AboutBecky Expertise I have owned dogs my whole life. I was a veterinarian assistant for several different vets, so I might be able to help out on health issues. Although I love all dogs, my favorites are the toy breed. I am not a breeder, so those type of questions should be directed to someone who is. I have three chinese crested, two chihuahuas and one yorkie/silky mix. I would be happy to answer any questions on these particular breeds,or just dogs in general. Please keep in mind,however, that I am NOT a Veterinarian. If you feel your dog is seriously ill, then please take your pet to a qualified professional. Although we "experts" try to help you with your questions, it is impossible to "see" or "touch" your dog through a computer. If you feel your dog's life is in danger, please call a Veterinarian immediately. Thank you!
Experience Chinese Crested
Chihuahua
Yorkshire Terrier
Question My dog seemed to have had a pulled muscle. My friend who I thought was an animal expert said to give her Children's Motrin. I gave her the Motrin and she perked right up. She had a couple of doses on Saturday a couple on Sunday and one on Monday. I found out on Monday that Children's Motrin can be fatal to dogs. Can you help me? What should I look for in symptoms. She is still acting like she is in pain.
Thanks for your help. I know I am stupid so you can keep that one to yourself, I just need help for my dog. Thanks
Answer Hi Penny!
I don't think you're stupid at all. You were only trying to ease the discomfort that your dog is feeling. In fact, some dogs can tolerate ibuprofin (Motrin), but it can be fatal. Thankfully, your dog seemed to tolerate it ok, and you found out in time before any damage was done, I think. I have listed an information table about giving aspirin to dogs at the end of this. Be careful dosing a pet though without the advice of a Vet. It may or may not be a pulled muscle. The aspirin will help with the pain, but if its not a pulled muscle, it may not get better unless the problem is treated. If I were you, I would give observe her for another week, then if she is still acting in pain, I would take her in for a Vet check.
Giving your dog Aspirin
Aspirin can be given safely to your dog if used in the correct dosage. It is usually given to relieve the pain of arthritis, joint pain and other situations where your dog is in pain. It not only reduces pain, but will help with swelling and fever. Please remember though, that your dog is not human and aspirin should not be given freely or just because you think he or she does not feel good. It is best to use it only in the cases of extreme discomfort. A veterinarian would prescribe Rimadyl which is really a better pain killer and anti-inflammatory than aspirin. Please note that I am NOT a veterinarian and I highly recommend that you consult with a veterinarian before giving any over the counter meds.
Do not give aspirin to very young dogs as their body is not able to process it properly. NEVER give aspirin to Cats as it can be fatal!
Never use Tylenol as it is toxic to the liver. Never use Ibuprofen (Nuprin,Motrin, Advil etc) as it can be fatal even if given in low doses. Do not use the enteric coated type of aspirin. Most of the time, the coating is not digested in dogs and the aspirin will be excreted in the stool.
Aspirin can be toxic if given in high doses. Even baby aspirin could be poisonous to dogs weighing 2 lbs. or less. An adult aspirin would be toxic to a 10 lb. dog. Please carefully note the correct dosage for your dog!
Use 5 grain (325 mg) tablets.
A 15-20 lb dog would take ¼ tablet twice a day. A 30-40 lb dog would take ½ tablet twice a day. A 60-80 lb dog would take 1 tablet twice a day.
Here is a chart that might make it easier.
Weight of dog in pounds Number of tablets each 12 hours mg
8 1/2 baby aspirin or less 40 mg
16 1 baby aspirin 80 mg
32 1/2 adult or 2 baby 160 mg
48 3/4 adult or 3 baby 240 mg
64 1 adult or 4 baby 320 mg
80 1 1/4 adult or 5 baby 400 mg
96 1 1/2 adult or 6 baby 480 mg
There is a possibility that gastric ulcers can develop. If your dogs stops eating, or has blood tinged vomit, then please stop giving aspirin.
