What is Canine Cough or Kennel Cough?

Canine cough (or Kennel Cough) is a highly contagious condition that inflames the upper respiratory system of dogs. It can be caused by a bacterial infection or a virus. The main symptoms are a “honking” type cough often followed by gagging. Although not normally deadly, it is a common ailment that requires disease prevention strategies and awareness.

Canine Cough is easily transmitted via the air wherever infected animals are in close contact with other animals such as kennels, dog parks, dog shows and training classes.

How Can I Help Prevent Canine Cough?

If your dog is going to be in contact with other dogs in an environment like this it is best that your dog is immunized against the prevalent strains of the disease Bacterial – (Bordetella bronchiseptica) and Viral – Parainfluenza. In fact, most pet boarding facilities in Australia require an up-to-date vaccination before they will allow your animal to check in. Nothing could be worse that arriving at a facility on your way to the airport and finding that they won’t take your precious pet!

Many kennels in Australia will require a current C5 vaccination or a C3 vaccination + a Canine Cough booster, usually dispensed every 12 months. The complete C5 vaccination covers all the potentially deadly Distemper, Hepatitis, Parvovirus, Parainfluenza, Bordetella bronchiseptica. Please check with your chosen Kennel as to their specific requirement to make sure your pet has the required immunization.

Be aware that vaccination just as in humans with flu vaccines does not mean that your pet is completely protected. There are many strains of the virus and if your animal has an immune deficiency they may be more prone to disease in general. There are no kennels that guarantee that kennel cough does not exist in their facility as no amount of supervision or highest level of hygiene practices can completely eliminate the presence of Canine Cough.

How Do Kennels Deal with Canine Cough?

If Canine Cough is detected at a pet boarding facility the standard procedure for Pet Boarding facilities is to segregate the animal to lower the risk of transmission of the disease. They will also treat the animal to make sure they are comfortable and in a low stress environment. Be aware that you as the Pet owner would be responsible for an Veterinary expenses incurred by the kennel should your dog be require treatment for canine cough whilst at the facility.

Kennels also play their part in reducing the risks of Canine Cough infection. By requiring up-to-date vaccinations prior to check-in, they can maintain a good preventative baseline for all the animals under their care. Many Pet Resorts use Kennel Software such as Pet Manager to simply maintain and alert when a customer’s vaccination records are not up-to-date. They also keep their kennels clean with scheduled cleaning rosters. Some also regularly spray with Veterinary disinfectant to more effectively control causes of disease such as bacteria, viruses, fungus and spores.

What To Do if Your Animal Shows Symptoms of Canine Cough.

Symptoms of Canine Cough can take up to 7 days to appear. So if you pet shows any signs of Canine Cough after staying at a Pet Boarding facility, make sure that he/she gets plenty of rest and is well hydrated. If the symptoms persist or your pet becomes lethargic then don’t risk it and take them straight to the vet.

The post What You Need to Know About Canine Cough (Kennel Cough) When Boarding Your Pet appeared first on Pet Manager.

Well when it comes to choosing the perfect holiday destination for your pet you might find yourself scratching your head for a second time.

Yes – Dogs and Cats now get their own Pet Resorts, Bed & Breakfasts, Doggie Spas of course traditional Pet Boarding. No matter what you select there are many important considerations when making your decision. So here is a short list of 5 things to look for when selecting the perfect Pet Resort for your pet.

1. Quality & Number of Staff

It is vitally important that Staff at the facility you select are properly trained. Not only in customer service but more importantly that they are well trained and experienced in animal behaviour and animal care. Experienced staff can communicate well with the animals and know how to deal with potential problems before they arise such as recognizing behaviour problems and agression. Depending on the size of the facility there may be senior and junior staff. It is important that the Kennel or Cattery has experienced staff as the Senior members of the team as in any effective business. Another consideration here is the ratio of staff to animals. There is no golden number here for the ratio but there should certainly be enough staff to provide all of the animals with the care they need and deserve. We suggest you visit the Kennel or Cattery and chat to the staff about the culture and training while touring the facility.

2. Cleanliness

A clean home is a happy one and the same applies to Kennels and Catteries. The Pet Resort you select should be noticeably clean and nice smelling. Proper sanitation procedures prevents the spread of contagious diseases and with a quite a few animals in a smaller area this becomes very important. Regular removal of fecal matter from all kennels, suites, private rooms and runs is an important factor here. Again an inspection of the facilities you are considering is the best way to confirm the cleanliness of your chosen Pet Accommodation.

3. Exercise Options

You know it yourself – if you are cooped up in an office all day you just don’t feel your best. Even a short jog or 30 minutes at the gym can change your day. Young animals in particular can be balls of energy and they need an outlet in order to stay happy during this period of time in an environment they may not be accustomed to. Having a good size grassy run for dogs is very important. Most dogs relish the chance to run and socialise with other dogs. Cats are more content with smaller spaces but they still benefit from a good size area to explore. A pet boarding facility with good outdoor areas (and maybe even a pool!) could be a great choice.

3. Location

Would you like the beachfront suite or the garden villa madame? Pet Boarding facilities (and particularly Kennels) are often away from built up areas simply due to the noise created by having numerous animals housed together. Therefore you may find that you have to drive a short way to get to your nearest facility. This is not a bad thing because often times it also means your pet has more room to run in open space and can enjoy clean air and a relaxed environment. Also consider that if you are in a more built up area then there are probably several options within a 10-20km radius. Take a look in google at the surrounding suburbs or maybe your area e.g. North Side Brisbane. You could even choose a resort that is location along the way from your home to the airport. Your pet will simply love the fact that you spent hours finding the perfect holiday accommodation for them!

5. Reviews & Word of Mouth

Nothing makes a pet resort more appealing that a whole bunch of customers waxing lyrical about their pet’s wonderful boarding experience. Throw in a few five star ratings and it looks even better. These ratings could be on the Pet Resort’s website or even better – on Facebook or on their Google Business Page. Well actually, there is one thing that would be more appealing and that is a recommendation from a friend, relative or work colleague. If it is someone you know you can trust and they simply love the a certain resort then you should certainly consider that option.

Well that a wrap. These 5 things to consider are pretty intuitive and you were probably groaning the whole way through. If that is the case then you are certain to find the perfect Pet Resort this holiday season!

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