Understanding Kennel Cough
When your dog starts coughing like they’ve got a goose stuck in their throat, it’s easy to panic.
Kennel cough — a highly contagious respiratory condition — is common in places like boarding facilities, dog parks, or daycare. It’s usually mild but can feel dramatic (and sound worse than it is).
What It Is (And Why It Matters)
Kennel cough is most often caused by the bacteria Bordetella bronchiseptica and/or various viruses. Think of it like a canine cold — except it spreads fast and hits harder when a dog’s immune system is already compromised.
Dogs with leaky gut, chronic inflammation, allergies, or hormonal issues are at higher risk of lingering symptoms or secondary infections. If your dog tends to get sick easily, that’s a red flag their immune system might need deeper support.
How It Spreads
Through coughs, sneezes, or playtime with an infected dog
From shared bowls, toys, or kennel surfaces
Poor ventilation and stress make things worse
Symptoms to Watch For
Honking cough or throat-clearing sounds
Mild lethargy or reduced appetite
Gagging, nasal discharge, maybe a low-grade fever
See your veterinarian for an official diagnosis. Then you and I can collaborate on a wellness strategy to support your dog.
Conventional Treatments
Vets often prescribe antibiotics or cough suppressants. While helpful in acute situations, they don’t address why your dog got sick or how to prevent it next time.
Read More On The Risk of Antibiotics
Holistic Support Options
Natural tools can ease symptoms and strengthen recovery:
Essential oils like eucalyptus or frankincense to support respiration
Herbs like marshmallow root or echinacea for throat and immunity
Homeopathy (tailored to symptoms — I’ve got favorite go-to’s!)
Bone broth, colostrum, and probiotics for immune rebuilding
5 Things You Can Do Today
Run a diffuser with pet-safe respiratory oils in a ventilated space
Offer warm broth or cooled herbal tea with soothing herbs
Reduce exposure to daycare, grooming, or public play areas for now
Focus on gut health: add fresh, easy-to-digest foods
Ask me about natural cough remedies if your dog needs a little more TLC
👉 Get the full article on Kennel Cough in the Library — packed with what’s working right now to shorten recovery, build resilience, and stop it from cycling back.
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© 2025 Dana Brigman | Well Oiled K9 | All rights reserved. Based in North Myrtle Beach, SC — offering local and virtual holistic wellness consultations for dogs nationwide.
Statements in this blog have not been evaluated by the FDA. Educational content only. Not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
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Also be sure you understand the Bordetella Vaccine