Kennel Cough Season: Caring for a Coughing Dog Naturally

Hello again!

Autumn and winter bring us together indoors, and the same is true for our dogs: more time at daycare, at the groomer, in boarding kennels over the holidays, and nose to nose in muddy parks. And with that comes one of the most common worries I hear about this time of year, the dog who has come home with a dry, honking cough.

Most of the time, that cough is kennel cough. It sounds dreadful, but in most healthy adult dogs it is mild and passes on its own. Let us look at what it is, how to keep your dog comfortable, and when it needs more than home care.

What is kennel cough?

"Kennel cough" isn't one single illness. It is the everyday name for an infection of the airways that can be caused by a mix of different viruses and bacteria. It spreads easily wherever dogs mix closely, which is why it so often follows a stay in kennels, a day at daycare, a dog show or a trip to the groomer.

The classic signs are:

• A dry, hacking or honking cough, often worse when your dog is excited or pulls on the lead
• Gagging or retching at the end of a coughing fit, sometimes bringing up a little white froth
• Sometimes a runny nose or sneezing

According to the PDSA, symptoms can take up to two weeks to show after contact and can last for up to three weeks. Most dogs stay bright and keep eating, and recover at home.

Caring for a coughing dog at home

1. Keep them away from other dogs. Kennel cough is very catching, so skip daycare, classes and busy parks until the cough has cleared. If you go to the vet, tell them on arrival and wait outside so it doesn't spread around the waiting room.
2. Swap the collar for a harness. Pressure on the throat sets off the cough, so a harness is much kinder for now.
3. Use a steamy bathroom. The PDSA suggests some dogs feel better sitting in a steamy room while you have a bath or shower.
4. Keep the air clean. Avoid smoking, scented sprays and plug-in air fresheners near your dog, as these irritate a sore throat.
5. Rest and warmth. Short, calm walks only, and a cosy spot to recover.
6. Soothing food. A little warm, soft food can be easier on a sore throat. Make sure fresh water is always available.

Gentle herbs for the throat and chest

Herbalists have long turned to gentle, airway-friendly plants when the throat and chest are feeling sore. Herbs such as thyme and marshmallow root are traditionally used for throat comfort, and plants like echinacea are traditionally used to support the body's natural defences. If your dog is on any medication, or is very young, old or poorly, please check with your vet before giving any herbs.

Natural support sits alongside good veterinary care, not instead of it. Vaccination is the most widely recommended way to reduce the risk and severity of kennel cough, so do talk to your vet about what is right for your dog, especially if they board or go to daycare.

When to call your vet

Please contact your vet if your dog:

• Is a young puppy, an older dog, or already has a heart or chest condition
• Stops eating, seems flat or lethargic, or has a temperature
• Has a cough that lasts more than a few days, or keeps them awake at night
• Has any difficulty breathing, rapid breathing, or coughs up coloured mucus

Coughing can also be a sign of heart disease, lungworm and other problems, so a cough that doesn't fit the usual pattern always deserves a vet check. The PDSA's kennel cough guide is a helpful, reliable read.

Final thoughts

That honking cough can sound alarming, but with rest, warmth, a harness instead of a collar and plenty of gentle care, most dogs are back to their bouncy selves within a few weeks. Keep a close eye on them, keep them away from their friends for a while, and trust your instincts if something doesn't seem right.

Natural love & care,

Elaine, The Dog Herbalist