There are many options for relieving pain in dogs.
Dogs feel pain in exactly the same way as humans. Canine pain can come from many different sources and can be acute (such as post-surgical pain) or chronic (like the pain suffered from arthritis).
Why Control Canine Pain?
Controlling pain is important for several reasons. Pain can lead to additional health complications and slow the healing of wounds and surgical incisions. Being in pain can also diminish the quality of your dog’s life.
Medications for Pain Relief in Dogs
There are many different medications that can be used to control pain for your dog.
- Neutriceuticals include glucosamine, chondroitin and others. Neutriceuticals are food products that have the ability to provide health benefits. These products can take several weeks or even months to show their full effects. However, they are safe products that are unlikely to have unwanted side effects.
- NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) can be quite effective in relieving pain. However, they can also have side effects. You should monitor your dog closely if he is receiving these medications. Discontinue the medication immediately and contact your veterinarian if your dog begins to vomit, has diarrhea or is otherwise not acting himself. Rimadyl® is one of the most commonly used NSAID medications. Others include Metacam®, Etogesic® and Deramaxx®.
- If the neutriceutical medications and NSAIDs are ineffective for your dog or your dog is unable to take these medications, there are other drugs that can also relieve pain. These medications include tramadol, gabapentin and amantidine.
In situations where pain is anticipated, such as when your dog undergoes a surgical procedure, pain is best treated before it starts. Your veterinarian will likely start your dog on pain medication prior to the surgery and continue it until any surgical pain is gone.
Many dog owners make the mistake of giving their dogs human medications for pain. In most cases, this is not advisable and can cause serious side effects. Always consult your veterinarian before giving any medications to your dog. Avoid medications like Tylenol®, ibuprofen (Advil®) and Aleve®.
Other Methods of Pain Relief for Your Dog
Depending on your dog’s situation and the cause of his pain, there may be other alternatives to pain control as well.
- Acupuncture can be effective in relieving both acute and chronic pain.
- Massage, hydrotherapy and laser therapy are also options for canine pain relief. These techniques are both safe and effective.
- In some cases of chronic pain, stem cell therapy may be alternative as well.
There are many different options available for relieving canine pain. There is no reason any dog should have to suffer the discomforts of feeling pain.
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