Just like many households around the country, we’ve all been coming down with cold symptoms. If your family has been in the same boat, maybe you’ve been wondering about your dog. Can dogs catch colds too?
You may be very relieved to hear that the simple answer to this question is “no they can’t”. They aren’t able to catch the cold virus from humans. However, they can be prone to infections that may present in a similar way to that of a human’s cold symptoms. So if your dog is exhibiting symptoms such as sneezing, coughing, runny eyes and nose, and is more lethargic than usual, it could be that he has canine flu, a virus that is easily spread between dogs.
How to treat a dog with canine flu
Make sure your dog is kept well hydrated with easy access to water. Make sure that he gets plenty of rest. Keep him in a warm environment. If your dog is acting particularly unwell or has a cough with a honking sound, it could indicate Kennel Cough and immediate medical treatment is required.
Preventative measures
The canine flu virus can live on fabric and other surfaces for several days, so if your dog is unwell there are some steps you can take to reduce the spread of the virus.
- Wash your dog’s bedding on a high temperature frequently during the illness.
- Wash dog bowls and toys daily with detergent and hot water.
- When transporting your dog in the car, wipe down the trunk’s interior with antibacterial cleansers after your journey. This is easily achieved if you have a rubber liner in the trunk.
Other steps to take
- Be sure to keep your dog’s vaccinations right up to date.
- Feed a balanced and nutritious diet that will help strengthen his immune system.
Information given in this article is not a substitute for advice from a qualified medical professional. Please consult a veterinarian for advice specific to your dog.
