Also dogs, as well as people, have the cough! And as it happens for that in man, also in the dog its causes can be manifold!
La cough it is a physiological reflex that originates following the stimulation of the airways and has the purpose of rapidly expelling air and thus freeing the respiratory system from any irritating substances, materials or pathogens. It is therefore a consequence, a symptom, so suppressing it without having identified the primary cause does not solve the problem!
Among the most frequent causes of cough we have infectious pathologies such as kennel cough, inflammatory, anatomic like the tracheal collapse, parasitic as in the case of the heartworm, heart if present for example a dilated cardiomyopathy, but also blows of air, foreign bodies o repeated traumatism, as happens when too tight collars are used or the animal is forcefully jerked.
Kennel Cough
Call also infectious tracheobronchitis, is a fairly frequent pathology, caused by the combination of multiple factors, including reduced immune defenses, bacteria and viruses. It is very contagious and initially causes tracheitis (inflammation of the trachea) which can be followed by a bronchial problem. It is very common in dogs that live in crowded areas such as kennels or pensions, but can be contracted by any dog!
The dog will appear downcast and debilitated, tired, but above all it will present a more or less severe cough, with mucus and phlegm.
How is it treated?
Being a multifactorial pathology, the prevention it's the best therapy! A healthy animal, which eats properly, who is not subjected to stressful situations and who lives peacefully, will hardly contract this pathology, but, should he become ill, the veterinarian will decide the most appropriate therapy, better if integrated!
The use of a specific antibiotic can be useful, but it will be important to lift the animal with special supplements, stimulate its immune system naturally and why not, reduce the irritation caused by the cough!
Phytotherapy can help our 4-legged friend!
Nature can help us with various plants, the use of which must however be agreed with your homeopath veterinarian or phytotherapist, who will be able to choose the most appropriate remedies for the case with the correct dosages!
Among the most used plants in case of cough we mention mint, juniper, thyme, but also mallow, garlic and eucalyptus.
In case of cough, not knowing the origin, it is recommended to contact your veterinarian to understand the cause and put in place the best therapy!
Dr. Paola Zintu
CTS Union B.I.O
Photo: Diego Torres Silvestre, John Truter
