Contents
Humans and dogs have a difference when it comes to reacting to a particular medication. And so, you must control that temptation of reaching out for your medicine cabinet to medicate a dog.
Of course, we don’t want our pet to suffer. And so, this may seem a very optimistic option at first. But before you do that, be absolutely confirmed about whether it’s safe. And also the right dosage to use.
Benadryl is a common name that you may have heard from your veterinarian. Especially when talking about treating dog allergies and reactions. However before actually using the medication make sure to know how much Benadryl can you give a dog.
How Much Benadryl Can You Give a Dog to Safely Treat Without Problems?
Veterinarians have the right to prescribe this mediation. Since they have a lot of knowledge regarding its safe usage. However, when you use this medication without consultation, things are a bit different.
And so, you should be aware of the whole thing beforehand. Today, I aim to make that happen. Keep on Reading!
A Bit About Benadryl.
Benadryl is a very popular medicine used for different purposes. Such as treating vaccine reactions, allergens, and insect bite or stings. It’s more of an over-the-counter antihistamine. So, the medicine works pretty effectively in treating reactions.
The name Benadryl does not actually refer to its original drug name. its name of the brand. There are also other popular brands that offer this drug for allergies.
You should always check the ingredients before your dog consume it. the active drug that is present in Benadryl and safe for dogs is known as Diphenhydramine.
Another drug that is commonly seen along with Diphenhydramine is Cetirizine. If not absolutely necessary keep your dog away from the later one’s exposure.
There are also other ingredients that are harmful and noticeable in some products. Such as Pseudoephedrine and Acetaminophen. These are pretty toxic. And you should not go with anything that includes both. No matter if these are used separately or combinedly.
The Benadryl tablets are responsible for blocking H1 receptors. And that makes the histamines stay at bay. This way the allergic reaction comes under control. Vets do consider it safe if the dog parents are well aware of this drug and know right dosage of using. Most dogs can tolerate the drug pretty well and it’s within safety margin in those cases.
The Right Dosage.
The 25 milligram Benadryl tablet is a perfect amount for a dog that weighs around 25 pounds.
The correct dosage for any dog will have a huge connection with its weight. Yes, you need to directly refer to the weight of your pet dog to determine right dosage. Do not follow the instinctive amount. Usually, the brand Benadryl tablets are 25 milligrams. For every pound of weight, you should consider 1-milligram. This is a standard measurement.
Usually, the dosage should be given to a dog multiple times during a day. The time interval between each dosage differs as well. However, in most cases, experts recommend an interval of eight to twelve hours. This means you need to give the tablets two to three times every day.
Liquid Benadryl Are Better for Accurate Dosage.
In case you are an owner of small dogs, use the children’s formula available. These are usually liquid Benadryl. The formula makes it pretty easy to measure right dosage in no time.
Tablets are a bit confusing for smaller dogs. This is because of its difficult to control form. Also, some tablet version contains alcohol. This could be rather toxic to your dog. So, sticking with liquid version will also provide extra safety.
There’s another thing you must know about time-release capsules. Dogs absorb capsules in a much different way than a human. And so, this can negatively affect a dog if not given in the right dosage.
Sometimes chewed capsules become break open. And so, it delivers more than recommended medication at one time. That’s a very critical situation and can lead to overdosing.
This is another reason you must stick to liquid Benadryl rather than the tablet version. Your veterinarian may allow you to use a syringe. This is usually for accurate measurement and easy administration benefits. Usually, the medication takes half an hour to start being effective. And so, you need according to plans to treat anxiety and mild motion sickness.
If Your Dog Has Medical Conditions.
Now things are a bit difficult and confusing for a dog that is undergoing medical condition. In such circumstances, you should not go for any manual step. It’s best to stick with expert-recommended dosage and medication.
The finest and safest way would be just asking your dog’s veterinarian in this situation. They would inspect your dog and let you know about the ideal dosage.
Cases do vary from one dog to another. Since experts recommend 2-4 mg per kilogram of body weight in critical cases. This also makes a change for the number of times your dog should take dosage.
Is your dog is suffering from chronic allergies or similar conditions? In that case, regular dosage becomes even more important to be specific. And so, there’s no way you can decide the amount yourself without consulting a certified expert. Also, the dosage needs to keep changing in such conditions.
For nursing or pregnant dogs, you should be extra cautious as well. Here also, a veterinarian will decide whether this drug is prescriptible or not.
Overdosing Cautions!
Giving too much dosage can lead to a dangerous overdosing situation that you must avoid by any means. This is very close to dog abuse. And sometimes, the situation leads toward diphenhydramine poisoning. And that’s one of the many reasons why following up with veterinarian is so important.
There are more than a few signs that show your dog may have experienced an overdose. The most common one is hyperexcitability of CNS.
The other warning signs are agitation, seizures, large pupils, fast heartbeat and constipation. If you witness any of these signs, don’t sit back and rush to a veterinarian.
There are also cases of dogs having a severe allergic reaction to Benadryl. If that seems to be evident with your dog its best to get help from veterinary care immediately.
This is why you should have precautions when giving the first dosage. There can be a chance of backfiring so it’s best to have earlier preparations. If nothing reactive shows after the first dosage then probably your dog is risk-free.
Also Read: 10 Best Anti Bark Device for Dogs | Reviews & Buying Guide
Conclusion
That was my take on how much Benadryl can you give a dog. Of course, consulting a veterinarian for a more specific answer is the best approach. You should also never leave your dog out of sight when trying new medications. Since in case of an adverse reaction, delay for emergency treatment is the last thing you want to happen.
Enjoy Your Pet Parent Life by Taking Care of Your Pet Child in Every Way.