Treating Your Dog with Human Medications

Dogs get sick and have other conditions just as humans do. When they are feeling poorly, however, there are human medications you can give your dog that are safe and effective in treating what ails them. Keep in mind that some conditions require a trip to the vet and no over-the-counter medication should be a substitute for veterinary treatment.

Benadryl:
Benadryl is an antihistamine that is safe to give to your dog and an effective treatment for allergies, insect bites, contact dermatitis, or in case of allergic reaction to vaccines. When our Chihuahua had her
second series of vaccinations, she had an allergic reaction to the Lepto portion. A frantic call to the veterinarian was made and we were told to administer 2 cc's of Children's Benadryl. She was on her way back to normal proportions in no time.

Dosage:
Dosages will vary according to your dogs weight.

Large dog -- 25mg to 50mg every 12 hours.
Small dogs -- about 1/2 mg per pound every 12 hours.

Dramamine:
Dramamine is a drug used for motion sickness. Some dogs simply can't ride in a car without getting sick.

Dosage:
Small dogs -- 12.5mg every 8 hours
Medium-size dogs -- 25mg every 8 hours
Large dogs -- 50mg every 8 hours

Mineral Oil:
Mineral oil relieves constipation. You may administer up to 4 tablespoons every 24 hours.

Tagamet and Pepcid AC:
Even our furry critters can have a problem with acid on their bellies. Tagamet and Pepcid AC may be given to relieve acid irritation and controls vomiting.

Dosage:
Less than 20 pounds -- 1/4 tablet
20-60 pounds -- Half of a tablet
Over 60 pounds -- One whole tablet

Buffered Aspirin:
Aspirin relieves aches and pains associated with arthritis, fever, and inflammation.

Dosage:
5-12.5mg per pound every 12 hours.

Antiobiotic Ointment:
If your dog has a small wound, bite, or a minor infection, the use of an antibiotic ointment may help it heal and is safe to use. Because our dogs will lick at themselves almost obsessively, you will want to
bandage the area well with gauze to prevent the dog from licking the antibiotic ointment off.

Hydrocortisone:
Apply a light layer of hydrocortisone to help relieve itchy, irritated skin caused by hives, insect bites, stings, and hot spots.

Immodium AD:
Immodium AD helps relieve diarrhea and you may give it in either tablet or liquid form. You should check with your veterinarian for dosage information before administering it.

Melatonin:
Melatonin is great for dogs with noise phobias, such as thunder. You can find melatonin in health food stores, pharmacies, and in some supermarkets. Before purchasing, check the label to make sure it's a proper dosage for dogs. You will also want to make sure it doesn't contain any herbs or nutrients.

Dosage:
Small breeds (such as Chihuahuas) -- less than 0.5mg
Under 30 pounds -- 1.5mg
Over 30 pounds -- 3mg
More than 100 pounds -- 6mg

Robitussin DM and Mucinex DM (Dextromethorphan/Guaifenesin):
Used to treat coughs and may cause some mild drowsiness in your dog.

It's very important that you administer only DM cough medications to your dog. An unimproved cough should be treated by your veterinarian as
it may be a symptom of something more serious.

Dosage:
0.5ml per pound every 8 hours

As always, if you are unsure about any OTC human medication, you should contact your veterinarian immediately for advice. You should also contact your vet if you are unsure about the proper dosage of any human medication you can give your dog.

For more information:
Petplace.com
Vet Pets
Dog Health