Can Dogs Be Affected by Strep Throat

Strep throat, a common bacterial infection in humans, is caused by the Streptococcus bacteria. Many pet owners wonder, Can dogs get strep throat? While dogs can indeed be infected by Streptococcus bacteria, it is rare for them to develop symptoms similar to those of strep throat in humans. In this article, we’ll explore whether dogs can contract strep throat, how it affects them, and what symptoms to watch for.

In this comprehensive guide, we will answer your questions about strep throat in dogs, including its symptoms, causes, treatment options, and preventative measures. By the end, you’ll have a clear understanding of how to protect your dog’s throat and when to seek veterinary help if you suspect an infection.

What Is Strep Throat?

Strep throat is a bacterial infection caused by Streptococcus pyogenes, also known as Group A Streptococcus (GAS).  Streptococcus is a spherical bacterium, usually found in pairs or chains, and is a Gram-positive bacterium. In dogs, streptococci can cause a variety of infections, including skin infections, soft tissue infections, sepsis, arthritis, and endocarditis. Streptococcal infections in dogs may present with symptoms such as fever, loss of appetite, decreased vigor, coughing, difficulty breathing, and swollen and painful joints. Streptococcal infections in dogs can be spread through direct contact, so when an infected dog is found, proper quarantine measures should be taken to prevent the spread of the disease to other animals or humans. Strep throat is highly contagious and spreads through respiratory droplets, making it common in schools and close-contact environments.

Why Strep Throat is Rare in Dogs?

Dogs have different anatomical and immune systems than humans, and their throat structure is designed to handle infections differently. Strep throat specifically affects the tonsils and throat, and while dogs do have tonsils, the bacteria that cause strep throat in humans are not as likely to infect canine tonsils in the same way. However, dogs can still experience throat infections caused by other types of bacteria or viruses, so it's important to be aware of the signs.

Symptoms of Throat Infections in Dogs

While your dog may not get strep throat per se, they can suffer from throat infections caused by bacteria or viruses. Some symptoms of throat infections in dogs are similar to those you might see in strep throat cases in humans.

Common Signs of a Throat Infection in Dogs

• Coughing: Dogs with throat infections may start coughing frequently. The cough can be dry or productive (with mucus).
• Gagging or Retching: Dogs might attempt to cough up mucus or food that gets stuck in their throat, leading to gagging or retching sounds.
• Excessive Drooling: If your dog is having difficulty swallowing, they may drool more than usual.
• Difficulty Swallowing or Eating: Dogs with sore throats may have trouble eating or drinking, as swallowing becomes painful.
• Loss of Appetite: A dog suffering from a throat infection may refuse food due to pain when swallowing.
• Fever: Like humans, dogs with infections can develop a fever as their body fights the infection.
• Lethargy: Dogs may seem more tired or withdrawn than usual, a sign that their body is working to fight off the infection.
• Bad Breath: Infections in the throat or mouth can cause foul-smelling breath.

If your dog is showing any of these signs, it’s crucial to seek veterinary attention for a proper diagnosis and treatment.

What Causes Throat Infections in Dogs?

While strep throat in humans is caused by Streptococcus bacteria, dogs are more likely to get throat infections from different pathogens, such as:

Bacterial Infections

Dogs can suffer from throat infections caused by a variety of bacteria, including:

• Bordetella bronchiseptica (Kennel Cough): A highly contagious respiratory disease in dogs, often affecting the throat and causing symptoms like coughing and gagging.
• Mycoplasma: A type of bacteria that can cause respiratory issues and throat infections.
• Pasteurella or Streptococcus: These bacteria can also cause throat infections in dogs, though it's less common.

Viral Infections

Dogs can also suffer from viral infections that affect the respiratory system, including:

• Canine Parainfluenza Virus: This virus is one of the causes of kennel cough and can lead to inflammation of the throat.
• Canine Influenza Virus (CIV): Often associated with flu-like symptoms, CIV can also cause throat irritation and respiratory distress.

Foreign Objects or Trauma

Sometimes, a dog’s throat can become irritated due to physical factors, such as a foreign object lodged in their throat or trauma from excessive barking, rough play, or eating hard objects. This can cause inflammation, difficulty swallowing, and pain.

What Foods Are Soothing for Dog's Throat?

There are several foods that can have a soothing effect on dog throat discomfort.

Sydney: rich in minerals, Sydney is known to clear heat, resolve phlegm, and moisturize the lungs, which in moderation can reduce throat ailments in dogs. 
Honey: honey is thought to cover your dog's throat and help soothe it, especially if your dog has hiccups, try feeding your dog a tablespoon of honey. 
Asparagus: Asparagus is a food that can help soothe your dog's throat. 
Duck: Duck is also a food that can help moisturize your dog's throat. 
When feeding these foods, make sure they are appropriate for your dog's dietary restrictions and health conditions, and preferably under the guidance of your veterinarian. If your dog's throat discomfort persists or is accompanied by other symptoms, you should consult your veterinarian.

How to Treat Throat Infections in Dogs?

• Antibiotic treatment

Depending on whether the patient is allergic to penicillin or not, the appropriate antibiotic is chosen, such as penicillins, cephalosporins or macrolide antibiotics. Antibiotics are effective in controlling infections caused by streptococcus. 

• Antiviral treatment

Antiviral medications may be needed if the pharyngitis is caused by a viral infection. 

