Our german shephard is in real bad shape, apparently he has an extreme case of bronchitis. We've got him on antibiotics and a kind of mucinex-type-thing to get the nasty stuff out of his body, but I'm wondering if anyone has any other tips for stuff we can do with him since he seems like he's really struggling, and the vet was very concerned. He's become pretty lethargic in the last week or so and we're trying not to push him since apparently excitement is not a good idea right now.
I'm feeding him high-quality canned food to keep him eating and give him strength, and we've also been kinda steaming him in the bathroom with a hot shower running for a little bit once a day, which seems to help a lot with getting the goop out of him.
For helping with breathing while swallowing you can elevate food and water to a height that he doesn't have to bend down for. It is recommended for things like laryngeal paralysis, but it couldn't hurt to make swallowing a little easier.
I've been there witb a pup. Try to remember to take care of yourself too. Wishing you and yours the best.
We have done that... it was very scary to hear the vet describe him as "maybe critical". He doesn't seem any better or worse so far. Just gonna try to keep him on medication and make sure he eats as much as possible, he's always been a skinny guy.