Kennel cough, also known as canine infectious tracheobronchitis, is a highly contagious respiratory disease that affects dogs of all ages and breeds. This illness is often spread in places where dogs are in close proximity to one another, such as kennels, dog parks, and grooming salons. If your dog is showing symptoms of kennel cough, it’s important to seek veterinary care and take steps to manage their symptoms at home. Here are some tips and advice on how to care for a dog with kennel cough.
- Keep Your Dog Isolated
Kennel cough is highly contagious and can easily spread to other dogs. To prevent the spread of the disease, keep your dog isolated from other dogs until they are no longer showing symptoms. This means keeping them away from dog parks, kennels, and other places where dogs congregate.
- Provide Plenty of Rest
Dogs with kennel cough may experience fatigue and a lack of energy. It’s important to provide your dog with plenty of rest and a quiet place to sleep. Avoid activities that may cause your dog to become overly excited, such as running or playing.
- Encourage Hydration
Dogs with kennel cough may experience a dry and persistent cough that can be painful. Encourage your dog to drink plenty of water to stay hydrated and soothe their throat. You can also try adding a small amount of honey to their water to help soothe their throat.
- Use a Humidifier
Using a humidifier can help ease your dog’s cough and reduce inflammation in their respiratory tract. Set up a humidifier in the room where your dog spends the most time, such as their sleeping area or a room where they like to relax.
- Consider Medication
In some cases, your veterinarian may prescribe medication to help manage your dog’s symptoms. This may include cough suppressants, antibiotics, or anti-inflammatory drugs. Be sure to follow your veterinarian’s instructions for administering medication to ensure that your dog gets the proper dosage.
- Follow Up with Your Veterinarian
It’s important to follow up with your veterinarian to ensure that your dog is recovering properly and to rule out any other underlying health issues. Your veterinarian may recommend additional testing or treatment if your dog’s symptoms persist or worsen.
In conclusion, caring for a dog with kennel cough can be a challenging experience, but with proper management and care, your dog can recover fully. Keep your dog isolated, provide plenty of rest and hydration, use a humidifier, consider medication, and follow up with your veterinarian to ensure that your dog is on the path to recovery. By following these tips and advice, you can help your dog overcome this illness and return to their happy and healthy self.
