I'm really hoping someone out there has some advice or tips because I'm at my wit's end. I have an elderly dog, Max, who's been with me for the better part of 14 years, and he's been having some health issues that require daily medication. The problem is, no matter what I try, he just refuses to take his pills. I've hidden them in cheese, peanut butter, his favorite wet food—everything! Sometimes he sniffs it out, other times he just spits it right back out. It's getting to the point where it's really stressing me out because I know how important the medication is for his health. I don't want him to lose trust in me or mealtime to become a stressful event for him. Has anyone else dealt with this? Any secret tricks I might not have tried yet would be so appreciated! Thanks in advance!
Hi there! Getting medication into our furry friends can definitely be a challenge, especially as they get older. Don't worry—you're not alone in this! There are a few tricks we can try to make the pill-giving process a bit smoother for both you and your dog.
First, consider hiding the pill in a tasty treat. Some dogs love small pieces of cheese, peanut butter, or cooked chicken. Just make sure to check for any ingredients your dog should avoid. You can also try pill pockets, which are soft treats designed specifically for hiding medication.
If your dog is adept at eating around the pill, you might need a more direct approach. Place the pill toward the back of their tongue, gently close their mouth, and then stroke their throat to encourage swallowing. Always follow with a tasty reward, so the experience remains positive.
Be on the lookout for signs your dog might not be tolerating the medication well, such as vomiting, diarrhea, or loss of appetite. If you notice any of these or if the pill-taking struggle continues, consider setting up a video consult with Dial A Vet. We'll be happy to provide personalized advice and explore any underlying issues that might be making the process difficult. Looking forward to speaking with you soon!
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