According to the ASPCA, many animals each year are accidentally poisoned by common, over the counter medicines. What is safe for human consumption may not be safe for your dog. Animals do not process medication the same way humans do, and one small mistake could be fatal for your pet. To avoid any error, consult your veterinarian.
-
Vaccinations
-
The Bordetella vaccination is administered intranasally and protects against two of eight causes of kennel cough. Kennel cough is similar to a human common cold. Vaccinate your pet at least 72 hours before boarding, attending a show or grooming, when chances of exposure are heightened.
In 2009 The US Department of Agriculture approved the first canine influenza virus vaccine. This virus is only spread among dogs and does not affect people. Consult your veterinarian about whether the vaccine is right for your dog.
Dextromethorphan
-
There are some human medicines that are safe to administer to a dog in small amounts. Remember, the dosage amounts for human medicines are figured by weight. Dextromethorphan, which is found in cough medicines such as Robitussin, is considered a safe medicine to administer to a dog. According to Dog-health-guide.org, Administer .5 mg of dextromethorphan per pound of body weight, or 1 tsp. per 20 lbs.
Aspirin
-
Anti-inflammatory medicines such as aspirin can relieve physical pain if your dog has a cold. It is recommended that you administer 5 mg per pound orally every twelve hours with food. If your dog has any side effects from taking aspirin, such as vomiting or diarrhea, discontinue use immediately and consult your veterinarian. Do not administer any other pain or anti-inflammatory medications, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen, as these are highly toxic and can be fatal to dogs.
-