Supporting Healthy Pets: HSHPE’s Approach to Respiratory Health

Article submitted by Heather Case

At Humane Society Hastings Prince Edward, providing top-quality animal care is our number one priority. Our trained staff and dedicated volunteers work together to ensure that every animal in our care receives the attention, enrichment, and medical support they need for a healthy, happy life.​

Our Commitment to Wellness

• All animals receive daily monitoring for any signs of illness, including respiratory concerns.

• Professional animal care staff and community veterinarians support ongoing health assessments and recommend best practices in line with current veterinary standards.

• Clean and comfortable housing, regular exercise, nutritious food, and preventive veterinary care form the foundation of our wellness protocols.​

What Is Kennel Cough?

Kennel cough is a common, highly contagious upper respiratory condition in dogs, also known as canine infectious tracheobronchitis. It is caused by a combination of viruses and bacteria and can spread through airborne droplets or contact with contaminated surfaces, such as water bowls or toys.​

Symptoms can include:

• A persistent, strong cough (often with a distinctive “honking” sound)

• Sneezing

• Nasal discharge

• Mild lethargy or loss of appetite in some cases​

Most healthy dogs recover with rest and supportive care, but puppies, seniors, and dogs with underlying health conditions may require extra attention.​

Managing Respiratory Health in Shelters

Because animal shelters like HSHPE care for many animals who rotate through our spaces regularly, it is almost impossible to avoid encountering contagious viruses 100% of the time. From time to time, contagious respiratory viruses and bacteria do enter our facility.

Shelters are environments with high animal density, multiple incoming animals, and varied immune statuses, all of which increase the risk of respiratory infections such as kennel cough.​

Proactive Animal Care and Preventive Measures

Despite the challenges, HSHPE follows industry-leading protocols to reduce risk and protect pets and adopters:

• Routine cleaning and sanitizing of kennels and shared spaces.

• Isolation procedures are enacted immediately if any animal displays respiratory symptoms, limiting direct contact and exposure to others while care is provided as needed.​

• Staff closely monitor all animals daily and work with veterinarians for diagnosis and care recommendations if symptoms appear.

• Vaccination upon intake and regular veterinary checkups play a key role in maintaining the overall health of shelter pets.​

Community Reminders

HSHPE is dedicated to providing reliable, up-to-date information to support pet owners across Hastings and Prince Edward Counties:

• Vaccinate your pets as recommended by your veterinarian, especially if they regularly interact with other dogs.

• If you notice respiratory symptoms in your dog, keep them home from public places and seek veterinary advice promptly.

• Practice good hygiene by washing hands after handling animals and cleaning food bowls and toys regularly.

Kennel Cough FAQS

How is kennel cough spread?

Kennel cough is spread through coughing, sneezing and barking as well as shared water bowls, toys and even bedding. It is important to remember to wash your hands after handling your sick pet and before handling other pets like another dog, cat or small pet at home. It is best to keep pets separated during recovery.

How is kennel cough treated?

Kennel cough is treated with rest, hydration and increased humidity for mild cases. More severe cases require medications like antibiotics or anti-inflammatories prescribed by a veterinarian. 

Can humans catch kennel cough? 

Humans can catch kennel cough but it is very rare.      

How long does it last?

Most cases resolve on their own within 1 - 3 weeks.

When should I see a vet?

It is best to consult your vet if you suspect your pet has kennel cough and if it is showing signs like coughing, lethargy and loss of appetite and/or a runny discharging nose.