Pain Relief Medications For Dogs

Humans know that it is no joke to be under so much pain. A dog can be burdened by the same kind of pain that we feel. Dogs are intelligent animals but they would not know what must be done to ease their pain. These lovable and loyal animals would depend on their human family for all their needs. Because dogs are considered not only as pets but members of the family, an owner would worry if the pet is not its usual self. To alleviate the pain being suffered by the pet; a pet parent would commonly administer human medications. But what can you give your dog for pain?

Pet owners may be aware that human medications must NEVER be given to pets but the whining and the trembling of the suffering pet would be too much for a loving owner to bear. Ideally, a dog with a health concern must have professional medical attention but if no vet is available, an owner’s recourse is to give the pet whatever medication is available.

Most over the counter pain relief medications contain substances that would not only do the dog damage but can also be the cause of the dog’s death. Tylenol, Ibuprofen, Advil are the most common OTC pain medications being used. Aspirin should be included in the list but some dog experts believe that aspirin would not cause the dog harm if given in the right dosage.

Aspirin can reduce pain and fever and the drug also has an anti-inflammatory capabilities. However, dogs would also suffer from the side effects humans suffer from aspirin. Humans and dogs that take aspirin for pain can suffer from gastrointestinal upset and stomach ulcer. Aspirin can relieve arthritic and joint pains but the pet should not be given more than 10 mg for every pound of body weight.

Vets are now prescribing NSAIDs like meloxican, Carprofen, firocoxib, Gabapentin and Tramadol. NSAIDs are known to have side effects but these drugs were approved to be used on dogs. Dog owners would be aware if the pet is suffering from chronic pain as pet parents have the tendency to observe the movements of the pet. The active and inquisitive nature often land the dog in tight spots that would cause them pain. A farseeing owner would be prepared for these eventualities by stocking on medications that can be safely given to the pet. The right management of the pet’s condition would ensure the quality of the pet’s life.