As responsible pet owners, we often want to help our dogs feel better when they are in pain. Many of us have ibuprofen (Motrin or Advil), a common over-the-counter pain reliever, in our medicine cabinets and wonder if the same benefits extend to our pets. They do not.
Ibuprofen is extremely toxic to dogs and should never be given to them under any circumstances. Even small amounts can cause severe health issues, including stomach ulcers, kidney failure, and neurological damage.
Always consult your veterinarian for safe pain relief options for your pet and so you know what is causing your dog’s pain. Some natural pain relievers will work, and you can discuss what you can give your dog at home for pain relief and other methods of pain relief.
Not All NSAIDs Are Safe for Dogs
Ibuprofen belongs to a class of drugs called nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), which work by reducing inflammation, pain, and fever in humans. While certain NSAIDs are safe for dogs, such as carprofen or meloxicam, ibuprofen is not metabolized the same way by our dogs which can lead to dangerous, even fatal, consequences.
Ibuprofen can cause gastrointestinal damage by disrupting the protective lining of the stomach and intestines, leading to ulcers, internal bleeding, and even perforation of the gastrointestinal tract. Ibuprofen impacts the flow of blood to the kidneys in dogs, which can cause severe damage and potentially lead to kidney failure. In large doses, ibuprofen can also cause neurological damage and can present as tremors and seizures.
If Your Dog Ate Ibuprofen
If you suspect your dog ingested ibuprofen, act immediately.
Call your veterinarian or pet poison control. When you call, be ready to provide your dog’s weight, age, the amount ingested, and the time of ingestion. Poison hotlines are:
- ASPCA Animal Poison Control: 888-426-4435 (fees may apply)
- Pet Poison Helpline: 855-764-7661 ($89 consultation fee)
Seek emergency veterinary care. Take your dog to the clinic immediately. Early intervention can make a significant difference in your dog’s outcome. Do not induce vomiting without veterinary guidance. While inducing vomiting may be helpful in some poisoning cases, it is not always safe with ibuprofen ingestion. Vomiting can worsen stomach ulcers or perforations and can lead to aspiration.
Ibuprofen Toxicity Treatment
The treatment for ibuprofen poisoning in dogs will depend on the amount ingested and how quickly medical intervention occurs. Common treatments include administering activated charcoal, IV fluids to protect kidney function and help flush toxins form the body, gastroprotectants to reduce stomach ulceration, blood tests to monitor kidney and organ function, and hospitalization for supportive care, if necessary.
Ibuprofen Poison Prevention
The best way to protect your dog from ibuprofen poisoning is prevention. Keep all medications, including Tylenol, out of reach, be cautious of medications left in purses, bags, or backpacks, educate family members and guests, and never give human medications to your dog without veterinary approval.
