How to ease chest congestion for a dog
Chest congestion in your dog can be a sign of a serious condition, so address it right away. Once you know the cause, you can treat your dog's chest congestion and help him feel much better.
Instructions
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Addressing Your Dog's Chest Congestion
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Understand the cause of your dog's chest congestion. Chest congestion or coughing can be a symptom of parasites or serious illnesses, including distemper and heart disease. Make an appointment with your veterinarian to search for the cause of the chest congestion. Once you know the cause, you can treat the symptom.
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Inform your vet of your dog's symptoms and suggest testing for parasites. Heartworm and lungworm can cause chest congestion in your dog, and they are serious. Have your vet prescribe medication to kill all types of worms as a precautionary measure. According to SiriusDog, your pet may need corticosteroids if the chest congestion from these parasites is severe.
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Ask your vet about asthma in your dog. Asthma can develop into a severe attack very suddenly, so you want to be prepared if your dog has asthma. Learn about possible allergens that may be triggering your dog's congestion and clear them from your home. Ask your vet to prescribe steroids, antihistamines, an inhaler or even a nebulizer if your dog's asthma-based congestion is severe.
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Have your vet test for bacterial infections. Chest congestion can be caused by a bacterial infection in the throat or lungs. Your dog could also be congested by pneumonia or bronchitis. Most bacterial infections will not get better unless your dog is prescribed antibiotics. Make sure your dog is up to date on shots to rule out causes like distemper.
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Watch for symptoms of canine influenza. Chest congestion, nasal congestion and fever are some symptoms to watch for if you think your dog has the flu. Ask your vet about cough suppressants, anti-inflammatory medications and antihistamines to reduce your dog's congestion while the virus is running its course. Keep a close eye on your dog's chest congestion and temperature while he is recovering from the virus.
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Tips & Warnings
Consult your vet before you treat your dog with antihistamines and cough suppressants. Chest congestion could be your only warning of a serious illness.
