Not Sure What's Wrong With Your Dog? How To Identify Canine Asthma
by Sandra Butler
If you've noticed that your dog experiences respiratory problems from time to time, and those episodes are becoming more frequent, it might not be a seasonal event. Your dog may be suffering the effects of asthma. If you thought asthma was something that only effects humans, you were mistaken. Asthma can affect dog's too. Many people don't realize this, which means canine asthma is often overlooked or ignored. Unfortunately, ignoring canine asthma symptoms can lead to life-threatening situations. Here are four signs you need to watch out for. If your dog experiences any of these issues on a regular basis, it's time to visit an animal hospital to get your dog the professional health care it needs.
Frequent Breathing Problems?
If your dog experiences frequent breathing problems, or signs of respiratory distress, take a closer look. Chronic coughs, or wheezing, can be signs of canine asthma. If your dog coughs or wheezes throughout the day, especially after physical activity, schedule an appointment with a veterinarian as soon as possible. Coughing and wheezing after physical activity can be an indication that your dog is suffering from breathing problems related to asthma.
No Desire to Eat?
If your dog has episodes where they experience a change in appetite, watch for signs of asthma. You might not realize this, but asthma can cause problems with your dog's digestive tract, especially their stomach. This happens most often during an asthma attack. As the lungs over-inflate, they press down on the stomach. When that happens, your dog may experience severe stomach pain. Or, they may not have enough room in their stomach to process food. Both of these situations result in a decrease in appetite. If you notice a change in appetite, and there's no other cause for the change, have your dog examined by a veterinarian.
No Get Up and Go?
If your dog loses energy after mild physical activity, or seems too tired to participate in normal activities, such as walking to its food bowl, it may be suffering from asthma. Breathing requires extra energy, especially during an asthma attack. Chronic asthma symptoms can drain the energy from your dog, leaving it feeling tired and lethargic. If this happens, don't ignore the symptoms. Visit an animal hospital as soon as you can.
Panting and Drooling for No Reason?
Finally, if your dog pants and drools for no apparent reason, they may be dealing with canine asthma. It's not uncommon for dogs to pant after physical activity, especially in the heat. But, if your dog is panting and drooling after normal physical activities, such as going on a short walk, talk to a veterinarian right away.
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Nothing is quite like the bond you develop with a pet. You and your dog know each other to the core. You and your cat have your own way of communicating, even though you do not speak their language. These pets are, in a very real sense, your friends — but they are friends you have the responsibility of caring for completely. Determining what the best care for your pet really is can be a challenge. That's why we created this blog. The articles collected here will help you become a better owner and a better friend to your furry companion, whether they're a cat, dog, rabbit, or other species entirely.