Preparing your dog for a boarding stay helps ensure a positive and healthy experience. Boarding facilities allow pets to stay safe and supervised while you travel, but any environment where dogs interact can increase the risk of contagious illnesses like kennel cough. Understanding kennel cough and how to prevent it helps keep your dog comfortable during their stay. At Low Cost Vet Mesa, we focus on keeping your pet healthy through every stage of care.
What Is Kennel Cough
Kennel cough, also known as canine infectious tracheobronchitis, is a highly contagious respiratory infection. Much like a human cold, it can be caused by multiple viruses and bacteria. The primary cause is Bordetella bronchiseptica, which is why the Bordetella vaccine is strongly recommended for dogs entering group environments.
The infection leads to inflammation in the trachea and bronchial tubes, causing the familiar hacking cough. Kennel cough spreads through shared air, dog to dog contact, and contaminated items such as toys, bowls, and kennel surfaces.
Symptoms You Might Notice
Common signs of kennel cough include:
- A persistent dry cough
- Sneezing or nasal discharge
- Mild eye discharge
- Gagging or retching
- Tiredness
- Decreased appetite
Most cases are mild, but puppies, senior dogs, and pets with weaker immune systems may face complications.
Preventing Kennel Cough Before Boarding
A few steps can greatly lower your dog’s risk.
1. Keep Vaccines Current
Most boarding facilities require proof of vaccinations to protect all pets.
- Bordetella vaccine: Offered intranasally, orally, or by injection. Plan to vaccinate at least two weeks before boarding for the best protection.
- Additional vaccines: Ensure your dog is up to date on distemper and canine influenza, which help prevent other respiratory infections.
2. Choose a Clean and Safe Boarding Facility
Look for boarding facilities that:
- Require vaccination records
- Practice strong sanitation and disinfection protocols
- Offer proper ventilation
- Provide enough space to reduce stress and crowding
3. Support Overall Immune Health
Healthy dogs are more resilient. Provide your pet with nutritious food, regular activity, and reduced stress before their stay.
Extra Considerations for Puppies and Kittens
While kennel cough mainly affects dogs, Bordetella can impact cats too.
Puppies:
- Must complete their full puppy vaccine series before boarding
- Should avoid high traffic dog environments until fully protected
Kittens:
- Can develop upper respiratory symptoms
- May benefit from the feline Bordetella vaccine in mixed species boarding settings
- Should always be housed separately from dogs
Preparing for Boarding
Before your pet’s stay, schedule a wellness check or update vaccination records. The team at Low Cost Vet Mesa can help you prepare your dog for a safe, comfortable boarding experience. Ask about our Vaccine Clinic, open 8-9am everyday no appointment needed.
If you have questions or want guidance before boarding, visit Low Cost Vet Mesa. We are here to help make your pet’s stay safe and stress free.
