What do you do when you have aches and pain? Most answers would be taking a pain reliever such as ibuprofen to alleviate your discomfort. Ibuprofen is an efficient way to reduce pain in humans, so is it safe for dogs as well? The answer is no! Dogs are very sensitive to ibuprofen and administration is typically not recommended by veterinarians. Always take the safe route and contact your veterinarian before giving your dog any medication so they can determine if it’s appropriate and even recommend a dog-safe pain medication to give to your pup.
Dog-Friendly Pain Medications
Administering a human NSAID to your dog when they’re in pain can put them in further harm. NSAIDs are non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and there are dog-specific options. Common medications include Rimadyl, Deramaxx, Previcox, and Metacam. These medications are designed to efficiently reduce pain and inflammation in dogs. Again, always talk to your veterinarian before administering any medication to your dog so they can determine if it’s appropriate and provide you with specific instructions on administration and dosage to keep your dog safe and healthy.
NSAID Poisoning
Dogs can experience an overdose or poisoning if given the wrong type of NSAID, such as ibuprofen. Possible symptoms of NSAID poisoning include:
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Black-tarry stool
- Lethargy
- Lack of appetite
- Increased urination or thirst
- Seizures
Treatment
If you’ve mistakenly given your dog ibuprofen, you must contact your veterinarian and Pet Poison Helpline at (855) 764-7661 for first aid advice. Ibuprofen ingestion can bring severe symptoms and your dog will need medical attention right away. If you decide to hold off treatment, fatality can occur. Your veterinarian may administer activated charcoal to bind the toxins and prevent further absorption. IV fluids may be provided to protect the kidneys and combat dehydration. Further treatment will depend on your dog’s health, size, and dosage. Take preventative steps and contact your veterinarian before giving your pet any medication. You’d rather be safe than sorry when it comes to your beloved pet’s wellbeing.
