Holistic Bronchitis Treatment in Dogs

Canine bronchitis will cause dogs to cough and hack, sometimes uncontrollably. Bronchitis develops when the bronchial tubes become swollen due to infection or irritation. There are two types of bronchitis: acute and chronic. Both induce coughing and can develop from a number of common and serious conditions, but acute bronchitis typically lasts between a few days and a few weeks, whereas chronic bronchitis may never end or may recur many times throughout the year.

Holistic approaches take into account the individual animal they are attempting to heal, instead of treating only the condition (prescribing pills until it dissipates). Holistic treatments are often synonymous with natural remedies or methods, as all have the goal of healing, not medicating. 

There are several holistic approaches a pet owner can take in order to help alleviate canine bronchitis:

Humidifier 

Keeping the air nice and moist is one of the most productive ways to soothe a chronic cough. A humidifier isn’t necessary ,as running a hot shower with the bathroom door closed will create the same effect and benefits. 

Remove any scarves or collars

An easy way to help a dog find relief from bronchitis is to remove anything around their neck that may be irritating or causing minor pressure. This is especially helpful to do at night, so the dog can sleep restfully.

Natural cough suppressants

Licorice root, lemon, and/or honey are all natural remedies for coughing (especially dry coughing), as they soothe and moisten the throat. Warm water, honey, and lemon when mixed together and administered to a dog, either in a bowl or with a needle-less syringe, may suppress coughing, depending on the cause.  

Dandelion 

Dandelions are extremely rich in vitamins and antioxidants. In addition to being a wonderful source of nutrients for your dog, this weed helps keep a healthy heart, potentially protecting against heart disease. One teaspoon of dried dandelion leaves or essence of dandelion root per twenty pounds of dog is the recommended dosage.

One or all methods combined may help heal a dog holistically within a week or two. For coughing as a response to sinusitis or kennel cough, holistic treatments may be enough to alleviate a majority of the coughing, healing the animal as well as improving their overall health. However, if coughing or discomfort continues, especially with any signs of issues breathing or lowered stamina, professional care should be sought. This is especially crucial as the coughing could be the result of a more serious, unknown medical condition, such as heart disease or tracheal collapse. Even kennel cough, which is highly contagious in dogs, can develop into a more severe viral infection, requiring veterinary attention.

In the medical field, holistic medicine and methods are regularly debated, especially in regard to effectiveness. However, the goal of holistic treatments is to treat the patient’s overall health and not just a currently existing condition. Due to this fact, holistic medicines and methods may prove highly effective in improving general health and well-being.  

The efficacy of holistic treatments for canine bronchitis in particular is dependent upon the type of bronchitis. For acute bronchitis, holistic treatments are an ideal way for pet-owners to help the healing process, naturally. For chronic bronchitis, however, holistic treatments may not be enough. Since it can be difficult to know the cause of the cough initially, a veterinary examination should be sought to make sure that medical care is not needed.  

Natural remedies and methods, such as a holistic approach to canine bronchitis, do not require surgery or high doses of medication, meaning no recovery period is required. 

Holistic methods are affordable and can successfully treat a non-threatening development of bronchitis within a few weeks. A humidifier can cost anywhere between $25 to hundreds of dollars, but is a beneficial purchase for any pet and pet owner suffering from seasonal allergies and coughing. Other natural remedies, such as licorice or dandelion root can be bought as pills for around $8 or in their natural, whole state in bulk tea supply stores for around $12. 

However, because bronchitis can stem from many medical conditions and causes, it’s important to keep a routine schedule of veterinarian visits and checkups (one to two a year, unless otherwise recommended). Before trying out holistic treatments at home, pet-owners should make an appointment with a veterinarian.  Once a checkup confirms normal health, a dog’s coughing might be treated holistically and may see results.

Dog owners may also choose to schedule a consultation with a holistic veterinarian. These veterinarians are specialists in holistic care and will be able to treat an animal based on their individual health needs. Consultations can cost anywhere between $100-$140, which does not include the cost of any medicines or natural treatments they may suggest. 

The ability to treat and heal a pet is a rewarding experience, which is why many pet owners choose to tackle any minor health issues their dog may struggle with themselves. However, because coughing is merely an external sign that something isn’t going quite right with the body internally, pet owners are recommended to seek the advice and services of a veterinarian. While coughing may only signal an allergy or the dog-equivalent of a cold, coughing can also be a sign of something more serious. 

Bronchitis typically develops when the immune system is under attack, causing an infection to occur. The holistic treatments discussed are also preventative methods as they seek to improve overall health. Any of the following steps will help prevent bronchitis in dogs:

Keep allergens under control

As allergies weaken the immune system and can cause infection in the bronchi, keeping anything an animal may be allergic to out of their foods or home is key. If a dog has seasonal allergies, a great way to help them find relief is to frequently clean the house. Dust mites and other allergens thrive in carpets and fabrics. 

Keep the immune system healthy

Ensuring your dog stays hydrated, especially on hot days or after long activity, helps keep the immune system healthy and functioning. Dogs produce vitamins beneficial to their immune system on their own, so any supplementation of vitamins should be consulted with a veterinarian. This is key especially if your dog is frequently around other dogs. If a pet-owner often leaves their pet in the care of a kennel, the exposure to many dogs can lead to easier development of illness, such as kennel cough and bronchitis.  Vaccinations are available for some of these diseases.  

Keep the heart healthy

An active lifestyle is key to warding away any dangerous heart conditions. A routine schedule of activity keeps a dog mentally happy and its heart healthy.