Leading vet charity PDSA is urging pet owners to think twice before following veterinary advice shared on TikTok and other social media platforms, warning that online ‘hacks’ and home treatments could put pets’ lives at risk.
“We understand why pet owners turn to TikTok or other social media for advice, people love their pets and want quick help,” explains PDSA vet Catherine Burke. “But while many videos are shared with good intentions, they can make medical guidance appear far simpler and safer than it really is.”
Some viral clips encourage owners to give dogs ibuprofen for limping or minor injuries, despite it being toxic to pets.
“Animals process medications very differently from humans,” Catherine adds. “Something safe for people can be toxic or even life-threatening for pets.
“We would never recommend that owners give human medicines or try home treatments seen online without first checking with their vet. What works for one animal in a short video may not be safe for another, and similar symptoms can have very different underlying causes.”
PDSA is encouraging owners to contact their vet directly if they are worried about their pet’s health, rather than relying on social media trends or unverified online advice.
The charity says that while the internet can be a useful place to learn more about pet care, diagnosis and treatment should always come from qualified veterinary professionals who can assess an individual animal’s needs safely and accurately.
Catherine added: “What’s also worrying is that following these viral tips can delay pet owners from seeking proper veterinary care, where early treatment can make a significant difference to health and wellbeing.
“In some cases, delays can be life-threatening, especially in emergency situations. Misinformation spreads online so quickly, so we would encourage pet owners to always use trusted veterinary professionals for pet health advice.”
PDSA is the UK’s leading veterinary charity, operating more than 40 Pet Hospitals nationwide. In 2025, the charity treated more than 422,000 pets, including dogs, cats and small animals.
The charity has a dedicated Pet Health Hub where it shares expert advice on all sorts of pet health conditions, as well as active social media channels (@TeamPDSA) where they also share their expert advice.
