Kennel Cough Information

What is kennel cough?

Kennel cough is the common name given to infectious bronchitis in dogs. Just like human colds or chest infections, a number of different bacteria and viruses can cause the illness. It is normally a combination of both, and it affects the respiratory system, causing dogs to cough. Kennel cough is common, highly contagious, and in most cases resolves on its own after a few days.

How is kennel cough spread?

Kennel cough is airborne, which is why it can spread through kennels and other areas with multiple dogs quickly. It is also transmitted via shared objects such as food bowls, water bowls, or toys. Common sniff spots can also be a means of exposure, like fire hydrants on street corners. Kennel cough has an incubation period of two to 14 days, and some dogs can be carriers of the infection without developing symptoms.

Kennel Cough Vaccination Information

Kennel cough is caused by viruses and bacteria acting together. No vaccine can offer complete protection (the viruses and bacteria can be different from one case to another) but vaccines are available to protect against the most commonly involved virus (Canine parainfluenza virus) and the most commonly involved bacteria (Bordetella bronchiseptica). Wag’n Tails Pet Resort, as well as surrounding kennels, all require guests to be current on the Bordetella vaccine.

Our Facility’s Pledge

We strive to reduce the chances of kennel cough coming onto these premises, but complete prevention is impossible. Rest assured that we have full confidence in our cleaning routine and choice of cleaning products to keep our facility clean and sanitary. We have a protocol in place whenever we do have a reported case to ensure that we slow the spread within our means as quickly as possible. We believe in transparency and will update our Facebook page if we have reports of recent guests coughing. Clients are also welcome to call us at any time and ask us if we have had reported cases recently.

Thank you for allowing us to care for your pet!