5 common dog medications every dog parent needs to know about

Dogs cannot communicate the intensity of their pain when they get sick. Because you might not detect the signs and symptoms of sickness, your dog can suffer alone. 

Nature indeed has its ways. And it has blessed dogs with an immune system that knows how to protect, guard, and secure itself in case of emergencies. But that doesn’t mean we should neglect our dog’s health.

It’s best to take your dog to the vet regularly, preferably every six months, to keep tabs on its health. You also should make sure you understand your dog’s health, any existing or potential health problems, and how you might need to address them.

Here’s what you need to know about common dog medications.

1. Antiparasitics

Antiparasitics for dogs refer to medicines that fight off internal and external parasites that accumulate on your dog’s body. Examples of external parasites include fleas, ticks, lice, mites, etc. And examples of internal parasites include roundworms, tapeworms, and flukes.

These are some of the most commonly administered dog medications. That’s because dogs play in dirt and mud a lot and have plenty of opportunities to come in contact with parasites.

2. Antibiotics

Evident by the name, antibiotics refer to medications that deal with bacterial infections in your dog’s body. Note that bacterial infections can occur in any part of the body, including skin, eyes, ears, mouth, and more.

Taking antibiotics can cause side effects. Some dogs experience an allergic reaction, others suffer neurological effects, and some endure gastrointestinal problems. It all depends on your dog’s body chemistry.

Since there are many dogs’ antibiotics, consider buying from Petcarerx. This reliable online store offers a wide range of medications, and it neatly categorizes the medicinal range. So finding your relevant medicine becomes relatively easy. Your search-to-order journey will be seamless here, making it super easy to take care of your little pup.

3. Antifungal 

Vets prescribe antifungal medicines for dogs when they develop an overgrowth or infection from fungal organisms. Infections can spread quickly and cause your dog’s health to deteriorate quickly. Hence, quick action is needed to treat antifungal infections.

If you’re wondering where these fungal organisms come from, there are two possible sources:

• An unclean environment
• Your dog’s skin or gut

Your dog’s skin or gut naturally comprises a type of yeast, which may grow when there’s a chemical imbalance. Common symptoms of fungal infections include redness and itchiness.

Antifungal medicines for dogs can be used topically or orally. Most vets recommend a combination of both.

4. Pain relievers

Vets prescribe pain relievers to dogs in extreme situations. If your dog suffers from a severe disease or health issues and experiences pain in different parts of the body (which may be a consequence of the medication for that particular health issue).

For example, vets prescribe Tramadol for chronic pain that dogs with cancer or arthritis may suffer. Alternates to pain relievers include physical therapy, cold laser treatments, or acupuncture.

5. Steroids

Steroids are artificial hormones. These manufactured hormones are used to achieve specific results or tackle a particular health issue. With that said, there’s a wide range of health issues that these medicines treat.

Steroids can come in handy for dogs to tackle inflammation, allergies, asthma-like diseases, and even bee stings. Remember, steroids are one of the most sensitive drugs. If you misuse them, it can have fatal effects. So, only give your dog steroids with your vet’s supervision.

Final thoughts dog medications

Now, you know about five common and essential medications. We hope this knowledge comes in handy and helps your dog when you face something terrible.

With that said, only use dog medications with your vet’s recommendation and supervision. Using medicines without proper supervision can cause severe consequences. Always make sure you are providing your dog with the appropriate care.

Shawn Mack is a content writer who offers ghostwriting, copywriting, and blogging services. His educational background in the business and technical field has given him a broad base from which to approach many topics. He is also fond of writing engaging articles on technology & digital marketing-related topics.  

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