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  • Protect your pet against Kennel Cough

Does your dog come into regular contact with other dogs in Ashford? Maybe out on walks, at the local Ashford park, or when they’re staying in kennels? If so, we’d highly recommend a Kennel Cough vaccine or booster.

Kennel Cough, or infectious tracheobronchitis, is a very contagious respiratory disease. It’s transmitted by close contact with an infected dog and can be associated with boardingkennels, therefore it’s especially important to ensure your dog is covered if you’re planning a trip away.

Please call your local practice to book your dog's kennel cough vaccination or book online by clicking here.

What are the symptoms of Kennel Cough?

The primary sign to look out for is a deep hacking cough, which can sometimes lead to retching, sneezing, snorting, gagging or vomiting.  In some cases, you may only notice your dog starting to cough after excitement or exercise and you may also notice a discharge coming from your dog’s eyes or nose. Some dogs may get fever, and in very rare cases may progress to pneumonia.  Symptoms will start after three to 10 days – and can go on for up to three weeks Often the cough is worse at bedtime causing sleepless nights all round

How is Kennel Cough diagnosed?

Diagnosis is often based on the clinical signs and the history given by the owner, also if the dog is housed together with lots of other dogs that are all presenting similar signs, it makes the diagnosis of kennel cough more probable. If a gentle palpitation of the throat causes a retching cough, Kennel Cough is likely. 

What treatment is available for Kennel Cough? 

There is no specific treatment for viruses involved in Kennel Cough, but antibiotics are sometimes used to treat bacterial infections. Infected dogs in Ashford should be rested and isolated from other dogs for around 14 daysIn most cases, dogs will recover from Kennel Cough within three weeksEnsure they are living in a well-ventilated area and avoid the use of a lead and collar.To aid recovery, your dog maybe prescribed cough suppressants or anti-inflammatories. Sometimes antibiotics maybe required to target Bordetella Bronchiseptica.

What’s the best way to prevent Kennel Cough? 

The best way to prevent Kennel Cough in Ashford is through vaccination with us at Cinque Ports Vets. Thvaccine is a quick and painless procedure for your dog in the form of a nasal spray that we provide here at Cinque Ports Vets. 

The Kennel Cough vaccination is given once a year. Depending on individual circumstances it may not be given at the same time as their annual booster. Please contact us if you’d like more detail. 

If you’re going on holiday, it’s important that your dog is vaccinated against Kennel Cough. Often, kennels willnot accept your dog otherwise. Prepare in advance as the vaccination should be given at least one week before their stay for the nasal method. 

If you are concerned your dog may have caught Kennel Cough or is presenting symptoms, speak to a member of the team for advice.  Alternatively, if you would like to arrange a Kennel Cough vaccination for your four-legged friend, click here to book or just give us a call. 

Please call your local practice to book your dog's kennel cough vaccination or book online by clicking here.

If you would like further information about the best way to prevent kennel cough, please contact us at Cinque Ports Vets in Ashford.