Ibuprofen belongs to the same group as aspirin; these are known as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). As a general rule, NSAIDs should never be given to dogs without proper veterinary advice. The human grade ibuprofen that is available over-the-counter can be toxic to pets because these are not formulated for them. There is a significant difference between the dose of NSAIDs for pets compared to that of humans. Overdosing in pets can increase a dog’s risk to formation of stomach ulcers and possibly kidney failure. Between aspirin and ibuprofen, it should be noted that the latter has a narrower margin of safety. Suffice to say, giving ibuprofen to dogs without asking your vet for advice is strictly a no-no. If your dog is in pain or is suffering from an inflammatory condition, it is best to consult a veterinarian London, ON because there are canine-specific NSAIDs that can be prescirbed by your vet.
