Symptoms of asthma usually include shortness of breath and wheezing. These breathing problems occur because of spasms and constrictions of the bronchi and trachea, which are the large upper airways. Just like people, dogs can develop asthma. Generally, in dogs, this disorder is diagnosed as allergic bronchitis.

This disorder usually begins when the dog has an allergic reaction to something he inhales in his environment causing his upper airways to inflame and fill with mucus, and then the spasms begin. Sadly, if a dog suffers with this condition for a long time, it can damage the delicate tissues that line his respiratory tract.

Asthma Attack Symptoms Vary

The symptoms of an asthma attack in a dog vary greatly from an occasional problem breathing to severe breathing difficulties that approach suffocation. Unfortunately once it becomes severe, it is rarely reversible and is considered as chronic bronchitis. In extremely severe cases, he may resort to breathing through his mouth and his gums may turn a bluish color because of oxygen deprivation. If a dog’s asthma attack becomes severe and he has a dry, raspy cough, he needs immediate veterinary care or he may not survive.

What to Look For

Dogs of any age can suffer with allergic bronchitis. One of the most common symptoms is a chronic, dry hacking cough. This cough can come on suddenly or gradually occur.

Signs to watch for include:

• Sluggishness
• Poor appetite
• Breathing through the mouth
• Shortness of breath/wheezing
• Blue or purple gums/tongue
• Weight loss
• Difficulty with exercise

Treatment

While veterinarians do have medications that will assist with allergic bronchitis, many have unwanted side effects. For this reason, numerous pet owners have decided to look into natural treatments.

There is a lung strengthening and a lung-clearing product called Fresh Aire Lung Formula. A veterinarian created this formula and it has been used for more than 20 years in the treatment of congestion and breathing issues related to asthma, coughing, sneezing and cardiac problems in cats and dogs. Other herbs that are helpful with this disorder areechinacea,inulahelenium,plantagolanceolata and marshmallow.

If your furry friend is suffering with asthma, consider getting him the help he needs so he can breathe, eat and play happily once again.