How to Help Treat a Dog with a Cold

It's the winter season, which means one thing: colds are going around. The common cold doesn't just affect humans, though it can affect dogs, too. If your furry friend gets a cold, you'll need to take some steps to treat him. That way, you can ensure he recovers as quickly as possible, and that he's as comfortable as possible while he gets back on the path to wellness. Here are some tips for treating your dog with a cold, so he can get back to being his happy, active self.

Go to the Vet

If you think your dog has a cold, the best bet is to head to the vet right away. The vet can check out his symptoms and make sure that they're not something more serious -- or caused by allergies. Once your vet diagnoses a cold, he or she will help you understand what to do. Make sure you get any medicines or treatments your vet prescribes for your dog, whether they're to alleviate respiratory symptoms or skin itching via a medicine such as Apoquel. If your vet does prescribe something, click here for affordable options, as buying directly from the vet can be very pricey.

Keep Your Dog Hydrated

One way to make sure your dog recovers quickly and feels good while he's recuperating is to keep him hydrated. Make sure your dog has access to fluids at all times, including water and broth. Liquids will help ease the symptoms of a cold (like sore throat), and they will ensure proper hydration. Check his water bowl frequently.

Try Steam

Is you dog experiencing coughing and congestion? Try placing him in a steamy room in order to alleviate it. Bring him into a bathroom, shut the door, and let the shower run. When the room fills with steam, it should open up his nasal passages and clear his chest. Try doing this for 15 minutes, and you could see significant improvements in his condition.

Get Tons of Rest

Everyone loves playing with their furry friend. However, when your dog has a cold, it's very important to make sure that he gets plenty of rest. Set up a very comfortable bed for your dog, and encourage him to stay in it as much as possible. You can make the bed even more enticing for him by adding a warm heating pad or blanket, and making sure the bed is filled with comfortable pillows and toys.

Limit Time Spent Outside

Your dog will have to go outside to use the bathroom. However, other than that, try to limit his time outside. This is particularly important if the weather is cold. Cold air not only makes it uncomfortable for your dog to be outside, it can also constrict his bronchial tubes, which will make it harder for him to breathe. If your dog has difficulty breathing after a short trip outside, taking him into a warm room with steam can help open up his breathing and make him more comfortable.

If your dog catches a cold, fear not. There are some simple steps that you can make to ensure that your dog gets well quickly and that he feels comfortable while he recuperates. If you take some steps to help ensure proper care for him, he'll be feeling well in no time -- and your family will be happy to play and cuddle with him again.

Lannie, writer for Allivet. Allivet provides affordable pet supplies and pet medications, all of which can be purchased online.