Cold season is here – bringing with it sniffles, watery eyes, sneezing and coughing galore! Most often a dog cold will resolve on its own if caused by viruses rather than bacteria such as Kennel Cough.
However, if your pup’s symptoms continue to worsen it’s essential that veterinary attention be sought immediately.
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Keep Your Dog Warm & Dry
Colds in dogs may be minor illnesses that will likely heal on their own; however, you should provide extra care at home so your furry friend gets well quickly and comfortably.
Keep the weather in mind as a factor that could influence how your dog feels, too. A drop in barometric pressure could cause stiff or sore joints as well as other symptoms like shivering and lethargy – it all can have an impact.
Mild symptoms of a cold should typically resolve themselves within several days on their own, without medical intervention. If their symptoms last longer or include difficulty breathing, retching, inappetence or persistent coughing they should be brought immediately to a vet – as these could be signs of Kennel Cough or another serious respiratory condition.
Give Him Plenty of Fluids
Warm liquids such as low sodium chicken broth can loosen mucus, activate immunity responses, and help your dog breathe easier. A study published in October’s CHEST (Chest Journal of The American College of Chest Physicians) also showed how hot liquids helped relieve nasal congestion and decrease inflammation in pets.
Mild colds may be managed at home, but if your pup becomes lethargic, stops eating or drinking, has difficulty breathing, develops fever or exhibits other signs of infection, immediately take him to a veterinarian.
Old dogs, chronically ill or injured dogs, puppies and immunocompromised dogs are particularly prone to being infected by viruses and bacteria. Their immune systems have often become compromised so they must rebuild their defenses from scratch, thus necessitating extra attention from their owners while they recover. Hospitalization may even be required in cases of parasitic infections which are causing cold-like symptoms in these populations of pets.
Give Him Some Medication
Many of the same symptoms associated with colds in humans can also be found in dogs due to their weaker immune systems being susceptible to germs and infections.
Watery eyes, runny nose or wheezing can be caused by allergies, irritants and diseases like Glaucoma or clogged tear ducts – so it is wise to visit your veterinarian if the issue persists.
An examination with your veterinarian will help identify what’s ailing your dog and prescribe the most suitable treatment, while providing diagnostic tests to rule out other serious health issues. Most importantly, keep him warm and dry with plenty of fluids, offering some natural remedies such as rockrose herb powder, propolis for dogs or colostrum to ease his discomfort – these products help strengthen immunity to prevent colds (1).
Give Him Some Aromatherapy
Similar symptoms associated with human colds may also occur in dogs suffering respiratory infections; however, their respiratory systems can be much more complicated and may take more time to respond quickly when exposed to viruses.
Minor canine colds usually resolve themselves without medical intervention; providing warmth, fluids and a cozy place for your pup to sleep should help them feel better. However, if any symptoms worsen over time or any severe signs arise it’s essential that they visit their veterinarian immediately.
Make use of a cool-mist humidifier to ease nasal congestion and soothe your dog’s throat, or give him some low-sodium homemade soup (made without using food intended for humans, as this could contain unsuitable ingredients for dogs), or give them soothing sage or peppermint tea to ease their cough. Some people also find homeopathic decongestants, like Kali Bichromicum or Elderflower, helpful. However, always check with your vet first before giving your pet anything new such as herbs or supplements!
