As a dog owner, it can be tough to see your furry friend struggling with kennel cough. It’s important to know that kennel cough is a common respiratory infection that can affect dogs of all ages and breeds. While it may seem scary, there are several ways you can help soothe your pup’s symptoms and get them feeling better in no time.

In this article, we’ll explore some effective methods for treating kennel cough in dogs. From natural remedies to medication, we’ll cover everything you need to know to help your furry friend on the road to recovery. So, let’s dive in and learn how to soothe your dog’s kennel cough!

How to Soothe a Dog’s Kennel Cough?

If your dog has a persistent cough, it could be a sign of kennel cough. Kennel cough is a highly contagious respiratory illness that can affect dogs of all ages and breeds. While it typically isn’t life-threatening, it can be uncomfortable for your dog and can lead to other health problems if left untreated. Here are some tips to help soothe your dog’s kennel cough and get them back to their healthy self.

1. Keep Your Dog Hydrated

The first step in treating kennel cough is to keep your dog hydrated. Encourage them to drink plenty of water and consider adding some low-sodium chicken broth or bone broth to their water bowl. This can help soothe their throat and keep them hydrated, which is important when dealing with any illness.

Another way to keep your dog hydrated is to offer them ice cubes. This can be especially helpful if your dog is experiencing a sore throat or has trouble swallowing. Just make sure to supervise your dog while they are chewing on the ice cubes to prevent choking.

2. Use a Humidifier

Another way to soothe your dog’s cough is to use a humidifier. Moist air can help relieve irritation in the throat and respiratory tract, making it easier for your dog to breathe and reducing their coughing. You can use a cool mist humidifier in the room where your dog spends most of their time, or you can place a towel over their head while they breathe in steam from a warm bowl of water.

3. Try Natural Remedies

There are several natural remedies that can help soothe your dog’s kennel cough. One of the most popular is honey, which has natural antibacterial properties and can help soothe the throat. You can give your dog a teaspoon of honey a few times a day or mix it with warm water to make a soothing tea.

Another natural remedy is coconut oil, which can help soothe the throat and boost the immune system. You can add a teaspoon of coconut oil to your dog’s food or give it to them directly.

4. Give Your Dog Some Rest

Rest is important for any illness, including kennel cough. Make sure your dog gets plenty of rest and limit their exercise until their cough has subsided. This can help reduce inflammation in the respiratory tract and allow your dog’s immune system to fight off the infection.

5. Provide Nutritious Meals

A healthy diet is important for any dog, but it’s especially important when they are dealing with an illness. Make sure your dog is getting plenty of nutrients, including protein, vitamins, and minerals, to help boost their immune system and promote healing.

Consider feeding your dog cooked chicken or bone broth, which can be easier for them to digest and can help soothe their throat. You can also add some plain yogurt or pumpkin to their food, which can help promote healthy digestion and provide additional nutrients.

6. Use a Leash When Walking Your Dog

If your dog has kennel cough, it’s important to limit their exposure to other dogs. Use a leash when walking your dog and avoid dog parks or other areas where dogs congregate. This can help prevent the spread of the illness to other dogs in your community.

7. Visit Your Vet

If your dog’s cough persists or worsens, it’s important to visit your vet. They can perform an exam and prescribe antibiotics or other medications to help your dog recover. They can also provide additional tips for soothing your dog’s kennel cough and preventing the spread of the illness to other dogs.

8. Use a Cough Suppressant

In some cases, your vet may recommend using a cough suppressant to help alleviate your dog’s symptoms. This can include over-the-counter medications like Robitussin or prescription medications like hydrocodone or codeine. However, it’s important to only use these medications under the guidance of your vet, as they can have side effects and may not be appropriate for all dogs.

9. Consider Vaccinating Your Dog

One of the best ways to prevent kennel cough is to vaccinate your dog. There are several vaccines available, including the Bordetella vaccine, which can help protect your dog from this highly contagious illness. Talk to your vet about whether vaccination is right for your dog and which vaccine they recommend.

