Reaction of Zyrtec for Canines
- According to a study by the Cornell University Hospital for Animals, four of 22 dogs (18 percent) with atopic dermatitis, a common skin allergy, improved with cetirizine treatment.
- The Cornell researchers gave dogs a dosage of 1mg/kg body weight, once per day. Zyrtec is typically sold over the counter in 10 mg tablets. At this dosage, one 10 mg pill would be sufficient for a 22-pound dog. The effectiveness of antihistamine treatments for canine allergies is unpredictable and can vary greatly between dogs.
- Of the 22 dogs in the Cornell study, two vomited after receiving cetirizine.
- Canine allergies may be influenced by diet. Consider switching to a different dog food before trying medication. Other medications, such as Benadryl or a glucocorticoid, may be prescribed by a veterinarian. Consult a vet before attempting to treat your dog at home.