Companion Animals

Companion Animal Welfare and Canine Respiratory Disease

Respiratory diseases in dogs range from kennel cough to laryngeal paralysis, with 2026 bringing improved management approaches.

Key Facts

Kennel cough (infectious tracheobronchitis) is highly contagious but usually self-limiting
Intranasal vaccine provides superior protection against kennel cough compared to injectable
Laryngeal paralysis causes progressive breathing difficulty in older large breeds
Bilateral arytenoid lateralisation surgery provides significant relief for laryngeal paralysis
Brachycephalic respiratory disease requires surgical correction in severely affected dogs

Welfare Considerations

Respiratory disease causes distress and reduced quality of life. Appropriate vaccination, early recognition, and timely intervention prevent unnecessary suffering.

What You Can Do

Vaccinate dogs against kennel cough before boarding or mixing with other dogs
Recognise exercise intolerance and noisy breathing as signs of respiratory disease
Seek specialist assessment for brachycephalic dogs showing breathing difficulties