Highly contagious but usually mild - most cases self-resolve, severe cases cost $200-$500. Also called infectious tracheobronchitis, it causes a distinctive honking cough. The Bordetella vaccine costs $20-$40 and is required by most boarding facilities. Puppies, seniors, and immunocompromised dogs face higher complication risk.
Caused by bacteria (Bordetella bronchiseptica) and viruses (parainfluenza, adenovirus). Spreads through airborne droplets, direct contact, and contaminated surfaces. Dogs in close quarters - boarding kennels, dog parks, shelters - are at highest risk. Highly contagious in crowded environments
Persistent, forceful cough - honking or hacking sound with retching or gagging. Runny nose, sneezing, and mild lethargy. Most dogs remain active with normal appetite. Watch for: fever, thick discharge, loss of appetite, or difficulty breathing. The distinctive honking cough is the hallmark symptom
Physical exam ($50-$100) with characteristic cough and exposure history. Vet may induce coughing by pressing trachea. Chest X-rays ($150-$300) only if pneumonia suspected. PCR testing ($100-$200) rarely needed. Average $50-$100
Mild cases self-resolve in 1-3 weeks with rest. Cough suppressants ($20-$50) ease discomfort. Antibiotics ($30-$80) for secondary infection or at-risk dogs. Severe cases with pneumonia require hospitalization ($500-$2,000+). Humidifier and honey help soothe. Average $200-$500 for treated cases
Mild cases: just an exam. Severe cases with antibiotics: $200-$500. Pneumonia complications can reach $2,000+.
Any dog exposed to other dogs is at risk. Puppies, seniors, and immunocompromised dogs face higher complication risk.
Most dogs recover within 1-3 weeks. The cough can linger for several weeks after the infection clears. Isolate for 2 weeks.
Bordetella vaccine ($20-$40) reduces severity. Annual boosters for dogs in social settings. Vaccine doesn't prevent all strains.
02/04
Mild cases: just an exam.
Most policies cover kennel cough as standard illness with 14-day waiting period. Vet exam, antibiotics, and cough medication typically covered. Hospitalization for pneumonia complications also covered.
Kennel cough incubates in 2-14 days. Claims within the 14-day waiting period are denied. Common problem: people buy insurance before boarding, dog gets kennel cough during waiting period.
Most cases cost $50-$300 - often below your deductible. Claim may not save money on mild cases. Value kicks in if pneumonia develops ($500-$2,000+).
Bordetella vaccine is preventive care - not covered by standard plans. Only wellness add-ons cover it. Vaccine costs $20-$40, one of the cheapest preventive measures.
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