How do you know if your dog has strep throat? Expert Advice

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How do I treat my dog’s strep throat?

Most cases of strep throat will subside with enough rest and hydration, but more severe cases (illness lasting longer than a week, or recurring) require a veterinarian’s attention.

Treatment

To treat your dog’s strep throat, be sure to practice any combination of these tactics:

  • Keep your pet hydrated by being more attentive to their water bowl and encouraging their drinking habits.
  • Keep your pet well-rested by discouraging frequent or strenuous activity.
  • Administer antibiotics and anti-inflammatories as prescribed by a veterinarian to help with swelling, discomfort, and healing.

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    Recovery

    Proper care will have your dog back to their happy, tail-wagging selves within a week or two. If symptoms progress despite treatment, call or visit your veterinarian immediately.

    Can dogs get strep throat from humans?

    Strep throat is a bacterial infection that causes fever and sore throat. It’s also contagious, which may cause us to worry if the four-legged members of our family could contract the illness from us. While, technically, yes, a dog can develop strep from an infected human, it is rare.

    Most veterinarians won’t deter you from accepting those warm cuddles from your dog while you’re sick as you are likely not infectious to them.

    Pathogens for strep throat are species-particular. This means that strep that affects us (Group A Streptococcus) is different from the strand that affects dogs (Group G Streptococcus). However, there have been a small number of reported cases of human-to-dog and dog-to-human contagion.

    Does my dog have strep throat?

    You may be surprised to learn that what ails you during a bout with strep throat isn’t too dissimilar from what your pets may experience. Keep this in mind when observing symptoms.

    Symptoms

  • Swollen, sore throat
  • Fever
  • Coughing, hacking
  • Lack of appetite
  • Lethargy

    • Causes

    Strep throat pathogens spread through even the most minor means of contact. If you ride an elevator to get to work, you may catch something after someone coughs or sneezes.

    For dogs, strep can be contracted from sharing the same feeding or watering stations. Outbreaks in dog shelters or kennels are the perfect example of how bacteria spread quickly and easily if not quarantined.

    Diagnosis

    The symptoms of strep throat may have overlap with other maladies, especially tonsillitis. To ensure your pet gets the best care, seeing a veterinarian is always recommended. Their expertise will help you properly diagnose any illness your pet may be suffering from.

    At the vet’s office, medical history and a physical examination of your pet will take place. The veterinarian may request a urinalysis or test a swab from the inside of your dog’s cheek.

    Symptoms and Treatment of Canine Pharyngitis