Although asthma in dogs is not as common as in cats, we can find this type of respiratory disease in them, especially when we talk about small dog breeds.
In this article on our site we will explain how to recognize the symptoms of asthma in dogs, essential to identify this disorder and start treating it as soon as possible, since in the most severe cases significant respiratory difficulties can occur. We will also give an account of your treatment, which, of course, must be prescribed by the veterinarian after confirming the diagnosis.
Respiratory problems in dogs
asthma in dogs is included in a group of disorders that will affect the lower respiratory tract. Due to the presence of an irritant, the bronchial tubes contract to prevent it from passing into the lungs and also produce mucus to trap it.
This mechanism of bronchoconstriction makes breathing difficult and causes anything from a mild condition with symptoms such as cough or breathing difficulties to an acute crisis in the it will seem to us that the dog has breathing attacks, that is, choking that will compromise his life.
Causes of asthma in dogs
It is not always possible to determine the cause of your asthma. It indicates a reaction of hypersensitivity to allergens such as dust, pollen, environmental pollution, aerosols, smoke, mites, etc.
The presence of lung parasites, such as heartworms, heart disease or some infections can develop symptoms similar to asthma. If this is the case, it is necessary to identify the ailment because, if it is not treated, the dog will not recover.
Asthma symptoms in dogs
Dogs with asthma can be kept for a long time only showing mild symptoms, but they can also suffer acute attacks in which your breathing is compromised and, consequently, your life is at risk. Among the symptoms to which we must pay attention are the following:
- Cough
- Breathing with your mouth open and sometimes with your tongue sticking out in an attempt to get more oxygen
- Orthopneic posture (front legs apart) also in an attempt to make breathing more productive
- Obvious breathing difficulties
- If there is a lack of oxygen, the coloration of the mucous membranes can be cyanotic, that is, a bluish hue
- Sneezing
In the most serious cases collapse will occur and, if urgent veterinary assistance is not received, the dog could die.
Treatment of asthma in dogs
If we notice any of the aforementioned symptoms in our dog, we must notify the veterinarian because, as we have said, if the asthma is not treated it will worsen and the consequences could be fatal.
The aim of the treatment is based on dilating the bronchial tubesto restore airflow and therefore improve breathing. Corticosteroids and bronchodilators are used for this. In severe cases of respiratory crises, it is also important to supply oxygen. In addition, handling must be careful because if it produces stress, breathing will become even more difficult, worsening the condition.
It is possible to give the medication orally but administering it through inhalers has the advantage of reducing side effects and acting more speed. These devices are used by spraying into a chamber where the dose of medication is contained so that the dog, breathing into it, inhales it. Of course, all medication, as well as its dosage and frequency of use, must be prescribed by the veterinarian
If there is an asthmatic member in the family, it is easy for the question to arise as to whether it is possible to give a dog a wind blow. The answer is negative because, we insist, although we habitually use some medications, they give us good results or they seem innocuous to us, the truth is that giving drugs for human use to dogs can have fatal consequences. Therefore, we can only use those prescribed by the veterinarian.
Home remedies for asthma in dogs
If our dog has been diagnosed with asthma we must provide an environment that minimizes the risk of having an attack. To do this, we will implement measures such as the following:
- Keep the house ventilated
- Vacuum frequently
- Do not raise dust in the presence of the dog or use aerosols, including colognes for dogs
- Avoid exposure to smoke
- Remove Rugs
- Use air purifiers
As for the natural bronchodilators for dogs we can offer you chamomile for its anti-stress effect, which will help you breathe better. A teaspoon of natural oatmeal will also have a calming effect. We can resort to these remedies as accompanying the medication prescribed by the veterinarian, never as substitutes.
