Treatment of Canine Asthma

Many forms of treatment are available for treating cases of canine asthma.  After performing an examination and preparing a diagnosis, the veterinarian can determine an appropriate course of treatment.  Treatment of asthma often consists of using various medications, including antibiotics, antihistamines, bronchodilators, and steroids.  In some cases more than one treatment method is needed. 

Antibiotics will destroy the infection and not allow it to form a resistance before it is eradicated. 

Antihistamines not only treat allergies, but can also be used to dry the excess accumulation of mucous in the lungs.

Steroids are used as a means of reducing the inflammation from the lungs.

Bronchodilators are used to reduce the swelling that causes asthma attacks.  They can also be used as an anti-inflammatory.

Just as in the treatment of human asthma, an inhaler may be needed.  This treatment will involve putting a mask over the dog’s mouth and nose.   Medication can then be breathed into the dog’s body through the use of a tube.  The most severe asthma attacks often require oxygen therapy or an injection of epinephrine.