When people become parents the first thing they do is keep the medicine out of the toddler’s hands, but few think to do this with their pet. Unfortunately, dogs are curious and tend to tear things up. The lagoon ball shakes and cracks, the curious puppy cannot resist. It looks like a small, white ball that can be bounced, rolled, and chased.
A common pain reliever, acetaminophen can also be found in flu medications, sinus decongestants and cold remedies. About 5 pills that contain 500 mgs of acetaminophen can quickly kill a 50-pound dog, according to Pet Place. Cats are also not immune, because just one 500 mg pill will kill an adult cat. A dog large who actively eats a pill bottle can easily take many more pills before the dog even realizes. dirty taste
Many pet owners return home forgetting that they have given their dog a common pain medication overdose because they cannot find it. bottle, until it is too late, or the dog swallows the bottle with the broken pills.
Hesi acetaminophen causes serious and often incurable liver damage. red blood cells can also be destroyed and rendered unable to carry adequate oxygen.
Here are several signs to watch for that indicate an acetaminophen overdose. Any dog exhibiting these symptoms should be rushed to the vet immediately to receive life-saving treatment.
1) In the first 12 hours the dog will start vomiting. Excessive saliva may be noted. If the owner pulls the dog’s lips back, he will notice that the gums no longer appear pink but have taken on a brown color. The dog will begin to exhibit difficulty breathing.
2) Within 12 to 24 hours the dogs face will begin to swell. The owner may notice that the dog’s lips appear swollen. Feet and ankle swelling can also be prevented. The dog will appear agitated and lethargic. Spasm to begin. But the dog often slips into the common and will die.
3) If the dog does not die within 24 hours before, it will start to show signs of liver failure. His abdomen will be filled with fluid retention. His gums and the whites of his eyes will turn yellow. The dog is severely disturbed and may be unwell. A dog shows discomfort when his belly is palpitated.
A veterinarian will evaluate the dog’s symptoms to determine if poisoning may have occurred. Lab tests are usually running, but treatment must be started immediately to save the dog’s life and while the lab results are being monitored. Acetaminophen poisoning requires prompt treatment to save a dog’s life.
The veterinarian will administer intravenous fluids and oxygen. The dog must be given medication to protect his liver and also to line his stomach. Charcoal will be administered to flush out any remaining acetaminophen in the dog’s system. The dog must be given help to quickly remove the toxin from the body. May require a blood transfusion Dog Owners Guide
