Many of us use Aspercreme to treat minor aches and pains. It’s a popular remedy, which means that the medication is found in households with dogs. For some reason, dogs become curious about the medication their pet parents use. Maybe the dog thinks the Aspercreme is food or the container looks like a good thing to chew on! But somehow, the dog manages to eat some of the medication. What happens if a dog eats Aspercreme?
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Has your dog eaten Aspercreme? Are you worried that the Aspercreme 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 Aspercreme and whether it can make a dog sick. Let’s get started!
What is Aspercreme?
Aspercreme is a topical OTC medication that treats minor aches and pains of the muscles and joints. It contains a drug called trolamine salicylate. The medication works to reduce inflammation and pain when it’s applied to the body.
While Aspercreme is safe for humans (when used as directed), what about dogs? What happens if a dog eats Aspercreme?
Aspercreme & Dogs
Unfortunately, Aspercreme’s main ingredient, trolamine salicylate, can cause kidney damage in dogs. In addition, the medication can cause stomach and GI ulceration and internal bleeding in dogs. This can be a very serious situation, depending on the amount of Aspercreme the dog has ingested.
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Ask a Vet Live NowSymptoms of Aspercreme Ingestion in Dogs
You may notice these symptoms if your dog has eaten Aspercreme:
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Gastric ulceration
- GI hemorrhage
- Collapse
- Extreme weakness
- Tremors/seizures
If you notice any of these symptoms in your dog, call the vet immediately. This is an emergency.
Treatment of Aspercreme Ingestion in Dogs
The vet will work to decontaminate your dog’s system by inducing vomiting and using activated charcoal. They may also give your fur baby GI protectants and antibiotics (if ulceration is present). Your fur baby may also require pain medication and blood transfusions. The vet may also give your dog IV fluids, and more. IV fluids work to rehydrate your dog and help decontaminate his system.
In most cases, your dog will need to be hospitalized until he’s in stable condition.
The prognosis is best for dogs who receive prompt medical treatment after eating Aspercreme. In the future, it’s best to keep Aspercreme and other medications out of your dog’s reach. You’ll both be happier for it!
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Kyoko
Kyoko is from a family of 3 and moved to New York with her parents and siblings when she was 13. Kyoko is fond of spending a great amount of time with pets, specifically her beagle Luna and cat Missy. Her boyfriend often complains that she spends too much time giving attention to their animals. Kyoko has written dozens of articles concerning pets and is aiming at owning a pet shop one day!
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