Dog owners: Did you know dogs can get pharyngitis too?

Dogs can suffer from pharyngitis, often caused by the ingestion of coarse and hard foods, sharp objects, chemical substances, or reactions to extreme temperatures in food. Swallowing difficulties and drooling are the primary symptoms of this condition in dogs.

Causes of Dog Pharyngitis

1. The most common cause of canine pharyngitis is the consumption of rough, sharp foods, chemicals, or extreme temperatures that irritate the throat.

2. Additionally, it can be a secondary condition following other infectious diseases, such as feline stomatitis.

Clinical Symptoms of Dog Pharyngitis

1. The most apparent symptoms of pharyngitis in dogs are swallowing difficulties and excessive drooling. Dogs with pharyngitis may find it hard to swallow food and may experience pain, leading them to avoid eating or to regurgitate food. A large amount of thick saliva often accumulates in their mouths, sometimes oozing out in strands or pouring out when they open their mouths.

2. The head and neck of affected dogs are often extended and minimally moved. When the throat is pressed, the dog may struggle and pull away, resulting in persistent coughing after the touch.

3. Due to the difficulty in swallowing, the dog's food intake may decrease, potentially leading to weight loss and emaciation if left untreated for a long time.

4. In cases of secondary pharyngitis, systemic symptoms may be more pronounced.

Preventive and Treatment Measures for Dog Pharyngitis

1. Owners should place the sick dog in a warm, dry, and wellventilated kennel. For dogs with mild symptoms, they can be fed with liquid food and encouraged to drink plenty of water.

2. To facilitate the absorption or excretion of inflammatory exudates, cold compresses can be applied initially, followed by hot compresses after 23 days.

3. If the dog's condition is severe and it cannot eat, owners should stop feeding. In such cases, it may be necessary to administer 1025% glucose solution intravenously or provide nutrition through enema. Severe cases may require systemic treatment with antibiotics or sulfonamide drugs.

Dr. Oxygen Pet Tips: Pharyngitis in dogs can present with a variety of symptoms. Pet owners should be observant of their dog's physical symptoms and communicate all the symptoms to the veterinarian for a comprehensive treatment plan. If the dog's condition is severe, it is best to seek veterinary care promptly for diagnosis and treatment. Early intervention can help restore your pet's health! Remember, taking preventive measures for your beloved pet can often prevent these diseases.