Common Canine Infectious Illnesses

Facts about common canine infectious illnesses

  • Dogs can pick up infectious illnesses in any enviornment that dogs are present - not just boarding kennels.
  • Vaccines are not 100% effective, yes even a vaccinated dog can still get sick.
  • Dogs can spread illnesses while not showing symptoms.
  • Leader of the Pack does not allow any dog showing symptoms of illness in our daycare or boarding programs.
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Minimizing the risk while maximizing the fun!

As more families embark on pet ownership, social interactions among our pets are an important part of our family lifestyle. Leader of the Pack Canine Institute believes in transparency and helping to provide pet parents with information to help prevent the spread of canine infectious illnesses. Pet parents should be aware that this information is provided as an awareness of potential exposures in social environments at dog parks, dog daycares, boarding and training facilities. These are not the only infectious illnesses that dogs can contract when exposed to social environments.

We recommend that you consult with your veterinary professional if you have any questions regarding the risks associated with visiting dog parks or enrolling in any dog daycare or boarding kennel programs. Like people all dogs are different, and they may react differently when interacting with other dogs. It is our mission to provide a safe and enjoyable experience for all of our canine guests. We utilize multiple programs for daily sanitization and cleanliness at our facility. 

Clean Air

Our air systems all include upper-level UV sanitization equipment ensuring that the air your dog is breathing is as bacteria free as possible.

Clean Water

Water bowls are picked up, cleaned out and changed multiple times per day. Ensuring your pet is drinking clean water that isn't stagnant.

Daily Sanitization

From the playsets your dog jumps on to the beds they sleep on, we have you covered. Have peace of mind knowing that everything your pet touches in a day is cleaned and sanitized daily.

Trained Staff

CPR and pet safety certified staff are here to ensure that your dog is not just being watched - they're being cared for properly, by staff trained in handling canine emergencies.

Common Canine Infectious Illness Facts

Kennel Cough
Canine infectious tracheobronchitis also known as "kennel cough" can be transmitted from dog to dog in any environment, not just dog kennels or day cares. it's more accurate to think of "kennel cough" as a general term for this highly contagious respiratory disease, which is also known as canine infectious respiratory disease complex (CIRDC). Dogs can contract kennel cough at places where large amounts of canines congregate, such as dog parks, veterinary clinics, dog shows, training groups and boarding facilities. Dogs can spread it to one another through airborne droplets, direct contact (e.g., touching noses), or contaminated surfaces. It’s highly treatable in most dogs but can be more severe in puppies younger than six months of age and immunocompromised dogs. Symptoms of Kennel Cough include: Strong cough, often with a “honking” sound – this is the most obvious symptom, runny nose, sneezing, lethargy, loss of appetite and low fever. If left untreated kennel cough can turn into pneumonia. It's important to contact your veterinarian right away if you notice any of these symptoms.
Canine Papilloma Virus
Canine oral papilloma, also known as puppy warts, are small, benign tumors of the mouth caused by the papilloma virus. They are found on the lips, gums, mouth, and rarely can also be located on other parts of the dogs body. Canine papilloma virus usually affects young dogs, under the age of 2. Young dogs are more susceptible to the papilloma virus because their immune system is not fully developed. As their immune system matures, they produce antibodies against the virus and the warts can eventually disappear. They are round and have an irregular surface, reminiscent of a cauliflower and usually grow in clusters.
Canine Influenza
Canine Influenza, also known as dog flu, is a contagious respiratory disease in dogs caused by specific Type A influenza viruses. No human infections with canine influenza have ever been reported. There are two different influenza A dog flu viruses: one is an H3N8 virus and the other is an H3N2 virus. Symptoms of canine influenza include, cough, runny nose, fever, lethargy, eye discharge, and reduced appetite, but not all dogs will show signs of illness. The severity of illness associated with canine flu in dogs can range from no signs to severe illness resulting in pneumonia.
Canine Pneumovirus
Canine Pneumovirus is a virus that is one of several respiratory pathogens that make up the Canine Infectious Respiratory Disease (CIRD) complex of viruses and bacteria that cause respiratory infections. Symptoms include, a dry cough and nasal discharge that continues for 10-14 days. Symptoms left untreated could result in pneumonia and other serious complications.