Friday, 21 September 2012

What to do to help a dog with a cold

Signs of cold like sneezing and sniffling will be noticed in people as soon as the weather turns cold. People with colds will be noticed to have red nose and watery eyes. When the demand for Kleenex increases it is for certain - people have colds. The idea that pet dogs would stick with the master through thick and thin seems to be true as just like its master the dog can have a cold too. A dog may not be sporting a red nose but an owner accustomed to seeing the active and lively pet will certainly notice the lethargy, the watery eyes and the cough that means the dog has a cold.

Humans normally do not need treatments for cold as this ordinary illness would be gone after a few days. A bowl of soup or a cup of tea are the old fashioned cure-all for colds thus people would not really need cold pills. Would these simple cold remedies work for the pet too? The cold of the dog can due to other reasons. A pet with a cold can transmit the ailment to other pets. A dog with a weak immune system can be easily affected by cold-causing germs and viruses.

A dog owner would attest to the energy and inquisitiveness of the pet. A dog owner should not be surprised if the dog catches cold because these animals are known to enjoy frolicking in the snow and because of a high prey drive, dogs would not mind the pouring rain as long as the prey is trailed.

A cold is an ordinary non-serious illness that is normally allowed to run its course as after a day or two the cold will be gone. Because dogs are tough, the cold of the pet will not really worry the owners. Even if the dog does not need medication, the ailing pet should be made comfortable. First off is to keep the pet warm.

Dogs must not be allowed to play in the cold lest the cold develops into a more serious illness. Dog owners can provide the pet with supportive therapy. Provide the dog with healthy food that will build the strength of its immune system. The dog will benefit from vitamins and supplements too. A steam filled bathroom will unclog the nasal passage and allow the dog to breathe more easily. Provide the dog with plenty of drinking water to hasten the recovery. Take the pet to the vet's at once if the dog is already showing signs of distress.

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