As a responsible dog owner, you’ve probably taken steps to protect your furry friend from illnesses by keeping their vaccinations up to date. But what happens when your vaccinated dog starts coughing persistently? It’s natural to wonder—can a vaccinated dog still get kennel cough?
Kennel cough is a common yet concerning illness among dogs, especially in environments where they interact with other pets. In a bustling city like Dubai, where pet socialization is popular and services like dog grooming in Dubai and pet daycare are widely used, understanding kennel cough is essential to ensuring your dog’s well-being.
Let’s dive into what kennel cough is, how vaccination works, and what you can do to minimize your dog’s risk of catching this illness—even if they’re already vaccinated.
What Is Kennel Cough?
Kennel cough, medically known as canine infectious tracheobronchitis, is a contagious respiratory disease that affects a dog’s windpipe and voice box. It’s most commonly caused by the bacteria Bordetella bronchiseptica, often in combination with viruses like canine parainfluenza or adenovirus.
Kennel cough spreads easily in areas where dogs gather—kennels, grooming salons, boarding facilities, dog parks, and even vet clinics. It’s transmitted through airborne droplets, direct contact, or contaminated surfaces such as water bowls or grooming tools.
Symptoms of Kennel Cough
The most recognizable symptom is a dry, hacking cough that sounds like your dog is trying to clear something from their throat. Other symptoms may include:
- Sneezing
- Nasal discharge
- Lethargy
- Mild fever
- Loss of appetite
Although kennel cough is rarely life-threatening, it can make your dog feel uncomfortable and tired, and it’s particularly risky for puppies, elderly dogs, or those with weakened immune systems.
Can Vaccinated Dogs Still Get Kennel Cough?
The short answer is yes.
Vaccines for kennel cough—usually given as an intranasal spray, oral dose, or injection—are designed to protect against the most common causes, like Bordetella bronchiseptica and canine parainfluenza. However, they don’t offer complete immunity against all strains of the viruses or bacteria that can cause the illness.
This means that while vaccinated dogs are less likely to contract kennel cough, and symptoms tend to be milder and shorter in duration, there is still a small chance of infection—especially if the strain they encounter is not covered by the vaccine.
Why Does This Happen?
Here are a few reasons why your vaccinated dog may still develop kennel cough:
- Multiple pathogens: Kennel cough can be caused by various organisms. If the dog is exposed to a strain not included in the vaccine, they can still fall ill.
- Weakened immunity: If a dog is stressed, sick, or recently had surgery, their immune system may not respond as strongly to infections—even if vaccinated.
- Incomplete vaccination: Some dogs may miss booster shots or require multiple doses for full protection.
- Environmental factors: Crowded and poorly ventilated areas—like some dog kennels or grooming salons—can increase the risk of transmission, vaccinated or not.
Tips to Protect Your Dog from Kennel Cough
Fortunately, there are proactive steps you can take to reduce the risk of kennel cough, even if your dog is vaccinated:
- Stay up to date with vaccinations: Follow your vet’s schedule and discuss the best type of vaccine for your dog (intranasal vs. injectable).
- Avoid overcrowded spaces: If you hear of an outbreak at a dog park, kennel, or grooming salon, keep your dog at home for a while.
- Practice good hygiene: Clean your dog’s bowls, bedding, and toys regularly.
- Use reputable grooming services: Hygiene plays a big role in preventing kennel cough. Choose a grooming provider that follows strict sanitation protocols.
- Try mobile grooming: Services like mobile grooming in Dubai help minimize your dog’s exposure to other animals, reducing the risk of airborne illnesses.
The Role of Dog Grooming in Preventing Illness
Cleanliness and grooming go hand-in-hand with good health. Regular grooming not only keeps your dog looking and smelling great—it can also help prevent skin conditions, detect lumps early, and reduce exposure to contagious illnesses like kennel cough.
In cities like Dubai, where dust, heat, and humidity can affect your dog’s health, consistent grooming is essential. Whether you visit a salon or opt for mobile grooming in Dubai, keeping your pet clean and well-groomed supports their immune system and comfort.
Nin9Tails – The Best Pet Grooming Service in Dubai
When it comes to trusted grooming services in Dubai, Nin9Tails is a name pet parents rely on. Offering best pet grooming in Dubai, Nin9Tails brings luxury, care, and convenience to your pet’s grooming experience.
What sets Nin9Tails apart?
- Experienced and pet-friendly groomers
- Strict hygiene protocols to minimize infection risks
- Stress-free grooming techniques for anxious pets
- Convenient mobile grooming right at your doorstep
- Customized services for different breeds and coat types
By choosing Nin9Tails, you’re not only ensuring your pet looks and feels their best—you’re also helping them stay healthy and happy in a clean, safe environment.
Final Thoughts
Vaccinating your dog against kennel cough is a wise and responsible step—but it’s not a guaranteed shield. Being aware of the risks, symptoms, and preventive measures can help you protect your dog more effectively.
For pet parents in Dubai, regular grooming is a crucial part of that protection. Whether you visit a salon or book mobile grooming in Dubai, choose a trusted provider like Nin9Tails to give your dog the top-tier care they deserve.
Ready to pamper your pet with the best? Book a grooming session with Nin9Tails today and keep your furry friend healthy, happy, and fabulous!
