Canine asthma isn't much different from the human version. During an attack, a dog's airway passages become inflamed and constricted. Coughing, wheezing and a shortness of breath also occur. There are several treatments that are effective in treating canine asthma. Your veterinarian will rule out other serious respiratory diseases and determine which medications will help control your dog's asthma.
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Symptoms and Diagnosis
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If your dog experiences weight and appetite loss combined with coughing, wheezing and sneezing, he should be checked to see if he has asthma. In extreme cases, a dog's tongue or gums may turn blue during an attack.
Your veterinarian will take an X-ray of your dog's chest to rule out other serious medical problems, such as pneumonia.
Medications
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If your dog is diagnosed with asthma, a variety of medications can be used to control it. Corticosteriods are one option; these drugs reduce inflammation in the lungs and bronchi. Antihistamines will lessen the amount of fluid and mucous that has built up in airways. Bronchodilators are used to reduce swelling of the bronchi. It's common for a veterinarian to advise a combination of these medicines.
The medicines can be given by mouth or an inhaler. Your veterinarian can show you how to administer medicine with an inhaler. Even with treatment, dogs may still experience asthma attacks. If this happens, keep your dog calm until the attack passes.
If your dog has very severe asthma attacks, he may need to be given medication during an attack. Epinephrine is a drug given through an injection that will work right away to reduce airway swelling. Again, your veterinarian will show you have to administer the drug.
Alternative Treatments
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Because asthma is sometimes related to allergies, it's a good idea to remove any outside irritants. These include chemicals from household cleaners, cigarette smoke and pesticides. Dogs with asthma will be comfortable in a moist environment, so you can use a cold-mist humidifier. If you have a diffuser for aromatherapy, mix in a few drops of peppermint and eucalyptus oils to aid breathing.
Control your dog's weight; overweight dogs often experience asthma. Feed your dog a healthy diet and make sure he gets regular exercise.
Homeopathic and herbal treatments can also be useful, either alone or in combination with prescribed medications. A strong immune system will help protect against asthma attacks. Herbs that aid this system are astragalus, which strengthens the immune system; Oregon grape, which is an antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory; and echinacea.
For coughs, try mullein for deep, dry coughs and licorice root for coughs of the upper respiratory system. To soothe the throat, use marshmallow root, which will also help reduce coughing. Coltsfoot, which will help eliminate mucous and inhibit bacterial growth, is another herb from the plant family asteraceae.
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