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Canine Sinus Infection

Canine sinus infection is one of the most common canine respiratory problems. This page looks at the symptoms and causes of sinus infections in dogs and how to use natural remedies such as herbs and homeopathic remedies to help alleviate the symptoms.

Canine Sinus Infection

A dog's sinuses are the nasal cavity - the air chambers in the bone behind the area above the eyes and behind the cheeks.

When the lining of the passages in the nasal cavity of a dog become inflamed, the dog is said to have a sinus infection.

Symptoms shown by canine sinus infection are really heightened activity in the body with an attempt to maintain a buffer and an open airway. For example, the body produces nasal discharge by using mucus to trap dirt and debris and to clean out bacteria. Small hairlike filaments called cilia move the mucus outward, forcing the discharge to the outside with the aid of sneezing and snorting.

Causes of Canine Sinus Infection

The most common causes of sinus infections in dogs are due to environmental influences such as:
  • Allergens (e.g. polluted air, cigarette smoke, etc.)
  • Insect bites and stings
  • Microbial infections (such as brought on by bacteria, virus, or fungus)
Sinus infection in dogs can also be secondary to other health disorders such as an abscessed or decayed root of an upper canine tooth, or tumors.

Generally speaking, young dogs are more prone to microbial infections, whereas sinus infections in older dogs tend to be caused by tumors or dental problems. Long nosed dogs seem to be more prone to the fungal and cancerous causes of sinus infections. Dogs of all ages that suffer from asthma or have a weak immune system are more prone to sinus problems.

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Symptoms of Canine Sinus Infection

Common symptoms of canine sinus infection include: A dog with a sinus infection may experience pain or pressure in the forehead and around the eyes and he may lose his appetite. Sometimes, a fever may be present.

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Treatment of Canine Sinus Infection

Canine Sinus Infection

Conventional treatment of a canine sinus infection usually involves the use of anti-inflammatory drugs or antibiotics. We all know that long-term use of these drugs causes adverse side-effects to our dogs. In addition, these drugs may not address the underlying problems.

A better approach is to have a thorough medical check-up to identify the root cause of the sinus infection. If the infection is secondary to another health problem, then that health problem should be dealt with. For example, a sinus infection secondary to an abscessed tooth or a tumor will not go away if the tooth or the tumor is not being treated.

The bottom line is: identify the root cause of a sinus infection first. If you don't do that, you may be neglecting your dog's real needs.

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Natural Remedies for Canine Sinus Infection

If your dog is suffering from a sinus infection, you can use natural remedies such as herbs and homeopathic remedies to help reduce inflammation. This can relieve his symptoms while he is being treated for the underlying cause. In addition, natural remedies can be used to strengthen the dog's immune system.

Here are two great natural remedies that are effective for canine sinus infection:

PetAlive Sinu-Rite for Pet Sinus Infections

This homeopathic formula contains:

  • Glycorrhiza (Licorice): Licorice is a powerful anti-inflammatory, anti-viral and anti-allergenic herb and is excellent for reducing inflammation by stimulating the anti-inflammatory hormone, cortisol.
  • Sambucus nig (Elderberry): Elderberry is an excellent source of vitamins A, B and C, as well as bioflavonoids and anthocyanins, which support proper cell functioning as well as strengthen the body's immune system. Elderberry also helps loosen nasal matter, enabling the nasal passages to open up thereby alleviating symptoms caused by sinus infections.
  • Pulsatilla (Wind flower): This homeopathic remedy is effective in keeping sinuses clear and healthy.
  • Kali bichromicum: This homeopathic remedy is good for sore throat and nasal congestion.
  • Natrum muriaticum (Sodium chloride, table salt): Salt helps to maintain the body's fluid balance and is an essential component of all living cells. This homeopathic remedy has excellent effects in supporting respiratory health and keeping sinuses, noses, and chests clear and healthy.
Only Natural Pet Respiratory Support Herbal Formula

This herbal formula contains a number of herbs (such as elderberry, licorice, lemon balm, lomatium, and usnea lichen) good for boosting the immune system and supporting sinus health.

If your dog is suffering from a sinus infection, these two remedies can most likely help to make him feel better and more comfortable. The best thing is, these remedies do not cause any nasty side-effects!

In addition to the above remedies, if your dog's nose has become red and irritating because of the nasal discharges resulting from sneezing, you can apply an ointment of either calendula or aloe to the affected area(s).



References

D. Hamilton, Homeopathic Care for Cats and Dogs (North Atlantic Books, 1999).
M.L. Wulff-Tilford and G.L. Tilford, Herbs for Pets (Bowtie Press, 1999).

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