I accidentally gave my 68-pound dog a 200mg dose of Zoloft, should I be freaking out right now?

Earlier today, in the flurry of my morning routine, I mistakenly gave my 68-pound dog a 200mg dose of Zoloft, thinking it was his regular medication. I'm really worried because I know that human medications can be dangerous for pets. Should I be freaking out right now, or is there something I can do to help him before any symptoms appear?

Answer

Accidentally giving your dog Zoloft instead of his usual medication can be concerning, as human medications can affect pets differently. There are steps you can take right now to help your dog before symptoms appear.

  • Contact your vet immediately for advice specific to your dog's health.
  • Monitor your dog for any unusual behavior or symptoms.
  • If your dog shows any signs of distress, seek emergency veterinary care.

Zoloft (sertraline) is an antidepressant for humans, and though it is sometimes used in veterinary medicine, the dosage can vary significantly between humans and dogs. A 200mg dose is quite high for a dog of 68 pounds. Watch for symptoms like vomiting, lethargy, or unsteadiness. Your vet can provide the best guidance on how to proceed, but if you notice severe symptoms, it's crucial to get to a vet as soon as possible.

Book a consultation with a licensed vet at Dial A Vet for just $49 AUD if you're unsure or symptoms are getting worse.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What symptoms should I look for after my dog took Zoloft?

    Look for signs like vomiting, diarrhea, excessive salivation, lethargy, or unsteady walking. If any of these occur, see a vet immediately.

  • Can dogs have Zoloft safely at all?

    Under veterinary supervision, Zoloft can be used for treating certain conditions in dogs, but the dosage must be correct and prescribed by a vet.

  • How quickly do symptoms appear in dogs after ingesting human medications?

    Symptoms can appear very quickly, often within an hour of ingestion. It's essential to act fast by contacting your vet or an emergency clinic.

If this is an emergency, please seek immediate veterinary care.

Next available appointment

Loading…