Most pet owners will do anything for their companion animals. At PAWS/LA we see first-hand the incredible material and emotional sacrifices people make to keep their cats, dogs and other animals through periods of economic hardship and in the face of severe physical limitations. Given this passion, it is natural for pet owners to fervently guard their animal’s health. Yet, given the current sky-rocketing costs of basic veterinarian care, a trip to the clinic isn't always an option. With a sick animal in front of us we may be tempted to reach for human medicine, if only as a temporary remedy. This is almost always a bad idea, and in some cases can severely threaten an animal’s life. Although pet and human medicines may be similar in theory, they usually have wildly different dosing requirements, which cannot be properly measured without expert supervision. Even when a given drug appears the same in human and animal form, there may be subtle differences in chemistry and in the potential side effects that can occur after ingestion. This blog post explores the crucial aspects of medication safety for pets and humans, providing tips and insights to prevent potentially dangerous situations arising around storage and administration. We will look at common medications that can be deadly for pets, as well as address general safety concerns and provide tips for effectively securing your medications in your home. If you think your pet has ingested unprescribed medication of any kind, or has overdosed on a prescribed medication, you should immediately call an ASPCA poison control center and make an appointment with your vet. Understanding Shared PharmaceuticalsMany drugs that humans take can have severe or even fatal effects on pets. These include:
The Risk of Accidental IngestionOne of the primary concerns regarding medication safety is accidental ingestion. Pets are naturally curious creatures and may snatch pills from countertops, purses, or even your hands. To prevent such accidents, consider the following precautions:
Recognizing Symptoms of ToxicityIf your pet has ingested human medication, early recognition of symptoms is critical. Common signs of poisoning may include:
The Importance of Veterinary GuidanceWhenever you consider administering any form of medication, whether it’s over-the-counter or prescription, consult your veterinarian first. They can provide the necessary guidance on:
Common Pet Medications to ConsiderVeterinarians can prescribe medications specifically tailored for pets. Some examples include:
Educating Family MembersOne of the most effective ways to ensure medication safety is to educate everyone in your home about the dangers of pet exposure to human medications. Additionally, we recommend that all homes have an easily accessible pet emergency kit. Here are some additional strategies for spreading awareness:
Keeping Your Pet Safe During EmergenciesAccidents can happen despite your best efforts. Therefore, it's vital to have a plan for emergency situations. Here’s how to prepare:
NOTE: Unlike human medications, there is less regulation and oversight regarding veterinary pharmaceuticals. This means that some medications available for pets may not be thoroughly tested for safety. Make sure you stay well-informed about current treatment options, sticking to respected sources of information and maintaining frequent contact with your vet. ConclusionOne of the great benefits of the modern age is having access to treatments and medications, which significantly reduce pain and suffering, and may effectively treat conditions that in the past could have proven fatal. Yet such benefits come with a burden of responsibility, and pet owners must be both cautious and informed when it comes to administering therapeutic treatments at home. By considering the points in this article, and carefully following its guidance, you can mitigate potential threats to your pet’s safety and ensure that they live a long, healthy life.
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AUTHORSOur blog is managed by Ryan Hilary with additional contributions from our awesome volunteers and supporters. Are you a member of our community and have a great idea for a post (or maybe want to write one yourself?). Reach out to [email protected]. Archives
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