The primary function of the respiratory system is to deliver oxygen to the cells of the body’s tissues and remove carbon dioxide, a cell waste product. The main structures of the human respiratory system are the nasal cavity, the trachea, and lungs.

As air passes through the nasal cavities it is warmed and humidified, so that air that reaches the lungs is warmed and moist.? The combination of cilia and mucous helps to filter out solid particles from the air an Warm and moisten the air, which prevents damage to the delicate tissues that form the Respiratory System.

Humidification – to moisten the air you breathe

1. The best way to keep your airways moist is to stay well hydrated.
2. Try steam inhalations to moisten your airways – menthol or eucalyptus oils can be added to hot water. ( Take care when using hot water for steam inhalation)
3. Only a few people with COPD will need a nebuliser.

Air that enters the lungs is warmed by body heat and then exhaled. This coupled with the evaporation of sweat from sweat glands cools the body. Animals like cats and dogs do not have sweat glands, so their method for cooling is rapid in and out breathing called panting.

In addition to these main processes, the respiratory system serves for: REGULATION OF BLOOD pH, which occurs in coordination with the kidneys, and as a. DEFENSE AGAINST MICROBES. Control of body temperature due to loss of evaporate during expiration.

The respiratory system contributes to the balance of acids and bases in the body by regulating the blood levels of carbonic acid (Figure 26.4. The loss of CO2 from the body reduces blood levels of carbonic acid and thereby adjusts the pH upward, toward normal levels.

Assoc Prof Kozhevnikov explained, “Practicing vase breathing alone is a safe technique to regulate core body temperature in a normal range. The participants whom I taught this technique to were able to elevate their body temperature, within limits, and reported feeling more energised and focused.

Deep breathing can be calming for dogs too. Sit or stand in front of your dog in a relaxed posture with treats in your hand but hidden from view behind your back, said Connell. Take a slow, deep breath and blink softly. Wait for your dog to close his mouth and stop panting for even just a brief moment.

Excitement – Just like with stress, anxiety, and pain, a dog’s heartrate may increase due to excitement. Hyperventilation could occur if a dog is so excited that it isn’t taking appropriate breaths.

For most dogs, rapid breathing during sleep is nothing to worry about. The most likely explanation is an exciting dream, in which case the rapid breathing will come to its natural end as the dog’s sleep cycle changes.

In general, all normal dogs and cats, dogs and cats with asymptomatic heart disease, and dogs diagnosed with heart failure that is well-controlled with medication, have a breathing rate of between 15-30 breaths every minute when they are resting calmly or sleeping.

Heart disease. Lethargy and reduced tolerance for exercise are the early signs of congestive heart failure in dogs. As the condition worsens, other symptoms develop, including loss of appetite, coughing, and rapid breathing.

Rapid breathing in dogs may simply be down to excitement or exercise. Dogs may also pant when they’re in fear, stressed or hot. Panting is one of the most important ways a dog thermoregulates. But beware, heavy or rapid breathing is an early sign of heat stroke and should be closely monitored.

You should pay attention to your dog if he starts to growl when you get close to a particular area of the body. Dogs may snap at you if you get too close to the source of their discomfort. Not all dogs will display negative behavior when they are ill. Some dogs may become clingy or show signs of increased neediness.

Environmental Remedies: A cold-moisture humidifier works best to add moisture to the air in your house. Consider adding a few drops of lavender or eucalyptus oil to the humidifier to make it easier for your dog to breathe indoors. Oxygen therapy: This is an excellent natural remedy for us in emergency situations.

Dogs with severe difficulty breathing difficulties may require supplemental oxygen, which will involve a stay at a veterinary hospital. Medication to help your dog breathe (e.g., bronchodilators, steroidal anti-inflammatories) may be given. Heart medications may be needed if your dog has a heart condition.

In some cases, respiratory congestion may itself be a symptom of heart failure. Health conditions like a nasal tumor, pneumonia, and fungal infections can also cause a fullness of the lungs.

It sounds like the dog is trying to inhale a sneeze, and it is therefore known as reverse sneezing. Reverse sneezing is often caused by irritation of the palate/laryngeal area. It causes a spasm in the muscles of the pharynx. Reverse sneezing is characterized by honking, hacking or snorting sounds (gasping inwards).