Introduction
Supportive care and therapies are the main treatment options for upper respiratory infections in dogs. If the infection is caused by bacteria, antibiotic treatments are prescribed. Upper respiratory infections that are the result of parasites are treated using anti-parasitic medications.
Treating URI in Dogs
Supportive Therapies
Viruses can cause upper respiratory infections that are related to canine influenza infections, distemper, and bordetella infections. Antibiotic therapies are not effective against these viruses, and in most cases supportive care is the most effective treatment. Supportive therapies include good nutrition and supplements, keeping the dog in a hygienic and comfortable environment, and reducing the dog’s stress levels. As these viruses are highly contagious, most veterinarians prefer that the owner treats their dog at home.
Medication
Symptoms such as coughing and inflammation can be treated using anti-inflammatory medications such as corticosteroids and coughing medications such as hydrocodone. In cases where the dog is having troubles breathing, bronchodilators may be prescribed. Antibiotic therapies are prescribed if secondary bacterial infections develop. These secondary infections can include infections in the nasal passages and pneumonia.
If a respiratory infection is caused by lung flukes or canine nasal mites, a course of anti-parasitic medications are prescribed. Canine nasal mites can be difficult to treat, and there are currently no drugs approved for the treatment of these mites. Many veterinarians use ivermectin and milbemycin oxime as an off label use of this product.
Caring for Your Dog During Treatment
Since most upper respiratory infections are treated at home, pet owners will need to take the role of nurse to their dog. Good nursing care includes making sure the dog has plenty of fresh water, helping the dog to eat if its appetite is low, keeping the dog in a quiet and comfortable environment, and wiping off any discharge that collects around the dog’s nose and muzzle.