If your dog regularly goes into kennels you may well be familiar with the kennel cough vaccination, but it is not only those dogs, which may be a risk.

Kennel cough can be quite distressing for owner and dog alike. The dog usually coughs repeatedly until they wretch white froth, after exercise or any excitement. Sometimes it only lasts a few days, but for some animals it can hang around for a long time. They are often eating ok, but are usually subdued and not so keen to go out on walks.

It is caused by two main infectious causes, a virus and bacteria, though milder forms can occur with many different viruses. These bugs are spread through the air so crucially any place where many dogs congregate are high-risk areas. These include dog shows, kennels and popular dog walking fields as well as training classes.

Treatment depends on the severity of the infection. Mild forms in middle-aged healthy dogs are often self-curing, with medication to sooth the discomfort. Puppies and elderly dogs, especially those with heart/lung conditions are of more concern, and they often require antibiotics, and possibly hospitalisation to ensure pneumonia does not develop.

The vaccination against kennel cough lasts a year and usually can be given at the same time as their annual injection. It is administered by a squirt up the nose, to give protection directly where the infection enters the dog’s body. This can sometimes be a little eventful if the dog is not used to having their nose touched, but starting at a young age can help acclimatise them, as well as keep them covered for all their socialisation!

Unfortunately, we cannot vaccinate against all strains of kennel cough, much like the common cold virus for us. So occasionally after contact with other dogs, yours may have a mild cough, even though it is vaccinated. These infections are usually less severe than true kennel cough, though sometimes still need treating.

If your dog is diagnosed with kennel cough they should be quarantined from other dogs, not walked, and you should refrain from dog training, agility classes and dog shows in an attempt to contain the spread of the disease and lessen the risk to other dogs.

Please bear in mind that there are many other causes of ‘coughing dogs’ including heart problems, lungworm, chest and airway problems It is always recommended that your dog has a check up with their Vet to determine the cause.

If you have any worries or concerns about topics raised in this article, please don’t hesitate to contact your local vet for advice.