Companion Animal Welfare

Dog Kennel Cough Prevention

Kennel cough caused by Bordetella bronchiseptica and other respiratory pathogens is highly contagious causing significant welfare harm in dogs with high social contact.

Key Facts

Kennel cough spreads rapidly in dogs sharing air space in kennels, dog parks, and training classes
Clinical signs include persistent harsh coughing lasting 1-3 weeks causing significant discomfort
Vaccination significantly reduces infection risk and severity if infected
Bordetella vaccine is given intra-nasally providing rapid mucosal immunity
Immunocompromised and brachycephalic dogs are at highest risk of severe complications

Welfare Considerations

Kennel cough causes persistent harsh coughing that causes significant discomfort over several weeks. Prevention through vaccination reduces both individual suffering and transmission to other dogs, making kennel cough vaccination an important welfare consideration for social dogs.

What You Can Do

Vaccinate social dogs against kennel cough before kennelling or high-contact activities
Isolate dogs with respiratory signs from other dogs to prevent spread
Choose kennels that require Bordetella vaccination for all boarding dogs