What is glaucoma in a dog?
You might notice your dog squinting more at mealtime or avoiding bright sunlight—these small changes could be early signs of a serious eye condition.
How do I know if my dog has kennel cough?
That weird, honking cough your dog can’t shake isn’t just a minor irritation—it might be kennel cough, a highly contagious respiratory issue common in places where dogs gather.
That weird, honking cough your dog can’t shake isn’t just a minor irritation—it might be kennel cough, a highly contagious respiratory issue common in places where dogs gather. Unlike a dry, occasional cough from dust, kennel cough often sounds like your pup is trying to clear something stuck in their throat, sometimes followed by a gag or retch. You might notice it more when they get excited (like greeting you at the door) or after exercise, which is a key clue it’s not just a cold.
Most dogs with kennel cough also show subtle signs: runny nose (clear or slightly yellow), mild lethargy, or a loss of interest in treats they usually beg for. If your dog goes to daycare, the dog park, or a boarding facility—spots where germs spread fast—these symptoms should raise red flags. In many European countries and U.S. states, facilities are required by law to ask for proof of Bordetella vaccine (the main preventive for kennel cough) before accepting dogs; skipping this not only puts your pup at risk but could mean the facility is violating local regulations.
Pay attention to how the cough progresses. A mild case might stick to that honking sound, but if it gets worse—like coughing so hard they struggle to breathe, or refusing to eat or drink—it could turn into something more serious, like pneumonia. Never give human cough medicine (like dextromethorphan) to your dog; many contain ingredients toxic to them, and in places like Germany or California, giving unapproved meds can be considered animal neglect under welfare laws.
If you suspect kennel cough, isolate your dog from other pets right away—this isn’t just about kindness, it’s often a legal requirement to stop the spread. Call your vet to schedule a checkup; they’ll likely listen to your dog’s chest and might do a quick test to confirm. Some areas have rules about reporting contagious dog illnesses to local animal control, so ask your vet if that’s required where you live—failing to do so could lead to fines.
With proper care (like rest, plenty of water, and vet-prescribed meds if needed), most dogs recover from kennel cough in 1-2 weeks. To prevent it, keep their Bordetella vaccine up to date—this isn’t just a recommendation, it’s a must for compliance with many pet-related businesses and local laws. Knowing the signs early helps your pup feel better faster and keeps you on the right side of regulations, turning a stressful scare into a manageable issue.
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