Holistic treatment for kennel cough in dogs is a great way to alleviate symptoms and support your furry friend's recovery.
The primary cause of kennel cough is the bacterium Bordetella bronchiseptica, which triggers a secondary infection that leads to inflammation in the dog's airways.
To address the underlying issue, holistic treatment often involves addressing the dog's immune system.
Herbal remedies like Echinacea and goldenseal can help boost the immune system and reduce inflammation.
A healthy diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids can also help reduce inflammation and promote healing in the airways.
In addition to herbal remedies and dietary changes, steam inhalation can be an effective way to loosen mucus and reduce congestion.
Diagnosis and Treatment
A diagnosis for kennel cough in dogs is typically made based on the dog's symptoms, history, and response to therapy.
In many cases, identifying the underlying bacteria or virus is not necessary. However, diagnostic testing is recommended for specific situations.
Dogs where pneumonia is suspected require diagnostic testing.
Dogs that do not respond to supportive care also need diagnostic testing.
Dogs with signs of systemic disease should have diagnostic testing done.
If an outbreak is occurring in multiple dogs, diagnostic testing is crucial to understand the situation.
Diagnostic testing is essential in these situations to ensure the best possible treatment plan for your furry friend.
Symptoms and Signs
A consistent, forceful, and hacking cough is the main symptom of kennel cough, and it can sound like your dog has something stuck in their throat.
Dog sneezing is another symptom you should be aware of.
A runny nose and eye discharge in dogs are also common symptoms.
Lethargy, or a lack of energy, can be a sign that your dog is not feeling well.
A slight fever is another possible symptom.
Some dogs may also lose their appetite or have a decreased energy level.
Home Remedies
If your dog seems otherwise perky and is eating well, you can try using dog home remedies to make them more comfortable.
Keeping your dog in a humid area can help alleviate symptoms. You can use a humidifier to achieve this.
Avoiding the use of a collar is a good idea, as it may aggravate your dog's windpipe further.
If you're worried about your dog, it's best to phone the vet beforehand and explain that you think they have kennel cough, so they can minimize the risk to other dogs.
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Prevention and Return to Health
The kennel cough vaccine is a great way to prevent kennel cough, especially for dogs that are exposed to other dogs. It's not 100% effective, but it can help reduce the severity of symptoms.
Dogs with brachycephalic faces, such as English Bulldogs, Pugs, and French Bulldogs, are strongly encouraged to get the vaccine because they're more likely to struggle with recovering from respiratory diseases.
The vaccine is very safe with little side effects, and it comes in oral liquid form, making it a convenient option for pet parents.
Vaccine Availability
Protection against some of the viruses that can cause kennel cough is included in puppy and booster vaccinations, covering canine influenza, canine distemper, canine parainfluenza virus, and canine adenovirus type two.
Your vet can provide a vaccination against the main bacterial cause, Bordetella, which can be administered as a nasal spray or an injection.
Return
Returning to health after a kennel cough diagnosis is crucial. The good news is that with proper care and treatment, most dogs make a full recovery.
While some dogs may experience severe symptoms, others may only get mild symptoms due to vaccination. The kennel cough vaccine is not 100% effective, but it can significantly reduce the severity of the disease.
Dogs with brachycephalic faces, such as English Bulldogs and Pugs, are more likely to struggle with recovering from respiratory diseases. They can benefit from a stronger immune response provided by the kennel cough vaccine.
The vaccine is available in various forms, including an oral liquid that's very safe with little side effects. This makes it a great option for pet parents who want to avoid needles.
Discover more: Remedy for Kennel Cough
Frequently Asked Questions
Does honey help with kennel cough?
Honey may provide some relief for kennel cough symptoms, but its effects are generally minimal. Learn more about kennel cough treatment options.
Sources
- AKC Rx (akcpetrx.com)
- A cough suppressant (chewy.com)
- Kennel Cough in Dogs - Causes, Symptoms & Treatment (purina.co.uk)
- http://www.pethealthnetwork.com/dog-health/dog-diseases-conditions-a-z/… (pethealthnetwork.com)
- https://veterinarypartner.vin.com/default.aspx?pid=19239&id=4951478  (vin.com)
- Bordetella Bronchiseptica (wikipedia.org)
- tracheobronchitis (wikipedia.org)
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