7 Ways to Treat Kennel Cough in Dogs

Kennel cough is a condition that is highly contagious and can be transmitted through air. The disease is manifested through a dry cough and will typically go away without treatment. However, the kennel cough can cause discomfort and throat irritation, so you may opt for a few home remedies. If you would like to treat the kennel cough in your pet, you can use a few simple tricks.

1. Air Humidifier

The kennel cough affects the air passages of the dog and these will be highly irritated. Keeping the dog in a room with moisture can relieve the irritation and help the dog breathe normally.

You should also make sure that the room temperature is slightly more elevated than usual, which will help speed up the recovery.

2. Honey

Administering 1 tbsp of honey 1 to 3 times per day may clear the throat and relieve the irritation. Dogs typically enjoy the taste of honey; if your dog refuses to eat the honey, you may mix it with water or with a dog treat.

Alternatively, you may use maple syrup, which will have the same effects as honey.

3. Steam

Steam may help clear the air passages and relieve the cough. Fill your bathroom with steam and keep your dog in the bathroom for 5 to 10 minutes, to make sure he inhales the steam.

4. Over the Counter Cough Suppressants

The kennel cough does not necessarily require medication; however if your dog’s cough is disturbing, you may opt for a few cough suppressants.

Talk to your vet to recommend you some anti tussives that are suitable for your dog.

If your dog’s cough is productive, you shouldn’t administer cough suppressants.

5. Don’t Expose Your Dog to Smoke

While your dog has the kennel cough it’s best if you don’t expose him to smoke or other chemicals that may irritate the dog’s air ways.

If you smoke, make sure you smoke outside. Clean your home to remove dust or other possible irritants; you should also use some air purifiers.

If you use household chemicals while cleaning, keep the dog in a different room, so that these chemicals won’t affect him.

6. Vitamin Supplements

The recovery time for kennel cough depends greatly on the dog’s immunity and its capacity to fight the disease. If your dog has a strong immune system, he is more likely to have a faster recovery. Boost your pet’s immunity with a few vitamins such as A, B, D and E. You may also add some omega 3 fatty acids, which will help your dog recover faster.

You may also opt for alternative medicine remedies to strengthen the dog’s immunity; consult a homeopath for more details.

7. Morning/Evening Walks

Keep your dog indoors during the day and take him outside early in the morning or in the early evening, when the air is cleaner and the dog will not have difficulties breathing.

Make sure you keep your dog away from other canines, to avoid spreading the disease.

 

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