Just a short time ago, veterinary care was limited to few options and few treatments for furry friends. But now, thanks to the progress of veterinary medicine, pet owners have many safe and effective medications to help dogs live longer, happier lives. Pet owners need to understand the medications to care for our beloved companions.
Why veterinary guidance is important
Medications can only do so much and most medications are effective and safe when used through a professional veterinarian. Not every dog is the same. Only a vet can determine the treatment based on the dog's health, age, and individual needs. Never administer a medication to your dog before consulting your vet.
1. Antibiotics
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Why: To treat bacterial infections that make dogs sick.
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How it works: Antibiotics either kill bad bacteria or stop bad bacteria from growing so a dog's immune system has the chance to get better.
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Conditions treated: Skin infections, urinary tract infections, and respiratory infections.
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What to remember: Always follow a vet's instructions and complete the full course of medication even if the dog looks better in the interim.
2. Pain Relievers (Analgesics)
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Why: To relieve pain/discomfort.
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How it works: By either blocking the pain signals to the dog's body or relieving inflammation that causes pain.
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Conditions treated: Arthritis, injuries and post-surgery.
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What to remember: Never administer something like ibuprofen as humans take for pain or any pain relievers unless prescribed by your vet.
3. Anti-inflammatories
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Why: To reduce swelling/inflammation in the body.
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How it works: Anti-inflammatories will calm the immune response that causes redness and swelling in the body.
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Conditions treated: Allergies, arthritis, and inflammatory bowel disease.
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What to remember: To only use for what your veterinarian advises to avoid side effects.
4. Dewormers (Antiparasitics)
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Why: Remove and/or prevent the internal parasites from dogs such as the worms.
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How it works: Dewormers kill or expel the parasite that lives in the dog's digestive system.
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Conditions treated: Roundworms, tapeworms, and hookworms.
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What to remember: Minimize the chances of all these worms to grow thanks to your vet deworming schedule.
5. Heartworm Preventatives
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Why: To protect my dog from heartworm disease, which is serious and fatal.
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How it works: To kill the larvae before they grow to adult worms.
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Conditions treated: Heartworm prevention (NOT for adult heartworms).
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What to remember: Always remember that prevention works better than the medication so provide your dog heartworm month treatment that is recommended by the veterinarian monthly, throughout the year.
Keeping your dog healthy and happy
With medications like these, owners can treat and heal sick pets, relieve hurt pets, and only make them a healthier dog. But the most effective way to use these medications is with a veterinarian, and personalized treatment for each dog. Your veterinarian knows best about the dog's health and goes above and beyond to treat and care for each animal.
So take the next step: If you have questions regarding your dog's health or medications for dogs, contact your veterinarian today. You can work together to ensure your furry friend has many happy and healthy years.
