How do I administer Apoquel to my dog?

How do I administer Apoquel to my dog? - briefly

To administer Apoquel to your dog, follow these steps:

1. Ensure you have the prescribed dose ready in advance.
2. Give the medication directly into your dog's mouth or mix it with a small amount of food if necessary.

How do I administer Apoquel to my dog? - in detail

To properly administer Apoquel to your dog, follow these detailed instructions:

1. Read the Label: Before you begin, carefully read and understand the label on the medication bottle. Familiarize yourself with the dosage, frequency of administration, and any precautions or warnings.

2. Consult Your Veterinarian: Ensure that you have consulted with your veterinarian regarding the appropriate dose for your dog's weight and specific condition. Apoquel is typically prescribed at 0.5 to 0.6 mg/kg body weight twice daily, but individual requirements may vary.

3. Prepare the Medication: Apoquel tablets are available in different strengths (3.57 mg, 11.23 mg, 17.84 mg, and 29.76 mg). Choose the appropriate tablet size based on your dog's weight. You may need to break tablets into smaller pieces if necessary, but ensure you do so accurately to maintain the correct dosage.

4. Administration:

   • Direct Oral Administration: The easiest and most common method is to give the tablet directly to your dog. Place the tablet on the back of their tongue and gently close their mouth. Gently rub their throat or blow lightly on their nose to encourage them to swallow.
   • Food or Treats: If your dog is resistant to taking the pill directly, you can hide it in a small piece of food or a treat. Ensure that the food or treat is small enough to be swallowed whole with the tablet inside. Avoid using fatty foods, as they may interfere with the absorption of the medication.
   • Pill Pockets: Another option is to use pill pockets, which are specially designed treats with a hole in the middle for inserting the tablet. These can make administration easier and more appealing to your dog.

5. Consistency and Timing: Apoquel should be administered at regular intervals, usually twice daily (every 12 hours). Set reminders or use a medication schedule to ensure you do not miss any doses. Consistency is crucial for the effectiveness of the treatment.

6. Monitor Your Dog: Keep an eye on your dog after administering Apoquel. While side effects are rare, it's important to be aware of any changes in behavior or health. Common side effects may include vomiting, diarrhea, or lethargy. If you notice anything unusual, contact your veterinarian immediately.

7. Storage: Store Apoquel tablets at room temperature and keep them in a dry place. Ensure the medication is out of reach of children and other pets to prevent accidental ingestion.

8. Complete the Course: Continue administering Apoquel as prescribed by your veterinarian, even if your dog's symptoms improve. Stopping the treatment prematurely can lead to a resurgence of symptoms or make the condition more difficult to treat in the future.

By following these detailed steps, you can effectively and safely administer Apoquel to your dog, ensuring they receive the full benefits of the medication.