DAY 7 - Kennel Cough 101: The Time When Zoey had Kennel Cough

If you’ve just welcomed a furry friend into your life, you’re probably soaking up all the cuddles, zoomies, and tail wags. But then—uh-oh!—your pup suddenly starts coughing like they’ve got something stuck in their throat. Is it serious? Should you be worried? If this sounds familiar, your dog might have kennel cough—a common but treatable respiratory infection.

Since we document Zoey’s daily care on this site, we know how stressful it can be when your pup isn’t feeling well. So, let’s break down everything you need to know about kennel cough—what causes it, how to recognize it, and what to do if your dog catches it.

What Is Kennel Cough?

Kennel cough (also known as canine infectious tracheobronchitis) is a highly contagious respiratory infection that affects dogs of all ages and breeds. It’s basically the dog equivalent of a cold or mild flu in humans. While it’s usually not life-threatening, it can make your pup feel miserable for a while.

What Causes Kennel Cough?

Kennel cough is often caused by a mix of viruses and bacteria, but the most common culprit is Bordetella bronchiseptica(which is why some people call it “Bordetella”). Other viruses that can contribute to kennel cough include:🦠 Canine parainfluenza virus🦠 Canine adenovirus🦠 Canine distemper virus

How Do Dogs Catch Kennel Cough?

Kennel cough spreads easily in areas where dogs are in close contact—just like how kids pick up colds at daycare! Your pup might catch it from:

🐶 Dog parks🏠 Boarding kennels or doggy daycare *Zoey caught it from her daycare*✂️ Grooming salons🐾 Training classes🐕 Shared water bowls or toys

It spreads through airborne droplets (coughing, sneezing), direct contact (sniffing, licking), or contaminated surfaces. That’s why it’s common in puppies or newly adopted dogs who’ve been around other pups.

Symptoms of Kennel Cough

The classic sign of kennel cough is a loud, honking cough that sounds like your dog is trying to clear their throat. Other symptoms include:

🔹 Persistent, dry coughing (especially after exercise or excitement)

🔹 Gagging or retching (sometimes bringing up white foam) *Only symptom Zoey showed for us!*

🔹 Sneezing or runny nose

🔹 Mild fever (in some cases)

🔹 Lethargy (your pup might seem tired but not completely out of energy)

Most dogs continue eating and playing as usual, but if your pup seems very weak, stops eating, or has difficulty breathing, it could be something more serious like pneumonia. In that case, get to a vet ASAP!

How to Treat Kennel Cough at Home

For mild cases, kennel cough often clears up on its own in 1-3 weeks. Here’s how to help your dog feel better:

🏡 Rest & Relaxation – Avoid too much excitement or exercise that could trigger coughing.💦 Keep Them Hydrated – Fresh water helps soothe their throat and flush out the infection.🌿 Use a Humidifier – Adding moisture to the air can ease throat irritation.🍯 Honey for Dogs – A small spoonful of honey can help soothe their cough (just make sure it’s raw and unprocessed).🚫 No Collars! – Use a harness instead of a collar to avoid putting pressure on their trachea.

When to See a Vet

Most mild cases resolve on their own, but call your vet if:🚨 The cough worsens or lasts longer than 3 weeks.🚨 Your dog refuses to eat or drink.🚨 They develop a fever or show signs of pneumonia (difficulty breathing, extreme lethargy).

Your vet may prescribe cough suppressants or antibiotics if needed, especially for puppies or senior dogs with weaker immune systems.

How to Prevent Kennel Cough

💉 Vaccinate Your Dog – The Bordetella vaccine helps reduce the risk, especially if your dog frequently socializes with others.🚿 Keep Their Space Clean – Wash bowls, toys, and bedding regularly.🚫 Avoid Sick Dogs – If you hear another dog coughing at the park, keep your pup at a distance.🌬 Good Ventilation – Avoid crowded, poorly ventilated indoor spaces where germs linger.

While the kennel cough vaccine isn’t 100% foolproof, it can lessen symptoms if your dog does catch it.

Final Woof: Should You Be Worried About Kennel Cough?

For most dogs, kennel cough is just a temporary nuisance—kind of like a bad cold. Zoey had a mild case once, and with some extra care, she bounced back quickly! However, for puppies, senior dogs, or those with weak immune systems, it’s best to monitor symptoms closely and see a vet if needed.

If your pup has kennel cough, don’t panic—just give them time, rest, and love, and they’ll be back to their playful self soon!

📢 Has your dog ever had kennel cough? How did you handle it? Let us know in the comments below! 🐶💛