Can I give my dog prilosec?

Prilosec, the brand name for Omeprazole, is similar to Gaviscon and Zantac. This acid reducer alleviates a variety of conditions relevant to dogs, including excess stomach acidity.

GERD, heartburn, Zollinger-Ellison syndrome, indigestion (dyspepsia) and some ulcers can be treated with Prilosec. Perhaps your dog suffers from one of these conditions. Can this OTC help?

Prilosec is definitely effective drug, and fairly safe, when properly dosed. Of course, it isn’t directed for dog use. It can be misused, as is the case with most meds, so be careful.

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Can I Give My Dog Prilosec? Answer: Yes, but a diagnosis comes first

Only administer Omeprazole to a pet if you’ve already gotten a diagnosis.

This acid pump inhibitor drug may do more harm than good. An example would be if your dog has undiagnosed kennel cough. Risks associated with Prilosec increase if Fido is taking other medications. Both Prilosec and the similar Nexium aren’t FDA-approved for dogs. These are just a few reasons why a vet’s assessment is needed.

Consider a canine probiotic to achieve lasting results in a safer manner.

Probiotic-Like Prilosec

Prilosec works like probiotics in that it helps to normalize enzymes. Prilosec, however, is more aggressive and begins working much sooner.

It regulates stomach acid secretion which reduces stomach acidity. This is beneficial for dogs suffering with ulcers since it aids in the healing process.

Other OTCs & Diet Tips

There are similar products besides those already mentioned such as Tums and Rolaids. It’s easy to know which works best for you, but judging results for a dog obviously isn’t so straightforward.

Avoid experimental treatment. Instead, consider changing up your pet’s diet. Maybe you’ll see improvement and avoid medicating your dog which is much preferred.

How to Provide Prilosec

Prilosec comes in powder form, but capsules and tablets are popular. Consider mixing it with your dog’s food. A safe dose is the concern, but only after you’ve confirmed it’s appropriate for your dog’s condition.

Dosage is mostly based on your dog’s weight. A conservative dose is 0.25 to half of a milligram per pound over a 24-hour period. Other factors would be medical condition, age, breed and so on.

Your vet can provide an exact dosage specific for your dog’s situation.

Some Additional Information

This drug doesn’t have a long history. Early indictions are that Prilosec is well-tolerated by dogs. Symptoms are mostly mild, but there are some very important caveats.

Never provide this drug to pregnant or nursing dogs or those with a history of seizures or liver disease.

Give Prilosec in the mornings, before your dog’s first meal. Limit usage to less than two weeks. Discontinue use if there’s a decrease in appetite, diarrhea, lethargy, urinary problems, vomiting or changes in behavior.

Try A Natural Alternative

Our neighbor uses an all-natural, made in the USA, liquid extract that’s free of additives, preservatives and GMOs. It’s called Slippery Elm and it works well for their dog’s gastric issues.

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Conclusion on Prilosec

Prilosec can be given to dogs for certain gastric conditions. It’s difficult to know when use is appropriate. Misdiagnosis is a concern. A number of health problems can be mistaken for issues assumed treatable with Prilosec. A vet should do an evaluation before a dog goes on this medication. Otherwise, try natural alternatives or switch your dog’s diet.

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