Dog Respiratory DiseasesDogs, like people, can catch a cold. The first thing you will notice is a cough. Now, there are different types of coughs, which can be distinguished if you listen attentively. Canine Bronchitis: Short cough spells, which sound like a rattle and don't really impress the animal much are not a matter of worry. They actually help clear the throat from any bothersome phlegm, which, in general, the dogs do not spit out, but rather swallow. All this indicates that it is a light bronchitis. If your dog is still in a good mood, has a good appetite, and his body temperature does not go above 39 degrees Celsius, you can start a treatment without the need of a veterinarian. You have to keep the patient warm. Dogs usually like honey, which helps dissolve the phlegm. You can also try giving your dog inhalations: pour hot water into a bowl, put your dog's head above it, and then cover his head with a cloth in order to avoid the steam from escaping.
Important: When using medication, only use preparations which contain ingredients to dissolve the phlegm (e.g. expectorants). Avoid antibiotics or sulphamics, like cough syrups, as they will only hide the animal's condition. If you notice that the syndrome worsens, you must go immediately to the veterinarian, as there is always the risk of distemper. |
