Runny noses, sneezing fits, and sinus pressure are as uncomfortable for our dogs as they are for us. Fall allergies may play a role in seasonal upticks in nasal and sinus issues, but sinusitis and rhinitis can strike all year round.
If your pet is suffering from what appears to be (for lack of a better term) a head cold, they may need a vet’s help to treat the issue and prevent a recurrence. Here’s how pet parents can help support their dog’s respiratory health.
What Are Rhinitis and Sinusitis?Both rhinitis and sinusitis describe respiratory discomfort, but the terms aren’t interchangeable.
Rhinitis refers specifically to the inflammation of the mucus membranes inside your dog’s nose, while sinusitis is the inflammation of the sinuses (the air-filled cavities that surround the nasal passages). Rhinitis and sinusitis can occur separately or simultaneously (rhinosinusitis). When this happens, you’re likely to notice a host of classic symptoms in your dog:
If you’ve ever been unsure whether an illness was caused by allergies, a virus, or something else, it makes sense that sinusitis and rhinitis can have several different origin stories.
Getting to the bottom of why your pet is sniffling is instrumental in getting them the relief they need. A veterinary exam can help distinguish between the most likely culprits.
Certain viruses, bacteria, and fungi can cause painful inflammation in your dog’s nose and sinuses. In order to address infections effectively, it’s important to be certain of their cause.
Bacteria like Bordetella, which causes kennel cough, may require antibiotics while canine parainfluenza could require an antiviral. Occasionally, the irritation caused by a viral infection can lead to a secondary, bacterial one. Only a laboratory culture can identify the best direction for treatment, so head to the vet with your under-the-weather pet.
For dogs, environmental allergies like dust mites, ragweed, and pollen typically show up in the form of red, itchy skin. If persistent sneezing and sniffling occur alongside skin symptoms, it’s a pretty good indicator that allergies may be involved. Medications and allergy-reduction strategies can help pets breathe a little easier during challenging times of the year.
The health of your dog’s dental roots has a direct effect on the health of their sinuses. If they are suffering from an infection or abscess, the bacteria can quickly migrate to the surrounding tissues.
If you’ve noticed any of the common symptoms of canine dental disease, there is a good chance that your pet is already experiencing discomfort. Tooth and mouth infections are unlikely to resolve on their own, so don’t lose time addressing them.
While rare, sinus cysts and nasal tumors can sometimes cause chronic inflammation. Cysts are most commonly seen in brachycephalic, or flat-faced, breeds like bulldogs, pugs, and Boston Terriers.
Sometimes the source of a sinus infection is tissue trauma.
The inside of your dog’s nose is quite delicate. If objects or debris become lodged in the nasal passages (or they’re injured in any other way) inflammation will quickly follow irritation. This inflammatory response can trigger sinusitis and rhinitis.
For some dogs, nose and sinus issues may occur infrequently and resolve easily. Others may have a more chronic struggle that requires preventative measures.
Depending on the root cause of your pet’s sinusitis or rhinitis, small changes may make a big difference in their quality of life.
Many of the viral and bacterial infections responsible for respiratory issues can be prevented with a vaccine, so work with your vet to make sure your dog stays up-to-date.
At Falls Village Veterinary Hospital, a Raleigh, NC veterinarian, dogs, cats & their families deserve the best. In fact, we specialize in delivering warm, compassionate care that reminds our clients and patients how unique and important they truly are. We provide complete veterinary care including dentistry, laser therapy, surgery, and more. Call us today!
