How to Keep Kennel Cough Out of Your Dog’s Life

Kennel cough spreads quickly wherever dogs gather- from grooming salons to dog parks and boarding kennels. Even mild cases cause discomfort and long recovery times. Routine vaccination and avoiding contact with coughing dogs are your best defenses.

At Santa Monica Veterinary Group, our compassionate, family-owned practice provides expert diagnosis, treatment, and prevention planning to protect your dog’s respiratory health. Whether your pet visits the dog park daily or only socializes occasionally, we help you stay one step ahead of illness- because this isn’t just another animal hospital. It’s a better way to care.

What Causes That Harsh, Honking Cough?

“Kennel cough,” or canine infectious respiratory disease complex (CIRDC), is a combination of viral and bacterial infections that inflame the upper airways. Common culprits include Bordetella bronchiseptica, parainfluenza virus, and canine adenovirus type 2.

These pathogens spread through airborne droplets from coughing or sneezing dogs and through contaminated surfaces such as shared bowls, toys, or leashes. Crowded, poorly ventilated environments like daycares, shelters, or boarding facilities are hotspots for transmission.

Stress from travel, new surroundings, or separation weakens a dog’s immune system, increasing susceptibility. The incubation period ranges from two to ten days, and infected dogs can be contagious before symptoms appear- explaining how outbreaks sweep through entire kennels so fast. Even a friendly sniff through a fence can transmit infection. Puppies, seniors, and recently rescued dogs are especially vulnerable due to weaker immune defenses.

Recognizing the Signs

Kennel cough produces a dry, hacking, honking cough that may sound like choking or gagging. It often worsens with excitement or when pressure is applied to the neck. Affected dogs may retch at the end of a coughing fit, sometimes expelling white foam or mucus.

Other common signs include:

  • Runny nose or watery eyes
  • Mild lethargy or decreased appetite
  • Low-grade fever
  • Normal energy between coughing bouts

Most cases resolve within one to three weeks with supportive care. While many dogs continue eating and playing normally, it’s important to monitor their breathing and energy closely. Persistent coughing, worsening fatigue, or any change in appetite may signal a deeper infection that requires medical attention. Rest, good hydration, and a calm environment can all help speed recovery and reduce the risk of complications.

How Easily Does Kennel Cough Spread?

CIRDC is highly contagious in any social setting- boarding kennels, daycare, grooming, or even busy parks. Dogs may continue shedding pathogens for weeks after symptoms begin, so isolation is critical.

Keep infected dogs separated from others until cleared by your veterinarian. Disinfect bedding, bowls, and toys regularly, and wash your hands after handling sick pets. Our team can guide you on when it’s safe to return to normal activities.

Even mild coughs should be taken seriously. Because some dogs shed bacteria or viruses before showing symptoms, outbreaks can spread rapidly in multi-dog households or community spaces. Using your own leash and water bowl during walks, and avoiding close play with coughing dogs, are simple habits that protect everyone.

When Kennel Cough Becomes Something More

In some dogs, infection travels deeper into the lungs, leading to pneumonia, high fever, or severe lethargy. Puppies, senior dogs, or pets with existing conditions are more vulnerable to complications like pneumonia.

Respiratory distress looks very different from mild kennel cough. Warning signs include open-mouth breathing, blue or pale gums, abdominal effort, and collapse. If you see these, contact our urgent care team immediately.

Certain other illnesses can look similar:

If coughing becomes wet sounding, your dog refuses food, or breathing effort increases, call us for assessment right away. Early intervention often prevents hospitalization and helps your dog recover faster with less stress.

How We Diagnose Respiratory Infections

Our veterinarians begin with a thorough exam and history- recent boarding, grooming, or exposure to coughing dogs are strong clues. Gentle tracheal palpation often triggers the characteristic cough, helping confirm the diagnosis.

For straightforward cases, we treat supportively. For complicated or persistent cases, we may recommend:

  • PCR panels to identify specific respiratory pathogens
  • Chest X-rays to rule out pneumonia or tracheal collapse
  • Blood work to evaluate overall health

Our comprehensive diagnostic services include digital radiographs, ultrasound, and full in-house lab testing, allowing us to tailor treatment precisely. Accurate diagnosis ensures your dog receives the right level of care- whether that’s rest at home or medical therapy for more serious infection.

Treatment and Recovery

Most dogs recover with rest, hydration, and patience. Minimize exercise to reduce coughing fits, and use a harness instead of a collar. Humidified air- such as time in a steamy bathroom- can help soothe irritation.

Your veterinarian may prescribe:

  • Cough suppressants to improve comfort and rest
  • Anti-inflammatories to reduce airway swelling
  • Antibiotics if bacterial infection or complications are suspected

Monitor your dog’s appetite and energy daily. If the cough persists beyond three weeks or worsens, schedule a recheck. Santa Monica Veterinary Group’s goal is not just treatment but comfort, recovery, and prevention of recurrence. We’ll also help you identify environmental or behavioral triggers- like overexertion or poor air quality- that can prolong recovery.

Prevention: Vaccination and Smart Habits

Vaccination is your dog’s best protection. Core respiratory vaccines cover Bordetella bronchiseptica, parainfluenza virus, and adenovirus type 2. While no vaccine prevents every strain, it significantly reduces severity and spread.

  • Schedule boosters at least two weeks before boarding or daycare.
  • Confirm each facility’s vaccine policy and isolation protocols.
  • During outbreaks, delay non-essential group activities if possible.

Simple hygiene steps- such as using your own bowls, avoiding communal toys, and choosing facilities with good ventilation- further limit exposure. Regular wellness exams ensure your dog’s immune system stays strong and vaccines stay current.

Can Cats Catch Kennel Cough?

Yes, Bordetella bronchiseptica can infect cats, though it’s less common. Infected cats may sneeze, cough, or develop nasal discharge and fever. Kittens or immunocompromised cats are at higher risk.

If your cat develops respiratory symptoms after your dog’s illness, separate them and contact our team for evaluation. Maintain good hygiene and minimize cross-contact until both are symptom-free.

When to Seek Urgent Care

Call our urgent care team immediately if your dog shows any of these respiratory distress warning signs:

  • Struggling to breathe or open-mouth breathing
  • Blue or pale gums
  • Collapse or severe weakness after coughing
  • Persistent fever above 103.5°F
  • Coughing up blood or refusing to eat or drink

Our emergency-trained team provides same-day stabilization and advanced care during business hours, ensuring your dog receives expert attention when it matters most.

Protecting Your Dog- and the Community

Kennel cough is disruptive but manageable. Early recognition, responsible isolation, and up-to-date vaccination keep your dog- and every dog they meet- healthier.

At Santa Monica Veterinary Group, we combine professional expertise with genuine compassion to help your dog recover quickly and comfortably. Whether you’re managing an active infection or looking to prevent the next one, our family-owned practice is ready to help.

If your dog develops a new cough or seems unwell after social activities, contact our team or request an appointment.

We’re currently accepting new clients- and we’re here to offer your pet a better way to care.