"Don't give any type of medications without first talking to your veterinarian," says Steve Myrin, DVM, of Black Butte Veterinary Clinic in Sisters.

Aspirin and other over-the-counter pain relievers are so common that pet owners may think they're safe for cats and dogs. Even drugs frequently given to babies aren't good for Fido and Fluffy. Some painkillers, including acetaminophen, can be toxic in small doses. One ibuprofen tablet can be toxic to a small dog.

"Dogs and cats metabolize medications differently than we do," said Myrin.

Pain relievers that people take are sometimes prescribed for pets. When they are, follow the doctor's dosage instructions precisely. Overdosing a pet can be fatal.

Because medications intended for humans can be lethal to pets even in small doses, veterinarians say be careful about accidentally dropping pills on the floor.

"When pets ingest any type of medication, you should always call your veterinarian immediately even if you are not positive that they have actually ingested it," said Myrin.

Some people think that if it says "natural" or "herbal" on the bottle, it must be safe for their pets. Actually, herbal remedies can cause the same unhealthy reactions as prescription medications. So the same caution applies. The American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA) says it's important to talk with a vet first before giving herbal remedies.

The AAHA says that pets could be allergic to natural remedies and they could interfere with other medications prescribed by the vet.