10 Over-The-Counter Medicines That Are Safe For Dogs

by:
July 17, 2019

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I remember waking up one morning and greeting my dog, only to notice that her face was completely puffy and swollen. I whisked her off to the emergency vet and paid $200, only for them to tell me to take her home and give her some Benadryl! It turns out that Benadryl isn’t the only human medication that can help a sick pup, either. Here are 10 over-the-counter medicines that can be administered to dogs, too.

It’s important to note that you should always consult with your veterinarian before administering one of these or any drug to your dog. Different dogs might have different needs, so always listen to your vet when it comes to your dog’s health.

source: Cesar’s Way / istockphoto.com

1. Benadryl

For allergies and itching. 1 milligram per pound of dog.

2. Buffered Aspirin

To relieve pain and inflammation. 1/2 baby aspirin for dogs under 10 pounds. 1 baby aspirin for dogs 10-30 pounds. 1/2 regular aspirin for dogs 30-50 pounds. 1 regular aspirin for dogs 50-100 pounds. 2 regular aspirins for dogs over 100 pounds.

3. Dramamine

For motion sickness. 12.5 milligrams for small dogs. 25 milligrams for medium dogs. 50 milligrams for large dogs.

4. Pepto Bismol

For diarrhea, vomiting, and gas. 1 teaspoon per 20 pounds of dog’s weight (toxic to cats!).

5. Hydrogen Peroxide

Used to induce vomiting after accidental ingestion of toxic substances. 10 millilitres by mouth.

6. Gas-X

To minimize flatulence or gas discomfort. 1/4 adult dose for small dogs. 1/2 adult dose for medium dogs. 1 adult dose for large dogs.

7. Hydrocortisone

For itching or irritated skin. Small amount applied topically up to twice daily.

8. Imodium A-D

For diarrhea. 1 milligram per pound of dog.

9. Pepcid AC (famotidine)/Zantac (ranitidine)

To reduce stomach acids caused by ulcers, acid reflux, or bellyache. 1/4 tablet for dogs under 20 pounds. 1/2 tablet for dogs 20-60 pounds. 1 tablet for dogs over 60 pounds.

10. Robitussin DM

For coughing or hacking. 1 teaspoon per 10 pounds of dog’s weight.

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