No pet parent wants to face the thought of their beloved dogs getting sick. Canine respiratory illness–a growing concern among dogs as more states report cases of a severe respiratory illness without a known cause–can be worrying and challenging to navigate. Our experts are here to walk you through the signs, causes, and treatments of respiratory illnesses in dogs, as well as what you can do to reduce your dog’s risk of developing this disease.
Does my dog have canine respiratory illness?
You might hear your dog cough or sneeze every now and then, but that doesn’t mean they’re sick. However, keep an eye out for anything out of the ordinary, such as:
- Unusual Cough: It’s not just the occasional cough, but one that seems persistent and may be accompanied by shortness of breath.
- Troubled Breathing: You notice your dog panting more than usual or struggling for breath after a short walk.
- A Runny Nose: Your dog seems to be sniffling and even sneezing more than normal.
- Loss of Energy: Your usually energetic dog is napping and doesn’t want to get up for walks.
- Loss of Appetite: Your dog loses interest in not only their normal dinner, but also special treats and snacks that they usually perk up for.
How can I keep my dog healthy?
Protecting your dog from respiratory illnesses while promoting their overall health can be achieved through some practical steps:
- Limit Exposure to Crowds: Avoid taking your dog to places where many dogs gather, like busy parks or kennels.
- Cleanliness is Crucial: Regularly wash your dog’s bowls, toys, and sleeping area.
- Keep Up with Vaccinations: Ensure your dog is up-to-date with all necessary vaccinations.
- Diet and Exercise: Feed your dog a balanced diet and provide plenty of exercise.
- Regular Veterinarian Visits: Take your dog for routine health check-ups.
- Ensure Emotional Well-being: Spend quality time with your dog. Their mental health can go a long way toward keeping them physically healthy too.
Contact Your Veterinarian Today
For more information about canine respiratory illness, contact your veterinarian today.