Dogs
7 human medications that are safe and effective for your pup
A veterinarian shares 7 OTC medications that you can give to your dog when they're ailing.
Megan Bennett
06.01.23

Dogs are wonderful animals, they are sweet and kind and the most popular pet choice in the world.

There are hundreds of breed types including pure-bred, cross-bred, and mutts.

Youtube - Veterinary Secrets
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Youtube - Veterinary Secrets

But, just like humans, dogs are not immune from some very common ailments.

Many pet owners struggle with figuring out a way to help keep their pets free and clear of things like ear infections, eye infections, and sensitive skin and stomachs.

And going to the vet can be exorbitantly expensive.

Youtube - Veterinary Secrets
Source:
Youtube - Veterinary Secrets

Luckily for us, a former vet by the name of Dr. Andrew Jones has a few tricks up his sleeves and is sharing them with the world via his YouTube channel Veterinary Secrets.

In this particular video, Dr. Jones shares with his viewers 7 over the counter human medicines that can be used to treat dogs.

Everything he suggests is available at any local pharmacy and, as long as guidelines are followed, should be able to help your canine friends.

Youtube - Veterinary Secrets
Source:
Youtube - Veterinary Secrets

The first tip is for dogs that have any open wounds that you’re just not sure how to clean out before bandaging.

Chlorhexidine Topical Flush is a great product to have in any household, it cleans and sterilizes any open wounds you or your pet may have.

Simply suck some of the product up using a syringe and then squirt it directly onto the wound, it flushes and cleans the area so you can wrap it up safely.

Youtube - Veterinary Secrets
Source:
Youtube - Veterinary Secrets

Some dogs are quite prone to developing hives and rashes on their skin.

These are usually allergic reactions to something in either their food or their environments and can be treated the same way a human would treat an allergy.

Benadryl is what Dr. Jones recommends; one milligram per pound, two to three times a day.

Youtube - Veterinary Secrets
Source:
Youtube - Veterinary Secrets

Dogs with allergies also often develop ear infections and there is an easy way to treat that too.

Most ear infections that dogs develop are caused by a yeast buildup, and as any woman knows, the best way to treat a yeast-based infection is through Canesten.

Simply squeeze a little bit of the product out of the tube and dab it near the opening of your dog’s ears; make sure to give the ears a good rubbing so the product can work its way in properly.

Youtube - Veterinary Secrets
Source:
Youtube - Veterinary Secrets

Sometimes, dogs develop red itchy ears even when there is no allergen in the mix.

It is similar to humans who had eczema and can be treated similarly.

Rub some Topical 1% Hydrocortisone Cream into your pet’s ears in the same way you would rub in the Canesten from above; you can use these two products together if you want.

Youtube - Veterinary Secrets
Source:
Youtube - Veterinary Secrets

Some dogs are prone to eye infections and that is an easily treatable ailment too.

Polysporin for Eyes is the best over-the-counter product to help you treat your dog’s eyes.

1-2 drops once or twice a day for 5 to 7 days should have your dog’s eyes looking bright and clear.

Youtube - Veterinary Secrets
Source:
Youtube - Veterinary Secrets

Again, just like people, dogs sometimes develop stomach problems, they can even get acid reflux.

If you notice your dog is throwing up, it might just be that their stomach is unsettled.

Try giving them 2.5 milligrams for every 10 pounds of body weight of an antacid, like Pepcid, and in many cases that can help.

Youtube - Veterinary Secrets
Source:
Youtube - Veterinary Secrets

The final over-the-counter product that Dr. Jones recommends is one you probably already have in your medicine cabinet; uncoated, regular strength Aspirin.

There are some cautions around using this, things like your dog being dehydrated, having previous organ dysfunction, or being on another anti-inflammatory.

However, if your dog has none of these issues, Aspirin can be a great way to help ease pain and stiffness; just be sure you are using the right amount, the general rule is 325 milligrams for every 40 pounds of body weight.

Youtube - Veterinary Secrets
Source:
Youtube - Veterinary Secrets

Always keep an eye on your dog after giving them medications and if symptoms persist, take your dog to the vet immediately.

Check out the video below for more specific instructions about each medication and how to use it to treat your dog.

Please SHARE this with your friends and family.

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