As a dog owner, ensuring your furry friend’s health and safety is always a top priority. One common concern many pet owners have is knowing when it’s safe to board their dog after they’ve had an illness. Kennel cough, also known as canine infectious tracheobronchitis, is a highly contagious respiratory disease that affects dogs. If your dog has recently had kennel cough, you may be wondering how long you should wait before they can be boarded again. In this article, we’ll explore the answer to this question and provide helpful tips to keep your pet healthy.
How Long After Kennel Cough Can a Dog Be Boarded?
If you’re a dog owner, you know how important it is to ensure your pet receives proper care when you can’t be there. That’s why many pet owners choose to board their dogs when they go on vacation or have to leave town for work. However, if your dog has recently had kennel cough, you may be wondering how long you should wait before boarding your pet. In this article, we’ll explore this topic in more detail.
Understanding Kennel Cough
Kennel cough is a highly contagious respiratory infection that affects dogs. It’s caused by a combination of bacteria and viruses, and it’s spread through contact with infected dogs or contaminated surfaces. Dogs with kennel cough typically have a dry, hacking cough and may experience other symptoms like sneezing, runny nose, and fever. This condition can be serious, especially in puppies, older dogs, and dogs with weakened immune systems.
The Duration of Kennel Cough
The duration of kennel cough can vary depending on the severity of the infection and the dog’s overall health. In mild cases, dogs may recover within a week or two without medical intervention. However, in more severe cases, dogs may take several weeks to recover, and they may require antibiotics or other medications to help manage their symptoms.
When Can a Dog Be Boarded After Kennel Cough?
If your dog has had kennel cough, you should wait until they’ve fully recovered before boarding them. This means waiting until all of their symptoms have resolved, and they’re no longer contagious. In general, this can take anywhere from two to four weeks, depending on the severity of the infection. However, it’s important to note that some dogs may continue to shed the virus for several weeks after their symptoms have resolved, so it’s essential to consult with your vet to determine when it’s safe to board your pet.
Benefits of Waiting to Board Your Dog
While it may be tempting to board your dog as soon as possible, waiting until they’ve fully recovered can help ensure their health and safety. Boarding a dog with an active respiratory infection can put other dogs at risk of getting sick, which can lead to a widespread outbreak. Additionally, boarding a sick dog can be stressful and uncomfortable for your pet, which can make their recovery even more challenging.
Alternatives to Boarding
If you’re unable to board your dog due to their recent kennel cough infection, there are other options available. You may consider hiring a pet sitter to care for your pet in your home or asking a friend or family member to watch your dog. Additionally, some boarding facilities may offer isolation rooms for dogs with recent illnesses, so be sure to inquire about this option when researching potential boarding facilities.
Conclusion
In conclusion, if your dog has recently had kennel cough, you should wait until they’ve fully recovered before boarding them. This can take anywhere from two to four weeks, depending on the severity of the infection. Waiting to board your dog can help ensure their health and safety, as well as prevent the spread of infection to other dogs. If you’re unable to board your dog, consider alternatives like hiring a pet sitter or asking a friend or family member to watch your pet.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is kennel cough?
Kennel cough is a highly contagious respiratory infection that affects dogs. It is caused by a variety of viruses and bacteria, including the Bordetella bronchiseptica bacteria. Symptoms of kennel cough include a dry, hacking cough, sneezing, and nasal discharge. It is called kennel cough because it often spreads quickly in places where dogs are housed together, such as boarding kennels.
How long does kennel cough last?
The duration of kennel cough can vary depending on the severity of the infection. In most cases, it will last for 1-2 weeks. However, some dogs may continue to cough for several weeks after the infection has cleared up. If your dog has a weakened immune system or underlying health conditions, it may take longer for them to recover from kennel cough.
How is kennel cough treated?
In mild cases, kennel cough may resolve on its own without treatment. However, in more severe cases, your veterinarian may prescribe antibiotics to treat the infection. Cough suppressants may also be prescribed to help ease your dog’s coughing. It is important to keep your dog calm and quiet during their recovery to avoid exacerbating their symptoms.
When can a dog be boarded after having kennel cough?
It is recommended that you wait at least 2 weeks after your dog’s symptoms have cleared up before boarding them. This is to ensure that they are no longer contagious and to prevent the spread of the infection to other dogs. It is also important to make sure that your dog is up to date on their vaccinations to help prevent them from contracting kennel cough again in the future.
How can kennel cough be prevented?
Kennel cough can be prevented by vaccinating your dog against the Bordetella bronchiseptica bacteria. This vaccine is often required by boarding kennels and daycare facilities. It is also important to practice good hygiene, such as washing your hands and disinfecting surfaces, to prevent the spread of the infection between dogs. Avoid exposing your dog to other dogs with kennel cough and keep them away from crowded areas where the infection can easily spread.
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In conclusion, kennel cough is a highly contagious respiratory disease that affects dogs. It is important to note that kennel cough is not a serious condition and most dogs recover within 2-3 weeks with proper care and treatment. However, it is recommended to keep your dog away from other dogs until they are fully recovered to prevent the spread of the disease.
If you plan on boarding your dog after they have had kennel cough, it is important to check with the boarding facility beforehand. Some facilities may require a certain amount of time to pass after your dog has fully recovered before they can be boarded. This is to ensure the safety and health of all the dogs at the facility.
Remember to always keep your dog up-to-date on their vaccinations and to practice good hygiene when interacting with other dogs. By taking these precautions, you can help prevent the spread of kennel cough and keep your furry friend healthy and happy.
