KENNEL COUGH
Kennel Cough, or Bordatella is an infection similar to a canine cold, which usually lasts for one to two weeks. It can be picked up by a dog who is in close proximity to another dog who’s infected – either in closed quarters such as a boarding facility, or at dog parks, dog beaches or other areas where lots of canines congregate together.
Many milder cases of Kennel Cough can be treated at home with essential oils, herbs and homeopathics. A trip to the vet may be necessary for persistent cases lasting more than a couple of weeks, or where the dog becomes weak with a loss of appetite or any other signs of discomfort.
Stress can make a dog more susceptible, so it’s a good idea to boost up the immune system prior to the occurrence of a stressful situation, if you can. Immune system support is also important when Kennel Cough occurs. Herbal immune-system enhancers include Vitamin C, Echinacea, Olive Leaf and Astragalus. NingXia Red and colloidal silver are also excellent supplements for immune system support.
R.C. is our favorite resource to help dogs who have either been exposed to sick dogs or are starting to show symptoms. We either diffuse, tent or apply R.C. on the dog's chest. When applying topically, oils should be properly diluted on dogs. R.C. is available from Young Living. We lead a large team of animal wellness professionals and enthusiasts in Young Living, and would be honored to help you purchase therapeutic grade essential oils. We sponsor and teach those who wish to learn about essential oils. Other choices for immune support are NingXia Red, Inner Defense and ImmuPower from Young Living. To purchase under our sponsorship please use this link.
Garlic is a great addition to the diet of dogs suffering with Kennel Cough. Peel some organic garlic cloves and place them in a glass jar. Cover with a few good squirts of organic olive oil and leave to infuse for 24 hours. Add a few drops to each meal.
Organic Unrefined / Virgin Coconut Oil also possesses amazing immune-enhancing properties. Coconut oil contains medium chain fatty acids that are anti-viral and anti-bacterial (as well as many other benefits). A dosage of about 1 to 2 teaspoons of coconut oil per 10 pounds of body weight per day can be divided into your dog’s meals to help combat Kennel Cough. Half this dosage can be used for maintenance of long term health. Use slightly less if any signs of loose stool occur.
Raw Honey is a great natural treatment that helps soothe the throat. Raw Honey also has antibacterial, antiviral, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and anti-fungal properties. A 30 to 50 lb dog can be given about 1/2 to 1 teaspoon of honey three to four times a day. Adjust this amount up or down depending on the size of your dog.
Homeopathic remedies for Kennel Cough include Drosera or Bryonia for a dry, hacking cough and violent coughing spells. The throat feels ticklish when Drosera is indicated, and pressure to the neck (such as from a collar) can trigger a bout of coughing. The cough may also be worse when lying down. We keep both remedies on hand. If we use Drosera without effect, then we use Bryonia.
Aconite is useful in the very early stages, when signs of kennel cough (coughing, hacking as though something is caught in the throat), first appear.
Steam: Bring your dog in the bathroom with you while you take a shower (not in the shower), and let him breathe the steam to help soothe the cough.
Many milder cases of Kennel Cough can be treated at home with essential oils, herbs and homeopathics. A trip to the vet may be necessary for persistent cases lasting more than a couple of weeks, or where the dog becomes weak with a loss of appetite or any other signs of discomfort.
Stress can make a dog more susceptible, so it’s a good idea to boost up the immune system prior to the occurrence of a stressful situation, if you can. Immune system support is also important when Kennel Cough occurs. Herbal immune-system enhancers include Vitamin C, Echinacea, Olive Leaf and Astragalus. NingXia Red and colloidal silver are also excellent supplements for immune system support.
R.C. is our favorite resource to help dogs who have either been exposed to sick dogs or are starting to show symptoms. We either diffuse, tent or apply R.C. on the dog's chest. When applying topically, oils should be properly diluted on dogs. R.C. is available from Young Living. We lead a large team of animal wellness professionals and enthusiasts in Young Living, and would be honored to help you purchase therapeutic grade essential oils. We sponsor and teach those who wish to learn about essential oils. Other choices for immune support are NingXia Red, Inner Defense and ImmuPower from Young Living. To purchase under our sponsorship please use this link.
Garlic is a great addition to the diet of dogs suffering with Kennel Cough. Peel some organic garlic cloves and place them in a glass jar. Cover with a few good squirts of organic olive oil and leave to infuse for 24 hours. Add a few drops to each meal.
Organic Unrefined / Virgin Coconut Oil also possesses amazing immune-enhancing properties. Coconut oil contains medium chain fatty acids that are anti-viral and anti-bacterial (as well as many other benefits). A dosage of about 1 to 2 teaspoons of coconut oil per 10 pounds of body weight per day can be divided into your dog’s meals to help combat Kennel Cough. Half this dosage can be used for maintenance of long term health. Use slightly less if any signs of loose stool occur.
Raw Honey is a great natural treatment that helps soothe the throat. Raw Honey also has antibacterial, antiviral, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and anti-fungal properties. A 30 to 50 lb dog can be given about 1/2 to 1 teaspoon of honey three to four times a day. Adjust this amount up or down depending on the size of your dog.
Homeopathic remedies for Kennel Cough include Drosera or Bryonia for a dry, hacking cough and violent coughing spells. The throat feels ticklish when Drosera is indicated, and pressure to the neck (such as from a collar) can trigger a bout of coughing. The cough may also be worse when lying down. We keep both remedies on hand. If we use Drosera without effect, then we use Bryonia.
Aconite is useful in the very early stages, when signs of kennel cough (coughing, hacking as though something is caught in the throat), first appear.
Steam: Bring your dog in the bathroom with you while you take a shower (not in the shower), and let him breathe the steam to help soothe the cough.