Your veterinarian is the best professional to assess your pet’s medical needs and to answer any questions you have regarding medications. Here are a few questions you may want to ask your veterinarian when discussing animal medications:
- What is the name of the medication, and what is its purpose?
- How much medication should be given and how often?
- How and where should the medication be stored?
- Should the medication be given with food, or before or after meals?
- What if I miss a dose?
- Should all the medication be given, even if my pet seems better?
- What side effects should I watch for?
Other helpful tips:
- Keep the medication in the original labeled containers to ensure you are giving the proper dose at the correct intervals.
- Do not give human medications to your pets unless directed by your veterinarian.
- Keep a list of all medications your animal is taking (including over-the- counter products, supplements and prescription drugs) and share it with your veterinarian at each visit.
- A pharmacist is legally required to obtain permission from your veterinarian before modifying a prescription in any way. This includes changing a medication from a brand name to a generic product or adjusting the dosage.
Source: Ohio Veterinary Medical Association
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