* PNEUMONIA

We often hear the term pneumonia used to describe a severe lung disease in people but what does it actually mean and how does it relate to our pets?

 

Pneumonia is by definition inflammation of the lung tissue. This is most often due to bacterial infection but can also be caused by fungal or parasitic infection, a foreign body in the chest or an allergic process. When the lung tissue becomes inflamed the small air sacs fill with fluid and inflammatory cells and reduce its ability to function.

 

Infection is usually secondary to an underlying cause or condition that reduced the defences of the lungs. Young or immunosupressed animals may be particularly susceptible, as are animals that have been vomiting, seizuring or have a weakness in their larynx. Certain viruses, such as the Parainfluenza virus responsible for Canine Cough, can also damage the airways and lead to secondary bacterial infection.

 

A dog with pneumonia may present with lethargy, exercise intolerance, a loss of appetite, weight loss and often a soft cough. A fever is typical and the breathing pattern will often be abnormal.  Coughing occurs for many reasons but very few cause a dog to be this unwell.  If your dog is exhibiting these signs a vet should see them.

 

Once diagnosed, a pet may require hospitalistion for IV fluids and antibiotic therapy. In very severe cases oxygen therapy may be required. Light exercise and gentle coupage (percussion with cupped hands) of the chest is performed throughout the day to encourage the inflammatory material in the lungs to be cleared from the area. For this reason coughing is helpful and cough suppressants are avoided.  Nebulisation is the breathing of humidified air and this can also help to promote the breakdown of secretions. A special machine may be used in hospital to achieve this but placing the dog in the bathroom while a hot shower runs is also an acceptable alternative.

 

If a pet is eating and drinking well and their breathing has improved they may be able to go home but often require ongoing supportive care and oral antibiotics for 3-4 weeks.  The vet will usually repeat any radiographs done to assess the success of treatment. In some cases an underlying cause is present that prevents full resolution of the pneumonia such as a foreign body or an abscess.  These may require further investigation and possible surgery.