Giving Snow medications was one of my biggest challenges. He knew the sound of a jar of pills, and the minute he smelled medications, he was "out of there."
Giving medications to your furry friend can be challenging, especially if your dog is a picky eater like Snow. However, ensuring your dog takes its prescribed medications is crucial for its health and well-being.
Here are seven (well, eight) safe and effective tricks to make the medication process smoother and stress-free for both you and your furry baby.
1. Hide Medication in Treats - One of the easiest ways to administer medication is by hiding it in your dog's favorite treat. Choose soft and easy-to-mold treats around the medication, ensuring your dog swallows it without suspicion. This worked for Snow until it didn't.
I then learned to smother the pill with peanut butter before placing it in his treats (I had to make sure I did this before he smelled the pill; otherwise, he would know what I was doing). This trick worked like a charm for Snow (please ensure your dog is not allergic to peanut butter before you do this trick).
2. Use Pill Pockets - Pill pockets are specifically designed treats with a pouch to hold medications. These treats come in various flavors and are readily available in pet stores. Place the medication inside the pill pocket, and your dog will likely gobble it up without realizing they're taking medicine.
3. Crush and Mix with Food - For particularly discerning dogs, consider crushing the medication and mixing it with a small amount of wet food or a tasty broth. Ensure your dog consumes the entire mixture to guarantee they receive the whole dosage.
4. Wrap in Deli Meat or Cheese - Wrap the medication in a thin deli meat or cheese slice to mask the smell and taste. The savory aroma often entices dogs, making it an effective and enjoyable way to take their medicine (ensure they are not allergic to any of the foods involved).
5. Familiarize with a Practice Routine - Create a positive association with medication time by incorporating it into a routine that your dog enjoys. Follow the medication with a play session or a short walk, reinforcing that taking medicine leads to something enjoyable.
6. Utilize Flavored Medications - Ask your veterinarian if the prescribed medication is available in a flavored form. Many medications come in flavors like beef, chicken, or fish, making them more appealing to your dog's palate.
7. Opt for Liquid Formulations - Some medications are available in liquid form, which can be easier to administer using a syringe. Check with your veterinarian if the medication is available in this form, and ask for guidance on proper dosage and administration.
Ask for Professional Help - If all else fails, seek the assistance of a professional, such as a veterinary nurse or technician. They are experienced in handling resistant dogs and can provide valuable tips and tricks tailored to your dog's specific needs.
From experience, administering medication to your dog may require a bit of creativity and patience, but it's crucial for their health and well-being. Experiment with these safe and effective tricks to find the best method for your furry baby. Always consult your veterinarian before making any changes to your dog's medication routine, and remember that a little positive reinforcement can go a long way in making medication time a stress-free experience for you and your furry baby.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this post is for educational purposes only and should not replace professional veterinary advice. Always consult with a veterinarian for specific concerns about your dog's health and safety.