Dogs are more likely to encounter human medications when these
are outside of a medicine cabinet. Not only should medications be
kept out of reach of your dog when not being used, but remember to
put away any boxes of tablets immediately after use. Do not leave
tablets lying on tables while you get a drink to help wash them
down. Dogs are not humans and so should never be given any human
medication unless specified by a veterinary professional.
Ibuprofen and other Non-Steroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs
NSAIDs are often used to manage inflammation and pain in both
humans and dogs. Human NSAIDs, such as ibuprofen, diclofenac and
naproxen, are different from the ones given to dogs and can make
them very unwell. Human NSAIDs (and dog NSAIDs in overdose)
interfere with the dog's ability to protect its gut and so can
cause severe tummy upset. Ulcers may form in their gut, leading to
blood in the stools and vomit. Kidney failure can also occur and
may be delayed for several days. Signs of kidney failure may
include inappropriate urination and increased thirst. Some NSAIDs
can also cause fits.
These small tablets are one of the medications most frequently
eaten by dogs. Fortunately, oral contraceptives are of low acute
toxicity and even large amounts are unlikely to cause any major
concerns, apart from a possible mild stomach upset. Some oral
contraceptives may temporarily disrupt oestrus in bitches.
This widely used pain medication may initially cause vomiting,
brown gums, increased heart rate, changes to the rate of breathing,
swelling to the face and paws, and can also cause a delayed liver
failure, which may not present for several days.
Paracetamol can also be found in many other over the counter
medications in combination with other drugs.
These creams often contain vitamin D derivatives which are
extremely toxic to dogs. Dogs are usually poisoned by licking off
recently applied cream from their owners, but may also lick or chew
the tube of cream. These drugs enhance the resorption of calcium
from the bone and increase the absorption of calcium from the gut.
This causes hypercalcaemia; an excess of calcium in the blood.
Signs may present after 6 hours, but could be delayed and can
include weakness, profuse vomiting and diarrhoea, and increased
thirst. As calcium levels rise it can cause muscle spasms, fits,
heart problems, kidney failure and can cause the gut and lungs to
Other common items found in medicine cabinets that could harm
- Blood pressure medications
- Diabetes medications
- Heart medications
- Sleep aids
Tips on how to poison-proof your home
Many people carry medications around in bags that they use on a
daily basis, i.e. handbags or rucksacks. When at home, don't forget
to keep these out of reach of your pet, as an inquisitive dog who
discovers a box of tablets, foil packaging or a bottle of
medication, may be inclined to play with it.
How to use this information
The information is intended to be used to prevent poisoning by
raising awareness of certain poisons, rather than as a document to
be used in an emergency. If you suspect that your dog has been
poisoned, or has come into contact with potentially poisonous
substances, contact your local veterinary practice immediately.
The lists of poisons in this information guide are not
exhaustive. If an item is not mentioned in this guide it should not
be assumed that it is not poisonous. Further advice on substances
that could harm your dog could be sought from your local veterinary
Who can I contact for further advice?
The Kennel Club is not a veterinary organisation and is unable
to provide general or case specific veterinary advice. If you
have any questions regarding any of the issues discussed in this
article then please contact your local veterinary practice for
What to do if you suspect your dog has been poisoned
If you think that your dog may have eaten, touched or inhaled
something that it shouldn't have, consult your local veterinary
Do not try to make your dog sick. Trying to do this can cause
other complications, which may harm your dog.
In an emergency you can help your veterinary practice make an
informed decision as to whether your dog needs to be treated by
them, and if so, what the best treatment would be. Where possible
you should provide your veterinary practice with information
- What poison you think your dog has been exposed to (i.e.
chocolate, ibuprofen, etc.). Include any product names, or lists of
ingredients if relevant
- How much they may have been exposed to (i.e. 500mg, 500ml, one
tablet etc, even approximations may help)
- When your dog was exposed to the poison (i.e. 5 minutes, 5
hours or 5 days ago)
- If your dog has been unwell, and if so, what clinical effects
have been seen
It is easier for a veterinarian to care for a poisoned dog if it
is treated sooner rather than later. If you are in any doubt, do
not wait for your dog to become unwell before calling for
If you do need to take your dog to your veterinary practice,
make sure that you take along any relevant packaging, or a sample
of the poison, i.e. parts of plant or fungi. Always make sure that
you yourself are protected and can not be poisoned in turn.