Kennel cough is probably one of the most distressing illnesses a dog can contract. I’m sure most dog owners have experience with this highly contagious disease and it’s not pleasant to see your dog cough after waking up from sleep, trying to exercise but coughing so hard he throws up. The sad look on their faces as they battle a ‘dog cold’. This is really what kennel cough is, which is why it’s so contagious!
I had the unfortunate experience that my beautiful four week old litter of puppies caught this disease, I guess, from the other dogs in my house (who actually showed no signs of KC). They had been out for walks regularly and had somehow brought the virus home without my knowledge. Both viral and bacterial causes of kennel cough are spread through the air when infected dogs sneeze and cough. It can also be spread through contact with contaminated surfaces and through direct contact. It is highly contagious, even days or weeks after symptoms disappear. Symptoms usually begin 3 to 5 days after exposure. The disease can progress to pneumonia and this is exactly what happened with my young litter! Fortunately, I was aware of the early symptoms that can include a dry, hacking cough, retching, sneezing, snorting, retching, or vomiting after arousal or exercise. Fever may also be present.
I count my lucky stars that after prompt treatment from the vet and dedicated 24 hour care by me, all the puppies recovered, scary times! No matter how clean your house is, how healthy your dogs are, it is inevitable that at some point your dog will sadly succumb to the dreaded kennel cough. Puppies and older dogs are at high risk for complications.
