Canine infectious tracheobronchitis, commonly known as kennel cough, is a persistent challenge in animal shelters, where high stress levels and weakened immune systems among incoming dogs make outbreaks more likely. Typically, affected dogs require isolation and conventional treatment, often resulting in prolonged recovery times and delayed rehoming. However, a UK animal shelter implemented an innovative approach using selected essential oils, which led to remarkable success in eradicating the disease and significantly accelerating the rehoming process.

The study 

A comprehensive evaluation was conducted to assess the impact of bergamot, thyme, garlic, and eucalyptus essential oils with kennel cough. The study included dogs brought over rom Ireland, totalling 40 dogs, alongside a control group of 50 dogs.

• Control group: Followed standard procedures for managing kennel cough.

• Study group: Exposed to the essential oils via separate water bowls placed outside their   wire enclosures, allowing dogs to self-select by moving to or away from the aromas.

The dogs were closely monitored, and medical records were reviewed to track symptoms and recovery.

The results were significant 

•  In the study group, one dog developed mild kennel cough symptoms, while the other 39   dogs remained symptom free.

•  In the control group, 46 out of 50 dogs developed kennel cough, with only four    remaining symptom-free.

When the affected dogs from the control group were exposed to the same essential oils, their symptoms resolved within a rapid timeframe of 24 to 36 hours, enabling them to be rehomed much faster.

Cost efficiency: The cost disparity between conventional treatments and essential oils was notable

• Conventional treatment: £60 per dog.

• Essential oils: £20 in total for 40 dogs.

Over the past decade, this shelter has successfully eradicated kennel cough using this method, demonstrating the economic and welfare advantages of using essential oils to mitigate this contagious respiratory disease, caused by a combination of viruses and bacteria.

A second rescue centre conducted a similar study using bergamot, thyme, and eucalyptus oils. However, complete success was only achieved when garlic essential oil was included, reinforcing its critical role in combating kennel cough.