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Understanding Your Pet’s Medications
So you just finished having your pet checked out by the veterinarian and they have told you they’re sending some medication home for her. Before you pay and take your bag of medications and head home, you should be certain you understand what medications your pet is on and why. If you are not clear on any of the following, be certain you ask before you leave.
- What is this medication for?
- When and how often do I give it?
- How is it given: orally? topically?
- Is it okay if I forget to give a dose on time to give it late or should I just skip it and continue with the next scheduled dose?
- How long should my pet be on this medication?
- Are there any possible side effects I should look for?
- Are there any special storage needs? Does it need to be refrigerated?
- How long before I start to see improvement for my pet?
- If your pet is nursing or possibly pregnant, be sure to mention that to the veterinarian as well.
- Can I give this medication with/or hide it in food?
- Some medications can be given in pill form or as a liquid. If you know one or the other is easier to give your pet, be sure to mention it to the veterinarian.
Be sure to give all medications as prescribed by the veterinarian. If you get home and think of more questions, call us! We want to make sure your pet gets the best care possible and that all your questions have been answered. Also, we know that some pets can be difficult to medicate. We have had owners bring in their pets for us to medicate for them. Depending on the medicine, we may also be able to give your pet injections in place of pills. If your pet is not responding to the treatment, please let us know so that we can reevaluate and possible change medications or take a different treatment approach. It’s also very important that you only give the medication to the pet that it’s prescribed for.
Like you, we want your pet to feel better as soon as possible, and being fully informed on your pet’s treatment is a good start for making that so.
