Pneumonia in Dogs
There is nothing more distressing then when someone you love is ill. It is even more difficult when the one who is sick cannot tell you what is wrong. It’s no different when your dog is not feeling well! When your dog is sick you just want to make him feel better! We understand. The best thing you can do for your dog is be diligent in your efforts to stay informed and educated!
Pneumonia is a condition concerning the inflammation of the lungs. Bacterial pneumonia means that there’s a response to bacteria. Such inflammation is distinguished by a buildup of inflammation and fluid in the lungs, airways, and alveoli. If properly treated the prognosis for bacterial pneumonia is usually good. However, there is risk of secondary conditions that could be a consequence from bacterial pneumonia, hypoxemia and sepsis.
Symptoms of bacterial pneumonia in dogs include fever, cough, trouble breathing, decreased appetite and t weight loss, lethargy, dehydration, nasal discharge, and rapid breathing. Symptoms may also include wheezing and crackling sounds when breathing. A few treatments exist that can be used for your dog. One treatment includes antibiotic medication; the correct antimicrobial are selected based on results of bacterial cultures. Other elements of treatment depend on the severity of signs. All symptoms need to be treated.
Aspiration/ inhalation pneumonia is caused by inhalation of foreign matter. This could be caused from vomiting, or from the regurgitation. It can be a direct result of a neuro-muscular disorder or problems associated with the esophagus.The symptoms are similar to those of bacterial pneumonia, however, treatment is a little different. Treatment includes suction of the airways immediately after inhalation of a foreign matter. Oxygen is used as part of a stabilizing treatment. Intravenous drip may be inserted to fight dehydration. If the obstruction has been treated oral injection should be withheld.
Your dog should rest. If you have other animals or children put your dog in its kennel where it is quiet. A loud and busy space can stress your dog and make it more difficult for recovery. Your dog should be supervised. A dog with this type of pneumonia should not be left on its side for more than two hours.
As always, it is important that you visit a vet as soon as you notice any changes in your dog’s health. The sooner you receive a diagnosis the less chance there is that secondary infection and worse symptoms will impact your dog. Also supervise and comfort your dog through its period of illness. With immediate and proper care healing will be better.
