Infectious tracheobronchitis (kennel cough) is a common, distressing respiratory disease in dogs with significant welfare implications in multi-dog environments.
Kennel cough welfare impact ranges from mild discomfort in healthy adult dogs to severe pneumonia in vulnerable individuals. The characteristic paroxysmal cough is accompanied by gagging, retching, and difficulty sleeping — significantly reducing quality of life during acute illness. Dogs may be restless and unable to settle due to cough-triggered discomfort. Welfare management includes: NSAIDs for inflammation and fever, cough suppressants in appropriate cases, steam inhalation for mucosal congestion, and rest to prevent exacerbation. Social isolation is necessary to prevent spread, which is stressful for social dogs. Vaccination is the primary welfare prevention tool — intranasal vaccination provides faster, broader protection than injectable vaccines and is strongly recommended for dogs in social settings.