Last night, I accidentally left my purse open, and my dog got into it, finding a bottle of Ativan. Thankfully, I got to it before he could swallow any, but it made me wonder what might have happened if he had. Could you tell me what the safe dosage of Ativan for dogs is, just so I know in case of emergencies?
If your dog ingests Ativan (lorazepam), it could result in potentially serious side effects, and immediate veterinary attention would be necessary to ensure their well-being.
- Drowsiness and sedation
- Ataxia (loss of control of body movements)
- Respiratory depression
- Agitation or hyperactivity in some cases
Ativan is not approved for use in dogs, and the dosage used for humans may not be safe for pets. Accidental ingestion of human medications is a common household hazard that can lead to severe complications or even be life-threatening for pets. Prevention is crucial, so always keep medications out of reach of your pets.
For immediate advice and personalized veterinary consultation, please visit Dial A Vet.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What should I do if my dog ingests human medication like Ativan?
If your dog consumes any human medication, it's important to contact a veterinarian or emergency animal clinic immediately for guidance and potential treatment. Time is of the essence in these situations. - Is Ativan ever prescribed for dogs?
While Ativan is occasionally used in veterinary medicine, it is typically prescribed in very specific situations and under close supervision by a veterinarian. It's not a medication you should administer without veterinary guidance owing to the risks and side effects. - What are the signs of Ativan toxicity in dogs?
Signs of Ativan toxicity can include extreme drowsiness, lack of coordination, lowered heart rate, and respiratory distress. Each of these symptoms necessitates immediate veterinary care to prevent serious health consequences.
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