Accepted Answer

Hi, sorry to hear you have four dogs that arent' feeling well.. it sounds as if they may have something like kennel cough. It is a virus and very contagious amongst dogs.. it is an airborne virus much like the human cold.. has any of your dogs been around other dogs - such as dog park, daycare, vets or training classes? the vaccine that helps prevent this, but is not 100% effective.. you can read more on this virus at: http://www.thepetcenter.com/gen/kenc.html   dogs are sometimes given a antibiotic or a cough suppressant, but that is determined on a individual case, antibiotic are given as a safety measure to avoid further upper respiratory infection or pneumonia. Otherwise, this virus must run it's course, again, like a human cold, since it is a virus (and most likely is since all four dogs have it) antibiotics do not really help them get over it. I would recommend seeing your vet to determine if antibiotics are needed for any of them. there is also a newer virus out - a type of new dog flu.. again a virus, but can cause secondary complications. I feel a trip to the vet is the best for your dogs, or sometimes, take one in if all have the exact same symptoms.. and if your dogs have seen the vet within the year, they will send home meds for all without an office visit.   please ask if you have any other questions.. thanks for caring. Susan

Expert:	Susan Chambers
Pos. Feedback:	99.1 %
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Answered:	2/14/2009

Dog care specialist

20+ yrs helping people care for their dogs, 10 yrs vet. office manager,5 yrs pet loss & bereavement