It’s coming up to that time of year again, when we’re overcome with a tickly cough and a sniffly, runny nose. With most of us wiped out from a common cold, you might be wondering if we can pass it on to our beloved companions.
In this blog, we’ll tell you how to treat a dog with a cold and what symptoms you should look out for as those colder days start to approach us. At Green Pantry, we’re passionate about using natural remedies to target specific health conditions in your dog. Our natural dog food recipes are the perfect solution, with each of our recipes providing core nutrition and vitamins that your dog might lack in those winter months.
Ready to look after your dog this flu season? Let’s get into it…
Can dogs get human colds?
Yes, dogs can most definitely get colds, but it’s different to the way that humans do. You might have a cold and are worried about passing it on to your four-legged friend. However, you don’t need to worry. Dogs don’t catch the same cold virus that causes symptoms in humans.
Dogs can, in fact, get infections that trigger cold-like symptoms, such as:
- Sneezing
- Watery eyes
- Congestion
- A wet, runny nose
- A fever/overheating
- Low energy
- Lack of appetite
In the same way that a dog can’t catch a human cold, you won’t be able to catch a cold from your dog, either. While dogs don’t get the same cold virus as humans do, there are some common illnesses that can make your dog show similar symptoms to a cold, including:
Dog allergies: Dogs can suffer from seasonal allergies like hay fever. Try our hypoallergenic dog food as a natural remedy.
Kennel cough: A respiratory infection presented as a dry cough that sounds like honking
Canine distemper: A contagious viral infection which your dog should be vaccinated against
Respiratory conditions: Certain dog breeds are prone to suffer from respiratory conditions, such as French Bulldogs and Pugs
While dogs of all ages can be susceptible to infections, keep a close eye on puppies or more senior dogs. This is because a puppy’s immune system is still developing and strengthening, while older dogs often have a weaker or compromised immune system.
How to treat a dog with a cold, naturally
Luckily, just like with a human cold, if your dog is showing any signs of the symptoms above, there are some home remedies that you can do to make your dog feel better. Let’s have a look at them in a bit more detail.
1. Feed them nutritious dog food
You’ve heard of the saying ‘an apple a day keeps the doctor away’. Well, that also applies to dogs! Except instead of apples, you can use high-quality and nutritious natural dog treats right here from Green Pantry. As well as treats, you should be feeding your dog a good-quality diet that has all the nutrients they need.
All of our dry natural dog food recipes include 100% natural ingredients that can help boost your dog’s immune system and prevent them from getting dog colds or flu. We include plenty of fruit and vegetables that are packed full of vitamins and antioxidants that are vital for fighting off illnesses. Why not try a sample pack and see for yourself?
Or, discover exactly what is in the pantry here.
2. Keep your dog well hydrated
Dogs suffering from colds need to remain hydrated as part of their recovery. Don’t forget to check their water bowl regularly and make sure they are getting plenty of fluids throughout the day. When a dog is sick, they’re more at risk of dehydration because symptoms like sneezing and an increase in fever increase fluid loss through panting and respiration.
Some symptoms of dehydration include a loss of skin elasticity, dry gums, sunken eyes, and severe lethargy. If you notice any of these signs, get in touch with your vet immediately.
3. Clean their things regularly
Another thing you can do to prevent the spread of dog colds is to regularly wash and clean their water and food bowls, their favourite toys, and their blankets. This is a particularly important step if your dog shares their space with other dogs. This will help to get rid of any grubby germs and prevent the spread of bacteria.
When your dog sneezes or coughs, respiratory droplets will land on everything around them, creating contaminated objects known as fomites. Regular cleaning, therefore, breaks the chain of infection and prevents the spread of infection. In particular, pay attention to chew toys that are constantly covered in saliva.
4. Consider natural supplements
Have you ever considered a natural dog supplement? We believe that your dog deserves the best, especially when they’re feeling under the weather. A natural supplement from Green Pantry is a further investment in the well-being of your pet. And, while they target specific health concerns like dental health, stress and anxiety, and stiff joints, they’re pretty good at strengthening your dog’s internal defences so that they’re ready to fight off a cold.
Approximately 70% of a dog’s immune system resides in its gut. So why not invest in our Natural Gut Health Supplement, which includes 100% natural ingredients designed to boost your dog’s immunity?
We’ve got a handy guide that’ll help you find the best supplements for your dog.
How to prevent a cold (in dogs!)
Most symptoms in your dog can last between five to ten days, and they will usually get better on their own. However, there are some ways to prevent your dog from getting ill in the first place. Some preventive measures that you can take include:
- Making sure their vaccinations are up to date
- Ensuring they get enough sleep
- Giving them a nutritious and healthy diet
- Changing their water daily
- Using a dog coat to keep them warm during chilly walks
- Wipe away any discharge to keep them comfortable
- Feeding them the correct amount of dog food they need each day
Keep your dog happy & healthy with the help of Green Pantry
Hopefully, this blog has taught you how to treat a dog with a cold. By following the tips above, you can prevent runny noses and a run-down dog. If you’re really worried about your pet or believe that they are sick, get in touch with your veterinarian as soon as possible.
At Green Pantry, we’re genuinely passionate about your dog’s health and well-being. That’s why you can rely on us to deliver research-backed and natural recipes that’ll help your dog lead their best life!
Need more advice or information? Then please don’t hesitate to get in touch with us. We value all of our customers, furry or not, and we’ll also be more than happy to chat with you directly on the phone. Just give us a call on 01553 811 320.
