10/05/2026
🐾 A QUICK NOTE ABOUT KENNEL COUGH 🐾
We’ve been seeing an increase in dogs showing signs of respiratory illness, so we wanted to share a little information about kennel cough and what pet owners should watch for.
Kennel cough is a highly contagious respiratory infection that can spread anywhere dogs are in close contact with one another, including daycare, boarding facilities, dog parks, grooming salons, training classes, and even during casual interactions with other dogs.
It can also spread through shared water dishes, toys, surfaces, or areas where an infected dog has coughed, sneezed, licked, or left respiratory secretions behind.
Common signs can include:
• A dry, hacking or “honking” cough
• Gagging or retching after coughing
• Sneezing
• Nasal discharge
• Watery eyes
• Reduced energy
• Decreased appetite
• Fever in some cases
Many dogs remain bright and happy despite having a cough, but some infections can become more serious, particularly in puppies, senior dogs, or dogs with underlying health concerns.
If your dog develops a cough, please keep them away from other dogs and contact your veterinary clinic for advice.
If you are bringing your dog to Kelowna Veterinary Hospital and they are coughing, hacking, sneezing frequently, or have nasal discharge, please leave them safely in your vehicle when you arrive and call us from the parking lot. This allows our team to take appropriate precautions and helps protect other patients visiting the hospital.
Vaccination, including the Bordetella vaccine, can help reduce the risk and severity of some causes of kennel cough, although no vaccine can completely protect against every respiratory infection.
If you’re unsure whether your dog’s symptoms need to be assessed, give our team a call. We’re always happy to help. ❤️🐾
Kelowna Veterinary Hospital