritize health and safety.

Look for a kennel that:

  • Requires Proof of Vaccination: This is non-negotiable. It shows they are serious about preventing outbreaks.
  • Maintains High Standards of Cleanliness: The facility should be clean, well-ventilated, and free of strong odors. Ask about their cleaning and disinfection protocols.
  • Has Adequate Space: Overcrowding can increase stress and the likelihood of disease transmission. Ensure the kennels are spacious and that dogs have safe, separate areas for rest.
  • Provides Good Airflow: Proper ventilation helps disperse airborne pathogens, reducing the risk of infection.

3. Boost Your Dog's Immune System

A healthy dog is better equipped to fight off infections. Support your pet's overall wellness in the weeks leading up to their boarding stay. Ensure they are eating a high-quality diet, getting regular exercise, and have access to fresh water. Minimizing stress before boarding can also help keep their immune system strong.

Special Considerations for Puppies and Kittens

While kennel cough primarily affects dogs, the bacteria Bordetella bronchiseptica can also infect cats, causing upper respiratory symptoms. This is particularly relevant when boarding facilities house both dogs and cats. Young animals are especially vulnerable.

Puppies

Puppies have developing immune systems, making them more susceptible to infections like kennel cough. It's also more likely for the illness to become severe in a young pup.

  • Vaccination Schedule: It's critical that your puppy completes their full series of vaccinations on a schedule recommended by your veterinarian before they are exposed to other dogs in a group setting.
  • Early Socialization vs. Safety: While socialization is important, exposing a partially vaccinated puppy to a high-traffic environment like a kennel can be risky. Talk to us about the right time to start boarding or daycare activities.

Kittens

Like puppies, kittens have immature immune systems. If they contract Bordetella from a dog in a boarding facility, they can develop sneezing, coughing, and eye discharge.

Vaccine for Cats: A Bordetella vaccine is available for cats, though it is not considered a core vaccine. If you plan to board your kitten or cat in a facility that also houses dogs, discuss whether this vaccine is a good option for them with your veterinarian.

Separation of Species: A reputable boarding facility should have completely separate housing and ventilation systems for dogs and cats to prevent cross-species transmission of diseases.

Preparing for a Healthy Stay

Before you drop your dog off for their stay, a final check-in can ensure everything is in order. Our clinic can provide you with up-to-date vaccination records and perform a pre-boarding health check to confirm your pet is healthy and ready for their temporary home. For more tips on making the experience a positive one, check out our boarding preparation advice.

Boarding your dog doesn't have to be a source of anxiety. By taking preventative steps, choosing the right facility, and ensuring your pet's vaccinations are current, you can significantly reduce the risk of kennel cough. If you have any questions about your dog's health or vaccination status, please don't hesitate to contact us. We are here to help you prepare for a worry-free trip.