The household medicine cabinet is not a veterinary pharmacy
A medicine that is safe for a person can be absorbed and cleared differently by a dog. Ibuprofen, naproxen, aspirin, acetaminophen and other human products should not be calculated “by weight” without a veterinarian’s instruction.
Five questions for the veterinarian
- What is the medicine called and what is it for?
- What exact dose, frequency and duration should be used?
- Should it be given with food, after food or on an empty stomach?
- Which side effects require a call or immediate examination?
- What should happen after a missed dose, vomiting or accidental overdose?
How to prevent mistakes at home
- Keep the medicine in its original labelled container.
- Record each dose when more than one person cares for the dog.
- Do not share medicine between dogs or reuse leftovers from an old course.
- If a dose is mixed up or the puppy eats tablets, call a clinic immediately.
Sources and useful links
This material is adapted for owners. Follow the links to check the original sources.