Pets Receiving Human Medicine from Cash-Strapped Owners

Medication Purchased Over the Counter Given to Pets is Latest Scare Reported by Vets

According to a new press release from Sainsbury’s Pet Insurance there is yet another problem facing pets as a result of the economic uncertainties faced by many households. Owners that have been unable to meet the costs of veterinary fees are taking drastic steps to cut down on these financial pressures by buying drugs over-the-counter from pharmacies and supermarkets such as painkillers – medication designed for humans.

Whilst we regularly use medication like this to combat a range of ailments, our pets do not have the bodies to deal with them and as a result drugs like paracetemol and Ibruprofen can cause liver and kidney problems. Meanwhile, the same report reveals that some pet owners had been handing pets anti-depressants to combat hyperactivity, which come with their own range of unwanted side-effects. The irony, of course, is that the consequences of carrying out these actions could lead to a hefty veterinary bill in the long run as these problems will require attention, so owners will not be saving money long term.

The research, which included interviews with vets, took place in October and involved 50 veterinary surgeries around the United Kingdom.

“The findings from our research are extremely worrying”, said Helen Williams of Sainsbury’s Pet Insurance.

“Administering human medication to a cat or a dog could seriously damage its health and although owners doing this may feel like they have its best interests at heart, they could actually be causing it more pain and suffering”.

“Vet fees are on the increase and the thought of paying a consultation fee for a visit to the vet in addition to any treatment required could be a daunting prospect, especially if your cat or dog seems like it could be easily treated with some over the counter, household medication”.

Such cases are more common than people might think, with animals regularly referred to veterinary practices after owners are suspected to have given them human medication. It goes to show that pet insurance remains the best way of cutting costs on veterinary bills.