Dogs might get sick with pneumonia or other respiratory diseases, similar to people. Having said that, if you aren’t familiar with the specific symptoms to watch out for, it may not be immediately noticeable that your dog has a problem. Before we get into that, though, what is pneumonia? Pneumonia is defined by inflammation of the air sacs and the surrounding tissue of the lungs. High fever, coughing, as well as shortness of breath are common indicators of this ailment.
So what happens when a dog gets pneumonia? Let’s look at what causes pneumonia in dogs and how to treat it.
What Causes Pneumonia in Dogs?
Dogs get pneumonia from inflammation in their lower respiratory system or lungs. This inflammatory reaction can be caused by microorganisms, fungi, parasites, or viruses, among other things. Most of the time, bacterial or viral pneumonia is caused by another disease, like bronchitis, kennel cough, or parainfluenza.
Bronchitis
When a dog has bronchitis, it normally starts with a dry, hacking cough that can last for up to two months. Canine bronchitis can be caused by several factors, such as an infection in the respiratory system or breathing in chemicals or other irritants, including cleaning items. Other allergens, like powdered feed products, room deodorizers, and house dust, can also result in bronchitis, which can turn into pneumonia if it isn’t addressed.
The most effective method to help your dog avoid bronchitis is to keep your home free of dust and chemical fumes that get into the air. If you feel that your dog has a bronchial problem, you must take it to the nearest Douglasville animal hospital for an examination and treatment before it becomes lethal.
Kennel Cough
Kennel cough is a common condition that dogs can get from being close to other pet dogs, like in a boarding kennel. Keeping your dog away from these environments is the best method to avoid this problem. In addition, the bacterium Bordetella, frequently known as “kennel cough,” can be avoided by providing your dog with a preventative vaccination.
Two dosages are given two to four weeks apart, followed by a booster dose six months to a year later. In the event that your dog is experiencing kennel cough and is having trouble breathing, you can visit this site to learn more about where to take your pet and what to do about it.
Parainfluenza
Canine influenza or greyhound illness are all other names for parainfluenza. It’s highly transmittable between dogs and, if untreated, can be deadly. Dog owners often mistake it for kennel cough, which can worsen the dog’s pneumonia if not treated correctly. So, if you want to protect your dog from parainfluenza, you must get them vaccinated, but only after speaking with your vet.
The Importance of Pneumonia Prevention
Preventing pneumonia in your dog has many positive side effects, the first and foremost being a much healthier dog. It is vital to ensure your puppy vaccinations are up-to-date, it is eating a balanced diet, and getting plenty of exercise before spending time in a kennel or around other dogs.
Additionally, when your dog is healthy, you’ll find that preventative care at the veterinarian’s clinic is far more cost-effective than treating pneumonia, which can be pretty expensive, especially if your dog needs to spend time in the healthcare facility.
Conclusion
Pneumonia in dogs is a dangerous disease that needs immediate veterinary care. You can help protect your dog from this respiratory infection by being aware of the signs and taking preventative action. A speedy diagnosis and treatment plan are essential for your dog’s full recovery if your pet contracts pneumonia.