Inducing Vomiting in Dogs With Hydrogen Peroxide: Safety Concerns
As the saying goes, “Too much of a good thing can do more harm than good.” When your dog ingests something dangerous, you might try using hydrogen peroxide to induce vomiting. If you are wondering whether its possible to give too much hydrogen peroxide, the answer is both yes and no. The truth is that there are several variables that determine a safe dose of hydrogen peroxide.
Here we will discuss:
Consult a Vet First
It is essential that you consult a veterinarian before giving your dog hydrogen peroxide. Contact your vet or the ASPCA poison control hotline at 888-426-4435.
Which Type of Hydrogen Peroxide Should I Use on My Dog?
Hydrogen peroxide, as the name implies is simply a liquid composed of hydrogen and oxygen (H2O2). It comes in different concentrations, some of which can be potentially toxic to dogs.
The correct percentage to induce vomiting in dogs is the 3% solution. This means it contains 97% water and 3% hydrogen peroxide. Most household peroxide sold at stores in the brown bottle is 3%, but it doesnt hurt to double-check!
You may be alarmed to read on the label that hydrogen peroxide is toxic. Before second-guessing your vets recommendation to use it on your dog, understand that veterinarians report that it is safe to use for this purpose. According to veterinarian Dawn Ruben, because of the fact that the internally administered hydrogen peroxide is vomited up and does not remain in the body, it is safe to use.
Note: Until recently, hydrogen peroxide was thought to be an effective treatment for wounds. However, research has shown that this can damage cells that are needed for healing. So if you keep hydrogen peroxide in your pet first aid kit, it should be only there to induce vomiting.
There are many websites and resources available now that provide you with recommendations on how to treat your pets at home for many common illnesses or situations using over the counter human medications. While these resources have good intentions you may want to know why it is not a good idea to diagnose your pet and provide treatments without consulting your veterinarian.
Always remember that if you pet is showing signs of any medical complications that they should be evaluated by a veterinarian to ensure that the proper treatment is recommended.
How to induce vomiting in your dog | Dr Justine Lee
There are many websites and resources available now that provide you with recommendations on how to treat your pets at home for many common illnesses or situations using over the counter human medications. While these resources have good intentions you may want to know why it is not a good idea to diagnose your pet and provide treatments without consulting your veterinarian.
Always remember that if you pet is showing signs of any medical complications that they should be evaluated by a veterinarian to ensure that the proper treatment is recommended.