As guardians of dogs with allergies, it’s natural to want to relieve your pup’s discomfort in the summer months by giving them anti-allergy medication like Piriton.
However, you cannot do so except strictly under the guidance of a vet, for reasons explained in this article.
In this article, our Chief Veterinarian and Omni Co-Founder, Dr. Guy MRCVS, explores the use of Piriton for dogs.
Can Dogs Have Piriton?
Yes, but strictly only under the advice of a vet.
Do not give your dog Piriton without having first consulted a veterinarian.
Piriton can be effective for managing allergies in dogs, but it is an “off-licence” medication for dogs, meaning it is only approved for human use, and not licensed for use in dogs.
Recent legislation changes make it illegal for vets to use and unlicensed drug if there is a licensed one available.
Vets must follow prescribing guidance (known as 'The Cascade') issued by the government agency 'the Veterinary Medicines Directorate'. This provides a hierarchy of how vets should select the medication they want to prescribe - starting within licensed medication for use in that species, to medication licensed in a different animal species, to medications which isn't licensed for use in animals.
Why Piriton Is Not the Best First Option
Piriton has potential side effects that should be taken seriously, as giving off-licence medication to dogs can often go the wrong way, especially if not under veterinary supervision. Some of these side effects are:
- Sedation or lethargy
- Gastrointestinal upset
- Agitation or restlessness
- Seizures
As well as this, there are a number of alternatives to Piriton that are licenced for veterinary use in the UK.
Alternatives to Piriton for Dogs
Some alternatives to Piriton that may be prescribed by vets include:
- (not licensed)
- - (not licensed)
- Apoquel
- Steroids
- Ciclosporin
Again, however, these drugs are only available with a prescription from a veterinarian. It is important when medicating your dog that you only do so under expert advice and that you seek out expert advice at the earliest opportunity whenever a problem arises.
This is why our team at Omni offer free consultations to our customers*.
Risks of Giving Piriton to Dogs
Giving Piriton without veterinary supervision can lead to serious health risks for your dog.
- Diarrhoea: Some dogs may experience an upset stomach with Piriton.
- Drowsiness: Like humans, dogs can become drowsy on antihistamines. Ensure you follow the correct dosage as prescribed by your vet or as stated on the package depending on the weight of your dog.
- Vomiting: Dogs may vomit initially; if this doesn’t subside, stop the medication and contact your vet.
- Dry Mouth: If your dog seems to have a dry mouth, provide plenty of fresh water throughout the day.
- Behavioural Changes: Watch for any unusual behaviour. This should pass, but if it continues, seek veterinary advice.
- Seizures
- Piriton is metabolised by the liver, so could be dangerous to use if there are any existing liver problems
Note that Piriton is an off-licence medication and should only ever be used under the strict instructions of a vet.
Is Piriton Ever Safe for Dogs?
While Piriton may have a place in certain treatment plans, it is an "off-licence" medication for dogs, meaning it has not been approved specifically for canine use. A vet can only prescribe or recommend it when there is a justified medical reason, and the dosage must be precise.
When Vets Might Prescribe Piriton:
- Special conditions: In rare cases, a vet might recommend Piriton if other pain relief options are not suitable, for example, if a dog has an intolerance to many other medications.
- Precise dosing: Only a vet can determine the correct dosage, which is often much lower than what humans take. Never attempt to give your dog Piriton without professional guidance.
How to Safely Manage Your Dog's Allergies
If you suspect your dog is suffering from allergies (for instance, with rashes, itchy skin, irritated eyes, or waxy ears), always consult a vet first. They will be able to assess the situation and recommend the most appropriate treatment plan.
You may also want to consider the following:
- Changing your dog’s diet to a hypoallergenic, novel protein diet like Omni Sensitivity. This avoids common allergens like various animal proteins as well as grains, gluten and soya, allowing you to eliminate potential allergens whilst still providing a nutritionally complete diet for your dog.
- Using an allergy-friendly Omega-3 and 6 supplement. These healthy fatty acids are essential for maintaining a strong skin barrier against the outside world and preventing the worst of allergies. Omni’s Irritated Skin supplement is created with this in mind, with Omega-3 and 6 derived from marine algae.
Speak with a Vet If…
- You are unsure about your dog’s symptoms or the appropriate course of action.
- Your dog has pre-existing conditions like liver or kidney disease, which could increase the risk of complications.
- You need advice on allergy management
Book a free consultation with Omni’s veterinary team to get expert advice on your dog’s health strategies. Never medicate your dog with human medications without professional guidance.
Thoughts from Dr Guy MRCVS
As dog lovers and guardians, it’s natural to worry about our furry friends, especially when they display abnormal symptoms that can’t be easily explained. That’s why, when I founded Omni, I knew that I wanted to keep vet consultation free and accessible at the heart of the business.
If you’re understandably worried about your dog, but you don’t think you need to take them to the vets urgently, I highly recommend getting some friendly, professional advice from one of our team.
Disclaimer: Our Video Vet Consultation service is limited because we are unable to perform a full physical examination of your pet. Our vets have no responsibility for the examination or other medical services provided during the Consultation.
Please note that our Video Vet Consultations do not replace traditional veterinary care, but can provide additional support. Based on the information you have provided and the symptoms you have described, the Vet will give you advice and an ongoing plan. Without a physical examination, we cannot provide a definitive diagnosis. If you are worried that your dog's condition is worsening, or you need additional support, please schedule another consultation, or see your registered vet.
* Omni’s vet team cannot issue prescriptions, but are a good first port-of-call for anybody uncertain about whether a problem warrants veterinary attention or not, as well as for advice around diet, lifestyle, and behavioural problems.
