Your dog is at an increased risk of catching communicable canine ailments when socializing with other dogs. We are diligent in minimizing health and safety risks, but it’s important for clients to understand some of the inherent risks. Both Canine Influenza and Kennel Cough are contagious upper respiratory infections in dogs. Canine Influenza is caused by one specific virus and Kennel Cough is a term used to describe multiple viruses or bacterial infections. Both may occur at higher rates in places that dogs frequent, including dog parks, dog daycares, kennels, and veterinary offices. They are both highly contagious and spread much the same way the human cold or flu spreads. It is important to remember that dogs can be contagious even if they are not showing any clinical signs of being sick which is one of the reasons these diseases can spread so quickly.

Symptoms can vary, but are typically characterized by either a dry or wet cough, nasal discharge, listlessness, or sometimes a fever.

Canine Influenza is a virus and many strains of Kennel Cough are also viruses. There is no “cure” for a virus. Your veterinarian may choose to let the virus run its course or may suspect that the symptoms are caused by a bacterial infection and may prescribe antibiotics. Many veterinarians do put dogs on antibiotics even when they suspect a virus is the cause, to help protect against secondary infections including pneumonia. Additionally, cough tabs, nebulizer treatments, and fluids may be given depending on the dog’s symptoms.

They are transmitted by coming into contact with an infected dog’s body secretions, whether it is through direct contact or indirect contact such as collars, leashes, water bowls, etc.

There are two separate vaccinations that may reduce the severity of the symptoms and the time your dog has symptoms, but they do not prevent your dog from getting sick. Currently, recommendations are to give the Canine Influenza vaccination initially in two separate doses two weeks a apart (your dog will need a booster approximately two weeks after the first vaccination) and then annually going forward. The Kennel Cough vaccination is either given every 6 months or once a year.

Butter’s House does require the Kennel Cough (Bordetella) vaccination and strongly recommends the Canine Influenza vaccination. If the Bordetella vaccine has never been given or has lapsed in validity, it needs to be administered at least 5 days prior to your pet’s stay. We strongly recommend the Canine Influenza vaccination because research shows that while it does not prevent infection, it does reduce the severity of the disease.

Butter’s House also requires Rabies and DHPP vaccinations. Proof of vaccines must be submitted to us prior to your arrival.

We treat all health issues at Butter’s House very seriously and want to assure you we are doing all we can to take preventative measures including requiring the Bordetella vaccination, strongly encouraging the Canine Influenza vaccination, adhering to the highest standards of cleaning and disinfecting, and isolating any known infected dogs immediately. Unfortunately, both diseases are so highly contagious that no amount of supervision, sanitation, or personal care can guarantee complete prevention of Canine Influenza or Kennel Cough.

Keep in mind that Canine Influenza and Kennel Cough are much like the human flu or cold and spread much the same way. Talk to your veterinarian and keep your dog current on all recommended vaccinations. Keep your dog out of daycare and other social situations for at least 10 days if you have reason to believe your dog was exposed to either Canine Influenza or Kennel Cough. Most importantly, remember you know your dog the best so if you suspect your dog might be “a little under the weather” keep your dog out of social situations as your dog is likely to be contagious even if your dog is not coughing or showing other obvious clinical signs of being sick. Please alert Butter’s House if your dog shows any symptoms or if you suspect your dog is sick.