What to Give a Dog with a Cold to Get Better Quickly

Okay, so your furry pal is sniffly and not their usual bouncy self? Let’s cut to the chase: for a dog cold, it’s best to prioritize rest, hydration, and gentle support, NOT reaching for human medications. Think of it like a kiddo with a cold – you wouldn’t just dose them up without knowing what’s safe. We’ll break down the best strategies for your sick pup, but first, let’s dive into why human meds are a no-go and the steps you can take instead.

Why That Runny Nose? Understanding Canine Colds

It’s not always the same cold that bothers you! Dogs get their own special kind of cold, often caused by viruses like canine parainfluenza or canine adenovirus. They exhibit similar symptoms to us: sneezing, runny nose (sometimes with thick mucus), watery eyes, coughing, lethargy, and decreased appetite. Keep a close watch, as some of these can sometimes disguise a more serious respiratory issue like kennel cough or even pneumonia. That’s why monitoring their symptoms and having some key strategies is vital! It’s not just about giving a quick fix, it’s about supporting their body’s natural healing process.

DIY Comfort Kit: Home Remedies to the Rescue

First things first, forget raiding your medicine cabinet! Human cold meds can be dangerous and even fatal for dogs. So, what CAN you do? Plenty! Think of it as building a comfort care package for your pup:

Hydration is Key: Just like us, dogs lose fluids when they’re under the weather. Make sure your dog has access to fresh, clean water. You can also tempt them with some low-sodium chicken or bone broth (make sure it doesn’t have onions or garlic, which are toxic for dogs!). Adding a little bit of lukewarm water to their kibble might also encourage them to eat and stay hydrated. This might just be a life saver for pups who lost their appetite!

Rest, Rest, Rest: Your dog’s body needs time to fight off that virus! Create a calm, quiet space for them to rest. Reduce playtime, walks, and other active time until they are feeling better. This doesn’t mean keeping them locked away, but more like low-key relaxation. Think: gentle pets and short potty breaks. A comfy bed and a warm blanket can be really helpful in creating that perfect space.

Steam Power: Ever used a humidifier when you were stuffed up? Same deal for pups. A steamy bathroom can do wonders! Run a hot shower and keep your dog in the bathroom with you for about 10-15 minutes. The moist air helps to loosen up congestion and make it easier for your dog to breathe. A humidifier in their resting area can help with congestion if the steam from your bathroom doesn’t seem enough.

Nutrient Boosting: When our own immune systems feel like they need help, we often go for something with more nutrition! For pups, you can try including supplements, like fish oil that contains omega 3s which helps with inflammation, vitamin C rich food like berries, and a probiotic to help support gut health. Consult your vet before adding any new supplements to be on the safe side! Just as with people, building up those good bacteria may just give that little immune system a leg up.

Wipe Away That Snot!: Gently wipe away any discharge from their nose or eyes with a soft, damp cloth. This can help prevent irritation and keeps them more comfortable. It’s the little things that count!

When To Call the Vet: Watch Out For These Signs!

While home care can help most minor colds, it is critical to know when to seek professional help. Here’s what warrants a vet visit:

Persistent Cough: If that cough isn’t just a little tickle, but a harsh, hacking cough that isn’t improving, it could be kennel cough or another more serious issue that needs medical attention.

Trouble Breathing: If you notice your dog having a hard time breathing, wheezing, or panting excessively, this is an emergency.

Severe Lethargy/Loss of Appetite: If your pup is super weak, refuses to eat for over 24 hours or doesn’t want to drink, that is never a good sign. Don’t wait too long to seek help!

Fever: While it can be hard to tell with just touch, if they feel hotter than usual and also show signs of other symptoms it’s time to take their temperature with a rectal thermometer made for dogs. A temperature over 102.5°F (39.2°C) is considered a fever and needs vet attention!

Yellow or Green Discharge: Thick yellow or green nasal or eye discharge can signal a secondary bacterial infection that will require antibiotics.

Symptoms Worsening: If, despite your home care efforts, your dog seems to be getting sicker, then it’s time to consult with a professional.

A vet will be able to diagnose the problem correctly and prescribe safe and effective treatment, which may include antibiotics if there’s a bacterial infection or antivirals in some cases.

Final Thoughts

Seeing your pup sick is never fun! Just like humans, rest, hydration and good care will go a long way for your little pal to recover quickly. Keep a close eye on them, provide lots of snuggles and love, and reach out to your vet if you are ever concerned. The goal is to get them back to their tail-wagging, playful selves in no time! Remember, a little bit of care can make a huge difference in their recovery! They rely on you, so be their hero!