Question: I adopted a 2-year-old Wheaten terrier mix a week ago from Palm Beach Animal Care and Control. She is wonderful. I have had her checked by one of their recommended vets and everything is good. One problem. She gags about 10-15 seconds, maybe three times a day.
It may happen when she gets excited, trying to still figure that out. Nothing comes up. It can happen inside or outside. She is fine once it is over. Is there anything that I can do? Is it allergies or asthma? — Cheryl
Answer: Congratulations on your new dog! Dogs can gag when they have inflammation in the back of their throat. This is can occur with allergies or infections.
Many types of respiratory infections can occur in dogs. Bacteria, viruses, and mycoplasma can cause respiratory infections. Some of these infections can be prevented with vaccines. Dogs out and around other dogs are the most likely to get the infections but even dogs that never leave their own neighborhood can get sick.
Dog flu, or canine influenza, is a virus easily transferred through respiratory secretions when the infected dog coughs. The virus can spread directly to other dogs or may be transferred on objects. Dog flu has been documented in 23 states this year and has been seen in 38 states since it first emerged.
It was documented in Jacksonville several months ago. It can cause gagging, coughing, sneezing, and fever. Severe cases may progress to pneumonia.
Canine Bordetella is a bacterial infection that also causes upper respiratory symptoms. Coughing, sneezing, and gagging are common. Some dogs only get a mild form of the disease and some can get a very severe form. It is treated with antibiotics and cough medication.
It is important to get your dog checked out again and proper treatment started. I encourage everyone to get their dogs vaccinated.
Dr. Baker
Baker Veterinary Clinic
1801 S. Congress Ave.
West Palm Beach, FL 33406
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