Boarding your dog ensures they receive professional care while you are away, but shared spaces can increase exposure to contagious illnesses like kennel cough. Learning how kennel cough spreads and how to prevent it helps keep your pet healthy during their stay. At Dobbins Village Veterinary Hospital, we want your dog’s boarding experience to be safe, comfortable, and stress free.
What Is Kennel Cough
Kennel cough, or canine infectious tracheobronchitis, is a respiratory infection that spreads quickly in environments where many dogs are present. Much like a human cold, kennel cough can be caused by viruses and the bacteria Bordetella bronchiseptica. Because of this, the Bordetella vaccine is a standard requirement for many boarding facilities.
Kennel cough causes inflammation in the respiratory tract, resulting in the well known hacking cough. It spreads easily through the air, shared surfaces, and direct interactions between dogs.
Symptoms of Kennel Cough
Watch for these signs:
- Persistent coughing
- Sneezing or runny nose
- Eye discharge
- Gagging or retching
- Low appetite
- Reduced energy
Healthy adult dogs often recover quickly, but young puppies, senior pets, and immunocompromised dogs may need extra monitoring.
How To Prevent Kennel Cough Before Boarding
Preparation helps greatly reduce the chance of infection.
1. Keep Vaccinations Updated
Most boarding facilities require:
- Bordetella vaccine: Available intranasally, orally, or through injection. For best results, vaccinate your dog two weeks before boarding.
- Distemper and canine influenza vaccines: These help prevent other contagious respiratory infections.
2. Choose a High Quality Boarding Facility
Look for a facility that:
- Requires vaccine documentation
- Maintains strong sanitation standards
- Offers proper airflow
- Avoids overcrowding
3. Support Immune Health
Feeding a healthy diet, keeping a consistent routine, and reducing stress help your dog stay resilient.
Extra Considerations for Puppies and Kittens
Bordetella can affect both dogs and cats.
Puppies:
- Need their full puppy vaccine series completed before boarding
- Should not enter high volume dog environments until fully protected
Kittens:
- May develop upper respiratory symptoms
- May receive the feline Bordetella vaccine if boarding near dogs
- Must be housed separately from dogs
Preparing for Your Dog’s Boarding Stay
Before boarding, schedule a wellness visit or vaccination update at Dobbins Village Veterinary Hospital. Our team is here to help ensure your pet is ready for a safe stay.
If you have questions or need boarding preparation guidance, visit Dobbins Village Veterinary Hospital. We are here to support your dog’s comfort and health.