My dog has kennel cough symptoms after boarding. When to see a vet?

I would not be worried just yet. Even though he was fully vaccinated he could still have acquired kennel cough (bordetella). That vaccine is not 100% effective. If they have been vaccinated against it and they do end up getting kennel cough usually the symptoms are less severe and the course of the disease is shorter so having the vaccine is worthwhile. Was he vaccinated for influenza (flu)? Again, not a 100% protective vaccine (just like out flu vaccine). This could be more serious if he caught the flu. Just monitor him for worsening signs - not eating, extreme lethargy, increased coughing, not drinking, ocular/nasal discharge, etc. If you notice any of those signs then I would take him to your vet for an exam. A little bit tired and mild coughing is not too worrisome at this stage. Hope this helps. Best wishes.

Molly is such a cutie! It could be that she picked up a respiratory infection or kennel cough when she was boarded. I would have her seen by a vet for this, but there's no need to rush her into a vet asap as long as she is eating and drinking normally, isn't extremely lethargic, and isn't having difficulty breathing. I can give you something to try at home to see if that helps with her breathing, but have her seen by a vet in the morning. You can try using a humidifier or bringing her into the bathroom with the door closed while you take a hot shower - the steam and humidity help to break up congestion and temporarily relieve symptoms associated with respiratory infections.

It sounds like your dog picked up a severe upper respiratory tract infection. This could be kennel cough, but also canine influenza or pneumonia. Please take him to your veterinarian for an exam. Since he is shivering, and lethargic, this could be a life-threatening condition.

This could be part of his kennel cough diagnosis. Rico may be quite congested. Keep an eye on him tonight, and if he's still like this in the morning, have him seen by a vet. Tonight, try taking him into the bathroom with you when you take a shower. The steam may help with any congestion.

With his consistent symptoms, I recommend having him seen by the vet. There are many causes of respiratory symptoms, including heart disease, and I’m a bit concerned about his decreased exercise tolerance. Cantona may need medication to manage what’s driving his symptoms. Your vet will likely recommend chest x-rays to different a respiratory problem from a heart problem. Hope this helps!

Kennel cough is not an emergency unless your dog is in respiratory distress. It should be ok to wait until Monday. Should your dog get a discharge from the nose and/or eyes or start having breathing problems, you need to take it to a vet right away.

He could have gotten kennel cough while he was boarded, which is not unusual in situations where dogs are kept in fairly close quarters. I recommend getting your dog in to see your vet as he may need a prescription for cough suppressant and/or antibiotics to help him recover more quickly and easily.