What You Need to Know About Pain Medication for Dogs

 

Every dog parent wants their dog to experience the least amount of pain during their lifetime as possible. Dogs can’t tell us when they’re in pain; in fact, they can be quite adept at hiding their pain.

Most dogs hide their pain as an instinctive survival mechanism to prevent potential predators from targeting them when they are injured. In the past, this led many well-meaning experts to presume dogs don’t feel pain the same way people do. Today, we know that dogs have a nervous system very similar to humans, and we know how to identify and manage their pain.

Here’s what you need to know about recognizing and treating pain in dogs.

Warning Signs of Pain

Like people, dogs may experience an injury, infection, disease or the aches and pains of aging. Although the signs may be subtle, most dogs experiencing pain will alter their behavior in some way. A good rule of thumb is if it would cause you pain, it is probably causing your dog pain.

Pay close attention to any changes in your dog’s behavior. If you notice your dog is acting differently, it may be because he or she is in pain. Your dog might be in pain if you notice:

• Decreased activity or appetite
• Lethargy
• Vocalization
• Restlessness
• Aggression
• Less interaction with family members or other pets
• Dilated pupils
• Reacting with a flinch to touch in a sensitive area.

What To Do If You Think Your Dog is in Pain

If you suspect your dog is in pain, the most important thing to do is to stay calm. Sometimes animals will lash out because fear and anxiety can amplify pain. Be as gentle as possible. Speak soothingly, but also be careful to not let your dog hurt you.

Pain management is central to veterinarian medical practice. Call your veterinarian as soon as you suspect your dog is in pain. Your vet will ask you specific questions to determine the urgency of the situation, and how soon your dog needs to be seen.

DO NOT GIVE YOUR DOG ANY PAIN MEDICATION YOU MAY HAVE IN YOUR MEDICINE CABINET, INCLUDING OVER THE COUNTER PAIN RELIEVERS.

A pain reliever meant for humans or even other animals may not be right for your dog and may hurt him or her. The wrong medication or dose can even be fatal.

Pain Relief for Dogs

There’s more to pain management in dogs than medication. Modern veterinary medicine involves an integrated approach to pain management. In addition to analgesics, or painkillers, your veterinarian may recommend:

• Cold compresses
• Therapy lasers
• Acupuncture
• Physical therapy
• Weight optimization
• Possible adjustments to the home environment to make your dog more comfortable

Pain medications for dogs are better than ever. However, there are different medications suited for different ailments, so it is imperative that you speak with your veterinarian before giving your dog any type of pain medication.

There are several type of pain medications that are given to animals.

1. NSAIDs

Pain medication for dogs is primarily composed of NSAIDs. NSAID stand for “non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug.” These medications are effective because they block the body’s production of certain enzymes that cause tissue swelling at the point of injury.

Common NSAIDs that are prescribed for dogs include:

• Metacam
• Piroxicam
• Rimadyl
• Novox
• Deramaxx
• Etodolac
• Previcox
• Aspirin (usually prescribed for short-term use. Long-term use can cause bleeding. Coated aspirin is best and should be given with food.)

Modern NSAIDs have fewer side effects than these types of drugs that were given to dogs in the past. The key is working with your vet to ensure you are giving your dog the right medication and dosage for your dog.

2. Opiates

Opiates are narcotics and are by far the strongest pain medication for dogs. Most veterinarians don’t prescribe opiates except in extreme cases, and only for short-term use. Dogs will develop a tolerance to opiates, just like humans, which can lead to the need to increase doses and intense side effects.

Common opiates that may be prescribed in acute instances include:

• Buprenorphine
• Morphine
• Paregoric
• Codeine

3. Steroids

Steroids are primary used to treat inflammation. Inflammation can cause severe pain. Most veterinarians will prescribe NSAIDs over steroids, because steroids can have devastating effects in dogs, including Cushing’s disease.

Steroids that may be prescribed (rarely) for dogs include:

• Prednisone
• Dexamethasone
• Corticosteroids

4. Nutraceuticals

Nutraceuticals are supplements that may be prescribed for dogs in conjunction with other pain medication to help manage chronic pain, especially when it’s associated with arthritis.

