Natural Pet Health

Kennel cough is an illness that infects mostly canines and sometimes cats also. The condition is very similar to that of the common cold in human beings and the best treatment for this condition is to let it run its course.

The problem, however, is that the symptoms of kennel cough are extremely painful and can test the patience of many dog owners. The dry, honking cough can keep you and your dog awake through nights for more than 15 to 20 days at times.

Many people suggest cough suppressants as a remedy to check the cough, but cough suppressants actually keep the phlegm from coming out increasing the number of days of misery for your pet. And the longer the kennel cough stays, the chances of it developing into pneumonia or any other infectious illness increase.

The symptoms of mild kennel cough are likely to disappear on their own within a fortnight. Although the duration of kennel cough in dogs is limited it can be extremely painful for the dog and frustrating for dog owners. The dry honking cough may not let you or your dog sleep peacefully for 10 to 12 days at a stretch.

Even though cough suppressants provide temporary symptomatic relief, they restrict the phlegm from coming out and therefore prolong the duration of a self limiting disease. The longer the condition continues the greater the risk of the disease progressing into pneumonia.

Your dog’s body is capable of combating most infections on its own. The immune responses of the body quickly come into play and safeguard against infections. However, this protection is available only when these safeguards are not damaged and the immune system is in perfect condition.