It’s often the case that when we find a medicine that works wonders for our health as pet owners, we wonder if we can give the same medication to our dogs.
Many of us are blessed with allergic reactions and have just a grand time coping with sneezing, itching, and watery eyes. And just like us, our furry friends deal with allergies for the same reasons. You can blame it all on an overactive immune system and pesky allergy-causing histamine.
Claritin is a popular medication that many will want in their cabinets whenever the weather starts changing. One second your face is red and nose is clogged, but pop a Claritin, and you’re breathing deeply and ready for that summer marathon. Claritin is an antihistamine built to stop allergic reactions in humans.
Since allergies in dogs and humans are caused by the same issues, you may wonder if this medicine is safe for dogs. So let’s jump into this article and find out!
Can I Give My Dog Claritin?
Can you give dogs Claritin, or the generic version, loratadine to treat allergies?
The simple answer is maybe, and you’ll want to discuss the option with your veterinarian first.
It’s not that Claritin or Loratadine side effects are worse in dogs than humans or that it doesn’t work. Instead, you always want to be careful when you treat your dog with a drug formulated for humans.
Many prescription drugs are two-faced where they present low side effects until dosages move up to higher concentrations. When that happens, serious side effects seemingly blossom from nowhere.
Owners of big dogs like Mastiffs or Great Danes may not have to worry, but small pets are at risk for taking too much Loratadine
Always Talk to Your Vet
Now, you might be thinking that you can just do some math and cut the pill down to the appropriate size.
But cutting up pills can result in uneven dosages and is not recommended in veterinary treatment.
There is a bigger reason why you want to consult your veterinarian before giving your dog Loratadine. Age and medical history play an equal part along with weight in determining the appropriate dosage for your dog, so check your pup’s full record before introducing new pills.
Unless you’re a vet or properly trained in veterinary medicine, treating allergies with medicine is too risky on your own.
