Mark Terry
Pneumonia is a serious and potentially life-threatening condition in dogs, and it can be caused by various factors, including infection, injury, or irritation of the lungs. Dogs that have recently undergone surgery are at a higher risk of developing pneumonia, especially if they have a history of recent anesthesia or sedation. The development of pneumonia after surgery can be influenced by several factors, and it is crucial to seek immediate veterinary treatment to ensure the best outcome for the dog's health.
What You'll Learn
Oxygen therapy
Types of Oxygen Therapy
Oxygen Cage
An oxygen cage is a structure that delivers a higher concentration of oxygen to the dog. The oxygen level is typically set at 40%, as higher percentages over a long period can be toxic to lung cells.
Oxygen Kennel
A dog with pneumonia may be placed in an oxygen kennel to receive oxygen support during hospitalization.
Nasal Cannulas
Nasal cannulas are non-painful, flexible, short plastic tubes placed gently into a dog's nostrils to deliver oxygen directly to their airways.
Duration of Oxygen Therapy
The duration of oxygen therapy depends on the dog's condition and response to treatment. Some dogs may require extended periods of oxygen support, while others may only need it for a short time until their breathing stabilizes.
Post-Oxygen Therapy Care
Once a dog can breathe without oxygen support, they will continue to receive treatment at home, including antibiotic therapy for 3-5 weeks. It is crucial to follow the veterinarian's guidelines for activity restriction during this recovery period, as the dog may still experience shortness of breath or difficulty breathing if allowed to exercise too soon.
Prognosis
The prognosis for dogs with pneumonia is generally good, with an average survival rate of 77-81.6%. However, pneumonia can be a significant complication after surgery, and proper treatment and monitoring are essential for a full recovery.
In summary, oxygen therapy plays a vital role in helping dogs with pneumonia overcome breathing difficulties. It is often a critical component of treatment, especially in severe cases, and can significantly contribute to a successful recovery.
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Antibiotics
Diagnosing Bacterial Pneumonia
To diagnose bacterial pneumonia, veterinarians will often perform a transtracheal aspirate (TTA) or endotracheal lavage (ETL) to obtain a sample from the lungs for cytology and culture. These procedures involve inserting a needle and/or catheter into the trachea, then flushing the lungs with saline to collect a sample of fluid. This can be hazardous in dogs with tracheal collapse and may cause coughing and respiratory distress, so it is not recommended for animals in significant respiratory distress.
Choosing the Right Antibiotic
The initial antibiotic choice should provide broad-spectrum coverage for the most likely organisms, keeping in mind the possibility of polymicrobial infection. In dogs, the majority (>80%) of bacteria cultured in pneumonia cases are gram-negative aerobic rods such as E. coli, Pseudomonas spp., Klebsiella spp., Enterobacter spp., Pasteurella spp., and Bordetella bronchiseptica. A minority of cases culture positive for gram-positive aerobic cocci such as Enterococcus spp., Streptococcus spp., and occasionally Staphylococcus spp. The incidence of anaerobic infections in dogs with pneumonia is unclear but may be up to 20%.
Once the cytology and culture results are available, a specific and narrow-spectrum antibiotic can be chosen for ongoing care. For stable, normoxemic dogs, good oral first-line choices include amoxicillin or amoxicillin/clavulanate. For dogs that are anorexic, febrile, or hypoxemic, parenteral antibiotics, ideally administered intravenously, are recommended. In these cases, a penicillin combined with an aminoglycoside can provide excellent broad-spectrum coverage. Other options include clindamycin with a third-generation cephalosporin or a potentiated penicillin such as ticarcillin/clavulanate.
Duration of Antibiotic Treatment
Antibiotic treatment for bacterial pneumonia in dogs typically lasts for three to five weeks, and oral antibiotics should be continued for at least one week after the resolution of abnormal x-ray patterns. Frequent veterinary rechecks are necessary to ensure the pneumonia is resolving, and chest x-rays should be performed approximately once a week for several weeks.
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Anti-vomiting medication
Pneumonia after surgery is a serious condition for dogs, and it can be life-threatening. It is important to monitor your dog closely after surgery and watch for any signs of illness, such as vomiting or regurgitation, as these are risk factors for developing pneumonia. If your dog is repeatedly vomiting, contact your vet as soon as possible.
There are several anti-vomiting medications that can help curb a dog's upset stomach. Before administering any medication, it is important to have your veterinarian evaluate your dog to determine the cause of the vomiting. Medications can be used alone but are often used in conjunction with other treatments to address the different factors contributing to your dog's upset stomach.
Cerenia (Maropitant Citrate)
Cerenia is a newer medication that can be administered as an injection under the skin or orally as a tablet. It is designed to be given once a day for four to five days and typically significantly reduces nausea and vomiting. If Cerenia does not work and your dog continues to vomit, consult your veterinarian as your dog may have a more serious condition.
Metoclopramide
If your dog's vomiting is due to a stasis of the bowel, metoclopramide, also known as Reglan and Maxolon, can be a medication of choice. It acts to stimulate the bowel muscle, restoring normal contractions of the stomach muscles and allowing the fluid in the stomach to pass downstream. Metoclopramide is available in tablet form, oral syrup, and injection.
