When your dog falls ill, panic can set in fast. Butpet ownersare urged not to take matters into their own hands - especially when it comes to a common painkiller.

Kara Gammell, Pet Insurance expert at MoneySuperMarket, has delved further into this topic, warning that paracetamol is the drug of concern. Single 500mg tablets, often available at pharmacies, are generally far greaterthan the recommended dose for small, medium and some larger breeds.

"Paracetamol is one of the most searched-for human medications, but it’s far from the only risk," Ms Gammell said. "Well-meaning owners may assume that if a medicine is safe for people, it must be safe for pets, but that simply isn’t true and even small misjudgements in dosing can lead to serious harm.

• UK snow forecast maps show when 600-mile wall of snow will bury country


• Major police presence as huge group walk down street holding weapons

"Occasionally, vets may prescribe a carefully calculated veterinary-specific formulation of medicines similar to paracetamol, but this is done on a case-by-case basis. Pet owners should never attempt to use human painkillers at home. The risk of dosing incorrectly is very real."

Pets metabolise paracetamol differently from humans, which can lead to poisoning or severe cellular damage. Figuresfrom Vets & Clinics suggest that one-third of animals die within 24 to 72 hours of taking large doses.

Ms Gammell continued: "If your pet has been given paracetamol - even unknowingly - you should seek emergency veterinary care immediately, and share as much information as possible with the vet, as even small delays can increase the risks.

"Clinical signs may appear within four hours and can include vomiting, abdominal pain, weakness, loss of appetite, difficulty standing, bluish gums or tongue, and a rapid heartbeat. Acting quickly gives your pet the best possible chance of recovery, so don’t wait for symptoms to worsen before getting help."

She also added: "Emergency vet visits are typically more expensive than a routine appointment and with costs now averaging £268.92 - around 6% higher than last year. When a pet is sick or injured, their care will always be the priority but these rising costs can add extra pressure for owners at an already stressful time.

"Pet insurance can provide valuable peace of mind, helping owners focus on their pet’s health rather than worrying about the financial impact of unexpected treatment."

On a separate note, owners should also be aware of 'kennel cough,' which refers to bronchitis in dogs. Similar to chest infections in humans, various bacteria and viruses can cause this disease, which primarily affects the respiratory system.

Besides an obvious cough, experts at Blue Cross also suggest these bugs can cause a runny nose, eye discharge, or sneezing, though dogs should still maintain their appetite. "The most obvious symptom of kennel cough is a forceful, hacking cough, which will often sound like your dog has something stuck in their throat," online advice from Blue Crossexplains.

"The cough can be dry and hoarse or productive, in which case it can be followed by a gag, swallowing motion or the production of mucus. It is distinct from a cough-like sound known as reverse sneezing, which is common in certain breeds and is triggered by irritation in the throat."

Most cases of Kennel cough resolve on their own within 10 to 14 days and don't need treatment. However, puppies, senior dogs, or those with health issues might experience more severe symptoms.

In the most severe cases, this can lead to pneumonia, a condition marked by lung and airway inflammation that hampers breathing. Yet, it's important to note that symptoms and their intensity can vary depending on the specific virus strain responsible for the cough.

Additional guidance from the People's Dispensary for Sick Animals (PDSA) adds: "There are many different conditions that can cause coughing, so it’s a good idea to have your dog checked by your vet if they have a severe cough or have been coughing for more than a few days.

"When visiting your vet, make them aware that your dog has been coughing and wait outside until you are called to prevent spreading kennel cough to other dogs in the waiting room."