Prevention
A vaccine is available that helps the dog's body develop immunity to the different viruses and bacteria that commonly cause kennel cough. There is an intranasal vaccine that provides excellent local protection against the disease in the nose, mouth, and throat. This vaccine needs to be given at least three days before a dog is housed in an animal group facility, and should be repeated in dogs at risk every six to 10 months. In addition, another vaccine, given as an injection under the dog's skin, can be used as a yearly booster. Proper nutrition and routine de-worming also will help keep the animal healthy so its immune system is strong enough to fight off disease. To decrease the spread of the disease, kennel personnel should ensure that dogs with a persistent cough are kept in isolation.