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Location: Dogsey and Worcestershire
Joined: May 2004
Posts: 49,483
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Originally Posted by
Patch
It could be a very useful thread but I think it must be said that for anyone inexperienced, a vet should always be consulted for injuries or illnesses requiring treatment.
Some products made for humans certainly can be used on animals however dosages and suitability should be approved by a vet first.
It should be noted also that some animals have reactions to animal products / medications for which there are usually things to counteract a severe reaction but if a dog reacts badly to a non-animal product there may not be a readily available treatment so please bear this in mind - always check first.
It is also important to note that even qualified homeopaths etc can`t legally prescribe without a veterinary referal.
So, please bear in mind that products recommended for pets by word of mouth [ or posted anywhere ], should be cleared by a vet before use. [ imo ].
I often recommend Valerian but always with a disclaimer of a potential user getting vet approval first even though Valerian is readily available - any animal and any human can have unexpected reactions to things so one can never be too cautious even with products known to be extremely safe.
Thanks for reading.
Sorry to put a damper on your well intentioned thread Sheba
but I echo Patches good advice..
Many inexperienced dog owners read the forum and as each dog varies I think every problem should be evaluated individually because a vets consultation may be necessary.
Sometimes by applying pills and potions seeking the correct advice is delayed.
I have seen a person put powder down a dogs ear when there was a foreign body inside the ear , this had caused an infection and the powder just added to the problem because it made it difficult for the vet to see inside the ear and delayed the person seeking the correct treatment , this resulted in unnecessary pain for the dog .
I never give human medication to a dog except on a vets instructions. The medication may not be compatible with other medications a dog may already be taking and also if there are any serious side effect the vet will be aware of them and of the appropriate antidote .
I would advise that everyone takes a moment each day to check their dog over from head to toe including looking in the ears/mouth/eyes, that way any little potential problems can be spotted before they become big ones.