Content provided by our partner, Noah’s Ark Pet Crematory ~
While asthma is much less common in dogs than in cats, dogs can suffer from asthma in much the same ways humans do. According to PetMD, Dog asthma is defined as an allergic disease. Asthma attacks in dogs are caused by an allergic reaction that results in airway inflammation, which causes constriction and spasming of the small airways in the lungs. When diagnosed in dogs, asthma is usually seen in middle-aged dogs and some young dogs. Typically, small dogs are more likely to have asthma than large dogs.
What Causes Asthma in Dogs?
Asthma attacks are triggered by the inhalation of allergens. Some common allergens that can affect dogs with asthma include:
- Mold spores
- Dust and mold mites
- Cat litter dust
- Cat dander
- Pollens
- Household cleaners
- Air pollution
- Perfume
- Air fresheners
- Airborne pesticides or fertilizers
- Smoke from cigarettes, pipes, e-cigarettes
What Are Some Asthma Symptoms in Dogs?
Dogs having an asthma attack will experience coughing, panting with a wide mouth, wheezing and an overall difficulty with breathing. Dogs with asthma can also experience a buildup of excessive mucus and phlegm, which, if it is severe enough, can make a dog’s gums turn blue due to a lack of oxygen. An asthmatic dog can be panicked and difficult to calm down. It is important to never impede an asthmatic dog’s ability to breathe by closing his mouth; doing so may result in bite injury.
How Are Dogs Diagnosed With Asthma?
Dog asthma can be tricky to diagnose if your dog isn’t having an active asthma attack, which is why it is important to get your dog to a veterinarian ASAP if you notice any of the above symptoms. Dog asthma is usually diagnosed by a combination of the history you give and the findings from the physical exam and radiographs (X-rays). If your dog isn’t having an asthma attack, the radiographs may come back as normal and may have to be repeated at a future time.
Here at Noah’s Ark we help celebrate the life of your cherished friend by offering a loving and compassionate cremation service. We can provide a plaster paw print, hair clipping and memorial DVD upon request at no additional cost.
Noah’s Ark Pet Crematory
2643 Old Bridge Road Manasquan, NJ 08736
732-528-6624 or 732-528-NOAH