Allergy Triggered Bronchitis in Dogs

Allergies can trigger acute bronchitis in dogs.

Allergies in a dog can be more than a seasonal irritation that leave a dog sneezing and rubbing at its watering eyes. Allergies can also cause a dog to develop bronchitis. Not only does bronchitis interfere with a dog's ability to breathe freely; it can also become a chronic condition.

Dog Allergies

A dog can experience allergies, just as people can. When a dog encounters harmless particles called allergens, its immune system can react to them as though they are a threat. When a dog's immune system attempts to get the allergen out of its body, the dog has an allergic reaction. Common allergens include pollen, dust and cigarette smoke, states the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA).

Dog Bronchitis

Bronchitis in a dog affects the airways that branch off from the dog's airways and lead into its lungs. If a dog has bronchitis, these airways become inflamed. This leads to the secretion of fluids within a dog's airways, which restricts the amount of oxygen that the dog is able to bring in. Inhaled allergens can cause allergic reactions that trigger bronchitis, according to Michigan Veterinary Specialists.

Symptoms

If a dog has allergies, it could experience symptoms including watery eyes that itch, increased scratching due to itchy skin, sneezing and snoring if its throat becomes irritated or inflamed. A dog with allergy-trigged bronchitis might snort every time it exhales. The dog will probably have coughing fits; some so severe it could trigger retching. It could also wheeze and have difficulty breathing.

Treatment

Allergy injections are available for dogs with airborne allergies. These shots will help the dog build up a resistance to allergens, which will prevent future allergic reactions. Some dogs benefit from the use of antihistamines. Treatment of the dog's allergies will help it avoid allergy-triggered bronchitis. For a dog with bronchitis, medications like bronchodilators and corticosteroids can open airways and reduce inflammation, helping to ease the dog's breathing.

Considerations

Keeping the dog's environment clean can reduce exposure to allergens. Frequent dusting and vacuuming will remove dust and pollen. Baths can help to remove allergens from the dog's fur. Protect the dog from exposure to cigarette smoke, to avoid both allergies and the risk of chronic bronchitis. In chronic bronchitis, the dog's airways will be permanently inflamed.

References

• Michigan Veterinary Specialist: Chronic Bronchitis in Dogs
• "The Complete Healthy Dog Handbook"; Betsy Brevitz; 2009
• ASPCA: Dog Care: Allergies