Following guidance issued last week about the recent increase in cases of kennel cough, GBGB is continuing to advise trainers to be vigilant and take appropriate action if any of their greyhounds are displaying symptoms.

Kennel cough is highly contagious and in order to reduce the spread of the disease, any greyhound showing signs of coughing must be isolated, not be entered for any races or trials or transported to any racecourse.

Typically, most kennel cough is self-curing and does not require veterinary treatment. In these cases the greyhound will have a harsh cough, a normal temperature and the dog is fairly bright and continues to eat and drink.

Veterinary treatment is required when a greyhound has one or several of the following symptoms in conjunction with a persistent cough – loss of appetite, signs of being off-colour and/or an increased temperature (typically above 39C).

Updating on GBGB’s response to the rise in cases, Veterinary Director Dr Simon Gower said:

“GBGB is currently liaising with canine disease experts and veterinary laboratories to establish the cause of this recent outbreak. We are aware that this spike is equally affecting pet dogs and we are sharing clinical details and research findings with private veterinary practices. 

“We are thankful to trainers and owners for their support and co-operation as we try and find out more. We will be asking trainers to assist with our ongoing investigation which may mean helping our vets to obtain samples if asked.

“We will of course report back any findings to owners and trainers in due course.” 

The latest GBGB guidance can be viewed here. GBGB also published a protocol for trainers on isolating greyhounds which can be found in Trainers’ Portal (via My Kennel) or by contacting your Stipendiary Steward. 

General advice on kennel cough can be obtained from your local veterinary surgeon, or from the GBGB directly on 0207 822 0900. 

Cases of severe kennel cough must be reported via the Disease Surveillance Reporting Line on 0207 822 0929. Your Stipendiary Steward must also be contacted.