10. Monitor Your Dog’s Symptoms

Finally, it’s important to monitor your dog’s symptoms and seek veterinary care if their cough persists or worsens. While kennel cough is typically not life-threatening, it can lead to other health problems if left untreated, so it’s important to take action as soon as possible.

In conclusion, kennel cough can be uncomfortable for your dog, but there are several steps you can take to soothe their symptoms and promote healing. By keeping your dog hydrated, using a humidifier, trying natural remedies, providing rest and nutritious meals, using a leash when walking your dog, visiting your vet, using a cough suppressant, considering vaccination, and monitoring your dog’s symptoms, you can help your dog recover and prevent the spread of this highly contagious illness.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is kennel cough in dogs?

Kennel cough is a highly contagious respiratory disease that affects dogs. It is caused by a combination of viruses and bacteria, and is usually spread through contact with other infected dogs, or through contaminated objects such as toys, water bowls, or bedding.

The symptoms of kennel cough include a persistent cough, sneezing, runny nose, and fever. In severe cases, it can lead to pneumonia.

How can I soothe my dog’s kennel cough?

There are several things you can do to help soothe your dog’s kennel cough. First, make sure your dog is getting plenty of rest and staying hydrated. You can also try using a humidifier or steam treatment to help ease their coughing and congestion.

In addition, you can give your dog honey, which has natural antibacterial properties and can help soothe their throat. Finally, you may want to consult with your veterinarian about giving your dog cough suppressants or antibiotics to help manage their symptoms.

Is kennel cough contagious to humans?

While kennel cough is primarily a disease that affects dogs, it is possible for humans to contract the disease in rare cases. However, the risk of transmission from dogs to humans is very low, and most cases of kennel cough in humans are mild and self-limiting.

If you are concerned about the possibility of contracting kennel cough from your dog, it is important to practice good hygiene and wash your hands frequently, especially after handling your dog or cleaning up after them.

How can I prevent my dog from getting kennel cough?

The best way to prevent your dog from getting kennel cough is to make sure they are up to date on all of their vaccinations, including the bordetella vaccine, which specifically targets the bacteria that causes kennel cough.

In addition, you should avoid exposing your dog to other dogs who may be sick or who have not been vaccinated, and you should practice good hygiene by washing your hands frequently and disinfecting any objects that may be contaminated with the disease.

When should I take my dog to the vet for kennel cough?

If your dog is showing symptoms of kennel cough, such as a persistent cough or difficulty breathing, you should take them to the vet right away. Your vet can perform a physical exam and recommend a course of treatment, which may include antibiotics or other medications to manage your dog’s symptoms.

In severe cases, hospitalization may be necessary to monitor your dog’s condition and provide supportive care such as oxygen therapy or IV fluids. It is always better to err on the side of caution and seek veterinary care as soon as possible if you suspect your dog may have kennel cough.

How To Spot and Treat Kennel Cough In Dogs | Vets4Pets

In conclusion, kennel cough can be a distressing condition for your furry friend, but it doesn’t have to be a nightmare. By following these simple steps, you can help your dog recover from kennel cough and return to their happy, healthy self.

Firstly, it’s important to provide your dog with a comfortable and stress-free environment. This means ensuring they have plenty of rest and relaxation, as well as keeping their living space clean and hygienic.

Secondly, there are a number of natural remedies you can try to help soothe your dog’s cough and reduce their symptoms. These include using honey, steam therapy, and essential oils.

Finally, if your dog’s symptoms persist or worsen, it’s important to seek veterinary advice. Your vet may prescribe medication to help alleviate your dog’s cough and prevent any further complications.

Remember, taking care of your dog’s health is an important responsibility as a pet owner. By following these simple steps, you can help your furry friend recover from kennel cough and get back to enjoying life to the fullest.