Any prescription drug that is prescribed to a person or animal is only to be administered to that particular patient.  It is a federal offence to give or sell prescription drugs to those who the drug is not prescribed for.
 
Common drugs that we take such as Tylenol (acetaminophen), Advil (ibuprofen), Aleve (naproxen), Benadryl (diphenhydramine), and Gravol (dimenhydrinate), just to name a few, can be harmful or even fatal to or furry loved ones.

    For example, giving your cat Tylenol (even a Children’s Tylenol dose) could be fatal.  Cats do not have the ability to metabolize acetaminophen, and a well meaning gesture to help could put your cat in grave danger. So, as a rule, never give cats Tylenol! Another example, administering even a half dose of Extra Strength Advil to an adult German shepherd is enough to cause serious kidney damage.

    Non-steroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs (NSAID) such as Aspirin (acetylsalicylic acid), Advil, and Aleve are all examples of NSAIDs used in human medicine.  There are NSAIDs that are manufactured specifically for pets which have been tested and have less risk of side effects.  Giving your pet a dose of human NSAIDs without consulting with your veterinarian is dangerous. Remember, what may be safe for you or your children may not be safe for your pets.

    Important Note: Giving an animal human NSAIDs for pain before seeing a veterinarian could affect the treatment options available to your pet. NSAIDs require a two week wash out period between the last NSAID dose and the first new NSAID dose. The reason for this is that animals metabolize drugs differently and it could take up to two weeks to fully leave their system. Any NSAID given while another NSAID is still in the animal’s system could cause problems such as anemia, stomach ulceration, kidney failure, and liver failure.

    If you have been giving any of the above drugs to your pet recently, please contact your veterinarian to discuss the safety of the product and side effects to watch out for. If you suspect your pet is having a reaction or is not handling the product or medication, contact your Veterinarian or Veterinary Emergency service immediately.  Remember to bring the bottle or container, or have the name and strength of the product, along with how long and how often you have been administering the medication.