To help a dog with pneumonia at home, focus on providing rest, hydration, and maintaining a humid environment to help clear mucus. Restricting activity, offering plenty of fresh water, and using steam therapy (e.g., running a hot shower in the bathroom with the dog present) can help. Follow your veterinarian’s specific instructions for medication and monitor your dog’s breathing and appetite.
How To Help A Dog With Pneumonia At Home?
Table of Contents
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Rest and Activity Restriction
- Limit your dog’s activity to allow them to recover.
- Keep them in a quiet, comfortable space away from other pets and small children.
Hydration
- Ensure your dog has access to fresh water at all times.
- Monitor their intake to prevent dehydration, which can worsen respiratory function.
Humid Environment and Steam Therapy
- Humid air helps thin out mucus in the lungs, making it easier to cough up.
- Run a hot shower in the bathroom with the dog present for 15 minutes, 3-5 times a day.
- Ensure the bathroom door is closed to trap the steam.
Nutrition
- Encourage your dog to eat, as good nutrition is essential for recovery.
- Consider warming their food, offering baby food, or using enticing canned food to increase their appetite.
- Your vet may prescribe medications to stimulate appetite or, in severe cases, a feeding tube may be necessary.
Medication and Follow-up
- Follow your veterinarian’s instructions for administering prescribed medications, typically antibiotics.
- Ensure you complete the entire course of antibiotics, even if your dog appears better, according to the American Kennel Club.
- Monitor your dog’s progress and follow up with your veterinarian as instructed.
- Your vet may recommend chest X-rays after a few weeks to assess progress.
