If your pet dog is in pain, take him to the vet, instead of giving pain killers meant for humans. This article provides some information about pain relief for dogs.
In case of pain, you may either pop a pain killer; or else, consult the doctor and get it treated. What if the same happens to your pet dog? The poor animal would suffer silently, as it cannot communicate. It is the pet owner, who has to sense the trouble, and get the condition of the animal treated.
Pain in Dogs
A dog in pain can be quiet and unresponsive, but some of them may also get restless and irritable. The animal may howl, whine, or whimper; and may get aggressive too. He/she may avoid food and may have trouble sleeping. Some of the dogs may lick a particular body part continuously, when they experience pain. They may also rest with their ears flattened over the head.
The most common causes for pain in dogs are injuries to muscles, bruises and lacerations, infections, arthritis, cancer, and bone disease. Even surgical procedures and other medical conditions can cause pain in dogs. While some of them (like injury and infections) can be classified as causes of acute pain; others, like cancer, arthritis, and bone disease, are considered as causes of chronic pain in dogs. It is always better to consult the vet, and get your pet treated for the pain and the underlying cause.
Pain Relief for Canines
Once you notice symptoms of pain in your dog, you must take it to the vet, who will conduct relevant tests and start the treatment. As pain management can positively affect the healing process, it is very important to control the pain. Prescription medication, over-the-counter medicines, alternative therapies, and herbal remedies, are used for pain relief in dogs.
- You should never administer pain killers meant for humans, to these pets. Some of these medicines may even prove toxic for these animals.
- You must also refrain from giving any type of painkillers for dogs, without consulting the vet. They include over-the-counter pain killers too.
- While some of the newer analgesics are used for injuries and arthritis pain relief, NSAIDs are usually given in case of bone and joint problems. However, these medicines are also linked to some side effects. So, it is very important to give such drugs, as per the instructions of the vet.
- Use of aspirin for canine pain relief is one of the much-debated topics, as this drug may cause side effects in pets. So, it should be administered according to the prescribed dosage. It is said that this drug should not be given to dogs with kidney problems and high blood pressure.
- Other medication used for dog pain relief include some types of narcotics and antidepressants. In some rare cases, corticosteroids may also be used for pain relief for dogs.
- Usually, NSAIDs are used for pain due to arthritis. Apart from medication, a nutritious diet, along with joint supplements may also contribute to pain relief for dogs.
- You may also go for herbal remedies. Licorice, turmeric, yucca, aloe vera, chamomile, ginger, and feverfew are used as pain relievers for dogs. While licorice oil massage may provide relief to arthritis pain, adding a small amount of turmeric to dog food is may also provide relief. However, seek the opinion of the vet regarding use of natural pain relief methods.
Even acupuncture and homeopathic remedies are said to be beneficial in providing pain relief for dogs. In case you notice symptoms of pain in your dog, take it to the vet, and start the treatment immediately. You must follow the doctor’s instructions regarding the dosage of medicines and duration of treatment.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only, and should not be used as a replacement for expert advice.
