What should I do if my dog ate Ketoprofen (a painkiller)? - briefly
If your dog has ingested ketoprofen, immediately contact your veterinarian or a pet poison helpline. Do not induce vomiting unless instructed by a professional, as this can sometimes cause more harm than good.
What should I do if my dog ate Ketoprofen (a painkiller)? - in detail
If your dog has ingested ketoprofen, a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) commonly used as a painkiller, it is crucial to act promptly and take the following steps to ensure their safety:
-
Stay Calm: Panic can escalate the situation. Maintain composure so you can effectively manage the crisis.
-
Assess Symptoms: Look for any signs of distress or adverse reactions in your dog. Common symptoms of ketoprofen toxicity include vomiting, lethargy, loss of appetite, abdominal pain, and changes in urination frequency or color. In severe cases, dogs may exhibit seizures, difficulty breathing, or even collapse.
-
Do Not Induce Vomiting: Unlike some other substances, inducing vomiting is not recommended with ketoprofen as it can cause further damage to the stomach lining and esophagus due to its acidic nature.
-
Contact Your Veterinarian Immediately: Time is of the essence. Call your veterinarian or an emergency animal clinic immediately for advice tailored to your dog's specific situation. Provide them with details such as the amount of ketoprofen ingested, the time it was consumed, and any symptoms observed.
-
Be Prepared for Professional Care: Your veterinarian may recommend bringing your dog in for immediate evaluation and treatment. Depending on the severity, they might administer supportive care including intravenous fluids to help flush out the toxins, gastric protectants to prevent further stomach irritation, and possibly activated charcoal to absorb any remaining drug in the gastrointestinal tract.
-
Monitor Closely: Even if symptoms seem mild initially, continue monitoring your dog closely for at least 24-48 hours, as signs of toxicity can sometimes take time to manifest fully.
-
Prevent Future Incidents: Ensure that all medications are stored in a secure location out of reach of your pet. Educate family members about the dangers of leaving medications unattended and the importance of promptly disposing of unused or expired drugs.
By following these steps, you can help mitigate the risks associated with ketoprofen ingestion and ensure that your dog receives the care they need to recover safely.