dog is snorting

[lakeontario]

my 3 y.o. dog just started snorting yesterday.  at first I thought she was heaving but that's not the case.  she's eating, although not with as much enthusiasm and she perked up several times yesterday to play, but isn't her usual self.  it seems she starts snorting when she's up and about. are there any herbs that might help?  might she have a cold?

[Dr. Carol Osborne, DVM]

I would see your vet and get a Physical Exam and complete blood work (CBC and Chemistry Profile) along with a thyroid check. Have them check a Free T3 and a Free T4 which is the active unbound circulating level of thyroid hormone in your dogs blood. Low thyroid levels can be a cause of snoring as can several other issues, including tracheal problems. Check her rectal temperature to see if it is normal (101.5)
I would not recommend any specific herbs etc until we have an actual diagnosis at which point I am more than glad to help you and offer specific therapies.
Thank you
Dr Carol Osborne, DVM

[Aleda M Cheng, D.V.M., C.V.A]

Snorting in dogs is most commonly due to the following: canine allergies,  upper respiratory infections, or sniffing a foreign body up into the nasal passages.  The foreign bodies can become lodged there, acting as a nidus for infection.  Common nasal foreign bodies include: insects, plant awns, or other substances.

As doctor Osborne mentioned, seeking local veterinary advice is recommended.  If a nasal foreign body is suspected further diagnostics, or treatment, such as X-Rays, or flushing of the nasal passages may be necessary.  

Environmental allergies most commonly occur up to age 4 or 5.  Food allergies can occur anytime in a dog's life.

In order to prescribe an herbal remedy, it is necessary to have a definitive diagnosis.  Once you have taken your dog to the vet and received a diagnosis please post again and we can help with herbal formulas specific to your dog’s diagnosis.