Just like children, it can be difficult to administer medication to a dog, big or small. However, when trying to give a dog medicine it does not want, it can also become dangerous. Your loving pet can become so resistant that it may use its strong teeth or bodies to resist. However, there is no need to become stressed, because it is possible to safely get your dog to swallow a pill or to put a drop in its ears.
Things You'll Need
- Dog medication
- Muzzle
- Leash
- Dog food and snacks
- Assistant (if necessary)
Instructions
Preparation
If the dog begins to show signs of biting, find and apply a strong muzzle that does not completely cover the mouth.
Attach the dog to something sturdy, giving it about three feet of leash length.
Have a helper at the ready if necessary.
To distribute medicine by mouth
Use a syringe to distribute liquid medication. Brace the dog tightly by kneeling to one side and wrapping your arm over its back and between its front legs to its chest. Use the muzzle if needed.
Insert the syringe into either the side or front of the mouth and gently push the medicine in.
When administering a pill, hide it soft food or a sweet treat, like peanut butter.
If you find you must place the pill in the dog's mouth using your hands, slip it in as quickly as possible and then use both hands to provide enough pressure to keep its mouth shut, forcing the dog to swallow.
To administer medication by eye or ear.
To administer medication to the ear, hold the head firmly--but not too tight--and flip the ear over to expose the canal. If the muzzle is needed, apply before dispensing the medicine.
Drip the required amount into the ear. Repeat only if the medicine did not enter the ear.
To administer medication to the eye, have a helper restrain the dog's upper body, chest and legs while you carefully begin to spread the eye open.
Approach with the medication bottle from behind the dog's head so it will not be prompted to close its eyes.
Drip the medicine carefully into the eye. If the dog becomes aggressive during this period, apply the muzzle and proceed.