Here's why:
* Dosage: Human medications are formulated for human body weight and metabolism. A small dose for a human can be a fatal overdose for a dog.
* Ingredients: Many human medications contain ingredients toxic to dogs, even in small amounts. For example:
* Acetaminophen (Tylenol) can cause liver failure in dogs.
* Ibuprofen (Advil) can cause stomach ulcers, kidney damage, and even death.
* Aspirin (acetylsalicylic acid) can cause stomach ulcers, bleeding, and kidney damage.
* Drug Interactions: Dogs may have existing medical conditions or be on other medications that could interact dangerously with human medications.
* Formulations: Human medications are often formulated in ways that make them difficult for dogs to swallow or digest.
Always contact your veterinarian before giving any medication to your dog. They can advise you on the appropriate medication, dosage, and administration method for your dog's specific needs.
If you suspect your dog has ingested human medication, contact your veterinarian or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center immediately.