Does your dog have a persistent, dry, hacking cough?
He seems to be choking on something or gagging? Your dog most likely has Kennel Cough or Canine Infectious Tracheobronchitis, which is a highly contagious respiratory disease. You've probably heard of it, Kennel Cough is extremely common in shelters. Thus, it's very easy for a healthy dog to catch this disease.
Just as it is for humans, when an infected dog coughs, viruses, and bacterias disperse into the air. This makes it easy for healthy dogs to become infected by inhaling these organisms. However, dogs don't need to have direct contact in order to get sick, in fact, it is very common for individuals to go to a shelter and get their dog (who was left at home) sick. Always change your clothes and wash your hands after visiting a shelter or a place with multiple dogs.
Symptoms of Kennel Cough
Kennel cough is something like a "tough flu" in humans, if you don't take good care of yourself and rest, it can become a life-threatening disease called pneumonia. How do you know if your dog has Kennel cough or pneumonia? If he is constantly coughing, yet he is still eating, drinking and his energy has not decreased, then you can still treat him at home.
Your dog's kennel cough may have escalated to pneumonia if he has trouble breathing, eating, or drinking and his energy has decreased as he gets tired easily.
Other symptoms may include:
- Nasal discharge
- Rapid breathing,
- Runny nose
- Loud breathing
- Weight loss
- Lethargy
- Dehydration
- Low fever
If this is the case, don't wait any longer: You must take your dog to the veterinary as soon as possible as this is a life-threatening disease. Besides, Canine distemper and parainfluenza starts the same way Kennel cough does, so it's important to take your pup to the vet for a full evaluation of his health status.
Home Remedies for Kennel Cough
Treating Kennel Cough in dogs naturally
- Multifunctional Dog Chews are a natural booster that helps your dog through this disease. Make sure all your dog's nutritional needs are covered to ensure his best care. Our Soft Chews Supplements bolster their immune system, promote a healthy body function and encourage your pup's natural immunological defenses.
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Coconut Oil contains antiviral, antibacterial, and antifungal properties of the medium chain fatty acids/triglycerides (MCTs).
- Give 2 teaspoons per day until he stops coughing. You can also give your dog a teaspoon whenever he starts coughing non-stop, this will help his dry throat.
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Cinnamon is an antiviral and antibacterial spice that can be used as a natural antibiotic when treating bacterial infections.
- Sprinkle half a teaspoon of cinnamon over your dog's food bowl, it's completely safe to use every day but it's especially helpful when your dog has kennel cough.
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Lemon mixed with honey remedy - Honey is an antibacterial and lemon contains Vitamin C, which will strengthen your dog's immune system. These natural remedies can clear your dog's throat and minimize coughing. They also contain antioxidants and flavonoids that will help your pup get better.
- Mix two tablespoons of honey, one teaspoon of lemon juice and half a cup of water. Give this remedy to your dog twice a day. You can also give your dog one teaspoon of honey, ideally raw. However, take into account that honey is high in sugar, so don't overoptimize.
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Cough Syrup is available in any drug-chain, make sure you don't buy a suppressant formula. Our favorite one is Umcka Cold Care (cherry flavor).
- Measure one teaspoon and give three times per day.
A couple of other things you should keep in mind:
Right now your dog needs to rest so it may not be the best time for him to exercise. Avoid using a collar or harness, especially if your dog pulls when you walk him, this can hurt the affected area and will certainly stimulate the cough. Keep your dog away from moist and humid floors, instead, keep him warm and free from the breeze.
If your dog's cough continues, take him to your local veterinarian, it's probably best if your vet prescribed some antibiotics or cough suppressants.
Honey and Lemon for Kennel Cough
