Severe Pneumonia in Canines

Pneumonia is a very general term used to describe an inflammation of the lungs. However, there are several different types of pneumonia, which can be caused by a virus, bacteria, fungi or parasites. Pneumonia is a very uncommon disease in healthy adult dogs, it usually effects very young or very old dogs, or those with a low immune system caused by another illness. Severe pneumonia can be life-threatening and you should seek veterinary attention immediately.

  1. Causes

    • Kennel cough can lead to pneumonia if not properly treated.

      Puppies suffering from kennel cough are at risk of developing bacterial pneumonia, as well as dogs suffering from bronchitis, collapsing trachea or foreign bodies in the airway. Fungal bacteria is caused by fungal infections and the inhalation of fungal spores. Canine distemper, parvovirus or an upper respiratory infection are the leading causes of viral pneumonia. Lungworms and heartworms can lead to parasitic pneumonia, allergens and irritants can lead to allergic pneumonia, and the inhalation of smoke or chemicals can cause chemical pneumonia. Aspiration of fluid into the lungs can cause canine aspiration pneumonia.

    Symptoms

    • Listlessness and depression are just one symptom of pneumomnia.

      The signs of pneumonia are a moist, bubbling coughing, which indicates fluid in the lungs, fever, depression or listlessness, rapid breathing and rapid pulse. Occasionally a thick discharge of nasal mucus is also present. In severe cases, the dog will sit or lie with its head extended and elbows turned out. This is because the dog is trying to expand his chest as much as possible. Although coughing is the main symptom of pneumonia, this can also be caused by a number of other reasons, so always check with your vet.

    Treatment

    • The vet will begin with a chest X-ray to confirm diagnosis.

      The vet will make a diagnosis with a chest X-ray and blood tests. Dogs with mild symptoms can be treated at home with antibiotics, but those with more severe symptoms need urgent hospitalization and 24-hour veterinary care. Once the dog has been hospitalized, the vet will use intravenous fluid therapy to maintain the level of fluids in the dog's system. Coughing is important, as it clears the lungs of pus and fluid, and intravenous fluid therapy prevent these liquids from drying up to the point where they cannot be expelled. The vet will prescribe a course of antibiotics, and physical therapy in the form of tapping the dog's chest to loosen some of the fluids is often used.

    After Care

    • Keep the dog warm, dry and comfortable.

      Once your dog is allowed home, keep him warm and dry, only allow him outside for toilet trips and very light exercise and do not let him get cold or wet. Using a vaporizer for 10 to 15 minutes every day will continue to help loosen any fluid. Alternatively, turn the shower on and place the dog in the steamy bathroom. Perform physical therapy several times a day and ensure you understand the dosage of antibiotics to give to the dog. You will also need to return to the vet with your dog for further check-ups and possibly X-rays, to ensure the treatment is progressing well.