Just like humans, dogs can get sick, too. While it's rare for the same germs to affect both canines and people, dogs can contract viruses that give them respiratory infections that manifest similar to the common cold. To provide your dog with the proper pet care, you should be able to recognize the signs that indicate your pup is sick and know what to do about it.

How to Tell If Your Dog Is Sick

Many of the visible symptoms of a respiratory infection are the same in dogs as they are in humans. Your furry friend may sneeze or cough, and they can have a runny or stuffy nose and watery eyes. Your dog can also get a fever or have digestive symptoms, like vomiting and diarrhea. Additionally, you may notice changes in their behavior; they may seem fatigued, stop playing, or exhibit changes in their appetite or mood.

How to Care for a Sick Pet

If you're worried about your pet’s health, consult a veterinarian. While the issue may be a simple cold, it can also be something more serious, like kennel cough, bronchitis, or parasites. If your veterinarian identifies the illness as something worrisome, they may prescribe antibiotics and other medications.

If your dog has a cold, avoid strenuous exercise or getting them overexcited. Make sure they’re eating and drinking plenty of water, so their body is strong enough to fight the infection. If they seem uncomfortable due to a runny nose, wipe it gently with a damp cloth. You can also run a humidifier to add moisture to the air—this will soothe a sore throat or congested nose.

If you think your dog is sick, take them to Kapolei Pet Hospital in Hawaii. Dr. Yoko Haneda and her team offer several pet care services to protect and improve your furry friend’s health. After a thorough checkup, they’ll administer the necessary vaccines or medications to help your pup feel better. View their full list of pet care services online, or call (808) 462-8040 to schedule an appointment.