There are a few non-life threatening medical conditions. Cold is one of them. Perhaps not life-threatening but it is definitely annoying. Very likely dogs would find our interpretation of their medical conditions unintelligible; if they had the power to express verbally like us humans. Nonetheless, veterinarians know how to do their job and you as a dog owner might not recognize the symptoms of dog cold but your vet can. Thus, there is no doubt that dogs sneeze and cough just like humans.
The instinct that connects us to dogs is so strong that we will go to any lengths to fix even the tiniest of medical conditions. Won’t we? Definitely yes! So, here is a post for all the dog lovers and everyone who has an emotional support animal. This post will give you tips on how to alleviate cold in dogs. Let us begin.
First, recognize the symptoms
It is not easy to recognize the early symptoms of a cold. But if you notice carefully, at the very onset you will find your dog succumbing to lethargy. They will also lose appetite, cough and sneeze at several intervals. Other symptoms include a warm and dry nose, warm ears, body shivering, and red eyes. If you notice any of the aforementioned symptoms it is quite sure that your dog is suffering from a cold.
In addition to this, as a dog owner, it is your responsibility to look after your dog. So don’t take your dog’s medical condition as an option rather treat it as a priority. This is to say that take a serious note of unusual activities and then act accordingly.
Make sure your dog is warm and dry
Just like you keep your baby warm and dry during the cold weather. Similarly, it is essential to keep your dog warm and dry as soon as you notice the above-mentioned symptoms. Though dogs have a furry coat to keep them warm during cold weather. But cold reduces the potential of the metabolic system to fight with bacteria and other pathogens. This is why external efforts are required. You can start by covering your dog in a warm blanket and turning up the thermostat by 2 to 3 degrees.
Not only this but you can also make your dog wear sweaters and socks to help them fight the cold. There are several pet stores that keep all types of dog whereabouts, heated beds, and warm blankets. You can order them online if you don’t have one and your dog is suffering from a cold. But make sure that you don’t overdo it. If you see your dog panting remove the blanket or any extra layer you have added.
Feed them warm and nutritious food
In my personal opinion, giving your dog the usual processed food is not a good idea. Especially when your furry little friend is suffering from cold. Instead, this is the right time to show your dog some love. Cook for them and make sure the food that you serve is filled with green leafy vegetables like spinach and broccoli. To be specific, if you ask me what is the perfect diet for a cold ridden dog? It is no other than a hearty and warm chicken soup. This is what I serve my dog when he is suffering from a cold. In fact, it has always worked in his favor. So, if your dog doesn’t like the taste of vegetables go make him some chicken or beef broth soup.
Keep your dog’s liquid intake in check
Hydration is vital for dogs suffering from a cold. So, you have to constantly check whether your dog is drinking enough water or not. If you see your dog not drinking any water, encourage him to drink more water by adding chicken or beef broth to it. In addition to this, you have to also clean the water bowl from which your dog drinks it every time. It is essential to clean the bowl each time because an unclean bowl is house to several bacterias. Also, if you don’t clean the bowl regularly you will unknowingly serve your dog bad bacteria when he is suffering from a cold.
Take your dog to a pet if the condition persists
If you feel that you have tried everything and the symptoms of cold still persist. It is perhaps time to take your dog to a vet. In fact, consulting a vet is always the best option. Treat your dog with all the tips mentioned above and then notice the dog for over a week. Usually, the symptoms should not last more than a week but if they do talk to your vet or take your dog to a clinic. The vet will run a thorough check on the dog and they will form a diet/treatment plan for your dog. In most circumstances, the vet will not prescribe medications. But if they do make sure you administer the dose as suggested by the veterinarian. In case of fever rush your dog to the vet immediately.
As a dog owner, you have seen your dog cough and sneeze at least once in a year. You need to be cautious about the symptoms pertaining to cold. If you follow all the steps carefully and treat your dog under medical supervision, your dog will be as fit as a fiddle in just a few days.
