Can I give my dog anything to soothe for kennel cough? - The Institute for Environmental Research and Education

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Soothing Kennel Cough: What Can You Give Your Dog?

While there are some safe and effective options to soothe a dog’s kennel cough, including honey and humidifiers, it’s crucial to understand that these are primarily for symptom relief and not a cure; consult your veterinarian for proper diagnosis and treatment. Can I give my dog anything to soothe for kennel cough? is a question best answered with cautious optimism.

Understanding Kennel Cough

Kennel cough, also known as infectious tracheobronchitis, is a highly contagious respiratory infection affecting dogs. It’s often caused by a combination of viruses and bacteria, with Bordetella bronchiseptica being a common culprit. The hallmark symptom is a harsh, dry, hacking cough, often described as a “goose honk.” This cough can be persistent and distressing for both the dog and its owner.

Safe and Effective Soothing Methods

While a vet visit is always recommended for diagnosis and potential antibiotic treatment, several methods can help alleviate your dog’s discomfort and soothe the kennel cough symptoms at home.

Honey: Raw, unpasteurized honey is a natural cough suppressant and has antimicrobial properties. The recommended dosage is ½ teaspoon for small dogs and 1-2 teaspoons for larger dogs, 2-3 times a day. Always ensure your dog is not diabetic before using honey.
Humidifier: A humidifier adds moisture to the air, which can help soothe an irritated throat and loosen mucus. Use a cool-mist humidifier near your dog’s sleeping area.
Steam: Similar to a humidifier, steam can help loosen congestion. You can bring your dog into a steamy bathroom for 10-15 minutes several times a day. Ensure the bathroom is not too hot and that your dog can leave if it becomes uncomfortable.
Cough Suppressants (with vet approval): In some cases, your veterinarian might prescribe a cough suppressant to help control the cough. Never give your dog human cough medicine without explicit veterinary approval, as many human medications are toxic to dogs.
Rest: Avoid strenuous exercise or excitement, as this can exacerbate the cough. Allow your dog plenty of rest.

What to Avoid

Certain approaches can be harmful or ineffective in treating kennel cough. It’s crucial to be aware of these.

Human Medications: As mentioned above, never administer human cough medications to your dog without veterinary guidance. Many contain ingredients that are toxic to canines.
Excessive Exercise: Avoid strenuous activity during the infection.
Crowded Dog Areas: Minimize contact with other dogs to prevent the spread of infection.
Ignoring the Cough: While home remedies can provide soothing relief, they are not a substitute for veterinary care. Untreated kennel cough can sometimes lead to pneumonia or other complications.

Preventative Measures

Prevention is often the best medicine. Several steps can be taken to minimize your dog’s risk of contracting kennel cough.

Vaccination: The Bordetella vaccine is highly recommended, especially for dogs that frequent boarding facilities, dog parks, or grooming salons.
Hygiene: Practice good hygiene by regularly cleaning your dog’s bowls, toys, and bedding.
Avoid Crowded Areas: Minimize exposure to crowded dog areas, especially during kennel cough outbreaks.

Treatment Options from Your Veterinarian

Your veterinarian can offer a range of treatment options tailored to your dog’s specific needs. These may include:

Antibiotics: If a bacterial infection is present, antibiotics may be prescribed to combat the bacteria.
Cough Suppressants: Veterinarian-approved cough suppressants can help reduce the severity and frequency of coughing.
Bronchodilators: In some cases, bronchodilators may be used to help open up the airways.
Supportive Care: This may include fluids, nutritional support, and monitoring for complications.

The Role of Nutrition

A healthy diet is crucial for supporting your dog’s immune system and aiding in recovery.

High-Quality Food: Feed your dog a high-quality, easily digestible food.
Hydration: Ensure your dog has access to fresh, clean water at all times.
Supplements (with vet approval): In some cases, your veterinarian may recommend supplements such as vitamin C or echinacea to boost your dog’s immune system.

Creating a Comfortable Environment

A comfortable and stress-free environment can significantly contribute to your dog’s recovery.

Quiet Rest Area: Provide a quiet, comfortable place for your dog to rest.
Warmth: Keep your dog warm and dry, especially during colder weather.
Reduce Stress: Minimize stress by avoiding loud noises or sudden changes in routine.

