SEQUIM — Several cases of kennel cough in dogs at the Sequim dog park have been reported recently by local veterinarians, according to the facility’s website, www.sequimdogparks.org.
“Do not use the Sequim Dog Park unless your dog has had all of its vaccinations, especially the bordetella vaccine, which specifically is for kennel cough,” the website advises.
“It is against the dog park rules to bring unvaccinated dogs or dogs that have a contagious condition to the dog park. If you are unsure about your dog’s vaccine status, call your veterinarian.”
Kennel cough is a term loosely used to describe a complex of usually nonfatal infections — both viral and bacterial — that cause inflammation of a dog’s voice box and windpipe.
It is a form of bronchitis and is similar to a chest cold in humans.
Though it usually clears up on its own in three to six weeks, kennel cough is highly contagious and can be spread easily to other dogs.
A persistent dry cough with a “honking” sound is the main clue a dog has kennel cough. Some dogs also develop a fever and nasal discharge.
The Sequim Dog Park, an exercise area for unleashed dogs, is located just east of the Guy Cole Convention Center in Carrie Blake Park.
