Asthma

Symptoms of asthma in dogs

The most common symptom of asthma in dogs is coughing, followed by difficulty breathing. The dog may also wheeze and breathe with its mouth open. The cough may be dry or moist, depending on how much mucus has accumulated in the airways. The cough may also be seizure-like and choking, especially after physical exertion or contact with the triggering allergen. In severe cases, the dog may turn blue or lose consciousness.

Causes of asthma in dogs

The cause of asthma is a hypersensitive reaction of the immune system to a specific substance that is not normally harmful. This substance is called an allergen and can be, for example, house dust, pollen, mold, smoke, perfume or mites. When the dog inhales the allergen, the cells in the airways react by becoming inflamed and producing mucus, which clogs and narrows the airways. This makes it difficult for the dog to breathe and triggers the typical symptoms.

Diagnosis of asthma in dogs

Diagnosing asthma in dogs can be difficult because there are many other conditions that can cause similar symptoms, such as infections, heart problems or foreign bodies in the airways. Therefore, the veterinarian will first perform a thorough examination of the dog and ask questions about his history, lifestyle and environment. He will also order some tests, such as:

• A blood test to find evidence of an allergic reaction or infection.
• An X-ray of the lungs to assess the structure and condition of the airways
• An endoscopy or airway lavage to look inside the bronchial tubes and take samples
• An allergy test to identify the triggering allergen

Treatment of asthma in dogs

Treatment for asthma in dogs aims to reduce inflammation, dilate the airways and relieve symptoms. The veterinarian may prescribe various medications, such as:

• Corticosteroids to inhibit inflammation.
• Bronchodilators, to relax the airways
• Antihistamines to suppress the allergic reaction
• Mucolytics to clear mucus from the airways

Medications may be given orally, by injection, or delivered directly to the lungs with a special inhalation mask. The dosage and frequency of medication depends on the severity of the asthma. In some cases, the dog may also require oxygen therapy or emergency medication.

In addition to medication, it is also important to avoid or reduce the triggering allergen. This may mean changing your dog's environment, for example:

• Vacuuming and airing the home regularly to remove house dust and dust mites.
• Avoiding smoking or other strong odors around the dog
• Keeping the dog away from pollen or mold
• Changing the dog's food or treats if he has a food allergy

Prevention of asthma in dogs

Asthma in dogs is not always preventable, as the exact cause of the allergic reaction is unknown. However, strengthening the immune system in general is the best way to keep the disease at bay. You can do this by providing your dog with a balanced diet, adequate exercise, and regular vet visits. You should also protect your dog from stress, as this can be a triggering factor for asthma.