What to Do if a Dog Takes an Overdose of Deworming Medicine

When we found that the dog swallowed the whole board of deworming medicine into its stomach, its heart seemed to be clenched by an invisible hand. This medicine, originally intended to protect health, has now become a life-threatening poison. How to stay calm in a panic? How to use scientific methods to save a dog's life? This is not only a test of knowledge, but also the ultimate questioning of love and responsibility.

The harm of excessive use of deworming drugs is far beyond imagination. According to the Poison Control Center of the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA), there are over 100000 cases of canine deworming poisoning each year, of which 20% require hospitalization. The toxicity of different ingredients varies greatly: excessive use of Ivermectin may lead to nerve paralysis, Mirxexime may cause respiratory failure, and excessive use of Praziquantel can damage the liver. I once treated a teddy dog who accidentally ingested 5 deworming pills and experienced symptoms of dilated pupils and urinary and fecal incontinence. It was rescued through blood perfusion before being released from danger.

Identifying symptoms of poisoning is the crucial first step. Neurotoxicity manifests as muscle tremors, ataxia, and coma; Gastrointestinal reactions include severe vomiting and bloody stools; Cardiovascular symptoms may include arrhythmia and decreased blood pressure. I once handled a Labrador Retriever with acute kidney failure caused by an overdose of deworming medication, which initially only manifested as excessive drinking and urination. Failure to seek timely treatment resulted in irreversible damage.

Emergency measures must be taken against the clock. Do not induce vomiting on your own! Some deworming drugs (such as ivermectin) that induce vomiting may lead to aspiration. The correct approach is to immediately contact a veterinarian and bring a medication box or instruction manual to the hospital. I once guided an owner to wrap their dog in a wet towel to maintain body temperature, while recording the time and symptoms of poisoning, which bought valuable time for doctors to diagnose.

Professional treatment is the core of saving lives. Gastric lavage can remove unabsorbed medication, but it must be performed within 2 hours of poisoning; The adsorption effect of activated carbon on toxins is optimal within 4 hours; Infusion therapy can maintain electrolyte balance and promote drug metabolism. I once participated in the rescue of a severely poisoned and comatose Springer Spaniel, which was restored to consciousness through continuous 72 hour hemodialysis.

Subsequent nursing determines the quality of prognosis. Dogs that have been poisoned may experience taste abnormalities and should be provided with light and easily digestible food (such as prescription food). I once customized "olfactory rehabilitation training" for a Poodle with impaired sense of smell, using toys with different odors to help it restore sensory function. Regular check ups of liver and kidney function (recommended once a month) can promptly detect chronic injuries.

Prevention is always more important than treatment. Store the insecticide in a locked cabinet and use child safe packaging. I once encountered an owner who placed a medicine box on the coffee table, causing a curious golden retriever to accidentally eat it. Accurately calculate the dosage (strictly adjust according to body weight) and avoid repeated medication. I once worked out an anthelmintic plan for a corgi dog, marked the kit as "the 15th day of every month" and set up a mobile phone reminder.

When tragedy occurs due to our negligence, please do not fall into self blame. Every crisis is a classroom of life education. I once witnessed an owner becoming a community pet emergency volunteer after their dog recovered, using their own experience to remind more people to pay attention to medication safety. The agonizing waiting in the hospital corridor and the devout prayers amidst the ticking sound of the monitor will eventually become our steadfast strength to protect the health of our dogs.

The life of a dog is like a fragile candle, requiring us to carefully care for it with professional knowledge and endless love. The tragedy of excessive use of deworming drugs could have been avoided, but when accidents occur, please remember: calm judgment, timely action, and professional treatment are the last line of defense we can give to dogs. May every child grow up healthy in a safe environment, and may every medication carry reverence and respect for life. After all, the trust they give us is so pure that it is worth responding with all our wisdom and courage.