My senior dog has a wet cough. How can I give relief without a vet?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

I have a 15yr old pit/sharpei thats had this hacking gagging cough a few times a day for the past year or so. over the past month its become more frequent until 2 days ago it started sounding wet. Its now a very wet cough that occurs about every half hour. she hacks about 5-6 times but rarely actually gets it up and out. I have no money no job no chance of her seeing a vet. my question is what can I do to help her get some relief? I know the end is coming soon how can i help her until then?

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Answered By Dr. Leigh, DVM 58

Veterinarian

Published on December 9th, 2016

So sorry that Mary is having this problem. Unfortunately, there really isn't anything over the counter that you should give her, especially without knowing the cause. She could have a problem with her heart and have some fluid in her lungs or have an infection, like pneumonia. If you are not able to take her to a vet than try to keep her as quiet as possible and keep her hydrated and eating. Other than that, she would need to see a vet to diagnose the problem and then prescribe medications to treat. If you have a vet that regularly treats her, you could call and see if he/she would prescribe a cough medication to see if that helps at all.

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My senior dog has a wet cough. How can I give relief without a vet?

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