I’m feeling really anxious about something and could really use some advice from experienced pet parents out there. I’ve got a little guy, Max, who weighs about 10 pounds. I accidentally got the NexGard Spectra chews for dogs up to 20 pounds—so, basically double his weight. I’m really worried about giving him the whole thing because I don’t want to harm him. Can I just give him half the chew, or is that still too risky? Splitting medicine seems iffy, and I’d hate to mess up his dosage right before our big move this weekend. I plan to call the vet when they open, but I thought I’d check here first since I’m stressing out. Anyone been in a similar situation or have any advice? Thanks so much in advance!
Hi there!
Thank you for reaching out with your question. When it comes to giving medication like NexGard Spectra, it’s important to stick to the dosage guidelines for your dog's specific weight. These chews are carefully designed to deliver the correct amount of medication, and giving a dose meant for a larger dog might lead to overmedication, which can potentially harm your pet.
Inappropriate dosing can cause side effects such as vomiting, diarrhea, or more serious reactions. At home, it's best to weigh your dog to ensure you're administering the right amount. If you're in a pinch and only have a higher dosage chew, it's safer to wait until you can obtain the proper dosage rather than splitting the chew.
Be on the lookout for any unusual behavior such as excessive drooling, lethargy, or balance issues, as these could indicate an adverse reaction. If you notice any of these signs, it's wise to contact a vet right away.
For a more tailored plan and peace of mind, consider setting up a video consult with one of our vets on Dial A Vet. They'll be able to provide more detailed guidance based on your dog's specific needs and current health status.
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