Nutraceuticals that may be prescribed for dogs include:

• Omega-3 Fatty acids
• Methylsulfonylmethane (MSM)
• Glucosamine
• Chrondroitin

5. Antidepressants

Some antidepressants are effective pain medications for dogs.

Common antidepressants prescribed for dogs are:

• Tofranil
• Elavil

6. Other medications

 Most of the time NSAIDs are the most effective medication for pain control in dogs. However, sometimes your dog may need additional options. Your vet may prescribe gabapentin or tramadol.

Gabapentin treats pain from damaged nerves. It’s used in canines and humans. It may make your dog sleepy at first. It may be prescribed with other drugs.

Tramadol is a painkiller that works like other mild opiates. Vets sometimes give it to elderly dogs that are experiencing constant pain. Side effects may include an upset stomach, vomiting or dizziness.

Common Side Effects When Managing Your Dog’s Pain

Canine NSAID Side Effects

NSAIDs can be an effective pain reliever for dogs. They are usually safe for dogs and have few side effects. However, they can cause kidney, liver or digestive problems.

Here is an acronym you can use to remember warning signs your dog may be having a bad reaction to NSAIDs. The acronym is BEST.

• Behavior changes
• Eating less
• Skin redness, scabs
• Tarry stool/diarrhea/vomiting

If your dog has any of these symptoms while taking NSAIDs, stop giving your dog the medication and call your vet immediately.

Canine Opiate Side Effects

Side effects of opiates can include:

• Constipation
• Mood changes
• Restlessness
• Trouble breathing
• Confusion
• Excessive drooling

Canine Steroid Side Effects

Side effects of steroids can include:

• Weight loss
• Thinning hair
• Thinning of the skin (you might see an increase in cuts, scrapes, bruising or bleeding)
• Mood swings

It’s vitally important that you contact your veterinarian right away if your dog is presenting any type of side effect to pain relievers.

Veterinarian Consultation is Crucial

A vet should always be consulted before administering pain relievers to dogs. NEVER give your dog any type of pain reliever without contacting your vet. Even if your vet has prescribed painkillers in the past for your dog, your dog’s condition may have changed. Your vet will know what tests might need to be done to ensure the right medication and dosage is prescribed.

Your vet may recommend several different pain medications be given at the same time. This is because your dog may be experiencing several pathways of pain. He or she may need pain control that addresses soft tissue, bone/joint and nerve pain.

Reduce Risk Factors for Canine Pain

You can help prevent pain in your dog by taking these preventative measures:

• Help your dog maintain a healthy weight – here are 5 tips for preventing obesity in your dog
• Prevent dental disease – click here to learn more about how to prevent dental disease in your dog
• Ensure your dog has a healthy diet – here are 8 trustworthy tips for selecting the right dog food
• Ensure your dog has plenty of exercise – click here to learn more about why walking your dog is so important

Consider Making Lifestyle Changes To Help Your Dog Feel Better

After your appointment with your veterinarian, it may be time to consider making lifestyle changes that can make life easier and less painful for your dog. Examples of lifestyle changes may include:

• Orthopedic dog bed
• Easy access to food and water bowls
• Gates to limit access to stairs
• A ramp to help your dog get in and out of the car
• Nonslip rugs
• Support harness for lifting dogs with poor stability or joint injuries

Click here for more information on caring for a senior dog

Canine Campus is a leading provider of dog daycare, boarding and grooming in Colorado Springs. We offer an impeccably clean environment, seasoned staff that care deeply about dogs, a webcam for your viewing enjoyment, and a loving, supportive environment. We deliver an exceptional experience for you and your dog. We are conveniently located off the I-25 Fillmore exit. Call us at 719-448-9600 if you have any questions about our services or you would like to make an overnight reservation.

Has your vet prescribed a pain reliever for your dog? Please share your experience with the rest of the Canine Campus community in the comments below…