Asthma has become a widespread disease across the US. That means more pet parents have asthma and their dogs may gain access to their asthma medicine. Asthma medicine is necessary to treat lung conditions such as asthma and COPD. But what happens if a dog eats asthma medicine?
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Has your dog eaten asthma medicine? Are you worried that the asthma medicine 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 asthma medicine and whether it can make a dog sick. Let’s get started!
What is Asthma Medicine?
Asthma is a respiratory disease of the lungs that causes inflammation of the small airways in the lungs. When these small airways are inflamed and narrowed, they produce excess mucus. This can make it more difficult to breathe.
Thankfully, there is asthma medicine to treat this disease and control asthma symptoms. There are many different kinds of asthma medicine, but one of the most common is called albuterol.
Albuterol is usually in an inhaler or liquid form (to use in a nebulizer), though it can also be taken as a pill. The medication works to ease inflammation of the airways and ease asthma symptoms, making it easier to breathe.
While asthma medicine is safe for humans (when used as directed), what about dogs? What happens if a dog eats asthma medicine?
Asthma Medicine & Dogs
Unfortunately, asthma medicine can be toxic when ingested and can make a dog very sick. This applies to all asthma medicine, including albuterol.
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Ask a Vet Live NowSymptoms of Asthma Medicine Ingestion in Dogs
You may notice these symptoms if your dog has eaten asthma medicine:
- Arrhythmia
- Tachycardia or bradycardia
- Hypertension
- Heart block
- Tachypnea
- Excessive drooling
- Dilated pupils
- Rapid breathing
If you notice any of these symptoms in your dog, call the vet immediately. This is an emergency.
Treatment of Asthma Medicine Ingestion in Dogs
Treatment depends on the severity of the dog’s condition and the symptoms he’s having. Treatment may include hospitalization, so the vet can treat symptoms as they arise. In addition, your fur baby can be monitored by the vet.
The vet will probably also give your canine companion IV fluids to keep him hydrated. The IV lines can also be used to administer medications as needed.
They will also monitor your dog’s heart rate and get it down to normal, along with your fur baby’s blood pressure. Once your dog’s condition is stable, he’ll be able to return home.
The prognosis is best for dogs who receive prompt treatment after eating asthma medicine. In the future, it’s best to keep all asthma 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.
Kim
Kim is a talented author, who loves animals especially dogs. She engaged in writing books and articles relating to animals a decade ago. Kim resides in Chicago with her husband and son. The family is the proud owner of a dog and a parrot (Jack and Lily). Kim wanted more than these two pets, but her husband put his foot down... She often visits elementary schools to talk to the kids about what she learned about pets and how they could learn from them.
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