Veterinary Compounding for Hard to Medicate Pets

Ask any pet owner and they’ll tell you, their pet is certainly a member of their family. As with any family member, it is important to make sure that your loved ones are happy and healthy, including your animals. But medicating an unwell pet can be difficult. Whether a cat, dog, ferret, bird or snake, animals are notorious for refusing to swallow a pill and will often eat their way ‘around’ a pill disguised in food. That’s why pharmacy compounding – the art and science of preparing customized mediations for patients, or in this case, pets – can be of great benefit to pet owners.

If you have a pet who refuses to take their medicine, Cypress Pharmacy’s compounding pharmacist can prepare easy-to-give dosage forms that animals will want to gobble up fast. The majority of pet compounding medications are delivered either in suspension or solution forms. Most are flavored with chicken, beef or tuna, while additional flavors can be added if your pet has a particular favorite.

Liquid form medication
Liquid form medication is most efficient for pets. Most pets will take a straight liquid form easily, otherwise, it can be mixed into their food. If so, pet owners should ensure their pet eats the entire meal. Liquids are also convenient because they can be made in varying dosage sizes. While solutions can be kept at room temperature, suspensions need to be refrigerated.

Capsules
Cypress Pharmacy can also prepare pet medication in a capsule form, provided the dose needed is low. Usually known to be hard to administer, pet owners have the option to open the capsules and pour its medicinal contents over an animal’s food for easy consumption. Most capsules can also be kept at room temperature.

Soft chews
Animal treats, often called ‘Soft Chews,’ are another popular form of pet medication available today. While Soft Chews take longer to make, and cost a little more, animals are eager to devour these treats, available in chicken, fish and plain flavors (with an option to add other flavors to the mixture later). Soft Chews are a great option because pet owners do not have to refrigerate the medication.

Anti-anxiety medication
With summer here, we can expect frequent heavy raining, storms and upcoming holiday fireworks, as well as vacations. In each case, pharmacists can help pet owners needing anti-anxiety medication for pets who suffer from separation anxiety or are frightened by loud noises.

Other pet medications
While not as commonly needed, pharmacists can also provide the following types of pet medication:

• Lipoderm based transdermal gels – to apply directly to the skin with a Topiclick Micro device
• A topical Zosil base (designed for animal skin) – to treat dermatitis, skin infections and wound care
• Suppositories – for dogs needing Diazepam for seizures

For more information, call 239-481-7322 or visit www.cypresspharmacy.com.





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How much do consumers spend on their pets?  I am a pet owner and have two dogs of different sizes, and breeds.  They both have different needs, including kennel sizes, pet food, toys, hygiene supplies, vitamins, accessories and grooming needs.  According to The American Pet Products Association (APPA) American's spend an estimated $69.35 billion dollars per year on their pets.  Consumers love to dress their pets in different attire, for leisure, parties and holidays.  Pampered pet trends increased steadily as more luxury options are available for pets. What is the million dollar question? Do pets need to wear clothes? The answer is no. Some pets do need extra protection against the weather elements, if your pet is comfortable with fashion then be sensible with your purchases.  You won't want to roast a Wiener Dog in a full fur jacket. 

All pets give the "look" to their owners.  It's "TREAT TIME" but how many treats are too many? Understand first the eating habits of your pet, when they eat and what.  They have their favorite treats, and food.  If they are a smaller dog, they might be eating too much in a single feeding.  Always read the label on the treat box, and food for dietary needs of your pet. Over feeding a pet increases their risk for diabetes and other health problems. According to recent studies almost one quarter of pet owners give their pets treats when they beg for it and rarely the owner never measures the amount before giving.  

Our pets are famous, rock stars, head of the house.  They make us laugh, they help us to be our best everyday. Come on, another kiss, treat, walk in the park, or just throwing a ball, your pet will love you more each time your are with them. 

I recently took our dog to a local spa to get his hair, paws, and collar trimmed. He loves it! I love it too because he is happy. Some people might say, it's easier to have a relationship with a pet, because they don't talk back. Dogs and cats have personality, don't get in their way when it comes time to sitting on the couch. ​