What are commonly used medications for dogs and when would a veterinarian recommend them?
There are many medications that we use for dogs. These might include treatments for vomiting, diarrhea, skin conditions, antibiotics to combat various diseases, parasiticides for worms and fleas, and medications to manage coughing. We use a variety of these medications daily in veterinary medicine.
Dr. Jim Martin
Loch Haven Veterinary Hospital
What are some of the side effects and adverse reactions my dog could experience from these medications?
While side effects aren't common, they can occur. Your pet might experience nausea, inappetence, upset stomach, diarrhea, or even develop rashes. Some dogs can also seem a little sleepy or sedate after taking certain medications.
What do I need to know about drug interactions?
If you notice your pet is not acting their normal self, it could be an indication of a drug interaction. If you suspect your dog is having a drug interaction, it's important to call your veterinary office and ask if this could be a side effect of the prescribed medication.
Can my dog be on medications long term?
Yes, many medications are intended for long-term use. These include heart medications, hormone treatments like thyroid medications, pain management drugs, and medications for itchy dogs.
Why is it important to not give my dog medications without speaking to the veterinarian first?
It's crucial to consult with your veterinarian first because your dog may have pre-existing illnesses or conditions that could prevent the use of certain medications. We want to ensure that we're prescribing the right medication without causing any adverse side effects.
What tricks can I use to give my dog medication?
There are many tricks you can use. You could hide the medication in their food or favorite treat, or even in liquids. The best method usually involves making your dog think they're getting a treat.
Where should I get my dog's medications refilled?
Always call your veterinarian's office first to ask about refills and get their approval. While you can usually get refills at the vet's office, sometimes they may refer you to an outside source.
If you still have other questions and you'd like to reach out to us, you can call us directly at (407) 896-0941, or you can email us at [email protected]. But please do reach out, and we'll get back to you as fast as we can. Don't forget to follow us on social media Facebook, Instagram
Dog Medication - FAQs 1
Dr. Jim Martin
Loch Haven Veterinary Hospital
Do I always need to seek the guidance of a veterinarian when giving my dog medicine?
Yes, it's very important to always consult with your veterinarian about what medications to give your dog. There are many potential side effects that could harm your dog, so we want to ensure we prescribe the correct medication.
Can I give my dog aspirin or NSAIDs?
Yes, aspirin and NSAIDs are commonly used anti-inflammatory drugs that can help with certain diseases or illnesses such as arthritis or pain. However, it's crucial to ask your veterinarian which one to use and to get the correct dosage.
Are there any human medications that are safe for dogs and what are those doses?
Many medications used by humans are also used in veterinary medicine. As for the dosages, it is important to consult with your veterinarian to ensure accuracy.
What are the medications that my veterinarian can prescribe if my dog is in pain?
There are many medications available for dogs in pain. These might include non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, other pain management drugs such as gabapentin and tramadol, and more specific drugs like Liberla for dogs that have arthritis.
What is the best way for me to give my dog medication?
The best way is to administer medication orally under the guidance of your veterinarian. There are other methods as well, sometimes it's transdermal in the ear, or it can be a pill or liquid, and some medications are given through injection.
Where can I get medications for my dog?
You can obtain them at your veterinarian's office. If they don't have the required medication available, they may refer you to an external source.
If you still have other questions and you'd like to reach out to us, you can call us directly at (407) 896-0941, or you can email us at [email protected]. But please do reach out, and we'll get back to you as fast as we can. Don't forget to follow us on social media Facebook, Instagram