Welcome to pets.ca Theresa
. How wonderful it is for you and your husband to care for little Max. He's one lucky pup!
Has you daughter or SIL taken Max for a check-up at the vet's yet? If not, I think this should be first on your list. The vet will make sure he's up-to-date on his vaccinations and will be able to tell you what his cough is all about. You might also want to inquire about a preventative flea treatment that will be safer and work much more thoroughly than just a flea collar.
Please keep us updated on Max. When you are able, we'd love to see pics of him too
. Thanks again for taking such care of the little guy.