How to Treat Dogs With The Flu

by Linda
(LITH, IL USA)

Reader Question: Dog flu treatment

How can I help my dog to breathe? Her nose looks like it is stuffed with dried mucus.

Suggestion From Our Veterinarian

Hi Linda,

You’ve taken your dog to see your veterinarian, right? Some respiratory infections are quite serious in dogs and may require antibiotics or other medications, treatments to clear airways, and supportive care (supplemental oxygen and intravenous fluids, for example).

If your dog is at home for continued care after seeing a vet, use a warm, damp cloth to wipe the mucus away from her nostrils. Allowing her to spend 15 minutes or so in a humidified room (a bathroom with a hot shower running, for example) can help loosen things up a bit.

These treatments will probably need to be repeated several times throughout the day. Talk to your veterinarian if your dog’s condition worsens or isn’t improving as expected.

Regards,

Jennifer Coates, DVM