Giving your dog medication can be stressful, especially if they refuse to take pills. While some medications can be hidden in food, what do you do when that’s not an option? This guide provides a detailed approach on How To Give Dog Pills Without Food, ensuring your furry friend gets the treatment they need safely and effectively.
Giving Pills or Capsules to Your Dog
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Secure Your Dog: If you are right-handed, gently hold your dog’s head from the top with your left hand. For dogs with longer noses, grip the upper jaw between your thumb and index finger. If your dog has a short nose, cradle their head as you would a cat. This hold is crucial for safely administering the medication.
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Tilt the Head Back:
With the hand securing the top jaw, gently tilt your dog’s head back. Unlike humans, a dog’s lower jaw typically doesn’t open wide enough to easily place the pill at the base of the tongue.
- Protect Yourself:
Gently fold the upper lip over the teeth as you open the mouth. While optional, placing your thumb on the roof of the dog’s mouth and folding the lip helps prevent accidental bites. If the dog does bite down, they’ll bite their lip instead of your hand.
- Open the Jaw:
Hold the pill or capsule between your thumb and index finger of your right hand. Use the middle finger of your right hand to gently pull open the lower jaw, positioning your finger over the incisor teeth instead of the canine teeth.
- Administer the Pill:
Quickly drop the pill or capsule as far back over the tongue as possible. Immediately close the mouth and gently blow on the dog’s nose to encourage swallowing.
- Ensure Swallowing:
If the pill isn’t placed far enough back, your dog might spit it out. In this case, use your index finger and thumb to push the pill further back, being mindful to work quickly and avoid being bitten. After closing the mouth, stroke your dog’s neck or blow on their nose to prompt swallowing.
Consider Using a Pill Dispenser: Several pilling devices are available to help place the pill over the base of the tongue, removing the need to put your fingers in the dog’s mouth.
Administering Liquid Medications
When learning how to give dog pills without food, liquid medications can sometimes be a better solution.
Administer Carefully: Liquid medications are typically given in the pouch between the teeth and cheek. Quickly squirt the medication into this pouch, hold the mouth closed, and gently stroke the dog’s neck or sharply blow on its nose to encourage swallowing.
Avoid the Windpipe: Liquids are more prone to entering the windpipe than pills or capsules. To prevent this, avoid tilting the dog’s head backward.
Important Considerations
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Consult Your Veterinarian: If you consistently struggle with giving your dog pills, discuss the possibility of suspending the pill or capsule in a liquid with your veterinarian. However, always consult them first, as some medications lose effectiveness in suspension.
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Safety First: Always exercise caution to avoid being bitten. Dog bites can cause deep punctures and introduce bacteria into the wound. If bitten, thoroughly clean the wound and seek medical attention.
Conclusion
Mastering how to give dog pills without food takes practice and patience. By following these steps and prioritizing your dog’s safety and comfort, you can ensure they receive the medication they need. Remember to consult your veterinarian for personalized advice and alternative options if needed.
