Natural Kennel Cough Treatments in Dogs

Kennel cough is a contagious, bacterial disease of dogs, characterized by coughing and is similar to a chest cold for dogs. Kennel cough is so named because it is often acquired when your dog is in contact with other dogs in a kennel setting, although it can be acquired anywhere your dog has contact with other infected dogs. The technical name is tracheobronchitis, and it is caused by the Bordetella bronchiseptica bacteria. 

Most dogs that come down with the infectious bacterial disease, kennel cough, also have a virus present, or are experiencing stress at the time of infection, otherwise, the bacteria may be present without illness manifesting. Although complications can result, most cases are not serious and resolve on their own.

As a pet owner you can provide supportive care by:

• Removing collar, if this is making coughing worse, especially if your dog pulls on their leash when being walked, switch to a harness 
• Humidify air with steam or a humidifier
• Provide honey to relieve cough, honey may also may contain antiviral properties
• Provide expectorant cough syrups that are safe for your dog; a veterinary practitioner can advise you. Cough syrups with wild cherry bark, licorice, comfrey root, coltsfoot, mullein, slippery elm or horehound may be recommended 
• Provide rest, plenty of fluids, and a stress-free environment

In addition, pet owners can stimulate their dog’s immune system to aid in kennel cough recovery. A variety of homeopathic remedies are available with antiviral properties and to stimulate the immune system, including:

• Homeopathic nosodes, which contain substances secreted during the course of the disease, prepared and administered, usually orally, to stimulate the immune system against the disease
• Commercially available holistic immune boosters for dogs
• Esberitox, fast acting echinacea
• Probiotics supplements formulated for dogs
• Vitamins C and E
• Oregano Oil
• Astragalus, an herb used in chinese medicine to support lung function and stimulate immune system
• Garlic
• Olive Leaf
• Oil of eucalyptus
• Coconut Oil
• Cinnamon

Many of these substances can be administered by sprinkling on your dog's food or by introduction orally with a syringe.

Kennel cough can be difficult to prevent, as the condition can be caused by a number of bacterial or viral infections. Though a vaccine for bordetella is commonly used to prevent kennel cough, it is not effective against all possible causes. The most effective means of prevention may be to avoid contact with other dogs, which is unrealistic for most pet owners. 

Thankfully, although the symptoms of kennel cough can be alarming, it is usually not a serious disease and will resolve on its own with good supportive care. You can reduce your dog's symptoms and discomfort with a variety of methods to ease upper respiratory irritation such as cough medicines and humidity. Immune system support may also help to reduce the intensity of the infection and the duration. Many natural substances available in your home or commercially can help provide immune system support to your dog. Remember, if symptoms become severe or your dog loses their appetite or becomes lethargic you should seek veterinary care as antibiotics may be necessary, or another illness may be present, requiring veterinary treatment.