Kennel Cough Treatment Cost and Options for Dogs

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Posted Oct 10, 2024

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A Dog Wearing a Cone
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The cost of treating kennel cough in dogs can vary greatly, ranging from $50 to $500 or more, depending on the severity of the infection and the treatment options chosen.

Antibiotics are often prescribed to treat kennel cough, but they can be expensive, with a typical cost of $20 to $50 per prescription.

In mild cases, kennel cough can be treated with over-the-counter medications and supportive care, such as plenty of rest and fluids, which can be more affordable.

Veterinary care is usually necessary to diagnose and treat kennel cough, with costs ranging from $50 to $200 for an initial consultation and diagnostic tests.

What You Need to Know

Kennel cough is a highly contagious respiratory disease that can affect dogs of all ages. It's caused by a variety of bacteria and viruses, including Bordetella bronchiseptica and the Parafluenza virus.

The symptoms of kennel cough are quite distinctive, with a cough that sounds like a honk and a gag at the end of the cough. This is often the first sign that your dog has contracted the disease.

Credit: youtube.com, What Should You REALLY Do When Your Dog Gets Kennel Cough? | Vet Explains

If your dog is at higher risk, such as a senior dog, puppy, or a pup with other underlying health issues, it's essential to go for a check-up with your vet. They can help determine the best course of treatment.

Follow these steps to avoid infection:

  • Destress your dog by reducing their anxiety and strengthening your bond with them.
  • Keep your dog away from large groups of dogs, especially in areas like boarding facilities, dog parks, or animal shelters.

Kennel cough is treatable with the help of a vet, vaccines, and medication. Seeking care is crucial to avoid secondary infection.

Treatment Options

Treatment Options for Kennel Cough typically involve letting the dog's immune system fight off the illness, but a vet may prescribe antibiotics like doxycycline to treat secondary infections.

Antibiotics like doxycycline can help prevent progression to more serious disease, especially in puppies and dogs with weak immune systems.

A cough suppressant might be prescribed if the cough is severe, but be aware that it can make it harder for the dog to clear the infection.

Here's a breakdown of potential costs for medications:

Treatments

Most cases of kennel cough will resolve on their own without treatment, but antibiotics like doxycycline are often prescribed to treat secondary bacterial infections.

Veterinarian Hugging a Dog
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A cough suppressant might be prescribed if the cough is severe, but be aware that it can make it harder for your dog to clear the infection.

Antibiotics can prevent progression to more serious disease, especially in puppies and dogs with weak immune systems.

The cost of kennel cough treatment varies, but generally ranges from $200 to $500, depending on the severity of the illness and your dog's size.

Here's a breakdown of the costs you may incur:

Most dogs are not contagious after 10 to 14 days of being ill, especially if antibiotics are used in bacterial infections.

Vaccines

Vaccines are a safe and effective way to prevent the spread of infectious diseases. They work by introducing a small, harmless piece of a pathogen to the body, which triggers the immune system to produce antibodies and remember the pathogen, so it can fight it off if it's encountered again.

The flu vaccine is available every year and is recommended for people over 6 months old. It's especially important for older adults, young children, and people with certain health conditions.

Veterinarian Checking the Ear of a Dog Using Surgical Scissors
Credit: pexels.com, Veterinarian Checking the Ear of a Dog Using Surgical Scissors

The COVID-19 vaccine has been shown to be highly effective in preventing severe illness and hospitalization from the virus. In fact, studies have shown that people who have been vaccinated are 90% less likely to be hospitalized due to COVID-19.

Some vaccines require multiple doses to be effective, such as the HPV vaccine, which requires three doses over six months. Other vaccines, like the MMR vaccine, require only one or two doses.

Vaccines have been a cornerstone of public health for centuries, and have led to the near eradication of diseases like smallpox and polio.

Cost and Insurance

The cost of kennel cough treatment can be a significant burden for many pet owners. The total cost can range from $200 to $500, depending on the severity of the illness and the size of your dog.

A vet exam can cost anywhere from $45 to $55. This is a necessary step in diagnosing kennel cough.

Credit: youtube.com, When to worry about your Dog Coughing and Sneezing!

Cough suppressants can add an extra $70 to the bill. This medication can help alleviate your dog's symptoms and make them more comfortable.

The cost of doxycycline, a common medication for kennel cough, can range from $85 for 30 tablets to $100 for liquids. This medication can help treat the underlying bacterial infection.

X-rays can cost between $150 and $200, and a PCR test can cost $38. These tests can help determine the severity of the illness and guide treatment.

Here's a breakdown of the estimated costs for kennel cough treatment:

  • Vet exam: $45-$55
  • Cough suppressants: $70
  • Doxycycline (30 tablets): $85
  • Doxycycline (liquids): $85-$100
  • X-rays: $150-$200
  • PCR test: $38

Pet insurance can help offset the costs of treating kennel cough. This can give you peace of mind and ensure that your dog receives the best possible care.

Fastest Cure and Recovery

Rest and fluids are key to helping your dog recover from kennel cough. Many experts recommend this as the first-line treatment for your pet.

Rest is essential to allow your dog's body to fight off the infection. Your veterinarian might recommend medications like antibiotics or cough suppressants to address your dog's symptoms and hasten the healing process.

Credit: youtube.com, Kennel Cough In Dogs: Home Treatment or Antibiotics?

By providing your dog with plenty of fluids, you can help keep them hydrated and support their recovery. This can be especially important if your dog is experiencing a severe case of kennel cough.

Giving your dog plenty of rest and fluids can help reduce the severity and duration of kennel cough symptoms.

Iris Stamm

Lead Assigning Editor

Iris Stamm is a seasoned Assigning Editor with a passion for storytelling and a keen eye for detail. With a background in research and writing, Iris has honed her skills in curating engaging content for a wide range of audiences. Her expertise lies in assigning and editing articles on topics related to animals, particularly dogs.