No loving and compassionate pet owner wants their pet to become sick. Unfortunately, our animals are just as prone to becoming unwell or suffering from pain as we are. There are many different problems that can affect our pets, and while you should always seek out advice and support from your veterinarian as soon as possible, there may be times where you feel your pet needs immediate relief using medication before you can get to your veterinary clinic. Unless your pet has an ongoing medical condition, you may not have much in the way of animal medications in your home.
It may surprise you to learn that there are some human medications that are safe for your pet, and they can help her to feel better until you can get to your veterinarian. One of the most important things to remember about giving any sort of medication to your pet is that her much smaller size and weight will mean the dosage you give must be considerably smaller. Giving even the lowest human dose could provide catastrophic for your pet. Therefore, always seek verbal advice from your vet before you administer the medication.
Here are some of the most common human medications you may be able to give to your pet upon verbal approval from your vet.
Many inexperienced owners are surprised to discover that animals are just as likely to suffer from hypersensitivities and allergies as we are, and often the first time that they discover this is when their pet has a reaction to something. The effects of an allergy can vary widely, ranging from sneezing and coughing to skin irritations, itching, and a visible rash. In severe cases, your pet’s breathing may be adversely affected. Drugs such as Benadryl and Dramamine can be helpful in mild to moderate allergy symptoms.
However, in the event that your pet experiences a serious allergic reaction and has symptoms including respiratory distress, hives, and persistent vomiting, you must get her to an emergency vet as human medications will not be sufficient.
Acid reflux may not be the most common medical problem seen in domestic animals, but it is not unheard of, particularly if your pet has a habit of eating things she shouldn’t. Pepcid and other similar heartburn medications may be able to help alleviate your pet’s discomfort. However, if she is vomiting too, there may be a more serious cause behind her acid reflux symptoms, such as swallowing something toxic or an underlying parasitic infection. We recommend speaking to our veterinary team for further advice, so we can assess the underlying cause of acid reflux.
Many human first aid kids and medicine cupboards contain Lomotil – an anti-diarrhea medication that can also be used to alleviate the effects of a cough. Low doses of Lomotil have also been shown to be effective in treating canine coughing, including kennel cough.
It is heart-breaking to see your beloved pet in pain, and you will undoubtedly want to relieve it if you can. Never administer Ibuprofen or Paracetamol as these are toxic to pets. Aspirin has been used previously but it is not as safe as we thought it once was. Your vet has safer animal specific pain medications that will bring comfort to your pet without the life-threatening side effects of human medication.
Saline drops are one of those remarkable ointments that can be used in a multitude of different ways, from helping rinse eyes and wounds to clearing airways.
We cannot stress enough the importance of consulting with our veterinary team before administering any sort of human medication to your pet. Failing to do so could see you causing more harm than good. If you would like further advice, call Zionsville Pet Wellness Clinic today at 317-434-3800.
10475 Crosspoint Blvd Suite 220
Indianapolis, IN 46256
(317) 516-5921
