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TIPS FOR MAKING MEDICATION TIME EASIER

Giving medication to your dog can be a challenging task. Whether it's a pill, liquid, or topical treatment, many dogs are quick to detect when something unusual is being added to their routine, often leading to refusal or resistance. However, with some creativity, patience, and a few tricks up your sleeve, you can make medication time a stress-free experience for both you and your dog. Here are some tried-and-true tips to help your dog take their medicine without a fuss.

1. HIDE THE MEDICATION IN FOOD

One of the most popular methods to get your dog to take their medication is by hiding it in food. Most dogs are food-driven, making this an effective approach. Here are some ideas:

• Pill pockets: These are specially designed treats with a built-in pocket to hide pills. They are soft, tasty, and available in various flavours to suit your dog’s preferences.

• Peanut butter or cream cheese**: A spoonful of peanut butter or cream cheese can easily disguise a pill. These sticky foods can make it harder for your dog to spit out the medication.

• Soft foods: Soft treats, cheese, or even a tiny piece of cooked meat can be used to wrap around the pill. Ensure the food is safe and suitable for your dog’s diet.

• Wet dog food: Mixing the medication with a small amount of wet dog food can sometimes mask the taste and texture of the pill.

2. USE THE ‘HIDE AND SEEK’ METHOD

Some dogs are less likely to suspect they are being tricked if they are distracted or excited. The ‘hide and seek’ method involves using several treats, one of which contains the hidden medication. Here’s how it works:

1. Prepare a few small treats, hiding the medication in one of them.

2. Offer your dog a couple of plain treats first to build excitement and trust.

3. Slip the medicated treat in among the others, offering it quickly and following up with more plain treats.

This approach can work well with dogs who tend to gulp down their treats quickly, leaving little time to notice the hidden pill.

3. CRUSH OR SPLIT PILLS (WITH VETERINARY APPROVAL)

If your dog is resistant to swallowing whole pills, you might consider crushing or splitting the medication. However, it’s crucial to consult your veterinarian before doing this, as some medications are designed to be slow-release or coated to protect the stomach, and crushing them could interfere with their effectiveness.

If your vet approves, you can mix the crushed pill with some wet food, peanut butter, or another favourite treat to help mask the taste.

4. USE A PILL DISPENSER OR PILL POPPER

A pill dispenser, also known as a pill popper, is a useful tool for administering pills directly to your dog. These devices are designed to place the pill at the back of your dog’s throat, making it easier for them to swallow without chewing.

Here’s how to use a pill popper:

1. Gently hold your dog’s head and lift their upper jaw.

2. Place the pill dispenser towards the back of the mouth, near the throat.

3. Release the pill quickly and close your dog’s mouth.

4. Gently stroke their throat or blow on their nose to encourage swallowing.

This method works well for dogs who are more cooperative or when disguising the pill in food isn’t an option.

5. LIQUID MEDICATIONSMIX OR SYRINGE METHOD

Liquid medications can be easier to administer than pills, but some dogs may still resist the taste. Here are two methods to consider:

• Mixing with food: If the medication is palatable, try mixing it with your dog’s food. Use a small portion of wet food or a treat they love to ensure they consume the entire dose.

• Using a syringe: If mixing isn’t an option, use a syringe (without the needle) to squirt the medication directly into your dog’s mouth. To do this:

1. Gently hold your dog’s head and insert the syringe into the side of their mouth, between the cheek and teeth.

2. Slowly depress the plunger to release the liquid.

3. Keep your dog’s mouth closed and stroke their throat to encourage swallowing.

6. TURN MEDICATION TIME INTO A POSITIVE EXPERIENCE

Dogs are sensitive to their owner’s emotions and can pick up on stress or frustration. To make medication time less stressful, try turning it into a positive experience:

• Stay calm: Approach the situation calmly and confidently. If you’re anxious, your dog may become anxious too.

• Praise and reward: Always praise your dog and offer a reward after they take their medication, even if the process is a bit challenging. This helps create a positive association with the experience.

• Routine: Establish a consistent routine for medication time so your dog knows what to expect. Dogs thrive on routine and are more likely to cooperate when they know what’s coming.

7. ASK FOR COMPOUNDED MEDICATIONS

If your dog consistently refuses to take their medication, talk to your veterinarian about compounded medications. Compounding pharmacies can create flavoured versions of the medication in liquid, chewable, or other forms that may be more appealing to your dog. This option can be particularly helpful for long-term medications or dogs with specific preferences.

8. SEEK PROFESSIONAL HELP

If you’ve tried various methods and your dog still refuses to take their medication, consult your vet. They may have additional tips or alternative forms of the medication that could be easier to administer. In some cases, a professional dog trainer or behaviourist can also help you develop a strategy to make medication time less stressful.

TAKE HOME MESSAGE

Giving your dog medication doesn’t have to be a battle. With a bit of creativity, patience, and positive reinforcement, you can find a method that works for both you and your dog. Whether it’s hiding the pill in a tasty treat, using a pill dispenser, or turning medication time into a game, these tips can help ensure that your dog gets the treatment they need without the stress. Remember, your vet is a valuable resource, so don’t hesitate to ask for advice if you’re struggling to medicate your dog.