Supplements, such as amino acid pills, are popular and found in many of our homes. They are used by humans for a wide range of reasons. But one thing is sure, with so many people using amino acid pills, they are definitely found in homes that have dogs. And you know that dogs are curious and sometimes try to eat pills they find on the floor, including amino acid pills. But what happens if a dog eats an amino acid pill?
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Has your dog eaten an amino acid pill? Are you worried the amino acid pill will make your dog sick? If so, you’ve come to the right place. We understand it can be scary when your dog eats something like this.
We’ve gathered information about amino acid pills and whether they can make a dog sick. Let’s get started!
What are Amino Acid Pills?
Amino acid pills are supplements that can help with muscle health and recovery, especially for those who exercise quite a bit or participate in sports. Amino acids are essential for muscle development and strength, and they help balance between atrophy and growth of human muscles.
Supplementing your diet with amino acids may increase the amount of nitrogen in the body and maintain the number of amino acids stored in the muscles.
While amino acid supplements are safe for humans (when taken as directed), what about dogs? What happens if a dog eats an amino acid pill?
Amino Acid Pill & Dogs
Dogs, like us, require amino acids to be healthy. Amino acids are the building blocks of proteins, which are made up of chains of amino acids. Dogs regularly receive their amino acids from the food they eat.
We were not able to find specific information on whether a dog can overdose on amino acids; however, we did find a source that said it is possible if a dog ate several amino acid pills made for humans.
So, if your dog has eaten one amino acid pill, he will more than likely be OK. However, if he eats more than one, he could become sick.
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Ask a Vet Live NowSymptoms of Amino Acid Pill Ingestion in Dogs
You may notice these symptoms if your dog has eaten several amino acid pills:
- Upset stomach
- Diarrhea
- Vomiting
These symptoms can last between 12-24 hours. If they last longer than this, it’s best to call the vet. Your fur baby may require medications to calm his GI tract and stop persistent diarrhea and vomiting.
Treatment of Amino Acid Ingestion in Dogs
The vet may try to induce vomiting to help your dog’s system get rid of the amino acids. Next, they may give your fur baby medications to stop diarrhea and vomiting. The vet may also give your dog medication to ease the inflammation of his stomach and intestines.
The vet will also check your dog for dehydration; if your fur baby has become dehydrated, the vet will give him an IV with fluids.
The good news is that most dogs will make a full recovery after eating amino acid pills. In the future, it’s best to keep amino acid pills and other medications out of your dog’s reach. You’ll both be happier for it!
Connect with a verified veterinarian in minutes. Licensed vets are available 24/7 to answer your questions. No need to worry about your furry family member.
Julie
Julie is a graduate of the University of North Carolina, Wilmington, where she studied Animal science. Though contrary to the opinion of her parents she was meant to study pharmacy, but she was in love with animals especially cats. Julie currently works in an animal research institute (NGO) in California and loves spending quality time with her little cat. She has the passion for making research about animals, how they survive, their way of life among others and publishes it. Julie is also happily married with two kids.Review symptoms, medications & behavior to keep your pets healthy with a Vet Online in just minutes.
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