The recommended dosage of Dramamine for dogs is 2 mg per pound of body weight, given every 8 hours or as needed until symptoms subside. For example, a 10-pound dog would receive 20 mg of Dramamine up to 3 times a day.
Dramamine is an over-the-counter medication that’s commonly used to treat motion sickness in humans. However, it can also be used to treat motion sickness in dogs. Dramamine contains the active ingredient dimenhydrinate, which helps to alleviate nausea and vomiting.
“Dramamine saved my dog’s car rides!” – Susan
Susan’s dog used to get extremely nauseous and would often vomit during car rides. She tried everything from herbal remedies to prescription medications, but nothing seemed to work. Then, she decided to give Dramamine a try, and she was pleasantly surprised by the results. Her dog no longer gets sick during car rides, and they can now enjoy road trips together.
“I wouldn’t recommend Dramamine for every dog.” – John
John’s dog also suffered from motion sickness, but he didn’t have the same success with Dramamine. He found that the medication made his dog extremely drowsy and lethargic, which made it difficult for him to enjoy their time together. John ultimately decided to try other remedies that were more effective for his dog’s unique needs.
“Dramamine worked wonders for my dog’s sea sickness!” – Emily
Emily’s dog gets extremely nauseous when they go out on the water, which made boating trips impossible. However, after giving her dog a dose of Dramamine, he was able to enjoy their day on the boat without any problems. Emily recommends Dramamine to anyone who has a dog that suffers from motion sickness on the water.
“Be careful with the dosage!” – Michael
Michael’s dog had a bad reaction to Dramamine because he accidentally gave him too much. He recommends that dog owners be very careful with the dosage and to always follow the instructions on the packaging. Michael also suggests consulting with a veterinarian before giving your dog any medication.
There are also a number of complaints and issues that pet owners have reported.
Stomach upset: Some dogs may experience stomach upset after taking Dramamine, including vomiting or diarrhea. To avoid this, try giving your dog the medication with food and be sure to follow the recommended dosage.
Drowsiness: Dramamine can cause drowsiness in dogs, which can be problematic for some pet owners who need their dogs to be alert and active. If you notice that your dog is feeling drowsy after taking the medication, you may want to consider switching to a different brand or alternative treatment option.
Allergic reactions: Some dogs may have an allergic reaction to Dramamine, resulting in symptoms such as itching, swelling, or hives. If you suspect your dog is having an allergic reaction, stop using the medication immediately and seek veterinary care.
Ineffectiveness: Some pet owners have reported that Dramamine is not effective in preventing motion sickness in their dogs. If you find that the medication is not working for your pet, it’s important to consult with your veterinarian to determine the best course of action.
How long does it take for Dramamine to work on dogs?
The answer to this question varies, as it depends on the size and weight of your dog, as well as their individual metabolism. On average, it takes about 30 minutes for Dramamine to start working on dogs. However, some dogs may experience relief in as little as 15 minutes, while others may take up to an hour to feel the effects.
Remember that every dog is different, so don’t be discouraged if you don’t see immediate results. Give the medication time to work its magic before you make any adjustments.
When giving Dramamine to your dog, make sure to follow the dosage instructions on the packaging or as directed by your veterinarian. Overdosing can lead to side effects such as drowsiness, dizziness, and loss of appetite, so it’s crucial to stick to the recommended dose.
Is there an alternative to Dramamine for dogs?
These alternatives are a great starting point for pet owners who are looking for a more natural or safer solution to traditional motion sickness medications like Dramamine.
Ginger Chews
Ginger has natural anti-nausea properties that can help settle a dog’s stomach. These chews are a tasty treat for your pup and are a great option for car rides or if your dog has motion sickness.
Herbal Supplements
There are a variety of herbal supplements available on Amazon that contain natural ingredients like ginger, peppermint, and chamomile that can help calm an upset stomach. These are a great alternative to traditional over-the-counter medications like Dramamine.
Calming Aids
There are a variety of calming aids available on Amazon that can help dogs feel relaxed and at ease, reducing the likelihood of motion sickness. Some popular options include dog-friendly pheromone sprays and diffusers.
Essential Oils
Essential oils like lavender and peppermint have natural calming properties that can help dogs feel relaxed. You can find these oils in diffuser form or as part of a dog-friendly massage oil or spray.
Zesty Paws Calming Bites
These tasty treats are made with natural ingredients like chamomile, passionflower, and valerian root that help calm dogs during stressful situations.
This supplement contains natural ingredients like thiamine, L-tryptophan, and melatonin that help reduce stress and promote relaxation in dogs.
Is Benadryl or Dramamine better for dogs?
Understanding Benadryl and Dramamine
Benadryl is an antihistamine medication that helps reduce allergic reactions, itching, and swelling in dogs. It contains diphenhydramine as the active ingredient, and it works by blocking histamine, which is responsible for causing allergic reactions in dogs.
