Is Children’s Motrin OK for dogs? Tips and Tricks

Is Motrin Safe to Give a Dog for Pain?

The short answer to this inquiry is maybe, as it is dependent upon the dog as well as consideration of proper dosing. Motrin and other anti-inflammatory medications can be considered toxic to dogs when administered in the incorrect dosage or in conjunction with a medication in which it interacts.

If your dog is experiencing chronic pain and you are considering administering a pain killer, it is important to consult with a veterinarian first to ensure that the dosage being administered is correct and that it is safe for your dog to ingest Motrin as it is a derivative of ibuprofen, which can be dangerous for dogs. If your dog has accidentally ingested Motrin or you are worried he may have ibuprofen poisoning, it is important to be mindful of the below symptoms of ibuprofen poisoning in dogs:

Can dogs take ibuprofen?

You should never give your dog ibuprofen. The medicine can cause damage to your dogs stomach and kidneys, says Alison Meindl, DVM, a veterinarian, and professor at Colorado State University.

This is because ibuprofen blocks the activity of an enzyme called cyclooxygenase (COX). Blocking this enzyme reduces inflammation, but it also stymies the blood flow to your stomach and kidneys. And while this isnt a big deal for humans, it can harm your dog.

Dogs are more likely to get ibuprofen poisoning than humans for three reasons:

  • Ibuprofen may last longer in dogs systems.
  • Dog stomachs and intestines may absorb ibuprofen more quickly.
  • Levels of ibuprofen in the blood can be higher in dogs than humans.
  • “Plainly, humans can tolerate a much larger dose than can our pets,” says Travis Arndt, DVM, Director of the Animal Medical Center of Mid-America.

    Too much ibuprofen can have dangerous effects for your dog including stomach ulcers, kidney damage, or seizures, Meindl says.

    “As little as 1,200 mg of ibuprofen could be fatal to a small dog,” says Arndt. Drugs like Advil or Motrin usually contain 200 mg per pill, or 400 mg in extra strength caplets, meaning just three to six pills can be deadly.

    Are Human Pain Meds Safe for Dogs?

    In general, there are some medications that both people and dogs can take, such as certain heart medications, thyroid medications, and antibiotics. However, even if it is safe for dogs to take a specific human medication, the dosing is usually different.

    A human’s metabolism also has major differences compared with that of a dog. That means some medications that are safe for people can be toxic to dogs or can even kill them.

    Never give your dog the most common over-the-counter human pain relievers:

  • Acetaminophen (Tylenol)
  • Ibuprofen (Advil or Motrin)
  • Naproxen (Aleve)
  • These medications can cause stomach bleeding, kidney failure, and liver failure. Always ask your vet before giving your dog any human medication.

    What Can I Give My Dog For Pain – Ask the Expert | Dr David Randall