Dog Owner's Home Veterinary Handbook.pdf - Mr. Walnuts

570 •DOG OWNER’S HOME VETERINARY HANDBOOK
SUPPOSITORIES
When a dog cannot take a drug orally (for example, when she is vomiting),
medications can sometimes be given by suppository. Your veterinarian may
also prescribe a suppository to treat a bout of severe constipation.
Lubricate the suppository with petroleum jelly, then slip it all the way into
the rectum, where will dissolve.
Suppositories for constipation contain a mild irritant, which draws water
into the rectum and stimulates a bowel movement. Check with your veterinarian
for pediatric suppositories that might be suitable for your dog. Do not
give suppositories to dogs who are dehydrated or may have an intestinal
obstruction. A dog with Acute Painful Abdomen, as described on page 14, also
should not be given a suppository.
COMPOUNDED MEDICINES
Compounding uses new ways of combining or formulating medications to
make them easier to give to your dog. This could mean mixing the medication
into a flavored treat or liquid. Some medications can also be transferred to
gels that can then be rubbed onto an ear. Fentanyl patches are an example of
a medication that is absorbed through the skin.
Occasionally, compounding is used to combine medications that can be
mixed together safely so fewer pills need to be given. Compounding may be
used for medications that are not commercially available or are not available
in dosages for dogs, such as potassium bromide for seizures. More research is
needed to determine if the dosage in compounded drugs is appropriate and
consistent for most medications.
OTHER MEDICATIONS
The proper way to medicate the eyes is discussed in How to Apply Eye
Medicines, page 174. Medicating the ears is discussed in How to Apply Ear
Medicines, page 208. Enemas are discussed in Fecal Impactions, page 282.