Constructed out of many types of materials, you must choose a dog kennel that are as durable against your dog’s strength. Steel is less likely to bend than aluminum and galvanized steel will guard against rusting. Also, look for dog kennels that have no sharp wire protrusions the dog could get cut on. The size of the dog kennel depends on the size of the dog and its leaping ability and exercise level. A standard size would be 10 ft. by 10 ft., but sizes do vary. There are even modular dog kennels available to accommodate any size dog. Simply build and construct as he grows. Another option would be to buy divider panels so you can section off parts of the dog kennel. As the pup grows, you can move the divider panels to create more room in the dog kennel.

Since most dog kennels are located outside, you will want to protect your dog from the elements. Many dog kennels come with roofs, or you can purchase covers made of heavy-duty material to serve the purpose. Dog kennel sunscreens and shade cloths are also available to protect from the sun. If the dog kennel does not have a roof, you may consider putting a doghouse inside the dog kennel for element protection.

If the dog is going to be kept outside in the dog kennel in cold weather, you can put a heater in the kennel. Or, you can equip dog kennels with a fan for the warmer weather. You can put in a doggie door if the animal is trained. This way he can go in and out as he pleases. Plus you still have the option of closing a security door to deny outside access. Make sure the door is two inches wider and two inches taller than the dog.

Another dog kennel accessory available to soothe your pet is raised plastic floor panels. These are comfortable for your pet to walk on and decreases the stress put on his legs. They can also be easily cleaned and sanitized. This type of dog kennel floor also offers safety for your pet, as he can’t get hurt on it. They are also durable and weather resistant.

Dog kennels are easily transportable and assembled which makes them ideal for traveling. Consider dog kennels fenced containment areas for your dog. You will breathe a sigh of relief in knowing your pet is in a safe and sound place, especially in unfamiliar surroundings. Remember your dog cares for you by protecting your family and you , but he also relies on you to protect and care for him.

“Kennel Cough”.

With kennel cough, a dog will typically have intense periods of nonstop coughing and even end these sessions with vomiting. Although this spasm of coughing looks like a terrible experience to your dog, kennel cough does not affect his energy levels and he may still seem very alert and upbeat after having a full blown cough attack.

Kennel cough is highly contagious

If your dog is indeed displaying the above symptoms of kennel cough, then you need to accept the possibility that he has kennel cough. The technical term for this disease is called “Infectious Tracheobronchitis” and is very contagious. It is a respiratory condition that is most common in dogs that have spent time in pet stores where they are enclosed with other dogs and animals. Kennel cough is a combination of several bacteria, viruses, and mycoplasma.

The most common symptom of kennel cough is when your dog gives out a dry and rough sounding tracheal cough. Your dog may gag and choke frequently in the attempt to clear his air passageway.

Kennel cough in dogs is very similar to the common cold that humans get, with the symptoms lasting anywhere from five to ten days. The cough may pass after that time but then return to afflict your dog, much like the common cold comes back to infect our bodies.

Steps you can take to help your dog

Like any health concern, the first thing you should do is take your dog to the veterinarian. The vet will be able to properly examine your pet and find out exactly how bad the symptoms are, as well as advise you on a few possible remedies.

Treating Kennel Cough

The vet may administer cough suppressants and possibly antibiotics depending on how bad the cough is. Some dogs have a deeper health issue due to kennel cough which can be the formation of pneumonia. Pneumonia is caused because bacteria has infiltrated the dog’s air sacs.

You may also want to look into preventative measures such as intranasal vaccines. This is a great way to help prepare your dog to avoid infection of kennel cough if he ever has to be

placed in a kennel at any point in his lifetime. These types of vaccines have been shown to offer stronger immunity than injectable types because they help stimulate both the upper and lower airways with strong immunity.