Heart Medications for Dogs
Dogs are prone to heart problems, just as we are. Higher calorie diets produce obese dogs with a higher risk of developing a heart disease. Some purebred dogs, like boxers and poodles, are also prone to heart problems. Fortunately, here are many medications available for our canine friends.
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Pimobendan
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Also known by the brand name Vetmedin, this pill is for dogs suffering congestive heart failure. This is a prescription drug only.
ACE Inhibitors
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This class of drugs to treat heart failure and high blood pressure includes benazepril, enalapril and lisinopril. They help keep the blood vessels open.
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Nitroglycercin
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Please wear gloves when giving these pills to your dog as they could burn your skin. This drug is used to treat a variety of heart ailments.
Bad Reactions
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If your dog shows any of these symptoms, contact your vet immediately: skin rash, repeated vomiting, chronic diarrhea, problems walking or problems breathing.
Warning
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Never give human heart medications to dogs, even if they are made of the same ingredients listed above. Human medications are far too strong for dogs to handle.
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Resources
- Photo Credit Obese dogs are prone to heart problems. Image from Wikimedia C
