Can I give my dog an antiemetic?

Antiemetics are typically used to prevent vomiting and nausea. It’s often the case that owners will consider this option when planning to travel with a pet. These types of drugs can, in fact, be given to reduce your dog’s motion sickness.

But with so many antiemetic brands, both prescription or over-the-counter, choosing the right one can be very confusing. Here we will discuss usage as well as alternatives so you can better determine what’s best for your beloved dog.

First consider that classic canine cases of travel or motion sickness usually can be effectively treated without the use of an antiemetic. This is especially true if your dog’s underlying issue is the result of anxiety.

Can I Give My Dog an Antiemetic? Answer: Yes, but also consider alternatives

Many conventional drugs may reduce or prevent this common sickness in pets, but it’s best to avoid medicating when possible.

Unlike emetics, which can induce your pet dog to vomit, antiemetics work by suppressing that unpleasant gag reflex. There is an FDA-approved antiemetic for dogs named Maropitant that’s marketed by Zoetis under the trade name Cerenia. Several other well-known brands can be given to dogs, but pretty much all human-formulated antiemetics tend to come with more risks. We recommend a naturally derived quality canine calming aid formula made by Pet Care Sciences.

A discussion with your vet is a must prior to administering a leftover prescription to your dog.

Two Alternative Solutions

Some pets actually love a good car ride and will happily stick their head out of the window. Other dogs don’t like it one bit and will tense up before getting queasy. It is, after all, very unnatural for a dog to be whisked around in a car. But Bonine or the use of Emetrol also isn’t natural.

The Thundershirt is a good option that can make your anxious dog feel a bit safer and more secure while traveling. Another great technique is to utilize a quality pet carrier. These two practical suggestions are obviously much preferred to providing potentially dangerous medications.

The Popular Antiemetic Meds

Antiemetic brands commonly prescribed by veterinary professionals include Thorazine and Zofran in addition to Maropitant or Cerenia. Those brand names are definitely worth looking into because they work well, are relatively safe and usually don’t cause much sedation. Unfortunately, they require a prescription.

Folks on a tight budget usually end up turning to popular OTC products like Pepto Bismol (Bismuth subsalicylate) or Dramamine. Be sure to read those articles to see if they are a possibility for your precious pet. Whenever you go it alone you really have to be very cautious, because you don’t want to do more harm than good.

Serious Cases Such as Cancer

An injectable antiemetic may be necessary when a pet dog is frequently vomiting due to cancer chemotherapy. These situations are obviously very sad. The good news is that injections of Cerenia can greatly help to improve quality of life for canines dealing with cancer.

Chlorpromazine, which is a phenothiazine derivative, is another drug to consider for chronic nausea or vomiting. This one is interesting in that it works by blocking the nervous system’s dopamine receptors. As you can see, with all the options, you really need to consult with a vet in order to get your dog the best treatment possible.

Conclusion on Antiemetics

Giving your dog an antiemetic sometimes makes sense. Many OTC medications fall into this drug category but understand they could be harmful when misused. A prescription antiemetic, with the guidance of a trusted vet, is something to seriously consider. Otherwise, go with a natural solution for reducing your dog’s motion sickness or nausea-related issues. Safe travels!

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