Are Dog Colds Contagious to Humans?

Dog colds are not contagious to humans. The canine colds are caused by viruses and bacteria and these won’t affect humans. If your dog gets a cold, you should try to make him comfortable and try to relieve the symptoms, so that the cold will go away as soon as possible.

Canine Colds and Humans

Even if there are a few zoonotic diseases that may be transmitted from canines to humans, colds are not among these.

The bacteria and viruses that cause the infections commonly known as colds are not capable of causing colds in humans. Humans are immunes to these viruses and bacteria, as these are species specific. A transmutation of these viruses and bacteria to cause colds in humans hasn’t been reported yet.

Conversely, human colds will not affect the dog. This is also among the reasons why human cold medicine shouldn’t be administered to dogs.

Managing a Dog with Cold

A cold in dogs will be manifested through symptoms such as sneezing, coughing, runny nose, watery eyes, lack of appetite and a general state of weakness. The viruses and bacteria causing colds may be contracted from other dogs through direct contact or air.

If these symptoms are not severe, the cold may be treated at home; however, if the symptoms are severe and persist for over 10 days, you should visit a vet. A cold may last between 1 to 3 weeks in dogs.

A common cold in cats does not have a proper treatment, as it will heal in time, but supportive therapy may be offered to manage the symptoms.

If the dog is coughing, you can get some over the counter canine antitussive medication. This may be administered only if the cough is dry.

Steam may act as a decongestant and is recommended when the dog has a cold. You may fill the bathroom with steam and keep the dog in the steam for 5 to 10 minutes once per day.

You may also ensure that the dog stays in a warm room; get a cool mist humidifier in the room, which will moisten the nasal passages and make the dog’s breathing easier.

Multi vitamin supplements may also be recommended to improve the dog’s appetite and to strengthen his immune system. A vitamin complex containing the vitamins A, B, C and E can be purchased.

Fluids are necessary to prevent dehydration. Keep fresh water in the water bowls and if you notice that your dog avoids drinking, you should administer water directly in the dog’s mouth using the syringe. You can do the same with food, as the dog may also lack appetite.

If the dog shows no sign of improvement after a few days of supportive therapy, you should visit the vet.

Canine colds are highly contagious among dogs, so you should keep your dog isolated during the recovery period.

 

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