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Energy drinks have become very popular in recent years. Some people may even choose an energy drink in the morning rather than a cup of coffee! Their increasing popularity means energy drinks are found in more homes, making them more accessible to dogs. But what happens if a dog drinks an energy drink?
Has your dog drunk energy drink? Are you worried the energy drink will make your dog sick? If so, then you’ve come to the right place. We understand it can be scary when your dog does something like this.
In this article, we’ll take a look at energy drinks and whether or not they can make your dog sick. Let’s get started!
What is an Energy Drink?
Energy drinks are a type of beverage that contains ingredients to help increase a person’s energy and increase mental stimulation. You may be familiar with these energy drink brands:
- 5-Hour Energy
- AMP
- Rockstar
- Red Bull
- Monster
These are some examples of energy drinks that are currently popular around the country. So, what do these drinks contain that make them supply energy? Let’s take a look.
Energy drinks contain any of the following:
- Sugar
- B vitamins
- Amino acids
- Herbal extracts
- Caffeine
Most energy drinks contain high amounts of caffeine, which is a known stimulate. This is the same substance in coffee and some types of soda.
While energy drinks do what they say—provide energy and stimulation—they can be dangerous for humans. One of the biggest concerns is that these drinks can cause serious heart problems. But what about in dogs? Can energy drinks make a dog sick?
Energy Drinks & Dogs
Unfortunately, energy drinks can be very dangerous for dogs. The main problem is the amount of caffeine in the drinks. Dogs are not able to metabolize caffeine as we are. This means the caffeine stays in a dog’s system for much longer. As a result, it can cause heart problems and more in dogs.
However, if your dog has only one lick of an energy drink, he should be OK. Your dog can become very sick if he has a large amount of caffeine. It’s challenging to determine what a “large amount” is for your dog. It will vary, depending on a dog’s size and weight.
Review symptoms, medications & behavior to keep your pets healthy with a Vet Online in just minutes.
Ask a Vet Live NowSymptoms of Caffeine Toxicity in Dogs
You may notice these symptoms if your dog has ingested caffeine:
- Hyperactivity
- Shaking
- Panting
- Agitation
- Nervousness
- Hypertension
- Rapid heartbeat
- Hypothermia
- Seizures
If you notice these symptoms in your dog, then call the vet immediately. This is an emergency.
The vet may treat your dog by inducing vomiting, using activated charcoal, and more. Recovery depends on the amount of energy drink that dog has had, as well as how soon he receives medical care.
So, getting your dog to the vet as soon as possible is the best way to help your dog. You could end up saving his life.
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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