Be prepared this flu season

Is your furry friend ready for a fun-filled day of play at Dogtopia of Norfolk-Ghent? Whether your pup comes from the charming Ghent neighborhood or loves wagging tails along the Elizabeth River Trail, their health and happiness are always our top priority.
Just like kids at school, dogs in daycare settings share plenty of love, play, and sometimes—germs. As the weather cools down here in Hampton Roads, we’re entering what’s often called “canine cough season.” Understanding this common illness can help keep every pup in our Dogtopia family safe and happy.

What Is Canine Cough?

Canine cough—sometimes called kennel cough—is a highly contagious respiratory illness in dogs. It’s caused by a mix of bacteria and viruses, most commonly Bordetella bronchiseptica and canine parainfluenza. Think of it as the doggy version of a cold.
While canine cough can sound alarming, most cases are mild and clear up on their own with rest and care. However, since it spreads easily through coughing, sneezing, and even shared toys or water bowls, it’s important to keep sick pups home until they’re cleared by a veterinarian.
You can learn more about the illness and its causes through trusted veterinary resources like the American Kennel Club (AKC) and VCA Animal Hospitals.

Spotting the Signs

If your dog isn’t acting like their usual bouncy self, here are a few symptoms to watch for:
  • A persistent, dry “honking” cough
  • Sneezing or nasal discharge
  • Watery eyes
  • Mild lethargy or reduced energy
  • Occasional gagging after coughing

Most pups continue to eat, drink, and play normally, but if your dog seems unusually tired, refuses food, or has trouble breathing, contact your veterinarian right away.
For more guidance on symptoms, visit the CDC’s overview on canine respiratory illness.

What To Do If Your Dog Is Coughing

At Dogtopia of Norfolk-Ghent, we love every dog like our own—but if your pup shows signs of cough or illness, we kindly ask that you pause your daycare membership and schedule a vet visit before returning to play.
Once your vet clears your dog to return, just bring us that documentation, and we’ll welcome them back with open paws!
This short break helps protect our entire Dogtopia community and keeps our playrooms happy, healthy, and wagging.

Prevention: Vaccines and Healthy Habits

The Bordetella and DHPP vaccines are the best way to help reduce the risk or severity of canine cough. While it doesn’t prevent every case, vaccinated dogs typically experience milder symptoms and recover more quickly.
We also highly recommend the canine influenza (dog flu) vaccine. It’s not a requirement at our Norfolk-Ghent location, but because canine flu often circulates alongside kennel cough, it’s a great extra layer of protection—especially for social pups who visit daycares, parks, or boarding facilities.
You can learn more about the dog flu vaccine here:

Speak with your vet about best vaccine practices for a dog in open play!

Keeping Norfolk’s Dogs Safe

Our team at Dogtopia of Norfolk-Ghent takes health and sanitation seriously. Every playroom is cleaned and disinfected daily using pet-safe products, and our Canine Coaches are trained to recognize early signs of illness.
We’re proud to be part of a caring local community of pet parents. By working together—keeping vaccinations current, pausing play when dogs aren’t feeling their best, and staying alert during cough season—we can make sure every Norfolk pup continues to enjoy safe, tail-wagging fun.

Final Thoughts from Your Dogtopia Family

We know how much your dog loves their Dogtopia days—and we love having them here! Canine cough season can be tricky, but with good communication and preventive care, we can all keep the Norfolk-Ghent dog community thriving.
If you have questions about our health and safety policies, vaccine recommendations, or when your pup can return after illness, ask a team member.