Canine Asthma & Bronchitis

Canine asthma is rare.

While canine asthma is rare, it can occur. According to Petwave.com, "Dogs, like people, can suffer from asthma, although in dogs the disorder usually is not referred to as 'asthma' but instead is called 'allergic bronchitis.'" Bronchitis and allergic bronchitis (asthma) are due to an inflammation of the airways. Allergic bronchitis, however, generally occurs as a result of an allergic reaction to an airborne irritant, though dogs with immunity problems are also susceptible.

Symptoms

Symptoms for both conditions include difficulty breathing, coughing, hacking, wheezing and fatigue. The dog may move around in an odd manner while gasping for breath. If an attack is severe, the dog may lose consciousness, though that is rare. It is important to have the dog examined for proper diagnosis so treatment can be started.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis for proper treatment

Several tests will be administered to diagnose the dog's condition. Medical history, including any known allergies, should be provided, and a complete examination will rule out any underlying health problems. Chest X-rays, blood work and possibly an ECG and other tests will be ordered by the vet. A bronchoscopy may be administered to obtain a better view of the airways.

Treatment

There are many medications to help dogs cope with "asthma" and bronchitis. Glucocorticoids and bronchodilators are common to help reduce the incident of attacks. Metered-dose inhalers are available to help administer the medications. In addition to medicines prescribed by the vet, it is important to eliminate trigger factors from the home. Determining what is causing the episodes may be difficult, but, if possible, may be the best treatment for the dog.

Triggers

Scented household products may cause a reaction.

Dust, smoke, room fresheners, paint, pesticides, carpet cleaners and other scented household products may cause allergic reactions in the dog. The vet might suggest keeping a diary of any changes in the environment in the home, which may have triggered the asthma. Outdoor irritants, including fertilizers, should also be considered as trigger factors.

Prevention

Replacing the collar with a harness will relieve stress to the airways.

There is no way to guarantee prevention, but obese dogs have a higher incident of asthma and bronchitis. Keeping the dog at a healthy weight is critical. Installing a high-quality air filter in the home is helpful. Replace the dog collar with a dog harness. Removing the collar relieves stress on the airways. Be alert to the symptoms of asthma and bronchitis and seek proper treatment.

Prognosis

Most dogs will enjoy an excellent quality of life.

Prognosis for allergic bronchitis (asthma) and bronchitis is good to excellent. According to Petwave.com, "Long-term treatment will be necessary in most other cases to control clinical signs and permit affected dogs to lead relatively normal, high-quality lives. If the condition becomes chronic, it will be progressive but rarely life-threatening and, with medical management and attentive owners, those dogs, too, should enjoy an excellent quality of life with a normal life expectancy."

References

• Dog Health Guide: Dog Asthma Attack
• Dog Asthma: Guide
• Vet Info: Chronic Bronchitis in Dogs
• Pet Wave: Symptoms of Asthma (Allergic Bronchitis) in Dogs