Since we brought her back inside the house last night from the backyard, she has been coughing and gagging really bad. She sounds and looks like she wants to throw up, but doesn’t.
I understand that coughing and gagging in dogs can be quite concerning. Since your dog has been experiencing these symptoms since last night, there are a few potential causes to consider. One possibility is a respiratory infection, such as kennel cough, particularly if she hasn't been vaccinated for Bordetella. Kennel cough is a common and contagious respiratory illness in dogs, often presenting with a dry, hacking cough that can resemble gagging.
Another potential cause could be that she inhaled or ingested something irritating while outside, leading to throat or airway irritation. Allergies or exposure to irritants like smoke or strong odors can also trigger coughing and gagging.
To help make her more comfortable in the meantime, you can keep her in a quiet, warm environment and use a humidifier to maintain moist air. Ensure she stays well-hydrated and try to minimize her exposure to any potential irritants.
If her symptoms persist or worsen, I recommend taking her to the vet to determine the exact cause and condition.
If you observe any additional symptoms such as difficulty breathing, lethargy, vomiting, diarrhea, or loss of appetite, these could indicate a more serious condition, and immediate veterinary attention is essential.
Please feel free to reach out if you have any further questions. Thank you.
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