Sucralfate
Sucralfate, also known as Carafate, is a chalky substance that is given as a pill or in an oral suspension. It coats the stomach and buffers the tissue from stomach acids, allowing the tissue to heal and decreasing nausea. It can be given up to four times a day, but it should be given on an empty stomach and not at the same time as other medications as it may inhibit their absorption.
Omeprazole
Omeprazole, commonly known as Gastrogard and Prilosec, is designed to slow acid production in the stomach. It is often used in conjunction with other medications to facilitate healing, as it works over time and offers limited immediate relief.
Over-the-Counter Aids
Your veterinarian may recommend over-the-counter medications such as Pepto-Bismol, Pepcid, or diphenhydramine (Benadryl) to help combat nausea and motion sickness. It is important to check with your vet before administering any OTC medication, as they could worsen certain conditions or interact with other medicines.
Prescription Medications
Depending on your dog's condition, your veterinarian may prescribe other anti-nausea medications, which can be administered by injection, intravenously, or in tablet form. These include dolastron, maropitant, ondansetron, and chlorpromazine. All prescription medications should be administered by a veterinarian and are aimed at controlling vomiting and minimizing discomfort and dehydration.
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Nebulization and coupage
Nebulization is the delivery of a fine mist to the lungs. This mist may consist of saline or water only, which can help loosen secretions. Nebulization can also be used to deliver medications directly to the lung tissues. Commonly nebulized medications include anti-inflammatories, bronchodilators, and antibiotics.
Coupage is a technique that can be performed by veterinary staff and pet owners to help clear secretions from the lungs. It involves striking the chest gently but firmly with cupped hands. This action helps loosen secretions trapped in the lower airways, allowing them to be more effectively cleared by coughing.
To perform nebulization on a dog, follow the instructions provided by your veterinarian. This may involve using a nebulizer machine or creating a steam-filled room for your dog to breathe in. For coupage, place your dog on a table or elevated surface and cup your hand to pat the side of their chest. The impact should be firm enough to loosen fluid that may be trapped deep within the lungs but not so hard as to cause pain or discomfort for your dog. Gradually work your way around your dog's entire chest, coupaging each area. This procedure should take only a few minutes. After coupage, encourage your dog to walk around, as activity will promote coughing and help your dog to bring up the loosened secretions.
It is important to follow your veterinarian's recommendations regarding the frequency of nebulization and coupage treatments. Additionally, coupage should not be performed immediately after eating; wait at least one to two hours after a meal.
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Lung expanders
Pneumonia can be a serious condition for dogs, and in some cases, it can even be life-threatening. It is important to monitor your dog's breathing rate and watch for any signs of respiratory distress, such as increased respiratory rate, open-mouth breathing, noisy or wet breathing, and stretching of the neck to breathe. If you notice any of these symptoms, it is crucial to seek immediate veterinary treatment, which may include oxygen therapy and antibiotics.
One of the treatments for pneumonia in dogs is the use of lung expanders. Lung expanders, such as bronchodilators, are an additional therapy that may be recommended by a veterinarian to treat aspiration pneumonia. This condition occurs when gastrointestinal contents are inhaled into the lungs, causing inflammation and infection. The treatment for aspiration pneumonia typically includes oxygen therapy, intravenous (IV) fluids, and antibiotics. Lung expanders can help open up the airways and improve breathing by relaxing the muscles surrounding the airways, making it easier for air to move in and out of the lungs.
It is important to note that lung expanders are typically used in conjunction with other treatments, such as oxygen therapy and antibiotics, and should only be administered under the guidance of a veterinarian. They are not recommended for long-term use and should be discontinued once the dog's condition has improved. In some cases, lung expanders may not be suitable for all dogs, and your veterinarian will advise you on the best course of treatment for your dog's specific needs.
In addition to medical treatments, it is important to provide supportive care for your dog during their recovery from pneumonia. This includes ensuring they have access to plenty of fresh water and a comfortable, quiet place to rest. You may also need to restrict their activity levels to prevent further strain on their lungs and body. With proper veterinary care and supportive home care, most dogs can make a full recovery from pneumonia and return to their normal, active selves.
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Frequently asked questions
Pneumonia is a lung disease that causes inflammation inside the microscopic parts of the lungs, known as air sacs. This leads to swelling and a buildup of fluid and pus, making it difficult for a dog to breathe.
Symptoms of pneumonia in dogs include difficulty breathing, shallow and short breaths, mucus coming from the nose or after a cough, and blue, grey or purple mucus membranes.
Pneumonia in dogs can be caused by infection, injury, or irritation of the lungs, including diseases, viruses, aspiration, inhaled irritants, and bacteria.
A veterinarian will perform a full physical examination to confirm pneumonia, checking for symptoms such as shallow breathing, coughing, and fever. They may also use a stethoscope, take X-rays, and perform a bronchial lavage to check for bacteria in the lungs.
Yes, most dogs can fully recover from pneumonia with qualified medical attention. Treatment options include antibiotics, bronchodilators, expectorants, steroids, suction to remove foreign material from the lungs, nebulizers or humidifiers to loosen mucus, and supplemental oxygen therapy.
