The kennel cough is a condition caused by viruses and bacteria and the dog will display symptoms that are cold like: cough, runny nose and watery eyes. There is no specific treatment for kennel cough as the cough will typically subside in up to 3 weeks, but there are a few remedies that can eliminate the symptoms and facilitate the healing of the dog. The best treatment for the kennel cough is the one that will give the best results in your pet. Typically, dogs respond well to cough suppressant treatments and a home treatment that involves keeping the pet warm and administering steam baths.
Cough Suppressants
Most commonly, dogs with kennel cough receive cough suppressants. Cough suppressants or antitussives for pets are available without prescription, but should be only administered if the dog has a dry cough. If the cough is wet and the dog expectorates, the cough suppressants may hinder the healing.
Antibiotics
Often, the kennel cough is caused by a bacterial infection. In other cases, the kennel cough may be accompanied by a secondary bacterial infection. This will require antibiotics. Visit the vet to get some suitable antibiotics; remember that human antibiotics may be harmful for the dog. It is also important to get the right dosage, as an overdose of antibiotics may be toxic.
Home Treatment
The home treatment for a dog with kennel cough can be similar to the treatment for a common cold. Provide the dog with extra blankets and make sure that the room he sleeps in is warm.
Remove the dog’s collar, as this may intensify the irritation of the neck and may cause coughing. Switch to wet food, as the dry food may irritate the throat. You may give your dog honey, which can soothe the throat.
Steam baths may also relieve the kennel cough symptoms and reduce coughing. Increase the dog’s water intake; hydration can facilitate the healing.
Homeopathic Treatment
Homeopathic treatment is also available for kennel cough in dogs. The treatment will aim at strengthening the immune system of the dog. A dog with a strong immune system can fight off infections faster, while a dog with a compromised immune system may develop complications. Echinacea is a notorious immunity booster.
Some natural ingredients that will relieve the cough include the plantago, which can be an expectorant and will also reduce throat irritation. Bryonia can also relieve throat irritation and facilitate the production of mucus.
Before applying these remedies, it is important to make sure that your dog has the kennel cough and rule out any other possible infections. If your dog has a different medical condition and you fail to get veterinary help, this may aggravate the problem. If you are sure that your dog has kennel cough, you can apply some home treatments. If your dog shows no sign of improvement after 1 week, you should look for veterinary help. The kennel cough should go away in 10 to 20 days.