My Dog Ate Anbesol What Should I Do?

Reviewed By Julie •  Updated: 05/06/23 •  3 min read
Dog Severe Toxicity Level
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Just like us, our dogs can sometimes suffer from toothaches, teething, and other mouth issues. When this happens, you may want to reach for your bottle of Anbesol. However, that may not be the right treatment for your fur baby. It’s possible that Anbesol can be harmful to dogs.

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Has your dog eaten Anbesol? Are you worried the Anbesol 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 Anbesol and whether it can make a dog sick. Let’s get started!

 Dog Ate Anbesol

It is strongly recommended to contact a Pet Poison Helpline or your veterinarian.

What is Anbesol?

Anbesol is a medication that comes in liquid or gel form and is used to treat minor mouth pain, such as canker sores, toothache, sore gums, mouth or gum injuries, and more.

This medication is a local anesthetic that works to numb the painful area. Anbesol contains benzocaine (a pain reliever).

While Anbesol is safe for human adults (when used as directed), what happens if a dog eats Anbesol?

Anbesol & Dogs

Unfortunately, Anbesol is not safe for dogs. While benzocaine is used for dogs, these preparations are made especially for dogs and contain a safe amount of benzocaine that will not harm a dog.

However, the human version of Anbesol contains too much benzocaine and it can cause serious health issues if used on a dog or eaten by a dog.

The problem is that benzocaine can be toxic to dogs and cause a condition called methemoglobinemia. Methemoglobinemia is a condition that is a specific form of anemia that can cause a wide range of symptoms.

Symptoms of Anbesol Ingestion in Dogs

You may notice these symptoms if your dog has eaten Anbesol:

If you notice any of these symptoms in your dog, call the vet immediately. This is an emergency.

Treatment of Anbesol Ingestion in Dogs

The vet can run a blood test to see if your dog has developed methemoglobinemia. The test measures the number of red blood cells in your fur baby’s blood.

In some cases, the vet may induce vomiting to remove the toxin from the dog’s system. And if the case is severe, your fur baby may need IV fluids, blood transfusions, and a substance called methylene blue, which works to reduce the amount of methemoglobin in the dog’s system.

The prognosis is best for dogs that receive prompt medical care after eating Anbesol. In the future, it’s best to keep Anbesol and all medications out of your dog’s reach. You’ll both be happier for it!

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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.

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