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Expert Advice
As dog owners, we all want the best for our canine friends. When it comes to common illnesses like kennel cough, many turn to conventional methods such as pharmaceuticals and vaccines. But what if there’s a more natural way to support your dog’s health?
Author: Alison Frost
Alison Frost, canine nutritionist with ProDog Raw, shares her expertise on kennel cough, exploring its causes, symptoms, and how to leverage nutrition for a natural approach to keeping pets healthy. Through her insights, she emphasises the importance of a balanced diet and natural remedies to boost immune function and prevent respiratory illnesses in dogs.
Kennel cough, also known as canine infectious tracheobronchitis, is a highly contagious viral respiratory disease that affects dogs. It’s characterised by a persistent, dry cough, and while it sounds alarming, it’s usually not serious for healthy adult dogs. However, it can be more problematic for puppies, elderly dogs, or those with compromised immune systems.
Kennel cough is typically caused by a combination of viral and bacterial agents. The most common culprits include the bacterium *Bordetella bronchiseptica* and viruses such as canine parainfluenza and canine adenovirus.[1] These pathogens spread easily in environments where dogs congregate, like kennels, dog walking groups, doggy daycare, and grooming salons.
Kennel cough in dogs can be compared to flu in humans in that it is caught in a similar way, via airborne transmission or contact with another dog.
The hallmark symptom of kennel cough is a dry, hacking cough, often described as sounding like a goose honk. Other symptoms may include:
– Sneezing
– Runny nose
– Eye discharge
– Mild fever
– Loss of appetite or lethargy
In most cases, the symptoms are mild and resolve on their own within a few weeks. However, it’s always a good idea to consult with a veterinarian if your dog shows signs of illness.
Vaccinations, such as the Bordetella vaccine, are a staple in conventional veterinary care for preventing kennel cough. However, their use is not without debate. The efficacy of the Bordetella vaccine can vary, and it does not provide immunity against all strains of the disease. Moreover, concerns have been raised about over-vaccination potentially stressing the immune system and leading to other health complications.
Research published in the Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association indicates that while the Bordetella vaccine can lessen the severity of symptoms, it does not fully prevent infection [2]. This finding prompts a broader discussion: should we rely solely on vaccinations, or is there a holistic approach to ensuring our dogs’ health?
As an advocate for natural health, I believe in exploring all options, including holistic and natural alternatives. While there are certainly situations where conventional medicine and vaccines are necessary, many cases can be managed or prevented with natural methods. Supporting your dog’s immune system through high-quality nutrition and immune-boosting supplements can be an effective strategy to combat illnesses like kennel cough.
However, the decision to vaccinate should be based on a holistic assessment of your dog’s lifestyle and health needs. For instance, if your dog frequently interacts with other dogs in environments like kennels or doggy daycare, vaccination might be a requirement of the licence to prevent outbreaks. In these situations, titre testing—a blood test that measures immunity against specific diseases—can be an alternative to routine vaccinations. Unfortunately, current titre tests, such as Vaccicheck, do not measure antibodies for kennel cough, limiting this option’s applicability. Check with your vet for more information on titre testing.
If a kennel stay provides necessary respite and contributes to a balanced lifestyle, ensuring your dog meets the health requirements for such facilities, including vaccination, becomes an integral part of maintaining that harmony.
While natural approaches to health can offer significant benefits, they should complement rather than replace conventional methods. The key is finding a balanced approach that prioritises the well-being of your pet while accommodating the practical realities of modern life.
A strong immune system is the best defence against kennel cough. Just like humans, dogs are constantly exposed to pathogens. A robust immune system helps them fend off infections and recover more quickly if they do get sick. Therefore, supporting your dog’s immune system naturally can be a key strategy in preventing and managing kennel cough.
Learn more about the vital role of your dog’s immune system via Dr Katie Woodley’s article, The Basics of Dog Immunity and Nutritional Support.
A balanced, nutrient-rich diet is fundamental to maintaining your dog’s health. Providing high-quality, whole foods ensures they receive essential vitamins and minerals that bolster immune function. When selecting dog food, aim for products free from artificial preservatives, colours, and fillers. Opt for ingredients such as lean meats, fish, fresh vegetables, and fruits, as these supply the necessary nutrients for a robust immune system.
As a canine nutritionist, I frequently advise pet owners on optimal diets for their dogs. I recommend a raw dog food diet, as it closely mimics the natural diet of canines. This diet typically includes raw meats, offal, eggs, a small percentage of ground bone, and plant fibres from vegetables and fruits. Such meals provide a wealth of vitamins and minerals, and because they are species-appropriate, the nutrients are more easily absorbed. This natural diet also reduces the burden on vital systems, unlike many highly processed pet foods.
