Giving your dog some of the same medications that you take or give your family is not always the wisest choice. What may help relieve your ills may actually have adverse effects on your dog. If your dog has minor aches and pains, it is best not to play doctor--call your vet for his professional advice on administering any of these medications to your dog.
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Types
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Some of the medications that you can give your dog may include naproxen, aspirin, acetaminophen, Benadryl, calcipotriene, calcitriol, Pepto-Bismol, Imodium, Kaopectate, and liquid antacids.
Effects
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If your dog is experiencing muscle, joint and arthritis pain, your veterinarian may prescribe non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, such as naproxen, acetaminophen and aspirin. Many dogs suffer from skin and allergic conditions where Benadryl may be recommended. Calcipotriene and calcitriol are often used for psoriasis. Antacids, preferably the liquid types, are an option to help your dog's stomach in reducing the production of acids and gastric juices used to coat the stomach, preventing further irritation. For minor diarrhea in your dog, low doses of Pepto-Bismol, Imodium or Kaopectate may be suggested by your vet.
Warnings
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It is extremely important not to give your dog any over-the-counter medications from home without the endorsement of your veterinarian. Even though most of these products may seem very safe for human ailments, some of these medications may jeopardize your dog's life and health. Naproxen, aspirin and acetaminophen may cause vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, kidney disease, stomach ulcers, renal failure and liver disease if given in the improper doses.
Considerations
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Be cautious when giving your dog any over-the-counter medications without the advice of your veterinarian. Naproxen can be given at a dosage of about 1.1 to 2.2mg/kg given once a day or every other day. For aspirin, a suggested dosage for dogs is 10mg/lb. of body weight every 12 hours. Your dog may be given acetaminophen in very low doses, up to about 25mg/lb. every eight hours. Benadryl, Pepto-Bismol, Imodium, Kaopectate, calcipotriene, calcitriol, and the liquid antacids can all be given in very low doses, but it is still suggested to consult your vet's office for a specific amount to give your dog.
Significance
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Over-the-counter home medications are inexpensive and readily available in times of emergency treatment for your dog, especially after hours. Still, emergency vets are always available to ask questions and should be contacted before you give anything to your dog on your own. They will need to give the vet all the possible symptoms of your dogs' ailments. What may seem to be a mild tummy ache may in fact be something more serious that requires professional medical attention.
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