28/01/2026
🐾 Kennel cough (aka canine cough) is doing the rounds in Shepparton & Melbourne 🐾
Kennel cough can be caused by numerous different viruses and bacteria (including parainfluenza, adenovirus and Bordetella), leading to an upper respiratory infection. It spreads easily through coughing and sneezing, and from contact with contaminated surfaces. Signs usually appear 3–7 days after exposure.
💉 Vaccination helps:
The kennel cough vaccine protects against two common pathogens and reduces how sick dogs get. It doesn’t give 100% protection, as there are multiple pathogens that can cause kennel cough, but vaccinated dogs usually have milder symptoms and recover faster.
🐶 Common signs:
• A dry, harsh honking or hacking cough - sounds like something is stuck and they’re trying to clear their throat
• Coughing worse with excitement or exercise
• Gagging or retching after coughing (white frothy foam)
• Runny nose or sneezing
• Lethargy
• Reduced appetite
🚨 See a vet promptly if you notice:
• Thick yellow/green discharge
• Trouble breathing
• High fever
• Not eating or vomiting up their food
• Cough lasting more than 7 - 10 days
• Symptoms in puppies, senior dogs, dogs with chronic illnesses, or on immunosuppressing medications
As coughing can be due to many different disease processes, you should consult a veterinarian to rule these out.
If your dog has kennel cough:
• Don’t panic! Most cases are mild and resolve on their own within a few days, but some dogs may need treatment to manage their symptoms and prevent complications
• Keep them away from other dogs
• Avoid parks, daycare and grooming while symptoms are present
• Encourage rest and minimise excitement
• Wash hands after handling them
• Avoid face licking
• Wash bedding and toys in hot water and dry in the sun
• Clean food and water bowls daily with hot soapy water
• Keep them away from immunocompromised people if possible. Bordetella bronchiseptica (one of the pathogens we vaccinate with the kennel cough vaccine), can very rarely cause infection in immunocompromised people
If you’re concerned about your dog, feel free to reach out - we’re always happy to help 💙
