Updated On September 23rd, 2025
Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Medium (23 - 60lb) | Male | neutered | 1 year old | 32 lbs
We just adopted our dog 3 days ago from a shelter. He is 1 year old and has always been a shelter dog. Brought him to the vet yesterday for an initial exam. He does have nasal discharge, and some discharge from the eyes as well as sneezing. He is on antibiotics and started last night. He is definitely sleeping all day and still has all the nose stuff coming out. How long before the antibiotics kick in? And is there anything I can do to help him feel better?
1 Answer
Published on December 17th, 2016
Congrats on your new dog! It sounds like Rocky may have kennel cough, and while antibiotics can help with the symptoms, it will not cure them. Kennel cough has to run it's course, and infection typically lasts 3-4 weeks. He could also have a respiratory infection causing his symptoms, but without seeing him in person I can't say for sure what is the cause behind his symptoms. That being said, you may see some relief from symptoms with the antibiotics within 48-72 hours. If he's congested, you can try using a humidifier or bringing him into the bathroom with the door closed while you take a hot shower - the steam and humidity help to break up congestion and temporarily relieve symptoms associated with respiratory infections.
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