March is Pet Poison Prevention Awareness Month, and what better time is there to explore the connection between human and pet medications. The lungs, intestines and stomachs of humans, dogs and cats are anatomically similar. Because of these similarities, several drugs that veterinarians prescribe are chemically the same as human drugs.
Some of the over-the-counter (OTC) drugs that pets can take are diphenhydramine (Benadryl) for allergies, dimenhydrinate (Dramamine), for nausea, hydrocortisone and antibiotic ointments for wounds and bites, famotidine (Pepcid), for acid reflux, and artificial tears for eye irritation.
The main class of drugs we need to be very cautious about giving our pets are pain medications that are specifically for humans. Many of the OTC pain medications are deadly for our pets. Some are toxic only for cats and others for dogs.
The following medications should never be given to a pet unless prescribed by a veterinarian.
Acetaminophen (Tylenol), is toxic for cats but sometimes prescribed for dogs, Aspirin is not safe for cats but sometimes OK for dogs, Bismuth subsalicylate (Kaopectate, Pepto-Bismol) is toxic for cats but not for dogs, Ibuprofen (Advil), can shut down kidney function in both dogs and cats, Naproxen (Aleve), can cause liver and kidney damage in both dogs and cats.
It is always prudent to check with your veterinarian before ever giving your pet human medications. One thing that might save you money is asking your vet if there is an OTC human drug that your pet could take. I’ve used hydrocortisone on Watson when he got cut, but I watched carefully so that he wouldn’t lick it off. Keeping our BFF (best furry friend) safe is the best thing we can do.
LOOKING FOR A HOME
Ziggy is an adorable one-year-old female yellow Lab. She was rescued as a stray and is a bit shy. Ziggy is a happy-go-lucky girl who is looking for a family who will love and appreciate her sweetness. Come out and meet this darling girl.
IN NEED OF
Vendors for Bark in the Park coming on May 6. Bark in the Park isn’t just about cats and dogs; we also want vendors who cater to the people.
Call Rita at 775-423-7500 if you would like to be a vendor.
Volunteers to walk dogs or play with cats. We have enthusiastic dogs and cats just waiting to meet you.
Call Rita at 775-423-7500 for details.
Aluminum cans, which we recycle to augment our shelter funds. You can drop them off at CAPS or call and we will pick them up (775-423-7500).
SHOUT OUT TO
Everyone who has brought by supplies, food, and aluminum cans. We appreciate the generous spirit of our community. CAPS is a homegrown shelter that is nurtured by all of the wonderful folks who continue to support us. A Four Paw Salute to Fallon!
COME SEE US
CAPS will be at Walmart on March 18. Everyone is Irish on St. Pat’s Day, and you can see Irish eyes smiling if you stop by our Kissin’ Booth. Come by for an Irish smooch. We will also have caps, long-sleeved T-shirts, hoodies and sweatshirts, so please check them out after you have been smooched. d.
DON’T FORGET
March Pet Holidays:
Poison Prevention Awareness Month.
If Pets Had Thumbs Day on March 3. If Watson had thumbs, my refrigerator would be raided!
Flower Tree Nursery will again be raffling a 20-gallon tree of your choice just in time for spring. The raffle tickets are available at Flower Tree, and they are $1 for one ticket and $5 for six tickets. The drawing will be held on March 15, and the winner doesn’t have to be present to win.
To mark your calendar for Bark in the Park that will be held on May 6. More details will follow.
CONTACT CAPS
CAPS’ mailing address is P.O. Box 5128, Fallon, NV 89406. CAPS’ phone number is 775-423-7500. CAPS’ email address is caps@cccomm.net. Please visit the CAPS website (www.capsnevada.com) and Facebook page (Churchill Animal Protection Society). Be sure to “Like” CAPS on Facebook because we are really likable.
Do you have questions, comments or a great story? Contact me jkwmil@outlook.com.
Kathleen Williams-Miller, a CAPS volunteer, contributed this week’s column.