Dog Health & Wellness: Your Guide to Pet Medication for Dogs
As your
dog ages, they may face certain health conditions that require veterinary
attention. From injuries to illnesses, medications may be prescribed by a
licensed vet to treat these issues. Petroglyph Animal Hospital, an Albuquerque pet medication
specialist, believes that all pet owners should know which medications may be
prescribed and which should never be given to your dog.
Common Medications for Dogs
The
following are the most common types of medications that veterinarians may use
to treat your canine. Though there are many more used in veterinary medicine,
pet owners should at least be aware of what these drugs are and why they are
used:
●
Pain Relievers:
Similar to pain relievers for humans, these medicines are made from morphine
and are only available with a prescription. Types include oxycodone,
butorphanol, and meperidine.
●
Antibiotics:
Often used to kill bacteria and treat infections, common antibiotics include
penicillin and cephalexin.
●
Antiparasitics:
These medicines are used to treat parasites like worms, heartworms, fleas, and
ticks.
●
Steroids:
Steroids like prednisone and dexamethasone are used for a variety of reasons
including to reduce allergic reactions and lower inflammation.
●
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatories: Instead of using steroids, a vet may prescribe NSAIDs like
meloxicam and carprofen to treat pain, swelling, and inflammation.
●
Sedatives:
These drugs are used for behaviour modification and can reduce anxiety. Types
include diazepam and midazolam.
Medications that Will Harm Your Dog
Pet owners
should only give medication to their dogs that have been prescribed by a
licensed and trained veterinarian. Giving your dog medicine that’s not
prescribed or intended for that specific animal may result in injury or death.
The following human medications should not be given to dogs:
●
Acetaminophen, a painkiller
●
Ibuprofen, a painkiller
●
Aspirin, a painkiller
●
Adderall, ADHD medication
●
Clonazepam, anti-anxiety medication
●
Duloxetine, antidepressant
medication
●
Zolpidem, a sleep-aid
Pet Medication Albuquerque Dogs Can Safely Use
Some
medications can heal your animal; however, others may only cause more harm.
Always remember that you should never give any medication to your animal unless
it’s been approved and prescribed by a licensed and experienced veterinarian.
To learn more about medications for dogs, call Petroglyph
Animal Hospital and speak with a trained veterinary specialist today.
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