Chocolate contains two stimulants called theobromine and caffeine, both members of a chemical group known as methylxanthines. While humans metabolize these substances quickly, dogs process them much more slowly. This allows the toxins to build up in their system and affect the heart, nervous system, and gastrointestinal tract.

Kennel cough is a highly contagious respiratory infection caused by a combination of bacteria (such as Bordetella bronchiseptica) and viruses (including canine parainfluenza and adenovirus). Dogs can be exposed anywhere dogs gather, such as boarding facilities, grooming salons, dog parks, training classes, or veterinary clinics.