Dog ate a human painkiller
If the bottle is mixed or unknown, bring every possibility to the hotline. Guessing the wrong antidote story wastes time.
Do this first
| Scenario | Ibuprofen / NSAID ingestion |
|---|---|
| Vet vs poison control vs ER | Call poison control with the exact product and strength, then follow veterinary or ER instructions. Symptomatic pets (vomiting, black stool, collapse) need the ER, not home observation. |
Immediate action steps
- Secure the bottle and note the drug name, strength, number of pills, and time
- Call pet poison control or your veterinarian immediately
- Do not induce vomiting unless instructed
- Do not give any additional pain medications
- Be ready for ER care — GI ulceration and kidney injury risk can be dose-dependent
Sort the cabinet
Ibuprofen, naproxen, acetaminophen, and aspirin are different toxins. Read names carefully.
Photo all open bottles if multiple could be involved.
Do not stack treatments
No milk, oil, or extra dog NSAIDs while waiting.
If the dog is already on steroids or other meds, say so.
This is general information, not a diagnosis. Contact your vet for anything urgent or unclear.
FAQ
- The label rubbed off. Still call?
- Yes. Describe shape, color, and imprint codes if visible.