Unfortunately over the life of your dog or cat, they will get sick occasionally and you’ll likely come home from the veterinarian’s with some medication to administer. Learning how to do it right will make the process easier both for you and your pet. Always follow the instructions given by your veterinarian. Be sure to administer the full amount of medication for the entire treatment duration.
Tablets & Capsules
- Place the pill between the thumb and the index finger of one hand.
- Firmly grasp the upper jaw with the thumb and index finger of the other hand.
- Gently fold the upper lip over the teeth as you open the mouth. This will reduce the chance of being bitten.
- Rotate your wrist to tilt the head upwards.
- Use your middle finger to slowly open the lower jaw.
- Keep your middle finger over the small incisor teeth and deposit the pill as far back on the tongue as possible.
- Immediately close the mouth. Keeping your hand over the mouth, put the head down to facilitate swallowing.
- Stroke the throat or blow on the nose to encourage swallowing.
- Follow up with a small syringe of water help swallow pill or capsule
Liquids & Syrups
- Read the label for the proper dosage and, if instructed, shake the contents of the bottle.
- Fill the syringe or dropper with the medication.
- Firmly grasp the dog’s muzzle with one hand while holding the syringe or dropper with the other hand.
- Gently squirt the medication into the pouch between the teeth and check.
- Hold the dog’s jaw closed and tilt the head back slightly.
- Stroke his throat or blow on his nose to encourage swallowing.
- Should your dog gag or cough out the medication, lower his head and calm him down.
- Wait a few minutes and then try again.
Helpful hints
Always read the label instructions carefully if not clear please call. Ask your veterinarian or technician if the medication needs to be given with food or must be given on an empty stomach. If it can be given with food, just put the pill into a small piece of canned food or pill pocket. Get a friend or family member to help restrain your pet. Medicate your dog on the floor or on a table with a non-slip surface.
When administering medication stay calm – your pet can sense if you are nervous making it more difficult to apply the treatment. Always praise and reward your pet with a treat.