Unveiling Kennel Cough: A Canine's Guide for Dog Owners
Hey there, fellow dog lovers! I’m your four-legged friend, Rosa! In a world where many, including our beloved pets, are grappling with colds and coughs, witnessing their discomfort can be heart-wrenching. 🤧
Today, let’s dive into some valuable insights into a common canine concern—Kennel Cough—and get the lowdown on what you, the awesome dog owner, need to know.
Decoding Kennel Cough
It’s like a doggy cold, but we call it kennel cough (sometimes mistakenly thought to be called “canal cough”).
Causes? Well, there’s this pesky bacterium called Bordetella bronchiseptica (aka Bordetella) and some viruses tagging along. We inhale these troublemakers, and bam! Our respiratory tract’s protective coating takes a hit, leading to coughing, hacking, and general discomfort. Yep, that’s the infamous kennel cough symptoms in a nutshell. In severe instances, complications like pneumonia may develop. Hence, despite its typically non-serious nature, kennel cough warrants prompt treatment
How You Can Help Us Out
#1. Get 2 types of vaccination
Now, preventive measures are crucial. There’s this thing called vaccination; it’s like a superhero shield against kennel cough.
But, let me woof the truth: Although vaccination provides a strong defense, it can’t guarantee complete prevention of kennel cough – We can still catch the bug, but it’s milder with a shorter recovery time.
Oh, and the yearly booster? That won’t do the trick against kennel cough, so make sure to get both the standard annual vaccination and the nasal vaccination for comprehensive protection.
#2. Humidifier Magic
Imagine this: a snug nook, a soft blanket, and the essence of tranquility – that’s the ultimate healing formula.
Silence works wonders for healing, but with the addition of a humidifier, it transforms into a spa day for the cough and the entire ambiance. A humidifier adds moisture to the air, relieving dryness that often accompanies kennel cough. This refreshing mist, akin to a cozy cloud of comfort, turns each breath into a stride towards the VIP lounge of wellness, alleviating respiratory discomfort and setting the stage for a paw-some comeback.
This becomes particularly crucial in regions of Australia prone to dry weather, such as Adelaide and Perth, as well as during spring and autumn in Melbourne.
#3. Nutrition and Hydration Tips
Ensure proper nutrition with easily digestible, high-quality food. Offering smaller, more frequent meals can prevent overeating, particularly during coughing episodes. And water, oh glorious water! Regular water intake is encouraged to prevent dehydration and aid in flushing out bacteria. A canine cheer to a barktastic kennel cough home remedy!
#4. Say no to collars!
Collars can irritate our throats by exerting pressure around the neck, leading to more coughing. Opting for a harness minimizes the risk of harming your furry companion’s neck, making it a suitable choice for dogs with respiratory issues.
#5. Activity Adjustment: Taking It Easy
Even though I’m not my usual energetic self, a gentle stroll every day is still on the menu. It beats the vigorous runs and jumps, keeping things chill. Oh, and naps—lots of those!
#6. Companion and Distraction
When the cough symphony begins, your presence by my side acts like a magic wand against those pesky coughing episodes.
Your gentle touch works wonders – a comforting touch tames the cough storm, and a trusty toy helps distract me.
Coughing is sometimes personal, you know—I do it when my throat feels off, so diverting my attention works like a charm. These rituals make your companionship a true remedy, turning every cough into a shared journey of care and comfort.
#7. Vet visit ⭐
Most of us bounce back in 1 to 3 weeks, but seniors or those with health hiccups might take up to 6 weeks. If there’s no improvement or things get ruff, it’s vet time. They’ll run tests, diagnose, and recommend the right kennel cough treatment – while there’s no magic cure, vets might suggest meds like antibiotics and cough suppressants to speed recovery or alleviate symptoms throughout the infection period.
Is Kennel Cough contagious?
Oh, and a quick bark about being contagious—it’s true, but not to you! Humans are safe. However, remember to isolate us from other fur friends during symptoms and three days post-recovery. Safety first, right?
In conclusion
By embracing these tips, you’re not only providing your furry friend with the best chance for a swift and comfortable recovery but also fostering a deeper bond through shared moments of care.
If you’ve experienced your fur baby going through kennel cough or have valuable tips and experiences to share, drop them in the comments below. 🐾
