East Port Veterinary Hospital has treated a number of kennel cough cases recently in Port Macquarie. With plenty of places to socialise our dogs throughout the Hastings area, this very well may be a contributing factor in the rise in cases that we are seeing.
Kennel cough is highly contagious and dogs may transmit the disease to others before exhibiting any symptoms. Kennel cough presents as a dry, hacking cough which sometimes can be described as a “goose honk”. The cough can end in gagging and retching of mucus which may give owners the impression that the dog has something stuck in its throat.
Treatment for kennel cough is variable depending on the severity of the case and may include antibiotics and cough suppressants. Owners should keep the dog rested and isolated until finishing the course of prescribed medications.
There is a vaccine available which protects against the two major causes of kennel cough and is required to be given annually.
Dogs who are vaccinated may still be at risk so owners do need to be vigilant. However, vaccinated dogs tend to contract a less severe form of the disease and recover more quickly than un-vaccinated dogs.
If you feel your dog may be at risk of contracting kennel cough, please give us a call to discuss the appropriate vaccination/s on 6583 5677.