Zyrtec Use in Dogs
Dogs often show allergic symptoms through their skin. Look for itchy areas where scratching has led to loss of fur. This symptom is a sign you need to talk with your veterinarian about treatment. Your veterinarian can tell you about Zyrtec use in dogs. Zyrtec is the brand name for the chemical cetirizine, which is an antihistamine used for allergy relief. Always consult with a veterinarian before giving your pet medication.
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Administration
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Zyrtec usually is administered orally once daily. It may be given with or without food. Always monitor your dog for any reaction after a first dose of medicine. "If you have difficulty giving doses, consult your veterinarian or pharmacist, who can offer administration techniques or change the dosage form to a type of medication that may be more acceptable to you and your animal," according to UC Davis School of Veterinary Medicine.
Schedule
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Give your dog the medication exactly as your veterinarian has prescribed it. Give your dog each dose on time. However, if you are only a couple of hours late, give your dog the missed dose as soon as you remember. If you are within a few hours of the next dose, wait and administer that dose. Never give your pet a double dose. Your dog's veterinarian can tell you how long your pet needs to continue taking Zyrtec.
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Side Effects
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While sedation is the most common reaction, this is less likely with Zyrtec than other antihistamines, such as diphendydramine. Zyrtec may result in excitability or nervousness in some dogs. Watch for any signs of urinary retention or constipation, extra salivation and vomiting. If a dog does vomit, discontinue the medicine and contact your veterinarian.
Warning
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Do not administer Zyrtec to older dogs with renal problems. Do not give your dog any formula that contains pseudoephedrine, such as Zyrtec-D. "As little as one tablet containing 30 mg of pseudoephedrine can induce clinical signs in a 20-pound dog, including nervousness, hyperactivity and other behavioral changes; panting; fast heart rate; and high blood pressure," according to AVMA.org. "A dose as small as three 30-mg tablets in the same size dog can be lethal."
Storage
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Store Zyrtec in an area away from direct light. Keep the medicine at room temperature. Store Zyrtec out of reach of pets and children.
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References
Resources
- Photo Credit sleeping dogs lie image by Martin Woodward from Fotolia.com
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Comments
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WOW.....MOM here is your allergy stuff for Jake!
