Stuffed up dog.

Dr. Marie replied:

Hi Jen and thanks for your question!

Sorry to hear that Rosie is not feeling well.

We don't tend to see upper respiratory infections in dogs like we do in cats. The only viral condition we see that would cause these symptoms is indeed kennel cough. While some dogs have a cough with kennel cough many will have a stuffed up nose and will simply feel crummy just like when we come down with a bad cold or flu.

You are doing the right things. Kennel cough generally does go away on its own. It usually takes a few days to a couple of weeks. However, if Rosie is really not feeling well, or if she has a green nasal discharge or if she is not eating for more than 24 hours then she may need to see a vet to get some prescription medications to help.

There are other possible reasons for a dog to have nasal congestion and not feel well. These include a bacterial or fungal infection in the nose, a tumor in the nose (although this shouldn't come on all of a sudden), or a tooth root infection. A tooth root infection is indeed a real possibility. The large upper chewing tooth can often become infected in little dogs. It can sometimes be hard to tell. If the root is infected it can cause pus and debris to fill up in the nose and can be very painful. Unfortunately if it is a tooth root infection then she will need to have that tooth extracted by a vet.

I really hope she feels better soon. You can possibly help relieve some congestion by putting her in the bathroom next to a steamy shower for about 10 minutes.

From what you have described though it sounds like she should really be seeing a veterinarian.

I hope all goes well!

Dr. Marie.


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Dr. Marie replied:

You're very welcome Jen.

I re-read my reply and it does sound a little confusing about the upper respiratory infection. What I was trying to say is that the only viral thing that could cause upper respiratory signs in dogs is indeed kennel cough. "Upper respiratory" simply means that the symptoms are limited to the nose and throat rather than in the lungs.

Given that some of the other dogs are having symptoms as well kennel cough sounds likely. The vast majority of dogs get over it on their own so hopefully your crew will be ok!

I think I know what you are talking about with the vaporizer - it is like a humidifier that spreads menthol into the air? This is not likely to be toxic at all, so go ahead and give it a try.

Rosie is lucky to have you! I hope she does well!

Dr. Marie.

Dr. Marie replied:

Again, you're very welcome and thank you for the kind words!

I am wondering if the chills are because she is feeling feverish? It is the chills that make me wonder if she needs to see a vet. Dogs can sometimes have shivering if they are in pain as well.

Is she eating? If so she probably doesn't have a fever and you can likely hold off on a vet visit. But if not it is probably a good idea to have her seen.

I would love referrals to your friends! I have really enjoyed creating this website and am thrilled to be able to help people out! Eventually the price may go up a little but not a whole lot.

Have a good night!

Dr. Marie.