What to Do if Your Dog Gets a Cold

Dogs are more exposed to germs and microorganisms than human beings. So if you are wondering can dogs get colds, then the answer is yes they can and in fact cold is very common among dogs. Dogs may catch cold because of cold weather, wet conditions or can also get it from other infected dogs. The problems may start with just normal cold and may spread to the respiratory organs; hence it's necessary to understand the difference between a normal cold and the other respiratory problems. There are many respiratory problems which may show similar symptoms like cold and are caused due to virus, bacteria, fungi etc. These infections are highly contagious and can be spread from one pet to another. Some of these respiratory infections are canine parainfluenza, kennel cough, pneumonia, canine distemper, etc. These respiratory problems can be very severe if not treated on time. Hence you need to know what to do if your dog gets a cold and get rid of it as soon as possible.

Symptoms of Cold in Dogs

Symptoms of cold in dogs are very similar to the symptoms of cold in humans. The only difference is that humans can tell about the discomfort they are facing and dogs cannot. Hence it's the responsibility of the dog owner to understand the symptoms of cold through their changed behavior. Following are some of the common symptoms of cold observed in dogs.

• Running nose
• Coughing
• Wheezing
• Sneezing
• Yellowish green discharge from the nose
• Watery eyes

Treatment for cold in Dogs

Dog's cold can get over after few days without treatment but it totally depends upon the owner to treat it with medications or improve its immune power to get rid of the cold naturally. Following are some of the things you can do if your dog gets a cold.

Boost Immune Power
You can boost its immune power by giving it proper nutrient diet. Healthy food can really do wonders. Do not experiment with any food at this time as it can hamper its health. Try to give him food which is either recommended by the vet or is healthy for your pet. Increase the intake of food which are rich in vitamins A, C and E.

Keep your Dog Warm
The best place for your dog in winter is inside your house. Do not keep him outside when it is cold and wet. It can be very dangerous for its health. At home also keep him warm with the help of rugs. This will make him comfortable and help him to recover fast.

Properly Hydrated
Increasing the fluid intake as it helps a lot. Water can be the best option but you can also add broth in water which will give him strength. Check out the water you are feeding him if it's very cold, then just warm it a bit. It will make him more comfortable to drink that water and will also keep him away from the respiratory infections.

Steam Treatments
Steam treatment is considered to be very effective in getting rid of cold. It makes the nasal passage moist which removes the congestion and aids proper breathing. Just fill your bathroom with steam and leave your dog inside the bathroom for 15 minutes. Do it nearly 2 to 3 times a day and you will see your dog recovering.

These are some of the things which you can do to help your dog recover from cold. Just try to keep your dog away from other dogs in order to save it from any other serious infections. Making it rest may be difficult but it is the best way to help the body to overcome the problems of cold. If you are not able to find any improvement in its health then consult a vet immediately. Take him for regular checkups so as to avoid complications.