What should I know about giving albuterol to my dog for kennel cough?

Kennel cough can last anywhere from 7-14 days, but on average around 7 days. Those two medications won't keep kennel cough around, they are meant to treat for it. Although Allegra is more for just allergies and inflammation. If your pet has been coughing for a long period of time then it is likely not due to kennel cough. It can be an underlying bronchitis, pneumonia, tracheal collapse or a heart condition. I would start with x-rays here.

Albuterol toxicity in dogs can be a life threatening problem as it can cause abnormal heart rhythm and rate, elevated blood pressure, electrolyte disturbances, high body temperature, excitement/agitation, and vomiting. It is a good sign that she made it through the night but she should be seen by a vet to check her heart and electrolytes. Unfortunately, there really isn't much you can do at home to diagnose and treat her problem.

Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! I'm so sorry to hear Axel has pneumonia. Albuterol is not typically used to treat pneumonia, as albuterol treats spastic bronchoconstriction, which isn't comming with pneumonia. Antibiotics are the mainstay of treatment for pneumonia, as well as nebulization (steam therapy) and gentle coupage (tapping on the chest during steam therapy to help break up congestion). If he is on antibiotics, then making sure he is taking them appropriately and eating well will be the most important things. If he starts having difficulty breathing, I would have him re-evaluated right away, as pneumonia can lead to respiratory distress. Good luck!

If nothing else has helped for the bronchitis, I have to wonder is it bronchitis for sure? Could it be anything else? X-rays, heartworm Test, CBC, parasite check are all important. If your vet has ruled out everything else, then yes, you could try an antihistamine to see if there is an allergy component. If not, a lot of people have luck with trying an inhaler with their dog. You are lucky to be in Canada and not here in the States as inhalers are a lot less expensive there! They are used with a mask and spacing system.

Albuterol can be used in dogs under the direction and prescription of your veterinarian. A specialized inhaler is needed to administer the medication. Please follow up with your veterinarian to discuss whether or not Gizmo needs this medication and how it should be administered.

Alfie is displaying classic signs of an upper respiratory infection (aka kennel cough). These can often be due to a viral infection, so that is likely why the vet has prescribed the benadryl; they are treating conservatively. The benadryl will help make Alfie feel better, but will also make him tired. However, it appears the infection has gotten worse and I would be prescribing antibiotics at this time. They do tend to feel crummy (much like we do when we have a cold), but rest assured, this is not an emergency and no need to rush off to the emergency vet. You can see your vet at a regular appointment time in the next day or two and they will advise on additional medication. I hope that helps and Alfie feels better soon.

Oh no, poor Rosie! I would not give her any more Robitussin, as too much is not safe for dogs. Kennel cough is a self limiting disease that last three to four weeks, and while medications can help with the symptoms, they will not completely prevent the symptoms of it. I would have Rosie seen by a vet, who can prescribe medications are safe to give her. There are some things you can do for her at home. Any dog with kennel cough should be isolated for at least two weeks, possibly longer depending on the severity of the infection. Keep her in a well-humidified area, and use a harness instead of a collar to minimize coughing. Rest her for at least seven days to minimize irritation of the airways caused by excessive coughing. You can bring Rosie into the bathroom with you while you have a shower, as the steam may help with the respiratory irritation. I recommend having her seen by a vet tomorrow.