Suspected Kennel Cough Outbreak

We are seeing an unusually high level of suspected ‘Kennel Cough’ cases at our clinic currently. Kennel Cough (also known as Canine Infectious Tracheobronchitis) is an upper respiratory tract infection caused by a complex of viruses and bacteria, including Parainfluenza Virus and Bordatella Bronchiseptica.

Dogs will typically present with a dry hacking cough but the cough may often be more subtle and the dog may feel ‘under the weather’ and be uninterested in food.

In most cases, it is self-resolving with rest (usually within 2 weeks but can be up to 3-4 weeks), but some cases may require treatment, such as young puppies and older dogs with other health issues. Rarely, complications such as pneumonia can occur.

It is recommended that dogs have no contact with other dogs until, at least, the cough has resolved. If the cough is severe and/or persistent or the dog is unwell we would recommend a visit to the vet for a check-up. We may politely ask you to remain outdoors or in your car until the vet is ready to see you to avoid transmission of infection to other visiting dogs.

A Kennel Cough vaccination can be given preventatively and is recommended on a risk assessment basis, although as with any vaccine, it is not 100% effective in providing full protection, but does reduce the risk of contracting infection. If your dog does catch the infection and is vaccinated, the cough will often be less severe.

The name ‘Kennel Cough’ can be misleading as the virus is highly contagious and can not only be picked up from kennels but can be caught from mixing with other dogs in the park or at the residence of a friend or family member for example.

If you are concerned your dog has kennel cough or would like to book an appointment for vaccination, please phone 0208 450 2228.