What is rhinitis?
Rhinitis is an infection or inflammation of the mucus membranes that line your dog’s nasal passages. If the sinuses are also impacted, this condition is known as sinusitis. Many of the causes of rhinitis can spread from the nasal passages to other parts of the respiratory system including the lungs. Thus, early treatment in recommended.

What will rhinitis look like in my dog?
The symptoms of rhinitis include nasal discharge, nose bleeds, sneezing, loss of color around the nostrils, pawing at the nose and loss of appetite.

How does my dog get rhinitis?
Rhinitis can be a result of a viral, bacterial or fungal infection. It can also be caused by other conditions such as tumors, parasites, allergies, autoimmune diseases, foreign bodies, nasopharyngeal polyps and trauma to the face or nose.

How is rhinitis diagnosed?
A physical examination will often reveal the presence of rhinitis. Diagnostics tests that may also be performed include blood tests, cultures, and cytology of the nasal secretions. Your vet may also use diagnostic imaging techniques such as x-rays, CT-scan, or endoscopy to visualize the impacted area.  If your vet discovers a growth in the impacted area, a biopsy will be preformed to evaluate whether the growth is cancerous.

How is rhinitis treated?
The treatment of rhinitis is based on treating the underlying cause. Typical treatments include antibiotics, anti-inflammatory medications, or the surgical or manual removal of any obstructions. In addition, moistening the air around your dog with the use of a vaporizer may help to relieve symptoms.

How is rhinitis prevented?
Since some causes of rhinitis are contagious, avoiding afflicted dogs is essential in preventing many cases of rhinitis.

Can I get rhinitis from my dog?
No, you cannot contract rhinitis from your dog.