Expert: Breeder - 6/23/2007

Question
My wife and I just bought a 10-week old female Bichon-Poo. We noticed that she was acting like she was trying to cough up a hairball. She does this several times a day so we decided to take her to the vet. The vet stated that she may have Kennel cough and gave us 10 days worth of liquid antibiotics to give her. She has been on them for almost 10 days now and is still showing no signs of improvement. Should we go find another vet? Is this problem common in Bichon dogs or poodles?   Thanks!!!!

Answer
Fist off a Bichon-Poo is a mixed breed.  Reputable breeders do not breed mixed dogs.  So your puppy souce was either a pet store / puppy mill or a backyard breeder. There are so many varities of Kennel cough so many strains that it is near impossible to vaccine for it.  A 10 week old puppy has a week immune system and can die from Kennel Cough.  It is a very serious medical issue for a puppy.  A old dog will shed the virus in a week or so.  A puppy that age should be on antibiotics in a vet office.