Kennel Cough is the latest infection to spread across the region

EXPERTS have issued a warning about an infectious virus impacting dogs.

Newtown Veterinary Clinic last week alerted the public that Infectious Canine Cough (ICC) or otherwise known as “Kennel Cough” was quickly spreading in the region.

A high number of dogs have presented with symptoms of the respiratory infection which can be passed on in just a few moments of sniffing.

A dog will become infected with ICC after inhaling the virus particles, putting friendly dogs at a greater risk.

Georgie Loffler from Newtown Veterinary Clinic said symptoms include a hacking cough.

“It will start up usually when they have been exercising and it will sound like they have something stuck in their throat,” she said.

Often the infection will sound worse than it is, but occasionally it can cause the dog to be more susceptible to other illnesses.

Ms Loffler said the clinic had seen an increase in the number of cases attributing the surge to the holiday period.

“It can flare up at any point, but a lot of people are travelling and bringing dogs down from different parts so with a high flow of different animals it can easily spread,” she said.

Much like the flu, there is protection against ICC that can be obtained through an annual vaccination however it does not guarantee a clean bill of health.

“The annual kennel cough vaccination lessens the symptoms,” she said.

“It is like you or I getting the flu shot, it will stop it from being too severe but there is a chance they can still get the viral infection.”

Despite being easily contractible, ICC can be treated with a round antibiotics and some rest.

“It is nothing that is detrimental to their health as long as the dog is up-to-date with their vaccinations,” Ms Loffler said.

The Newtown Veterinary Clinic encourages all dog owners to be mindful in public, particularly if your dog is not up-to-date with its vaccinations.

If your dog is presenting ICC symptoms, please contact your local veterinary clinic.