Asthma is more common in canines than one might think. Here are the signs to look out for.
Respiratory illnesses in canines can have many different causes. Before trying to treat your pet dog for one condition, please contact your veterinarian to get a professional diagnosis before embarking on a solution. Just one of many diseases that can result in respiratory issues in dogs is asthma. Here is more information about asthma in dogs regarding procedure, signs, and treatment.
What Is Asthma?
Asthma is a familiar disease among people and some canines alike. It is a respiratory disease that produces inflammation of and excess mucus in the lungs. An individual can have chronic or conditional asthma with mild to severe symptoms. The most common cause is an allergy, but irritants like chemical fumes, mold, pollen, weather conditions, and stress can also trigger it.
Diagnosing Asthma in Dogs
You should bring your pet to your vet for a diagnosis. Your vet can give your pet different tests using specialized equipment to determine the potential cause of the disease. These tests, along with a professional eye, are necessary to treat the real cause of the symptoms.
Symptoms of Asthma in Dogs
Smaller dogs and young to middle-aged dogs are more likely to have asthma. Even so, your pet could be suffering from asthma if it displays the following symptoms:
- Sudden shortness of breath
- Wheezing
- Excessive panting
- Decreased energy
- Loss of appetite
- Pale or blue gums
- Persistent cough
Treatment for Asthma in Dogs
Medications for asthma in dogs include steroids and inhalers. Anti-inflammatory steroid medications help decrease this symptom to aid breathing; albuterol sulfate inhalers help relax the lungs for better breathing as well. Consult your vet for all your options and which could be best for your pet.
Be careful before you give your pet any medicine for humans; after all, these medications are specifically for people. It is best to do your research and ask your vet if you have any doubts.
Prevention of Asthma in Dogs
If you know that your dog’s asthma is caused by an irritant, such as fumes, pollen, mold, pesticides, etc., keep it away from your pet as much as possible. Do not smoke around your pet and try to use as many natural chemicals for cleaning, fragrance, and pesticides as possible.
Consult with Your Veterinarian
Once again, your vet will be able to give your pinpointed professional advice about your pet’s situation. Everhart Veterinary Medicine is here to help you in Baltimore, MD.
Trust the Care of Your Pet to the Professionals at Everhart Veterinary Medicine!
At Everhart Veterinary Medicine, our veterinary professionals strive to provide your pet with the very best of veterinary care. We believe that the best care for your pet should be provided by experienced, compassionate, and knowledgeable veterinary professionals. With two Maryland locations in both Baltimore and Pasadena, we are always ready to welcome your pet as a new patient! Give us a call today at 410-355-3131 or 410-793-7670! For more information, as well as updates on veterinary news and topics, visit us on Facebook, Twitter, or LinkedIn!