This year, Canine Cough has been seen on a much larger scale with a number of cases hitting SA. With more knowledge and understanding, we can all help prevent, and slow down the spread.

This is something we should all be knowledgeable about now from the COVID pandemic. The more we all know, the better we can keep our pets safe.

If you have any questions about Canine Cough, you should discuss preventative measures with your vet.

What is Canine Cough?

Canine Cough is a general term encompassing a viral or bacterial illness that inflames the windpipe and lungs and causes a cough. The severity and sound of the cough vary by virus and by the dog’s overall immune system. The cough is usually more noticeable at night, in the morning, or after excitement or activity.

Dogs with the above symptoms should receive veterinary treatment.

How does Canine Cough spread?

The virus spreads just like a human virus. It is an airborne virus and can be spread through coughing, sneezing, and contact with surfaces.

Environmental irritants (Like pollen) may increase the likelihood of some dogs developing Canine Cough.

How bad is Canine Cough?

The majority of cases are the equivalent of a cold in a human and do not require any medical intervention or antibiotics. Allowing your pet’s body to heal itself and avoiding spreading it through movement is always advisable.

Just as in humans, it can develop into something more serious. If it does not resolve itself in a few weeks then veterinary intervention is then recommended.

What is Hedgegrove doing to prevent Canine Cough?

Hedgegrove already enforces a strict vaccine policy for all our guests and visitors, However, just like the human cold or flu, there is no true full protection. The Bordetella vaccine creates immunity against a few strains, but not all. Here are just some of the extra steps we take to keep our facilities safe not just this season but all year round.

• We disinfect with a viruscide every day of the year to keep our facilities as clean and free of illness as possible
• Our staff are trained in spotting symptoms, isolation protocols, and disinfection procedures
• We refuse entry to all presenting known symptoms and restrict human traffic through the facilities (Yes, us humans are often more spreaders than dogs)
• We restrict public access to the accommodation quarters to prevent contamination from clothing and footwear.

What can you do to help prevent Canine Cough?

• Keep your dog regularly vaccinated, canine cough vaccines are still required annually.
• Understand, observe, and isolate dogs from those with known symptoms
• Keep your dog isolated if you witness any symptoms in them yourself
• Do not bring your dog into our facilities if you suspect them to be unwell on any level or discuss with our team beforehand.
• Practice strong hygiene protocols (Canine Cough is often spread by us being in contact with infected animals)
• If you believe your dog may be showing symptoms, please let us know ASAP so we can impart our extra disease and illness procedures and talk you through the next steps.

#stopthespread