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:
These medications can cause stomach bleeding, kidney failure, and liver failure. Always ask your vet before giving your dog any human medication.
Can I give my dog Ibuprofen or Acetaminophen?
Over-the-counter (OTC) pain relievers can endanger your dog’s health. Unless under the explicit direction of a trusted veterinarian, dogs should not be given human medications like ibuprofen (Advil), acetaminophen (Tylenol), or aspirin.
Skip the medicine cabinet for pet pain relief. This article will detail the risks and side effects involved with giving your dog OTCs, and safe options to alleviate your dog’s pain These include treatments such as natural remedies and prescribed pain meds for dogs from your vet. Read on to learn how you can help your pup feel better in no time.
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NSAIDs and Your Dog
The most common types of OTC pain relievers are known as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs or NSAIDs. Dr. Jennifer Coats of PetMD describes NSAIDs as drugs that inhibit an enzyme called cyclooxygenase, which “produces hormone-like substances called prostaglandins that promote inflammation, fever, and pain.” Examples of OTC NSAIDs include baby aspirin, ibuprofen, and naproxen.
Aspirin for Dogs: is it safe?
Maybe your pup went a little too hard during playtime and, now, they are not running with the same pep as before.
Dogs can sustain painful injuries, with one of the most common being an ACL tear, according to Ortho Dogs. Dogs even have ailments like humans, such as arthritis, according to VCA Animal Hospitals.
Pain in dogs can be caused by injury, infection, disease or old age. The bottom line is our furry friends feel pain just as we do.
As a pet owner, it is only normal to want to help your dog feel better. But how can you best do that?