Understanding Kennel Cough
Understanding and Treating Kennel Cough Naturally
When your dog starts hacking and coughing, it can be alarming. Kennel cough, officially known as canine infectious tracheobronchitis, is a common illness in dogs that’s often compared to a cold in humans. Let’s dive into what kennel cough is, how it’s contracted, and explore both traditional and holistic approaches to treating and preventing it.
What is Kennel Cough?
Kennel cough is a respiratory infection caused by a combination of bacteria and viruses, most notably the Bordetella bronchiseptica bacterium. It's highly contagious and spreads quickly in environments where dogs are in close quarters, such as boarding facilities, dog parks, and daycare centers.
Think of kennel cough as the dog equivalent of the common cold. While it’s generally not life-threatening, it can be uncomfortable for your dog and worrisome for you as a pet parent.
How is Kennel Cough Contracted?
Kennel cough is spread through:
Aerosol droplets: When an infected dog coughs or sneezes, it releases bacteria or viral particles into the air.
Direct contact: Dogs can contract it by greeting or playing with an infected dog.
Contaminated surfaces: Shared water bowls, toys, or bedding can harbor the bacteria or viruses.
Kennel Cough Symptoms
It's pretty similar to a common cold. And as you see in the details of the Bordetella Vaccine -- it's most often a mild issue and resolves on it's own.
Symptoms typically appear 3-10 days after exposure and may include:
A persistent, dry, honking cough
Retching or gagging (as if trying to clear the throat)
Nasal discharge
Mild lethargy
Decreased appetite
Fever (in severe cases)
When this happens, we need a little respiratory support. And we can do that with essential oils, homeopathy, and supporting the dog's natural immune system.
Don't forget though that one important factor in staying well is a strong wellness foundation and strong immunity through nutrition!
If your dog already has some underlying health issues like: Leaky gut, thyroid issues, allergies, kidney disease, liver disease or cancer -- he may be more susceptible to infections. All the more reason to support the immunity system and avoid places in which we aren't sure of the health of other dogs.
Treating Kennel Cough Naturally
I once had a dog come into board and train after he had been boarded at a daycare facility. A day or two in, he started slinging green snot everywhere. I had a kennel full of dogs for training. So we began a regimen of essential oils diffused in the room, on their collars, and the dogs all had an essential oil remedy (with permission from the parents. We had it knocked out in a couple of days.
Traditional Veterinary Treatments
In mild cases, kennel cough often resolves on its own within 10-14 days. However, traditional veterinary care may include:
Cough suppressants: To make your dog more comfortable.
Antibiotics: Prescribed if there’s a secondary bacterial infection.
Anti-inflammatories: To reduce airway irritation.
While these treatments can help manage symptoms, they don’t address the root cause or support overall recovery.
Natural Approaches to Treating Kennel Cough
Many pet parents seek holistic methods to soothe their dog’s symptoms and support their immune system. Here are some natural options:
Essential Oils
Essential oils can be a gentle yet effective way to ease respiratory symptoms. Always ensure oils are diluted and used appropriately.
Eucalyptus: Helps open airways and reduce inflammation. Use in a diffuser near (but not directly next to) your dog.
Lavender: Provides calming effects and helps with respiratory discomfort.
Frankincense: Supports the immune system and has anti-inflammatory properties.
Anti-viral Blend
Create a kennel cough inhalation session by diffusing these oils in a well-ventilated room for 10-15 minutes while your dog relaxes nearby. Contact me or another practioner to learn more about “tenting” in difficult respiratory cases.
Herbal Remedies
Herbs can work wonders for soothing the throat and boosting immunity:
Licorice root: Known for its anti-inflammatory and soothing properties.
Marshmallow root: Coats the throat and eases irritation.
Echinacea: Supports the immune system to help fight off infections.
A tea made from licorice and marshmallow root can be cooled and offered to your dog in small amounts.
Homemade Cough Syrup Recipe
This natural cough syrup can help ease your dog’s discomfort: Ingredients:
1 cup of water
1 tablespoon licorice root (dried)
1 tablespoon honey
1 teaspoon slippery elm powder
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon (optional for anti-inflammatory benefits)
Instructions:
Bring the water to a boil and steep the licorice root for 10 minutes.
Strain the liquid and let it cool slightly.
Stir in honey, slippery elm powder, and cinnamon.
Offer 1 teaspoon per 10 pounds of body weight, up to 3 times daily.
Nutrition and Supplements for Recovery
Support your dog’s immune system and healing process with the following:
Bone broth: Rich in nutrients and easy to digest.
Probiotics: Help restore gut health, especially if antibiotics were used.
Vitamin C: Provides immune support.
Colostrum: Boosts the immune response and aids in recovery.
Fresh, whole foods: A diet of fresh, unprocessed foods can provide essential nutrients to speed healing.
Preventing Kennel Cough
Prevention is key, especially for dogs that frequent high-risk areas.
Vaccination: While not 100% effective, the Bordetella vaccine can reduce the severity of symptoms. (We do no recommend)
Good hygiene: Regularly clean shared surfaces like bowls, bedding, and toys.
Air quality: Use air purifiers in kennels or daycare settings to reduce airborne bacteria.
Immune support: Keep your dog’s immune system strong with proper nutrition, supplements, and reduced stress.
Limited exposure: Avoid crowded dog parks or daycare facilities during outbreaks.
If your dog attends daycare or participates in events like canine competitions, speak with the facility about their cleaning protocols and policies for sick dogs.
Conclusion
Kennel cough may be common, but it’s manageable with the right care. Whether you choose traditional veterinary treatments, natural remedies, or a combination of both, the goal is to keep your dog comfortable and support their recovery. Prevention, as always, is the best medicine.
If you have questions about natural remedies or want guidance on boosting your dog’s immune system, reach out! I’m here to help you navigate your dog’s health holistically.
Also be sure you understand the Bordetella Vaccine