On the other hand, Dramamine is a medication used to treat motion sickness in dogs. It contains dimenhydrinate as the active ingredient, which helps alleviate symptoms like nausea, vomiting, and dizziness caused by motion sickness.
Effectiveness
When it comes to effectiveness, both Benadryl and Dramamine work differently. Benadryl is more effective for allergic reactions, while Dramamine is more effective for motion sickness.
If your dog is experiencing an allergic reaction, Benadryl is the better option. It is fast-acting and can help alleviate the symptoms within 30 minutes. However, if your dog is experiencing motion sickness, Dramamine is the better option. It can help alleviate the symptoms within an hour.
Dosage
It is essential to give your dog the right dosage of medication. For Benadryl, the recommended dosage is 1 mg per pound of body weight, given every 8-12 hours. For Dramamine, the recommended dosage is 2-4 mg per pound of body weight, given every 8 hours.
It is also important to note that both medications should be given to dogs after consulting with a veterinarian, as there may be some underlying health conditions that could affect their safety.
Side Effects
Both medications have potential side effects that pet owners should be aware of. The common side effects of Benadryl include drowsiness, dry mouth, and urinary retention. On the other hand, the common side effects of Dramamine include drowsiness, lethargy, and dry mouth.
FAQs about Dramamine for dogs
What is Dramamine, and how does it work?
Dramamine is an over-the-counter medication that helps to prevent and treat motion sickness in dogs. It contains an active ingredient called dimenhydrinate, which works by blocking certain signals in the brain that cause nausea and vomiting.
How much Dramamine should I give my dog?
The recommended dosage of Dramamine for dogs is 2-4 milligrams per kilogram of body weight, given every 8-12 hours. However, it is important to consult with your veterinarian before giving your dog any medication, as the dosage may vary depending on your dog’s size, weight, and medical history.
What are the side effects of Dramamine in dogs?
Like any medication, Dramamine may cause side effects in dogs. The most common side effects include drowsiness, dry mouth, and diarrhea. In rare cases, it may also cause confusion, seizures, or difficulty breathing. If your dog experiences any of these side effects, contact your veterinarian immediately.
Can I give Dramamine to my pregnant dog?
No, you should not give Dramamine to a pregnant dog without consulting with your veterinarian first. Dramamine may cause harm to the developing fetuses, and it may also pass through the milk and affect nursing puppies.
How should I administer Dramamine to my dog?
Dramamine is available in different forms, such as tablets, liquid, and chewable tablets. The most common form for dogs is the tablet. You can either give the tablet directly to your dog, or you can crush it and mix it with their food. Make sure to follow the dosage instructions provided by your veterinarian.
It is recommended to give your dog Dramamine 30 minutes to an hour before traveling or any other activity that may cause motion sickness. This will allow enough time for the medication to take effect.
Can I use Dramamine for other conditions in dogs?
No, you should not use Dramamine to treat other conditions in dogs, unless prescribed by your veterinarian. Dramamine is specifically designed to treat motion sickness, and using it for other conditions may be harmful to your dog.
What should I do if my dog accidentally takes too much Dramamine?
If you suspect that your dog has taken too much Dramamine, contact your veterinarian immediately. Symptoms of an overdose may include seizures, difficulty breathing, and an irregular heartbeat.
Are there any alternatives to Dramamine for treating motion sickness in dogs?
Yes, there are other medications and natural remedies that may help to treat motion sickness in dogs. Your veterinarian may recommend other medications, such as Cerenia or Benadryl. Natural remedies, such as ginger or peppermint, may also be effective in reducing nausea and vomiting.
Can I give Dramamine to my puppy?
No, you should not give Dramamine to a puppy under 12 weeks of age. Puppies are more sensitive to medication and may have a higher risk of side effects. Always consult with your veterinarian before giving any medication to a young dog.
What should I do if my dog vomits after taking Dramamine?
If your dog vomits after taking Dramamine, do not give them another dose. Wait until the next scheduled dose to give them medication again. If your dog continues to vomit or shows other signs of illness, contact your veterinarian.
Can I use human anti-nausea medication for my dog?
No, you should not use human anti-nausea medication for your dog without consulting with your veterinarian first. Human medications may contain ingredients that are harmful to dogs or may require a different dosage than what is appropriate for a dog.
What other precautions should I take when giving my dog Dramamine?
It is important to follow the instructions provided by your veterinarian and to monitor your dog’s behavior and symptoms. Always give the medication with food to prevent stomach upset, and do not give more than the recommended dosage. Additionally, make sure your dog has access to water and is properly hydrated during travel or other activities.
Natural Sedatives for Travelling With Your Dog or Cat
Hannah Elizabeth is an English animal behavior author, having written for several online publications. With a degree in Animal Behaviour and over a decade of practical animal husbandry experience, Hannah's articles cover everything from pet care to wildlife conservation. When she isn't creating content for blog posts, Hannah enjoys long walks with her Rottweiler cross Senna, reading fantasy novels and breeding aquarium shrimp.
