Can you give me suggestions on how to administer a pill to my dog?

First, gently take hold of the head from above, placing your thumb and fingers on either side of the muzzle.  Squeeze firmly in and up just behind the canine teeth. The dog's mouth should open.  Then, gently close and hold the muzzle while your dog swallows. You can encourage this by stroking the throat downward. Follow pills with a treat or small amount of water in a syringe or dropper. Finally, give your dog lots of praise and reinforcement each time he/she swallows a pill.

Remember:
1. The more quickly you perform the above steps, the better.
2. Film-coated pills are best. They go down easier and don't dissolve as quickly,
which is important if it takes you more than one try.
3. If you can't get the pill down, try disguising it in something your dog loves,
such as peanut butter or cream cheese. Check with your veterinarian, because
some medication should not be given with food.
4. Avoid "human" medication. Some, like ibuprofen, can be harmful or fatal.
5. Always follow your veterinarian's dosing instructions.  No matter how
quickly your dog seems to be getting better, please complete all drug courses as prescribed.

Some dogs will just not take a pill, regardless of how well you follow these directions.  If this is the case with your dog, you may want to try an alternative method of providing your dog with the medicine they need.  Compounding pharmacies can take medications normally only available in pill form and create alternative methods of providing that medication, such as in liquid or capsule form or in chewable tablets flavored with beef or chicken.  Please ask NGVSC if this is needed for your pet.  


Contact Us Today:
3550 Lawrenceville-Suwanee Road Suite 112
Suwanee, Georgia 30024
Phone: 678-714-1985 Fax: 678-714-1988
Email: ngvetsc@aol.com