A cold is a very common illness, and it is not limited to humans. If care is not sufficient, dogs can catch colds too, especially during seasonal changes. So when an Afghan Hound shows the following symptoms, owners should be alert, because the dog may already have a cold.
Main Signs of a Dog Getting Chilled and Catching a Cold
1. Poor mental condition and looking listless all day.
2. Clear, watery discharge from the nostrils rather than thick pus-like mucus.
3. Frequent sneezing and coughing, with difficulty eating, as if the throat or larynx were uncomfortable.
4. Red, bloodshot eyes and unexplained tears.
5. A major drop in appetite and no real interest in food.
6. Fever, usually around 39 to 40 degrees Celsius. The original article lists a lower normal range for adults and puppies, but in practice what matters is a clear rise above the dog's usual normal temperature.
7. Noticeably reduced sense of smell, so even fragrant dog food or treats fail to excite the dog.
What Should You Do If a Dog Has a Cold?
Normally, the course of a cold in a dog is about 3 to 5 days, and at most around 7 to 10 days. A dog with strong resistance may recover on its own after a few days, but in some cases the condition may grow more serious and may even trigger bronchitis or pneumonia.
In general, once a dog is found to be chilled, the best response is to take it to a veterinary clinic for examination and appropriate treatment. Owners should try to prevent the cold from worsening and avoid triggering other diseases. During the cold, the dog needs more rest, more water, and extra nutritional support, especially vitamins. As for medication, it is best to follow a veterinarian's advice rather than giving random medicine on your own.
Things to Pay Attention to During a Dog's Cold
1. Keep the dog warm: If a dog has a cold, the first thing to do is provide warmth, such as extra bedding or another suitable warming measure.
2. Offer ginger soup if appropriate: People commonly believe ginger soup helps drive out cold, and some owners try the same for dogs. Not every dog will like the taste, but some may accept it.
3. Boost nutrition: A dog with a cold is physically weaker, just like a sick human, so it needs better nutrition in order to recover faster.
Finally, when you discover that a dog has a cold, never casually give it human cold medicine. For the safety and health of your pet, it is always best to follow a veterinarian's guidance.