Like their people, dogs can develop pneumonia. even though treatment is available and the majority of dogs recover well, canine pneumonia can be serious. Here are more details from our Bartlett veterinarians on the symptoms and signs of canine pneumonia and how to treat it.
The respiratory system, including the lungs and airways, are affected by the illness known as pneumonia, which makes it difficult for your dog to breathe normally. When given the proper care, dogs with pneumonia typically make a full recovery; however, if the condition is not treated, symptoms may worsen and more serious conditions may arise.
How To Help Your Dog Recover From Pneumonia
Your veterinarian will give you detailed instructions on how to take care of your dog as they recover from pneumonia. Those instructions may include:
Note: The tips offered in this article are for informational purposes only and are not intended to be veterinary advice. Please schedule a consultation with your veterinarian for a precise diagnosis of your pet’s condition.
Home Treatments for Pneumonia in Dogs
Your vet can make recommendations for the best at-home care for your sick dog. They may suggest:
While your dog needs to rest, it may also benefit from brief exercise sessions that can help your dog cough up debris and loosen mucus secretions. Follow your dog’s lead, though, and don’t make them exercise if they don’t feel like it.
You are unlikely to contract pneumonia from your dog, just like with canine influenza. However, dogs can easily contract bacterial and viral pneumonia from one another, especially if they are very young, old, or have weakened immune systems. If you own more than one dog, you must keep your sick dog separate from the others.
To help prevent the spread of the disease, you should also thoroughly clean all bedding, bowls, and equipment, including leashes, collars, and harnesses. In order to further prevent the spread of the illness, remember to wash your hands after handling your sick dog and think about donning a protective garment over your clothing.
What are symptoms of infectious pneumonia in dogs?
One or more of the following signs could manifest in your dog if they have infectious pneumonia:
Keep your sick dog away from other household pets and wash bedding, collars, leashes, and bowls frequently if your dog has been identified as having infectious pneumonia.
Immediately wash your hands after petting or handling a dog with infectious pneumonia.
FAQ
How do dogs act when they have pneumonia?
Common Signs of Bacterial Pneumonia in Dogs Coughing. High fever. Runny nose. Difficulty exercising.
What does pneumonia sound like in dogs?
A deep, soft cough that may or may not be productive, meaning your pet may or may not cough up mucus, is a telltale sign of pneumonia. The sound of a pet’s lungs when they have pneumonia can be soft or loud depending on the extent of the pneumonia, as the affected lung tissue is not receiving enough air to function.
Can a dog recover from pneumonia?
Although pneumonia is a serious condition that can become life-threatening, it is treatable with expert medical care, and the majority of dogs will recover completely, though there is a risk the condition will recur. If the veterinarian is unable to identify the underlying cause, the risk of recurrent pneumonia increases.
What helps a dog with pneumonia?
The typical treatment for canine pneumonia entails: Limiting your dog’s activities while they recover Keeping your dog away from other animals and young children will allow them to get plenty of rest. regular access to fresh water to help them stay hydrated