Dogs are known for eating the strangest things. They may eat something, such as Baclofen, out of curiosity or because they feel they’re missing out on a yummy snack! But what happens if a dog eats Baclofen?
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Has your dog eaten Baclofen? Are you worried that the Baclofen 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 Baclofen and whether it can make a dog sick. Let’s get started!
What is Baclofen?
Baclofen is a medication tat’s used to relax certain muscles in the body. It relieves spasms, cramping, and tightness in muscles caused by health issues, such as multiple sclerosis (MS), injuries to the spine, and more.
Unfortunately, this medication does not cure the problem that causes muscle spasms. But it can work to relax the muscles and offer pain relief. This medication works on the CNS (central nervous system) to cause the muscles to relax.
While Baclofen is considered safe for humans (when used as directed), what about dogs? What happens if a dog eats Baclofen?
Baclofen & Dogs
Baclofen is used in veterinary medicine to treat off-label conditions in dogs. However, the dose of this medication must be small. In larger doses, Baclofen can be toxic to dogs.
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Ask a Vet Live NowSymptoms of Baclofen Ingestion in Dogs
You may notice these symptoms if your dog has eaten Baclofen:
- Vomiting
- Incoordination
- Disorientation
- Respiratory failure
- Seizures
- Excessive drooling
- Weakness
- Hypothermia
- Panting
- Edema
- Tremors
- Dilated pupils
- Slow heartbeat
If you notice any of these symptoms in your dog, call the vet immediately. This is an emergency.
Treatment of Baclofen Ingestion in Dogs
There is no antidote for Baclofen toxicity, so the treatment is mostly supportive. If a dog is not showing symptoms and has recently eaten the medication, the vet may induce vomiting and use activated charcoal. These methods work to eliminate the medication from the dog’s system.
In addition, the vet may give your fur baby an IV with fluids. Fluid therapy is supportive for your dog and works to flush the medication out of his body through excretion.
The vet will treat other symptoms as they arise. In some cases, your canine companion may need to be hospitalized until he’s in stable condition.
The prognosis is best for dogs who receive prompt medical treatment after eating Baclofen. In the future, it’s best to keep Baclofen and other 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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