The term pneumonia in dogs means inflammation of the functional tissue of the lungs and lower respiratory tract. Usually, it is accompanied by inflammation of the upper airways to varying degrees. Although experts vary slightly in their exact definitions of the upper and lower respiratory tracts, it is generally accepted that the upper respiratory tract includes the nasal cavities, pharynx (throat), larynx, trachea (“windpipe”) and bronchi. The lower respiratory tract is made of the bronchioles and alveoli of the lungs. In dogs, the lungs are divided into deeply fissured lobes. The left lung has three lobes (cranial, middle and caudal), and the right lung has four lobes (cranial, middle, caudal and accessory).
Pneumonia can be caused by a number of things, including viruses, bacteria, fungi and internal parasites. Infection of the nasal cavity and other parts of the upper airways often precedes pneumonia in domestic dogs, as well as in people. Pneumonia associated with any infectious organisms can be “caused” - or contributed to - by anything that compromises a dog’s immune status or otherwise predisposes the dog to developing inflammation of the lower respiratory tract. Pneumonia
Pneumonia is not particularly common in healthy mature dogs. It is more often a disease of the very young, the very old and those with weak or compromised immune systems. When it does occur, pneumonia can be acute (come on suddenly) or chronic (come on slowly). The main functions of the lungs are to supply the blood with oxygen inhaled from outside air, and to dispose of carbon dioxide waste in exhaled air. When signs
Pneumonia is not especially difficult to diagnose, as long as the appropriate diagnostic tools and owner willingness are present.When presented with a dog in respiratory distress, a veterinarian will take all necessary steps to ensure that the patient has a patent airway. Once that is accomplished, she will conduct a thorough physical examination and take a complete history from the owner. The initial data base typically includes routine blood work (a complete blood count [CBC]
Dogs with signs of severe respiratory distress need immediate veterinary attention. Treatment goals are to ensure proper oxygenation of circulating blood, resolve any primary and secondary infections, remove any lodged foreign bodies, restore the dog’s health and comfort, eliminate any predisposing conditions and prevent recurrence if at all possible.The treatment protocol for a dog with pneumonia will depend on the cause of the infection. In cases of aspiration pneumonia, the treatment team can use suction