Method	Description	Dosage/Application	Precautions
——————-	———————————————————	——————————————————–	——————————————————————————————————————-
Honey	Natural cough suppressant and antimicrobial agent.	½ tsp (small dogs), 1-2 tsp (large dogs), 2-3x daily	Avoid in diabetic dogs. Use raw, unpasteurized honey.
Humidifier	Adds moisture to the air to soothe the throat.	Use cool-mist humidifier near dog’s sleeping area.	Clean the humidifier regularly to prevent mold growth.
Steam Therapy	Loosens congestion and helps clear airways.	10-15 minutes in a steamy bathroom, several times daily	Ensure the bathroom is not too hot and the dog can leave if uncomfortable. Never leave the dog unattended.
Vet-Approved Cough Suppressants	Medications prescribed by your veterinarian.	As directed by your veterinarian.	Follow veterinarian’s instructions carefully. Never use human medications without approval.
Rest	Allows the body to heal.	Provide a quiet, comfortable resting area.	Avoid strenuous activity.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What exactly is kennel cough, and how is it spread?

Kennel cough is a contagious respiratory infection in dogs, typically caused by Bordetella bronchiseptica, adenovirus, parainfluenza virus or other pathogens. It’s spread through airborne droplets, direct contact with infected dogs, or contaminated surfaces, especially in places where dogs congregate, such as kennels, dog parks, and grooming salons.

Can I give my dog human cough medicine for kennel cough?

No, you should never give your dog human cough medicine without the explicit approval of your veterinarian. Many human cough medications contain ingredients that are toxic to dogs, such as acetaminophen or pseudoephedrine. These substances can be fatal to your pet.

Is kennel cough dangerous for my dog?

While usually not life-threatening in healthy adult dogs, kennel cough can be more serious in puppies, elderly dogs, or dogs with compromised immune systems. In some cases, it can lead to pneumonia or other complications, which require more intensive treatment.

How long does kennel cough typically last?

The duration of kennel cough can vary, but it usually lasts between 1 to 3 weeks. However, some dogs may experience symptoms for longer periods, especially if they are not treated or if they develop complications.

Can my dog still spread kennel cough after the symptoms have subsided?

Yes, even after the symptoms have disappeared, your dog can still be contagious for several days to weeks. It’s important to keep your dog away from other dogs for a period of time after recovery to prevent the spread of infection.

Does kennel cough always require antibiotics?

Not always. If kennel cough is caused by a virus, antibiotics will not be effective. However, if a secondary bacterial infection develops, your veterinarian may prescribe antibiotics to combat the bacteria.

Are there natural remedies besides honey for kennel cough?

While honey is a popular and effective natural remedy, other options include vitamin C supplements (with vet approval) and herbal remedies like slippery elm (again with vet approval). Always consult with your veterinarian before administering any natural remedies to your dog.

Can I prevent kennel cough with a vaccine?

Yes, the Bordetella vaccine is a highly recommended preventative measure against kennel cough. While it may not prevent all cases, it can significantly reduce the severity of the illness.

What are the signs that kennel cough is getting worse?

Signs that kennel cough is worsening include difficulty breathing, lethargy, loss of appetite, fever, and coughing up blood. If you notice any of these symptoms, seek veterinary care immediately.

How often should I clean my dog’s bowls if they have kennel cough?

You should clean your dog’s food and water bowls daily to minimize the risk of spreading the infection. Wash them thoroughly with hot, soapy water and rinse well.

Is it safe to take my dog for walks if they have kennel cough?

It’s best to avoid taking your dog for walks in public areas if they have kennel cough to prevent the spread of infection to other dogs. If you must take them outside, keep them on a leash and away from other dogs.

Will kennel cough go away on its own?

In mild cases, kennel cough may resolve on its own with rest and supportive care. However, it’s always best to consult with your veterinarian to ensure proper diagnosis and treatment, especially if the symptoms are severe or persistent. Remember, while you might explore, “Can I give my dog anything to soothe for kennel cough?“, only a vet can confirm appropriate treatment.