Can I Board My Dog With Kennel Cough
1. Introduction
Kennel cough, also known as canine infectious tracheobronchitis or Bordetella bronchiseptica, is a highly contagious respiratory disease that affects dogs. It is caused by a combination of viruses and bacteria that can spread quickly in areas where there are large numbers of dogs, such as boarding facilities, doggy daycares, and dog parks. If your dog has been diagnosed with kennel cough, you may be wondering if it is safe to board them in a kennel or other facility. In this article, we will discuss the basics of kennel cough, the risks of boarding a dog with kennel cough, and what you should look for when choosing a boarding facility.
2. What is Kennel Cough?
Kennel cough is an upper respiratory tract infection caused by a combination of viruses and bacteria. The most common causes are the parainfluenza virus, the Bordetella bronchiseptica bacteria, and the canine adenovirus. These viruses and bacteria can spread quickly in areas where there are large numbers of dogs such as boarding facilities, doggy daycares, and dog parks.
3. How is Kennel Cough Spread?
Kennel cough is highly contagious and can be spread through direct contact with an infected dog or through contact with contaminated surfaces such as bedding or toys. It can also be spread through airborne droplets from coughing or sneezing. The virus can survive for up to two weeks on surfaces so it is important to clean and disinfect any potentially contaminated areas regularly.
4. Symptoms of Kennel Cough
The most common symptom of kennel cough is a persistent dry cough that may sound like honking or hacking. Other symptoms include sneezing, runny nose, eye discharge, fever, lethargy, loss of appetite, and difficulty breathing. If your dog exhibits any of these symptoms it is important to take them to the veterinarian for diagnosis and treatment.
5. Treatment for Kennel Cough
Treatment for kennel cough depends on the severity of the infection but typically includes antibiotics and/or anti-inflammatory medications to reduce inflammation in the airways and help clear up any secondary bacterial infections that may have developed due to the virus. In some cases, supportive care such as rest and fluids may be necessary as well. It is important to follow your veterinarian’s instructions for treatment as failure to do so could lead to more serious complications such as pneumonia or bronchitis.
6. Should I Board My Dog With Kennel Cough?
It is generally not recommended to board a dog with kennel cough because it is highly contagious and can easily spread to other dogs in the facility. However, if your veterinarian has determined that your dog’s condition is mild enough that they can safely be boarded then it may be ok to do so but only after all necessary treatments have been completed and your dog has been cleared by your veterinarian as being fit for boarding.
7. Prevention and Vaccines for Kennel Cough
The best way to prevent kennel cough is by vaccinating your dog against it prior to boarding them in any facility where they will come into contact with other dogs such as doggy daycares or boarding facilities. There are several different types of vaccines available so it is important to speak with your veterinarian about which one would be best suited for your pet’s needs.
8. What To Look For In A Boarding Facility
When choosing a boarding facility for your pet it is important to make sure that they follow all necessary safety protocols such as cleaning and disinfecting regularly and requiring all pets entering the facility to have current vaccinations including those for kennel cough if applicable depending on where you live as vaccination requirements vary from state-to-state or country-to-country . You should also inquire about their policies regarding monitoring pets for signs of illness while they are being boarded as well as what their policy is regarding returning sick pets home before they have been treated by a veterinarian if necessary .
< h 2 > 9 . When Can I Board My Dog After Treating For Kennel Cough ? < / h 2 >
Once your pet has been treated by a veterinarian for kennel cough they should wait at least two weeks before entering any type of boarding facility . This will help ensure that all traces of the virus have cleared from their system before coming into contact with other animals .
< h 2 > 10 . Tips For Keeping Your Dog Healthy While Boarding < / h 2 >
There are several things you can do to help keep your pet healthy while they are being boarded . Make sure their vaccinations are up-to-date prior to entering the facility , bring along any medications that may be needed , provide plenty of fresh water at all times , feed them according to their normal schedule , provide toys , bedding , etc . from home so they feel more comfortable , limit interactions with other animals until they are fully recovered from their illness , and make sure that staff members at the facility are aware of any special needs or requirements your pet has .
< h 2 > 11 . Conclusion < / h 2 >
Kennel cough can be a serious illness but with proper prevention , treatment , and care it can usually be managed successfully . If you must board your pet while they are recovering from kennel cough it is important to choose a reputable facility that follows all necessary safety protocols , requires current vaccinations , monitors pets closely for signs of illness , and returns sick pets home before treatment if necessary . By following these tips you can help ensure that your pet stays safe and healthy while being boarded .
