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Although it is a rare occurrence, dogs can and do come down with asthma. Symptoms of asthma in dogs typically include coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath, which are the same symptoms that humans experience. If your pet is showing these signs, getting in touch with your veterinarian for an exam and diagnosis is the next step.
How is asthma in dogs diagnosed?
To determine if your canine has this lung disease, the veterinarian must first rule out other diseases. These may include:
- Kennel cough Infection
- Trachea collapse
- Paralyzed larynx
- Cardiovascular disease Heart
- Lung worms Fungus
- Lung tumors
First, your dog will undergo a physical examination conducted by the vet, who may then order a chest x-ray and bronchoscopy. Bronchoscopy involves retrieving a tissue sample to be analyzed under a microscope. After testing is completed and if no other reasons for your dog's symptoms can be found, the diagnosis is usually asthma. You vet will prescribe asthma medications for your pet to see of these improve symptoms. If they do, then it is a good probability your dog has asthma.
How is it treated?
The goal of treatment is to reduce symptoms and keep your pet healthy. If your dog is diagnosed with asthma, treatment will consist of:
Antihistamines - Reduces mucus in the airways Steroids - To control inflammation Bronchodilators - Help to reduce the swelling associated with an asthma attack Any combination of the above
These medications can be taken in pill form or inhaled. The inhaled form is given via a mask that is put over the dog's muzzle (mouth) and nose. The prescribed amount of medication is squeezed into the spacer while your dog inhales. The dosage prescribed by your vet is individual to your canine. Dosages may need to be adjusted until the right amount, or combination of medications is found.
In the event of a severe asthma attack, you may need to give your dog an injection of epinephrine. This is a rapid acting treatment that quickly reduces the inflammation and swelling associated with asthma attacks. Your vet will give you full instructions on how to give this life-saving injection to your dog in case it is needed.
Asthma in dogs is a highly treatable condition. When you know the warning signs of an attack and treat the symptoms early, you can prevent the attack from getting out of control and possibly save your pet's life.