• Supportive Treatment

Includes maintaining adequate fluid intake, proper rest and nutritional support to help the body fight the infection. 

• Nebulized inhalation

In case of increased respiratory secretions, nebulized inhalation therapy may be used to moisturize the airways and facilitate the expulsion of phlegm. 

• Topical gargle

Gargle with compound borax solution or saline to clean the mouth and throat and reduce inflammation. 

• Physical cooling

For patients with high fever, physical cooling measures can be taken, such as warm water baths. 

• Rehydration therapy

For patients with symptoms of dehydration, rehydration fluids by oral or intravenous infusion may be needed to maintain water and electrolyte balance. 

Patients should follow their doctor's instructions to complete the entire course of antibiotics and should not interrupt treatment even if symptoms resolve early. Personal hygiene should also be observed and close contact with others should be avoided to prevent spreading the infection. 

How Should I Adjust My Dog's Diet During a Strep Throat Infection?

During a dog's strep infection, it is important to adjust the diet to support their immune system and speed recovery. Here are some suggestions on how to adjust your diet.

• Increase water intake

Make sure your dog has adequate water intake as water helps maintain fluid balance, boosts metabolism and helps flush toxins from the body.

• Easily digestible food

Choose foods that are easy to digest, such as cooked white rice and cooked lean meats, to minimize the burden on the digestive system.

• High Quality Protein

Provide a high-quality source of protein, such as cooked chicken or fish, to help repair tissues and boost the immune system.

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• Avoid Stimulating Foods

Avoid feeding your dog foods that may cause allergies or irritation, such as dairy, wheat and soy, while he is recovering.

• Eat Smaller, More Frequent Meals

It may be necessary to divide your dog's daily food into multiple small meals to promote digestion and absorption while avoiding eating too much at once.

• Nutritional Supplements

Depending on your veterinarian's recommendations, it may be necessary to add some nutritional supplements, such as vitamins and minerals, to support your dog's overall health.

• Monitor Appetite and Digestion

Closely monitor your dog's appetite and digestion, and make dietary adjustments or consult your veterinarian if indigestion or loss of appetite occurs.

Keep in mind that when making dietary adjustments, follow your veterinarian's professional recommendations and personalize them to your dog's specific health conditions and responses. Your veterinarian may be able to provide more detailed dietary instructions to ensure that your dog receives proper nutritional support during treatment.

How to Prevent the Occurrence of Strep Throat Infection in Dogs

To prevent the onset of strep infections in dogs, you can take the following steps.

Vaccination

Ensure that your dog is fully vaccinated, including against streptococcal infections, as this is one of the most effective ways of preventing infections. 

Related: Puppy’s First Vaccinations：Puppy Health Guarantee

Regular checkups

Take your dog to the veterinarian for regular health checkups so that any potential health issues can be detected and dealt with in a timely manner. 

Avoid contact with infectious agents

Try to avoid contact between your dog and animals known to carry streptococcus, as well as avoiding your dog ingesting food or water that may be contaminated. 

Regular medical checkups and deworming

Regular medical checkups allow for the timely detection and treatment of potential health problems, while deworming prevents parasitic infections and thus reduces the burden on your dog's body. 

Timely Treatment of Diseases

If you find your dog showing symptoms of bacterial infection, such as itchy skin, loss of appetite, etc., you should seek medical attention in time so that your doctor can give you the appropriate treatment plan. 

Monitor your dog's behavior and health

Watch for any unusual symptoms in your dog, such as loss of appetite, fever, or behavioral changes, and consult your veterinarian when you notice a problem. 

By doing the above, you can significantly reduce your dog's risk of contracting strep throat. Remember to maintain good communication with your veterinarian and follow his or her professional advice to ensure your dog's health and safety.

Are There Any Natural Remedies to Spot Early if Your Dog Has a Strep Infection?

Natural remedies can be used as an aid in monitoring your dog's health, which may help to detect signs of strep infection in advance. Here are some natural remedies that can help you monitor your dog's health:

Observe your dog's behavior and appetite: strep infections in dogs may lead to loss of appetite and abnormal behavior. 

Examine your dog's skin and mucous membranes: strep infections may cause redness, swelling, ulcers or inflammation of the mucous membranes. 

Offer foods rich in Omega-3 fatty acids: Omega-3 fatty acids help boost your dog's immune system and may help prevent infections. 

Keep your dog's environment clean: regular cleaning of your dog's living environment and toys may reduce the spread of bacteria and viruses. 

Regular naturopathic conditioning: By modifying the diet and providing the right amount of exercise, you can help boost your dog's overall health and immunity. 

Use herbs: Certain herbs are known for their purgative and immunity-boosting properties and can be used as part of preventative and complementary treatments. 

Keep in mind that natural remedies should not replace professional veterinary diagnosis and treatment. If you suspect your dog may have a strep infection or other illness, you should contact your veterinarian immediately for an examination. Natural remedies can be used as part of daily health management, but professional medical advice and intervention is essential when dealing with specific health issues.

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Conclusion 

While dogs can contract Streptococcus infections, it’s rare for them to develop strep throat in the same way humans do. However, they can carry and spread certain types of Streptococcus bacteria, making good hygiene practices essential. If your dog shows signs of a bacterial infection, such as coughing, fever, or lethargy, consult your veterinarian for proper diagnosis and treatment.