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Our dog has Kennel Cough, should we still take him out to run/play?
We recently adopted from a shelter and unfortunately he caught kennel cough. I feel so bad for him because he loves to run and play, but when we just take him on short walks it seems to aggravate the cough (he pulls a little on the lead, but for the most part he is a good about keeping it slack).
So, since he has kennel cough, should we keep it to short walks until he is over it, or would it be ok to bring him running and play catch. We wouldn't want it to potentially make it worse. :(
This is a great question. Most dogs with k cough maintain normal eating and play habits. It's certainly safe to play with a dog who has a mild case of kennel cough, but you might want to keep him a wee bit calmer than normal since congestion is a big part of k cough.
As for the walks, keep in mind that kennel cough is EXTREMELY contagious and since it's a virus, sometimes even vaccinated dogs can get it; the bordatella vaccine is just that. A bordatella vaccine though many other viruses can cause kennel cough.
One invisible nasal secretion on a leaf or in dirt can last anywhere from a few hours to days on end (in the right conditions) as a viable live virus, so you put other dogs at high risk of catching KC if you continue to take him for walks outside your home.
I'd keep him indoors/backyard until he's no longer contagious, which is 14 days or when symptoms cease.
Also, try a harness instead of a collar. Much easier on the neck in ANY circumstance.
I couldnt help but notice you said he pulls on the leash when you walk him. Are you sure he has kennel cough??? If you use a regular collar/leash combo with him, you could be compressing his trachea and THAT is what is causing the cough. While its also just as likely he could have KC from his old environment- remember that KC is just like a human cold. He should still be able to function normally but he may not feel 100%. And as mentioned above, it is HIGHLY contagious for up to 6 weeks! Best to keep a low profile for awhile and maybe only play with him in the yard or very short walks away from other dogs.
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