Kennel Cough is a type of upper respiratory infection in dogs. It is extremely contagious to other dogs and very common in kennels (especially in a shelter because resident animals may not have a good vaccine history).
[ad#left-336]The condition takes 3-4 days to show signs after exposure and can last for about 2 weeks. Like a common cold it is usually self limiting but in some cases secondary bacterial infections can cause prolonged symptoms. In older (>8 years) and very young (<4 months) animals the disease may progress to pneumonia which is much more serious.
If your dog is coughing, sneezing, hacking and/or coughing up white foamy material up he or she may have kennel cough. If he/she is exhibiting these signs but is still bright, alert, active and has a good appetite you should take him to your veterinarian for antibiotics but it is not an emergency situation. If your pet has a greenish or yellowish nasal discharge, is lethargic (decreased energy), has decreased appetite or is having problems breathing you should get to your veterinarian as soon as possible.
Kennel cough can be treated in several ways. Since this condition is not considered as a major health concern in dogs, it can be treated right at home using natural remedies and over-the-counter medications.
Just as when children have a cold, some pet parents prefer to let a simple case of kennel cough run its course while they provide comfort and relief for their dog at home.
Just like the common cold in humans some pet owners decide to let the kennel cough run its natural course, making sure at the same time that their dog is comfortable and safe.
Start by taking these four basic steps
- Keep your dog warm, quiet and free from drafts
- Remove the dog’s collar to prevent excessive coughing stimulation
- Encourage your dog to drink plenty of fresh water
- Provide wet food just in case your dog’s throat is sore and irritated
You can provide additional relief for your pet by giving him a vaporizing treatment three times a day. Run a hot shower in your bathroom and let the steam build up with the door closed. Take your dog into the bathroom and let him breathe in the steam for 20 minutes. The vapor will help open his bronchial tubes, which in turn makes his coughs more productive. This will enable your dog to rid himself of more of the phlegm clogging his airways.
A quick search of the Internet reveals a number of homeopathic products that can be used as a home treatment for kennel cough. These products are designed to support your dog’s immune system and enable it to fight off the infection on its own. Although each product has its own unique formula, there are a few botanical ingredients that appear time and again on various labels.
These include:
- Plantago lanceolata: Plantago is a well known herbal remedy in the homeopathic community. It’s an all around cough treatment that acts as an expectorant to help your dog cough up the mucous, as well as an anti-catarrhal to prevent mucous production. This in turn eases inflammation of the bronchial tubes and provides your dog a measure of relief.
- Echinacea purpurea: Echinacea is regarded as an immune system booster that fortifies the body’s fight against cold and flu. Furthermore, it provides additional support to the immune system after an infection until your dog is 100% recovered.
- Bryonia C6: Bryonia works double duty to moisturize irritated mucous membranes as well as clear mucous out of the system.
Keep in mind; you are more attuned to your dog’s health than anyone else. If your dog appears to have any type of illness it is up to you to judge whether a trip to the vet is in order. Some illnesses can be safely ridden out at home, while others require professional medical intervention. The call is yours.
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