January 17, 2015
The temptation to reach for the medicine cabinet is all too human, but trying to treat a canine's symptoms with common human antidotes is actually far from a great idea.
A report from Pet360 reminds us that treating dogs with pain relievers that fall into the category of non-steroidal anti-inflammatoies (NSAIDs) could put your pet in serious danger. While aspririn, ibuprofin, and naproxin all work to inhibit an enzyme responsible for the production of prostaglandins (which promote inflammation, fever, and pain), in dogs this process can interfere with other vital functions that impact blood flow, digestion, and organs such as the liver and kidney.
The report warns:
…prostaglandins also play many other roles in the body, including maintaining adequate blood flow to the kidneys, the production of a layer of mucus that protects the inner lining of the gastrointestinal tract from stomach acid, and normal blood clotting. When these functions are reduced, dogs can develop vomiting and diarrhea (often bloody), loss of appetite, bleeding disorders, kidney or liver dysfunction or failure. They may even die without appropriate treatment.
Similarly, Tylenol (acetaminophen) can have adverse effects on dogs, impairing function of the liver, kidneys, and oxygen delivery throughout the body.
So how can pet owners provide their dogs (and cats) the relief they need? It's always best to consult a veterinarian for the use of any medication, particularly pain relievers, as drug companies have developed specially formulated meds that are more safe and effective for pets. Additionally, many of the ailments suffered by your pets can be helped by ensuring they maintain a healthy diet, minimizing body fat low and reducing stress on joints and inflammation.
It's natural to want to help a pet in need, but in this case, anthropomorphic love can be a dangerous impulse. It's best to limit pain PEZ dispensing to ourselves.
