Zyrtec Use in Dogs

Dogs often show allergic symptoms through their skin. Look for itchy areas where scratching has led to loss of fur. This symptom is a sign you need to talk with your veterinarian about treatment. Your veterinarian can tell you about Zyrtec use in dogs. Zyrtec is the brand name for the chemical cetirizine, which is an antihistamine used for allergy relief. Always consult with a veterinarian before giving your pet medication.

  1. Administration

    • Zyrtec usually is administered orally once daily. It may be given with or without food. Always monitor your dog for any reaction after a first dose of medicine. If your dog is less than cooperative when it comes to taking his medicine, your veterinarian or his staff may be able to share a few tricks to achieve successful administration. Alternately, your veterinarian may be able to order the medication from a veterinary compounding pharmacy, where they will be able to formulate the drug into a liquid variation with a flavor that your dog will readily accept.

    Schedule

    • Follow your veterinarian's instructions exactly when medicating your dog. To maintain optimal therapeutic levels of the drug in your dog's system, you should give him each dose on time. However, if you are only a couple of hours late, give your dog the missed dose as soon as you remember. If you are within a few hours of the next dose, skip the missed dose and resume treatment with the next one. Never give your pet a double dose. Your dog's veterinarian can tell you how long your pet needs to continue taking Zyrtec.

    Side Effects

    • While sedation is the most common reaction, this side effect is less common with Zyrtec than with other antihistamines, such as diphendydramine. Zyrtec may result in excitability or nervousness in some dogs. Watch for any signs of urinary retention or constipation, extra salivation and vomiting. If a dog does vomit, discontinue the medicine and contact your veterinarian.

    Warning

    • Do not administer Zyrtec to older dogs with renal problems. Do not give your dog any formula that contains pseudoephedrine, such as Zyrtec-D. This ingredient, even in small doses, can result in serious clinical side effects, including nervousness, hyperactivity and other behavioral changes, panting, rapid heart rate and high blood pressure.

    Storage

    • Store Zyrtec in an area away from direct light. Keep the medicine at room temperature. Store Zyrtec out of reach of pets and children.