Human Medicine for Kennel Cough in Dogs

Kennel cough is a very common upper-respiratory infection affecting dogs of all ages and breeds. Like bronchitis in humans, kennel cough is generally mild. However, it can be uncomfortable for the dog, and many pet owners have found relief through over-the-counter medications and prescription treatments. When administered with a veterinarian's guidance, some human cough medicines and herbal remedies can be safe, effective treatments for kennel cough.

Hazards to Avoid

It is impossible to over-stress the importance of using caution when giving a dog any human medication to treat kennel cough. Dogs are dogs, not human beings, and many medications that are safe for people can be acutely toxic to our furry friends. Human medications are by far the most common cause of accidental poisoning in cats and dogs, and they are most often administered by well-meaning pet parents.

Acetominophen, commonly included as a pain reliever and fever reducer, can cause terminal liver failure in a dog. NSAIDs like ibuprofen and naproxen can cause internal hemorrhage and kidney failure. Many dogs have been unintentionally poisoned by owners using pseudoephedrine, a powerful stimulant decongestant, to treat kennel cough. To protect your pet, read the drug ingredient list thoroughly and consult a vet before treating kennel cough at home.

Safe Human Medicine for Kennel Cough

Dextromethorphan (trade name Robitussin-DM) is one of the only safe human cough medicines that can be given to treat kennel cough-- but it should still be used only under a veterinarian's guidance. Dextromethorphan helps to relieve irritation of the airway, and can help to loosen and dislodge mucus. Many veterinarians recommend it for the treatment of kennel cough and other upper-respiratory infections in dogs, but it is approved by the FDA for human use only.

Depending on the severity of the dog's illness and any other medical conditions she may have, 0.5 to 1 mg of Robitussin per pound of body weight can be an effective, yet safe, dosage for treating kennel cough. This should not be administered more than once every twelve hours, unless a veterinarian directs otherwise. If this seems to be ineffective after a few days, a vet may prescribe a stronger medicine.

Herbal Cough Medicine for Dogs

Drug-free herbal formulas, usually used for human beings, may help to fight kennel cough in dogs. Elderberry syrup, an antiviral fruit extract, is one of the most effective treatments for cold, flu, and cough in both humans and dogs. Elderberry has no known side effects or interactions for humans or pets, and many dogs enjoy the taste. Other high-antioxidant fruits, like blueberry and cranberry, may also help.

Immune-stimulating herbal supplements can also be very useful in treating kennel cough. Popular human remedies like echinacea, goldenseal, olive leaf extract, and oil of oregano can offer helpful immune support when administered under a vet's guidance. The herbal decongestant ribwort plantain, a common weed, is also highly safe and effective for kennel cough. These herbal cough medicines can be administered using teas, capsules, or tinctures, depending on the dog's compliance with the treatment.

Kennel cough usually resolves itself within 10-20 days, and may not require prescription drugs for treatment. Pet owners should contact a veterinarian for further treatment if the dog's symptoms have not begun improving within ten days. If the dog seems to be dehydrated, lethargic, or unable to breathe, he needs to be taken to a veterinarian or animal hospital promptly. Responsible treatment can make kennel cough as brief and stress-free as possible.