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Monday - Friday 8.30am-6.00pm Saturday 9.00-12.00
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Kennel cough is a highly contagious respiratory disease in dogs. It’s caused by a mix of viruses and bacteria that irritate the windpipe and voicebox, leading to a persistent cough.
The name ‘kennel cough’ comes from the fact that it spreads quickly in places where dogs are in close contact such as kennels or daycare. However, it can be caught in other ways.
It is particularly common in London due to the higher concentration of dogs compared to other parts of the UK. If you have bought a puppy from a breeder outside of London, they may not have explained the condition due to the smaller number of cases so it is important to know the signs.
Kennel cough is airborne and spreads when an infected dog coughs or sneezes. It can also be transmitted through contact with a contaminated surface.
Dogs are most at risk in social settings such as:
Owners who use dog walkers regularly will find their furry friend particularly susceptible as dogs from different households mix during group walks.
“Kennel cough is a particularly common condition in London due to the higher concentration of dogs.”
Unsurprisingly, the primary symptom is a strong persistent cough. However, other common symptoms of kennel cough can include:
Many owners describe what kennel cough sounds like as if their dog has something stuck in its throat. It’s a dry, forceful hack which can sound like a ‘goose honk’.
Symptoms vary widely from mild, self-limiting cases that resolve within a few days to severe, debilitating cases with an uncomfortable cough lasting up to a month. Rarely, in puppies or immunocompromised dogs, it can be fatal.
It’s also important to note that your dog can remain infectious for several weeks after their symptoms have disappeared, so it’s best to keep them away from other dogs to avoid spreading it further.
Most mild cases can be managed with anti-inflammatory drugs, more severe or chronic cases will need antibiotics.
Vaccination is the most effective way to prevent kennel cough. We recommend it as part of your pup’s routine vaccinations.
If your dog is showing symptoms of kennel cough, especially if they are a puppy, a senior, or have underlying health issues, it’s crucial to seek advice from a vet. Don’t wait for the symptoms to worsen. Schedule a vet consultation at our practice in Kensington today.
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