How to Treat Kennel Cough From Home

Most cases of kennel cough do not require a trip to the vet. They are, however, aggravating for your dog and a bit annoying for you. To ease the pain for your pet, and to ensure that you'll get a little sleep tonight, take the following tips to heart.

Things You'll Need

• one bottle natural honey
• one bottle children's cough suppressant
• one syringe
• one teaspoon
• one soft towel
• two fresh blankets

Instructions

1. Pour all natural honey into a teaspoon and allow your dog to try it. If he's reluctant, you can simply turn the spoon upside down and apply it gently to his tongue. He does not have to eat it all. This will help to coat his sore throat.

2. Give the honey one hour or more to coat the dog's throat, then give him one teaspoon of children's cough syrup. Do not over medicate. For more accurate dosage information on your dog's specific weight, consult your vet.

3. Turn your shower on to "hot" and close the bathroom door. Allow the room to fill with steam for several minutes, and then take your dog into the bathroom and sit with him for 20 minutes to break up any phlegm. During this time, pound the dog's back up and down very gently to help aid the process.

4. Dry the condensation off of your dog completely with a warm, fluffy towel. At this point, the medication will have kicked in, so place him on layers of soft blankets or a dog bed in a dark, quiet room.

Tips & Warnings

• For best results, begin this process one hour before you plan to go to bed. This will give the medication time to kick in for your dog.

• Do not omit the shower steaming step! It's the most effective.

• Talk to your vet before giving your dog any kind of medication. He will need to discuss allergy information and proper dosages with you for your dog's specific needs.

• During the shower steaming step, do not leave your dog alone! Watch for signs of over-heating, and let him out if he is uncomfortable (panting, shortness of breath, etc).