As cold and flu season descends upon us, it’s essential to remember that our furry friends, too, can catch a cold during this time of year. Being cooped up indoors without an escape from circulating germs makes winter a prime season for both humans and pets to come down with a cold.
Dog cold symptoms
While the virus affecting dogs isn’t the same as the human strain, the symptoms are strikingly similar:
Although you can’t simply give your canine companion a dose of cough medicine, there are several ways to treat dog cold and help alleviate your puppy’s cold symptoms.
How To Treat a Dog Cold
1. Embrace the Humidifier
Just as warm, steamy air can relieve congestion in humans, it can also help your dog. Placing a humidifier in your dog’s sleeping area can provide the necessary moisture to help ease a stuffy nose.
If you don’t have a humidifier on hand, consider running a hot bath or shower and allowing your dog to spend some time in the steamy bathroom.
2. Maintain a Clean Environment
Ensure your dog’s living environment is pristine. Regularly clean food and water dishes, toys, blankets, and any other items that might harbor germs and bacteria. Don’t forget to replace the food and water daily, even if there’s still some remaining from the previous day.
3. Prioritize Rest
This isn’t the time for vigorous activities like a weekend hike. Instead, prioritize ample rest for your furry friend. If your dog appears restless, opt for a gentle stroll around the block, avoiding strenuous physical exertion.
4. Isolate from Other Dogs
Although your dog’s cold isn’t contagious to humans, it can spread to other dogs. To prevent a household full of sick pups, keep your furry friend away from other dogs or pets in your home. Extend this caution to other people’s dogs as well, just as you would avoid contact with a sick coworker.
5. Encourage Hydration
Keeping your pup well-hydrated is vital for a speedy recovery. Proper hydration also helps keep nasal secretions thin, making it easier for your dog to breathe.
If your dog isn’t drinking, consider tempting them with a bowl of low-sodium chicken soup featuring brown rice and vegetables.
6. Maintain a Nutrient-Rich Diet
Feeding your dog a balanced, nutritious diet is essential for their recovery. Plain chicken and brown rice are excellent choices. If your pup refuses to eat due to dulled senses of smell, try microwaving the food to intensify the aroma, which may entice your dog to eat more.
When to Seek Veterinary Care
Most dog and puppy colds will resolve with proper care and affection. However, if symptoms persist or worsen, it’s time to consult your veterinarian. What may initially appear as a common cold could potentially be kennel cough or another serious respiratory illness.
This is especially crucial for very young puppies or elderly dogs, as their immune systems are weaker, increasing the likelihood of a cold developing into a more severe condition.
Always take your pet’s cold or illness seriously. While these at-home remedies can be beneficial, don’t hesitate to visit the vet if symptoms worsen, fail to improve, or if your pet experiences significant discomfort. Your veterinarian can conduct a thorough assessment of your pet’s symptoms and, if necessary, prescribe antibiotics to expedite the recovery process.
