How to Ease Symptoms of Kennel Cough
Kennel cough, or more commonly bordetella, is a common, highly contagious ailment in dogs with symptoms that include a dry cough that is particularly heavy after exercise, choking or retching after coughing, nasal or eye discharge and loss of appetite. Basically, kennel cough is the doggy equivalent of the common human cold, and there are many things an owner can do to make her dog more comfortable while the disease takes its course.
Instructions
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Keep the home warm and dry. Just like when you have a cold, your dog will be more comfortable with kennel cough if your home is warm, and the air inside is less than 50 percent humidity.
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Give honey to soothe the throat. Some experts suggest that honey spread lavishly on a slice of bread and fed to the dog will soothe his throat from all the coughing.
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Keep him home from the dog park. Because kennel cough is so contagious, your fellow dog owners will appreciate it if you keep your sick pet away from the dog park for a while. Check with your vet to determine when your dog is likely not to be able to spread the disease any more.
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Offer fresh water and offer lots of it. Keeping your dog hydrated will help fight off the infection.
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Let him rest. If possible, let your dog snooze as much as he wants in a warm, quiet place (like his crate, in a quiet room in the house). Of course, if he wants to cuddle up next to you, let him. Bordetella is not contagious across species.
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Tips & Warnings
If your dog is having trouble sleeping because he cannot stop coughing, try an over-the-counter human cough suppressant. Check with your vet for dosage amount and preferred brand or ingredients.
If the cough persists or worsens and is accompanied by wheezing after physical exertion, take your dog to the vet. Your dog may need a dose of antibiotics to ensure the kennel cough doesn't escalate into pneumonia.
