Know the Symptoms of Pneumonia in Dogs and How to Treat the Condition

 

Just like you, your dog can suffer from pneumonia too. Pneumonia impacts the respiratory system and interferes the ability to breathe regularly. Sometimes, pneumonia in dogs clears up within a few days with basic vet care. A general medication and home treatment are enough to bring the dogs to bring to normal. But, if the pneumonia is severe or is left untreated for long, it can be life-threatening. A time will come when your dog will be unable to breathe and lose his life.

 

Types of pneumonia in dogs 

  • Infectious pneumonia
  • Aspiration pneumonia

 

Also known as bacterial pneumonia, infectious pneumonia is caused by a bacterial or viral infection that impacts the dog’s airways. One of the common bacteria that lead to infectious pneumonia in dogs is bordetella. This bacterium can easily be transmitted between dogs (no matter what the age is) with a compromised immune system.

 

Neither bacteria nor virus, the aspiration pneumonia in dogs is caused by an abnormality of the pharynx, a neuromuscular disorder that impacts respiratory function or inhalation of medication or vomit. Sometimes, acid reflux and an enlarged lower esophagus can lead to aspiration pneumonia. According to vet care specialists, incorrectly feeding can also cause aspiration pneumonia. 

Symptoms of pneumonia of dogs 

The symptoms of both infectious and aspiration pneumonia in dogs are common. You will know the difference only after visiting a vet care center and getting your dog tested. The following symptoms will only indicate to you about the problem.

 

  • Difficulty breathing
  • Lethargy
  • Nasal whistling
  • Wheezing
  • Coughing
  • High fever
  • Runny nose
  • Difficulty exercising
  • Loss of appetite
  • Weight loss
  • Irregular breathing
  • Dehydration

 Treatment for pneumonia in dogs 

After testing your dog, the vet care expert will prescribe different medications. The medication will depend on the severity of the aspiration and infectious pneumonia. Also, the vet will consider other health problems before prescribing treatment and medications.  

Commonly, a vet prescribes bronchodilators and expectorants for coughing and breathing. If the dog has fever and pain, he prescribes non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications. 

If the vet finds that the condition is severe, he will advise hospitalization and give supplemental oxygen along with fluid therapy or IV antibiotics.  

Additional tips to help your dog recover from pneumonia

  • Follow the specific instruction given by your vet
  • Keep your pets and small children away from your dog to ensure he gets a proper rest 
  • Restrict your dog’s activities during his recovery period 
  • Use steam treatment by running a hot shower 
  • Supply lots of freshwater to keep your dog hydrated 

Hydration is important for treating pneumonia in dogs 

If your dog is drinking plenty of fluids and staying hydrated, it will help in loosening the mucus in his lungs and bring up phlegm out. And once the phlegm is out, lungs will be clear and your dog will not suffer from breathing issues.  

Pneumonia is severe. So, as soon as you spot the symptoms of pneumonia, you should get your dog treated. 

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