Do Colds Affect Dog Health Care?

Posted on March 3rd, 2010 in Dogs by admin

If the dog shows signs of coughing and sneezing, along with a runny nose and eyes, this will probably be an uncomplicated cold and you ought to try to not fret too much. On the other hand, if the coughing and sneezing becomes persistent then your pet might be experiencing Parainfluenza. If you think this, it is vital for dog health care for you to keep the dog isolated from other dogs since the disease is highly contagious. Take him into the vet’s.

One affliction known as Canine Kennel Cough is characterised by a raspy cough with phlegm. This can be much more serious, so if the dog’s symptoms remain for longer than a few days without any improvement, see the vet. An additional dangerous variation on respiratory infections in canines is distemper. This is where cold symptoms are coupled with gastro-intestinal problems. Dogs ought to be vaccinated against distemper, as it has a high death rate. Take your pet to the vet should you suspect he has Distemper.

In general, less extreme colds like a normal common cold in people will run its course in just a couple days. If the dog has experienced cold symptoms for longer than ten days without sign of improvement then you definitely should take him to the vet’s so that he can get dog health care. This is because untreated colds and viruses which the dog’s own disease fighting capability has been unable to protect against can develop into pneumonia that is much more serious. This is characterised by coughing and difficulty breathing.

With regards to looking for treatment for the dog, usually only young dogs and more mature dogs must have veterinary aid for straightforward common colds. Adult dogs which are in general in good health may be looked after at home in very much the same ways to how we’d care for ourselves if we had a cold. Don’t be tempted giving your pet over-the-counter cold treatments as there’s a danger of overdose. Ensure your dog is kept cozy and dry and reduce their time outside the house since the cold can make breathing harder when their bronchial tubes are already a little bit stuffed up. As with people, dogs must stay properly hydrated, so feed them a bit of lukewarm chicken soup. You can also try dog health care in your own home to make your pet more comfortable by letting him inhale warm steamy air inside your bathroom after a hot bath for five minutes. It will help to alleviate his congestion.

Remember, if you are looking after your adult dog in your house and his symptoms worsen, he ceases eating or his coughing prevents him from sleeping then it’s about time to take him to the vet.

Tags: , , , , ,

Share and Enjoy: These icons link to social bookmarking sites where readers can share and discover new web pages.
  • Digg
  • del.icio.us
  • Netvouz
  • DZone
  • ThisNext
  • MisterWong
  • Wists

Post a comment