Accidental ingestion of prescription medications or narcotics by pets happens far more often than most owners realize. From pills dropped on the floor to open purses left on a chair, curious dogs and cats can quickly get into something dangerous. At Healthy Pets of Ohio, we see firsthand how serious these emergencies can be—but with fast action and the right tools, many pets can be saved.
Common Signs Your Pet May Have Ingested Medication
Because pets metabolize drugs differently than humans, even small doses can cause severe symptoms. Warning signs include:
- Lethargy or unusual drowsiness
- Loss of coordination or stumbling
- Excessive drooling or vomiting
- Agitation, restlessness, or vocalizing
- Tremors, seizures, or collapse
- Slowed or shallow breathing
If you notice any of these, assume the worst and contact your veterinarian immediately.
What to Do if You Suspect Ingestion
- Stay calm, but act quickly. Call Healthy Pets of Ohio or the Pet Poison Helpline right away.
- Do not induce vomiting unless specifically instructed by a veterinarian—it can sometimes make the situation worse.
- Bring the medication packaging (or any remaining pills) with you. This helps the veterinary team know exactly what your pet may have ingested.
Advanced Diagnostic Technology: Veti Screen
One challenge in emergencies is knowing for sure what substance a pet has ingested. That’s why Healthy Pets of Ohio now offers Veti Screen drug screening technology at many of their Central Ohio locations. This advanced diagnostic tool can rapidly identify common prescription and narcotic substances, allowing our doctors to provide targeted treatment quickly. Instead of guessing, we know—and that knowledge can make all the difference.
Narcan: A Life-Saving Option
In the most severe cases, opioids can slow or even stop a pet’s breathing. To combat this, Healthy Pets of Ohio keeps Narcan (naloxone) on-site at many locations. This medication, widely known for reversing opioid overdoses in humans, can also be life-saving for pets. Having Narcan available means we are prepared to respond in those critical first moments, giving your pet the best chance at recovery.
Prevention is Key
While our team is equipped to respond, prevention is always the safest path. Protect your pets by:
- Keeping all medications—human and pet—secured in closed cabinets.
- Storing purses, backpacks, and pill organizers out of reach.
- Double-checking the floor for dropped pills after taking medication.
Healthy Pets of Ohio: Ready When You Need Us
Accidents happen, but you don’t have to face them alone. At Healthy Pets of Ohio, we combine compassionate care with advanced technology like Veti Screen and emergency treatments like Narcan to protect your pets when every second matters.
If you suspect your pet has ingested medication, call us immediately. Fast action saves lives.