Kennel cough
is an upper respiratory infection.
A kennel cough vaccine is commonly recommended for puppies, but it is not 100 percent effective. Even with the vaccine, there is a chance your dog can come down with an upper respiratory problem also known as Bordetella. The most prevalent symptom is a dry, hacking cough that may have a honking sound to it. If your dog presents with a mild case of this infection, there are simple and effective home remedies to treat him; more serious cases with symptoms including lethargy, fever and loss of appetite should always be treated by a vet.
Homeopathic Help
Medication or supplements that boost the immune system and reduce mucus can be used for mild cases of kennel cough. Plantago lanceolata is a herbal remedy that helps your dog get rid of mucous and also prevents more mucous production. Echinacea, which is a popular human immune system booster, can also be given to dogs. Bryonia C6 helps to moisturize irritated membranes and get rid of excess mucous.
Cough Suppressant
Because it is important for your dog to clear its air passages of mucus, cough suppressants are not necessarily the best thing for kennel cough. However, if the case is mild but your dog's coughing is keeping him up at night, sparing use probably will not hurt. Pediatric Robitussin, which contains both a decongestant and a cough suppressant, can be used up to four times a day on dogs 2 years old or older. Other brands of cough suppressants may be used instead, but make sure they contain no ibuprofen or acetaminophen, as these are harmful to dogs and can cause liver damage. Also, make sure you use less than half a teaspoon to avoid an overdose.
Vaporizer
Using a vaporizer with a medication like Vicks can also soothe a dog's irritated air passages and lessen her cough. Twice a day you can put your dog in the bathroom and run the vaporizer for 20 minutes.
Antibiotics
The most common antibiotics prescribed by a vet for kennel cough are doxycycline or trimethoprim-sulfa.
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