Companion Animals

Infectious Tracheobronchitis: Welfare and Prevention

In-depth guide to kennel cough — causes, welfare impacts, and effective prevention strategies.

Key Facts

Kennel cough is caused by a complex of organisms including Bordetella bronchiseptica and parainfluenza virus
The characteristic harsh, honking cough is distressing but usually self-limiting in healthy dogs
Highly contagious — spreads rapidly in kennels, dog parks, and group settings
Puppies, elderly dogs, and immunocompromised dogs face more severe welfare risks
Vaccination (intranasal, oral, or injectable) provides effective protection

Welfare Considerations

Kennel cough causes welfare impairment through the intensity and duration of coughing. The harsh, paroxysmal cough is exhausting — affected dogs may cough continuously for minutes, becoming breathless and distressed. Episodes are often triggered by exercise, excitement, or swallowing, making normal daily activities uncomfortable. Coughing can persist for 2-3 weeks even in uncomplicated cases.

The welfare of complicated kennel cough is significantly worse. In puppies, young dogs, elderly dogs, or those with concurrent disease, infection can progress to pneumonia. Affected animals develop productive cough, fever, reduced appetite, and in severe cases respiratory compromise. Pneumonia cases require hospitalisation, intensive antibiotic treatment, and oxygen supplementation in severe cases.

Prevention through vaccination is straightforward. Intranasal Bordetella vaccine provides the fastest onset of protection (as little as 72 hours) and is preferred when dogs need protection quickly before kennelling. Combined injectable vaccines provide broader, more durable protection. Dogs regularly attending kennels, dog shows, or training classes should have up-to-date vaccination.

What You Can Do

Vaccinate dogs regularly against kennel cough, particularly before kennelling or exposure to groups
Isolate any coughing dog from other dogs until the cough resolves — kennel cough is highly contagious
Seek veterinary advice if the cough is accompanied by fever, nasal discharge, or reduced appetite
Provide comfortable, warm conditions and reduced exercise during recovery
Inform kennels and daycare facilities about any kennel cough infection to protect other dogs