Ava Williams
Winter time is a cold time. Not only are we humans at risk, but our pets are also too. Because dogs can also get infected, even by their owners. That’s why it’s also important to keep your distance when you have a cold.
When the dog’s nose runs
If the four-legged friend ignores the food bowl and looks weak and exhausted, then he has probably caught a cold. A cold is also usually noticeable at first with a loss of appetite. There is also sneezing, coughing, a runny nose, and watery eyes.
Most of the time there is no reason to panic. Rest and plenty of fluids are the best medicine. Most dogs can cope with a cold themselves. However, it is advisable to only take shorter walks with the dog at the first sign of a cold and to rub it dry after the walk-in wet and cold weather. A heat lamp can also speed up the healing process, but the dog should be at least 50 centimeters to one meter away from the lamp.
If you want to take the time for more intensive care: Inhaling can also be a good way to relieve the signs of a cold for four-legged patients. The inhalation liquid should be very warm, but not boiling. Essential oils should be avoided as they can be toxic. As with humans, sea salt or various types of tea are also suitable for adding to the water.
If a fever or rattling breath becomes noticeable in a dog with a cold, or if exhaustion and loss of appetite persist, a visit to the vet is essential. Under no circumstances should “human” medicines be used. Many of the substances in it can be dangerous to dogs, even in small amounts. This also applies to supposedly “harmless” medicines such as nose drops. Medicines should only be prescribed by a veterinarian because the dosage is particularly important for animals.
Preventive measures
“To avoid catching a cold in the first place, dog owners should take precautions,” advises pet expert Irina Fronescu. “Dogs have an increased need for vitamins and fatty acids when they have a cold – this should be taken into account when feeding them. Preparations such as echinacea, vitamin C, and aloe vera can be administered via the feed to strengthen the general immune situation.” Setting up air humidifiers has proven to improve the breathing of air. In any case, you should avoid using room fragrances, sprays, or incense sticks.
As a preventive measure, you should also rub the healthy dog dry after walking in rainy weather. And if the owners have caught a cold, they should – even if it’s difficult – avoid being too close to their darling. Dogs can also be infected under certain circumstances – especially old or weakened animals. Then, as a precaution, it’s no cuddling – at least for a few days.