Content
- Dog with difficulty breathing
- Causes of Asthma in Dogs
- Asthma symptoms in dogs
- Asthma Treatment in Dogs
- Home Remedies for Asthma in Dogs
although the asthma in dog not as frequent as in cats, we can find this type of respiratory disease in them, especially in the case of small dog breeds.
In this article by PeritoAnimal, we will explain to you how to recognize the symptoms of dog with asthma, something essential to identify this disorder and start treating it as soon as possible, since in the most severe cases, serious respiratory complications can occur. We will also talk about the treatment which, of course, should be prescribed by the veterinarian after confirmation of diagnosis.
Dog with difficulty breathing
THE asthma in dogs it is included in a group of disorders that affect the lower airways. Due to the presence of an irritating agent, the bronchi contract to prevent it from reaching the lungs and, in addition, generate mucus to trap it.
This mechanism of bronchoconstriction makes breathing difficult, and may originate from a mild condition, with symptoms such as coughing or breathing difficulties, to an acute crisis, in which it will seem that the dog has breathing attacks, that is, suffocation that can compromise your life.
Causes of Asthma in Dogs
It is not always possible to determine the cause that triggered asthma in the dog. It is related to a reaction of hypersensitivity to allergens, such as dust, pollen, environmental contamination, aerosols, smoke, mites, etc.
The presence of pulmonary parasites such as heartworm, heart disease or some infections may develop symptoms similar to asthma. If this is the case, it is necessary diagnose the disease for, if left untreated, the dog will not recover.
Asthma symptoms in dogs
Dogs with asthma can remain for a long time with only mild symptoms, but it is also possible that they suffer acute crises where your breathing is compromised and, as a result, your life is put at risk. Among the symptoms of a dog with asthma to watch out for are the following:
- Cough
- dog breathing through his mouth and sometimes with the tongue out in an attempt to get more oxygen
- Orthognathic posture (with the front legs apart), also in an attempt to make breathing more productive
- dog short of breath, evident breathing difficulties
- When there is a lack of oxygen, the color of the mucous membranes can become cyanotic, that is, with a bluish tint
- sneezing
In the most serious cases, may collapse , and if you do not receive urgent veterinary assistance, the dog may die.
Asthma Treatment in Dogs
If you notice any of the above symptoms in your dog, you should inform your veterinarian, as, as we've said, canine asthma gets worse if left untreated and the consequences can be fatal.
The purpose of treatment is based on dilate the bronchi to restore airflow and thus improve breathing. For this, corticosteroids and bronchodilators are used. In severe cases of respiratory crisis, it is important to also administer oxygen. In addition, the handling must be careful, as causing stress can make breathing even more difficult, worsening the condition.
It is possible to administer the medications orally, but the use of inhalers it has the advantage of reducing side effects and acting faster. These devices are used by spraying a chamber containing the dose of medication so that the dog, breathing into it, inhales the medication. Of course, all medication, as well as its dose and frequency of use, must be prescribed by the veterinarian.
If there is someone in the family with asthma, the question "can I give my asthma medicine to the dog?" is common, and the answer is no. Although we use some medications that bring us good results and seem innocuous, the truth is that administering drugs for human use to dogs can have fatal consequences. Therefore, you should only use medication prescribed by your veterinarian.
Home Remedies for Asthma in Dogs
If your pet has been diagnosed with canine asthma, you should provide them with an environment that minimize the risk of suffering an attack. For this, you can implement the following measures:
- Keep the house ventilated
- vacuum often
- Do not raise dust or use aerosols, including dog cologne, in the dog's presence
- Avoid exposure to smoke
- Remove pillows and rugs
- Use air fresheners
As for the natural bronchodilators for dogs, you can offer chamomile for its anti-stress effect, which will help the dog breathe better. A teaspoon of natural oatmeal will also have a calming effect. You can use these natural remedies like medication supplement prescribed by the veterinarian, never as a substitute.
This article is for information purposes only, at PeritoAnimal.com.br we are not able to prescribe veterinary treatments or perform any type of diagnosis. We suggest that you take your pet to the veterinarian in case it has any type of condition or discomfort.
If you want to read more articles similar to Asthma Dog - Symptoms and Treatment, we recommend that you enter our Respiratory Diseases section.