Can Dogs?

Dog Questions Answered

Can Dogs Get Colds?

file000403840597[1]Don’t think that asking something like “Can dogs get colds?” is a silly question. A new pet owner should most certainly ask every question concerning the care of their new canine friend that occurs to them. The short answer to the question of “Can dogs get colds?” is that they most certainly can. However, it’s in your best interests (not to mention your dog’s!) to know about things like symptoms and treatment options.

When Your Dog Has A Cold

Much like people, a cold or flu bug that’s troubling your dog can be caused by viral infections, bacterial infections, or fungal infections. Typically, it’s a viral infection that’s causing all the trouble. What you don’t want to do is simply let the virus work its way through your dog’s system. Canines are particularly susceptible to a secondary bacterial infection that can be extremely severe. This is a very real consequence of leaving a dog’s cold or flu untreated, so when symptoms begin to prevent themselves, it’s important that you make an appointment for your dog with the vet right away.

 

In order to make sure your dog is as healthy and happy as possible as often as possible, look for these possible dog flu symptoms:

 

  • Coughing that sounds very soft and moist.
  • A thickened, mucus-y discharge.
  • Quick, heavily-labored breaths.

 

You also want to be aware of dog flu causes:

 

  • Crowded, humid surroundings can cause what is commonly known as canine influenza. If the area is also poorly ventilated, the potential for dog flu can increase even further.
  • Anything that can stress-out your dog’s immune system can lower their defenses to the point where catching a flu bug suddenly becomes more probable.
  • Failing to meet your dog’s nutritional and sanitation needs can also lead to a compromised immune system.
  • No vaccine or serum is currently available for canines.
  • The flu bug is capable of spreading from one dog to another quite easily.

 

A very young or extremely aged dog should be taken to a vet. If your dog’s symptoms seem fairly minor, you can probably treat their illness with healthy meals and lots of hydration. However, if the condition worsens, or if your dog is unable to handle changes to their respiratory systems, you’re going to want to take them to see a vet as soon as possible. Your vet will likely prescribe some antibiotics, and this should clear up the symptoms in a few days.

 

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