Ask A Vet: Dr. Hartfield Talks About Kennel Cough And How To Treat It

Many people are dealing with respiratory illnesses right now, but did you know dogs can also suffer from a highly contagious respiratory disease known as kennel cough?

Dr. Rebekah Hartfield, a veterinarian with clinics in Manford and Holdenville, spoke with LeAnne to explain the importance of protecting your dog from kennel cough.

LeAnne: Is kennel cough really just a cough dogs get from being in a kennel?

Dr. Hartfield: It’s a cough they can contract in kennels, but also from other places. "Kennel cough" is a general term used to describe the Canine Respiratory Disease Complex. It’s highly contagious and affects a dog's respiratory tract. All breeds can be susceptible. The disease can result from different bacteria or viruses, with the most common one being Bordetella bronchiseptica—which most people associate with kennel cough.

LeAnne: How does it spread? It sounds highly contagious.

Dr. Hartfield: Yes, it spreads through respiratory droplets when an infected dog coughs or sneezes. Unlike humans, dogs can’t wear masks, so it spreads easily. You’ll typically see outbreaks in places where many dogs are together—kennels, boarding and grooming facilities, veterinary clinics, dog parks, and even rural areas with stray dogs. Separation from other dogs is critical when a dog is infected.

LeAnne: Could it be fatal?

Dr. Hartfield: In severe cases, especially if it leads to pneumonia, it could be. Usually, though, it’s a self-limiting disease that resolves within seven to 10 days. However, if a dog has a weakened immune system or preexisting heart or lung conditions, it could lead to lethargy, fever, a productive cough, and possibly pneumonia, which can be fatal. It’s important to contact a vet if you're concerned.

LeAnne: What symptoms should dog owners look out for?

Dr. Hartfield: The most common symptom is a distinct, honking cough. Owners often report hearing their dog hacking or vomiting up clear fluid, and many describe it as sounding like something is stuck in their dog’s throat. These are key signs of kennel cough.

LeAnne: Once diagnosed, how is kennel cough treated?

Dr. Hartfield: Treatment depends on the severity. In most cases, it resolves on its own within a week or so, but the constant coughing can be tough on the dog—and their owner. Sometimes, we prescribe medication to suppress the cough. If the case is more severe, we may use supportive care, symptomatic treatments, or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs to reduce fever and inflammation.

LeAnne: Can it be prevented?

Dr. Hartfield: Yes, vaccines are key. Core vaccines like the canine parainfluenza, distemper, and Bordetella vaccines help reduce the risk. While vaccines don’t guarantee 100% prevention, they lower the chances of infection and help prevent the disease from worsening if contracted. Keeping your dog separated from infected dogs and avoiding shared water bowls or food dishes can also help reduce the spread.