Can You Give a Dog Advil? [No! But Here Are Some Natural Alternatives!]

Many pet parents are tempted to give their dog Advil and other seemingly harmless medication. After all, a doctor doesn't need to prescribe it to us for pain relief. Unfortunately, Advil doesn't work the same way it does on us when it comes to our dog's health. In fact, Advil can be downright deadly to dogs in certain doses. Let's find out why.

 

 

How Does Advil Work?

Advil provides pain relief by reducing the hormones that cause inflammation and pain in your body. It targets the area of discomfort when it senses that hormone-like compounds called prostaglandins are released. Your nerve endings then transmit a message within your body's nervous system, telling your brain where the pain is coming from. Advil prevents these injured cells from releasing more prostaglandin, reducing the discomfort you're experiencing.

 

 

 

What Can You Give a Dog for Pain Relief Over the Counter?

Pet owners must never use OTC human pain meds for their dogs, not even for severe pain. If a dog ingests Advil, other variations of ibuprofen, or any nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs for that matter, they can become toxic. Dogs can experience poisoning when they take as little as 200 mg of Advil.

 

The most common symptoms include toxic effects on the gastrointestinal tract, kidneys, or liver. This can happen in as little as 12 hours, leading to bleeding stomach ulcers, kidney disease, and even death. Here are early signs that your dog has ingested Advil:

 

• Lethargy
• Refusing to eat
• Vomiting
• Abdominal pain
• Black, tarry stool
• More frequent urination
• Appearing dehydrated

 

 

What Should I Do if My Dog Eats Advil?

If you suspect that your dog has ingested Advil or other medications, contact a veterinarian immediately before the symptoms become serious and your dog experiences organ failure or worse. Vets will diagnose ibuprofen toxicity based on a physical exam and blood tests. Your dog's blood tests may reveal anemia due to bleeding ulcers or kidney damage.

 

From there, the vet will provide your dog with a variety of treatments depending on the dose your dog took. This could include hospitalization, physical therapy, and intravenous fluids for a few days. Your dog may need a blood transfusion if they have lost too much blood. Your vet will also give them medication that improves their stomach condition.

 

 

 

How to Avoid Advil Overdose in Dogs

The best way to keep your dog safe from Advil is to not give your dog Advil or other human medications unless directed by your veterinarian. Keep Advil in hard-to-reach spots, like a locked cabinet or drawer. Never leave medication lying around in your home, especially if you have a pet or child that easily gets into things.

 

Always keep Advil and other human medications inside the bottle they came in, making sure the cap is tightly on. These child-proof caps will ensure that the pills won't spill out on the floor if the bottle is knocked over. But remember that your dog may be able to bite open the bottle, hence why you should store it away at all times.

 

 

 

What Can I Give My Dog for Pain?

If your dog is feeling achy or experiencing discomfort, there are luckily some safe and holistic alternatives to pain meds for dogs that will improve their health and provide relief. You should always take your dog to the vet if they are sick or injured. But here are some safe and natural ways you can comfort your dog while you await the visit.

 

Fish Oil

This is a popular health supplement that can significantly provide pain relief for dogs. Fish oil is a great source of omega-3 essential fatty acids that control inflammation. Add fish oil to your dog's meals throughout the day to provide some pain relief.

 

Turmeric

Studies show that turmeric is an antioxidant that slows down degenerative processes, helping repair your dog's body. You can incorporate turmeric root into your dog's food by creating a "golden paste." You'll need:

 

• 1/2 cup organic turmeric powder
• 1 cup filtered water
• 1 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper
• 1/4 cup organic MCT oil (or coconut oil)

 

Mix the turmeric with the water in a pan. Stir this liquid on low heat for about seven to 10 minutes. It will end up a thick paste (but add more water if it's too thick). Once the paste is thick enough, add pepper and oil, stirring thoroughly. Allow the mixture to cool, and then store it in the fridge.

 

Rest

Provide your dog with a comfortable area to feel secure and cozy. Put them in a quiet room with dimmed lighting. Make sure they have a soft bed and plenty of blankets (maybe even some heated ones). Give them some space and allow them to sleep. Sometimes a good, long rest can greatly improve your dog's pain and condition.

 

Dog Massage

Your dog loves being pet. So why not give them a dog massage that purposefully focuses on problem areas that need some soothing? Gently massage your dog's ears, working your way to different spots on their body. Switch between scratches and long strokes, seeing what your dog responds to best. If your dog seems uncomfortable or shrinks away from your hand, they are probably in too much pain to be touched.

 

Heat Pad or Ice Pack

Just like us, these two easy things can significantly improve your dog's discomfort. But it's important to know which one to use. Use an ice pack to reduce swelling and inflammation. You also want to stick to ice when dealing with a new injury. If your dog has arthritis pain or other ongoing aches and chronic pain conditions, a heating pad can provide a lot of comfort.

 

CBD Products

CBD is a natural compound found in the hemp plant. It interacts with the receptors in your dog's endocannabinoid system, which controls their overall well-being and balance. Some of these receptors are found in the nervous system and digestive system. This means that CBD will naturally improve your dog's physical discomfort and reduce sickness side effects.

 

CBD should be given to your dog consistently, about once every eight hours (or twice a day). The more often your dog takes CBD, the more impactful the benefits become. These benefits include reduced swelling, improved skin conditions, and a calmer, happier disposition. There are several CBD products that you can give to your dog in place of Advil. Let's take a look at them.

 

• CBD Oil: CBD oil for dogs can be dropped directly into your dog's mouth or mixed in with their food. It has virtually no flavor, so most dogs won't know it's even there. At HolistaPet, we also have CBD treats with flavors and textures your dog will love.
• CBD Capsules: These capsules come predosed and are easy to give to your dog. You can give it to your dog directly or hide it in their favorite snack or food.
• CBD Dog Treats: We offer several CBD dog treats to support all of your dog's health and wellness needs. Not just limited to providing relief from discomfort, our treats are delicious, crunchy snacks that will have them jumping around in no time.
• CBD Soft Chews: These soft chews are easy to consume for younger and older dogs with dental issues. Packed with all-natural flavor and potent CBD, your dog will be free of discomfort and finally at ease with CBD soft chews.

 

 

Final Thoughts

While Advil is perfect for us, human pain medications are not a good solution for dogs experiencing discomfort and aches. Fortunately, there are safe alternatives to give a dog for pain. You can give your dog a quiet place to rest, provide them with a heat or ice pack, or give them some CBD products like CBD oil, capsules, or treats.