Kennel cough can spread via contact with contaminated surfaces such as toys, food bowls and puddle water in dog parks. Additionally, airborne bacteria, cigarette smoke or extreme cold temperatures can contribute to its spread.
Kennel cough affects dogs of all sizes and should be given sufficient rest and fluids to minimize its duration and severity. Natural supplements may also help mitigate its severity.
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Adequate Rest
Dogs recovering from kennel cough require adequate rest. This includes restricting exercise and walks. When they go outside to potty, allow them to play but refrain from long walks and rigorous play sessions. Harnesses or leashes that place pressure on their trachea may increase coughing episodes further.
Kennel cough usually clears up on its own within 10-20 days; if symptoms persist beyond this period, however, you should seek medical advice as soon as possible. Fever, loss of appetite and lethargy could all indicate more serious infections that require prompt medical intervention; prompt antibiotic use isn’t always required but your veterinarian can offer instructions and a plan that can accelerate recovery faster.
Cough Suppressants
Many dogs recover from kennel cough within one week; however, it’s essential that if symptoms persist. If your pup appears lethargic or depressed without eating regularly or has fever and is showing symptoms such as fever and/or being feverish it could be an indicator of more serious disease, including bacterial pneumonia.
Your veterinarian may prescribe cough suppressants for your pet in order to ease symptoms and shorten its duration, such as dextromethorphan (the active ingredient found in Robitussin). Over-the-counter cough medicine could potentially poison them; instead opt for herbal supplements, such as Echinacea and Goldenseal which could boost their immune systems against causative bacteria while Vitamin C or DMG will also aid in shortening kennel cough duration.
Honey
Kennel cough, also known as canine infectious tracheobronchitis, usually affects only puppies, senior dogs and those with existing health conditions and usually clears up within one to two weeks without needing medical intervention. If the cough becomes more severe in these cases, your vet might suggest giving her an antitussive cough suppressant medication to make her more comfortable – though be wary as this could inhibit mucous discharge and infectious agents leaving the system more quickly – therefore taking this route should only be undertaken with the approval of their veterinarian.
Honey has long been used to soothe irritated throats and reduce coughing. You can choose regular or Manuka honey derived from New Zealand-Australian Manuka trees for maximum antibacterial effects. Mix honey in warm water with your pet food up to three times a day for optimal results.
Steam Therapy
Most dogs suffering from kennel cough will recover without antibiotics if given enough rest and precautions, such as making sure there is enough water available for drinking.
Humidifiers or bowls of hot water with steam are effective remedies for many dogs suffering from kennel cough. Steam can loosen mucus in the throat and bronchial tubes, helping dogs breathe easier. You could also try giving your pup vitamin C supplements or foods high in this nutrient to combat infection caused by this illness.
Other holistic at-home remedies for your pet could include adding honey or peppermint oil to their food or using peppermint oil to ease congestion. Some essential oils could potentially be harmful or toxic for dogs; always consult your veterinarian before administering.
Water
Dogs suffering from kennel cough often display mild fever and fatigue. Staying hydrated is essential; we suggest giving chicken broth to soothe their throat while providing essential vitamins and minerals. Honey is another natural dietary supplement with antibacterial and antiviral properties; its soothing qualities help minimize coughing; however it should only be consumed raw as heat processing destroys essential enzymes essential to good health.
Mucus coats the respiratory tract, protecting against infectious particles from entering larynx and trachea. However, exposure to tobacco smoke, stress, cold temperatures, living in overcrowded and poorly ventilated shelter environments and living with insufficient ventilation all weaken this defense mechanism, leaving dogs more prone to infections and potentially leading to Kennel Cough.
