Even though we may think our pets are very different from us, dogs catch colds too. Colds in dogs aren’t all that different from the ones we humans suffer. So if your best friend has ever caught a cold, bear in mind that it has also had headaches and even aching joints. A fever is also very common. Prevention is the best thing you can do to avoid your pet’s condition getting worse.
Ways to prevent your dog catching a cold
Just as we try to protect children from colds — wrapping them up well when they go outside in very cold weather, or reminding them to dry off properly after a bath — you should take the same care with your dog.
If you’re going to bathe it during the winter, you need to dry it very well, either with a towel or with a hairdryer on a medium setting. And if you’re planning to take it out afterwards, don’t forget to wrap it up well so it doesn’t feel that extreme change in temperature.
Diet is also very important for preventing winter illness. Give your dog foods rich in vitamin C. As you know, our friends love to eat, especially whatever they see us eating. So this is a good time to let it try fruit, particularly fruit rich in vitamins. These are ideal for preventing colds.
Before the cold weather arrives, don’t forget to check its vaccination record. If you’re up to date with its jabs, your dog will be less likely to fall ill. If you’re going to leave it for a few hours at a dog boarding kennel, it’s essential that it first receives the kennel cough vaccine. That way, you’ll stop other dogs from passing the infection on to it.
Keeping the house clean is just as decisive, as is keeping your pet well groomed so it doesn’t relapse and bacteria don’t build up around it. It’s best to avoid smoking in front of your dog, since tobacco smoke could damage its lungs, just as it does yours, making it more vulnerable to possible viruses.
As you can see, when it comes to your dog’s colds, prevention is better than cure. Regular visits to the vet are necessary to keep a close watch on its health. Having insurance for any mishap will undoubtedly help. Don’t forget to keep your best friend well wrapped up in winter and healthily fed.