However, I understand that a 100% raw diet may not be feasible for everyone. In these cases, I suggest incorporating as many natural whole food ingredients as possible into your dog’s diet. Even adding real, fresh foods to their bowl regularly can make a significant difference.
For those interested in making additions to your dog’s diet our What Can My Dog Eat guide is a valuable resource to make sure you are making safe choices. Additionally, for more information on the benefits of a raw diet and how to get started, check out our guides on the Top 12 Health Benefits of Feeding Your Dog Raw and Beginner’s Guide to Raw Feeding. These resources provide detailed insights and practical tips for integrating these healthy food options into your dog’s daily meals.
Certain supplemental ingredients, including probiotics, superfoods and herbs, will also boost immune health. Here are a few to consider:
Probiotics: Maintaining a healthy gut is essential for a robust immune system. Dog probiotics play a key role in promoting a balance of beneficial bacteria in the gut, which in turn supports overall immunity. Extensive research underscores the importance of gut health in overall wellness. A comprehensive 2023 review highlights the beneficial effects of probiotics on the health of dogs and cats, including significant improvements in canine immune responses [3].
Learn more about the vital role of gut health in our article, Secrets of Dog Gut Health.
Vitamin C and E: These antioxidants help protect cells from damage and support immune function. While dogs can synthesise vitamin C on their own, supplementation can be beneficial, especially during times of stress or illness.
Herbal remedies like echinacea, ginger, and chamomile can be incorporated into your dog’s diet to further support the immune system and reduce inflammation. Echinacea herb is known for its immune-boosting properties. It can help reduce the severity and duration of respiratory infections.
Garlic has antiviral, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory properties. It can be given in small, appropriate amounts based on the dog’s weight
Colostrum is rich in antibodies, a colostrum supplement can help strengthen the immune system, particularly in puppies and older dogs.
NAC – N acetyl cysteine: A precursor to glutathione, a powerful antioxidant that supports overall health. It plays a crucial role in improving bronchial and lung function by helping to thin and loosen mucus, which aids in mucus clearance and reduces cough symptoms.
Medicinal mushrooms: such as Shiitake, Reishi, and Turkey Tail are excellent for enhancing the immune system. They contain beta-glucans, compounds known for their ability to support the body’s defence mechanisms against illnesses. These mushrooms are rich in these beneficial compounds, which help stimulate immune response and protect against various health threats.
Turmeric is known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can be highly beneficial for dogs’ immune function. The active compound in turmeric, curcumin, helps reduce inflammation and supports the immune system by fighting off harmful free radicals. This natural spice can enhance immune response, aid in managing chronic inflammatory conditions, and support overall health in dogs.
Navigating the world of natural ingredients for your dog’s immune health can be overwhelming, given the abundance of beneficial options. It can be challenging to know where to source these ingredients and how to combine them effectively. At ProDog, we’ve simplified this process by developing a range of targeted, vet-approved dog supplements.
Our products use scientifically backed ingredients and are designed to be easy-to-feed dietary additions, supporting various aspects of canine health.
Colostrum supplement: Rich in antibodies, this supplement enhances your dog’s immune system, offering a natural defence against infections. Learn more about ProDog’s Colostrum for dogs.
Boost Supplement: Packed with essential vitamins, minerals, probiotics and antioxidants, ProDog’s Boost, multivitamin for dogs, helps support your dog’s gut health, immune response and overall vitality.
Digest Supplement: This supplement supports gut health, which is crucial for a robust immune system. ProDog’s Digest, gut health supplement for dogs, ensures your dog’s digestion is functioning efficiently and absorbing nutrients effectively.
Revive Supplement: Packed with powerful antioxidants such as NAC (N acetyl cysteine), vitamin C, green tea and more. ProDog’s Revive, energy supplement for dogs, is expertly formulated to boost vitality levels by supporting the body’s key energy systems. It’s perfect for dogs recovering from illness or injury and those with high physical demands, such as working dogs.
Choosing the right supplement depends on various factors specific to your dog. Be sure to read the detailed information on our webpages to make an informed decision. If you’re unsure where to start, don’t hesitate to reach out to us for free, tailored nutrition advice. We’re always here to help you find the best solution for your dog’s health and well-being.
Taking a natural approach to kennel cough doesn’t mean rejecting conventional medicine entirely. In some cases, medications may be necessary, especially if a secondary bacterial infection develops. However, focusing on prevention through a healthy lifestyle, good nutrition, and natural supplements can reduce the likelihood of illness and help your dog recover more quickly if they do get sick.
While kennel cough can be a nuisance, it’s often manageable with proper care. By supporting your dog’s immune system naturally, you can help them stay healthy and vibrant. Always consult with your veterinarian before starting any new treatment regimen, and remember that the best approach to your dog’s health is a balanced one, combining both natural and conventional methods as needed.
Image credit: Justin Veenema on Unsplash
Image credit: Helena Lopes on Unsplash
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