As veterinary medicine advances, our canine companions are living longer, healthier lives. However, this extended lifespan also means they are more susceptible to age-related discomfort and various health conditions. Recognizing and managing pain in dogs is crucial for their well-being. This guide explores the various pain management options available, from over-the-counter remedies to prescription medications and alternative therapies, while emphasizing the importance of veterinary consultation.
Understanding and Treating Canine Pain
Identifying signs of pain in dogs is the first step toward providing them with relief. Dogs may exhibit behavioral changes, physical discomfort, or vocalizations that indicate they are suffering. Understanding these signals allows pet owners to seek timely veterinary assistance.
Key Takeaways
- Recognizing pain in dogs is essential for seeking appropriate veterinary care.
- While some human medications may be shared with dogs, others can be toxic.
- Always consult a veterinarian before administering any new medication to your dog.
Veterinary-Prescribed Pain Medications for Dogs
Your veterinarian will collaborate with you to create a tailored pain relief plan for your dog, considering the specific nature of their pain. This plan may include:
- Veterinarian-Prescribed Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs): Medications like Galliprant help reduce pain by combating inflammation. It is crucial to note that human NSAIDs such as ibuprofen and naproxen are not safe for dogs and should never be administered without explicit veterinary guidance.
- Opioids: These medications work on the brain to lessen the perception of pain and are generally reserved for more severe cases.
- Other Medications: Drugs that target the nervous system can also limit pain signal perception. Gabapentin is an example of such a medication.
- Integrative Therapies: For dogs that do not tolerate medication well, a combination of physical therapy, acupuncture, chiropractic manipulation, and environmental adjustments may be recommended.
NSAIDs for Canine Pain Relief
Certain NSAIDs are approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for managing pain and inflammation in dogs, particularly those with osteoarthritis. These medications work by reducing the body’s inflammatory response, thereby alleviating pain.
However, NSAIDs can potentially affect a dog’s gastrointestinal lining, kidney function, and blood flow. It is imperative to only use NSAIDs approved by your veterinarian and to maintain close communication with them throughout the treatment period. Dogs with pre-existing liver or kidney conditions may not be suitable candidates for NSAID therapy, as these medications require healthy organ function for proper processing and elimination from the body. Your veterinarian may recommend blood work and urinalysis tests to monitor your dog’s organ function before and during NSAID treatment.
NSAIDs can be administered in several ways and may be prescribed for long-term management of chronic conditions like hip dysplasia and osteoarthritis.
When administered as prescribed, NSAIDs are generally safe and effective. However, it is vital to monitor your dog closely for any side effects or signs of toxicity and contact your veterinarian immediately if an overdose is suspected or if your pet shows an adverse reaction to the medication.
Understanding Opioids for Dogs
Opioid medications function by binding to receptors in the brain, providing relief from moderate to severe pain. They are often prescribed post-surgery or as part of a sedation plan before general anesthesia. Due to their controlled nature, opioids require a veterinary prescription and strict record-keeping by the veterinarian, subject to audit by the DEA.
Potential side effects of opioids in pets include excessive salivation, vomiting, lethargy, and hyperexcitability. Common opioids used in veterinary medicine include:
- Morphine: Available in various forms, it’s typically used for short-term management of surgical pain or severe trauma.
- Codeine: Used for severe arthritis pain, chronic coughs associated with collapsing trachea, or surgical pain, codeine is prescribed for short-to-medium-term use.
- Butorphanol: Administered for surgical pain, this medication is intended for short-term use.
- Fentanyl: Often delivered via a transdermal patch for short-term surgical pain relief, fentanyl requires careful handling to prevent accidental absorption into human skin.
Additional Pain Medications and Supplements
Your veterinarian may also prescribe other medications, such as Librela, for pain management.
Joint Supplements for Dogs in Pain
Several supplements can aid in managing pain for dogs:
- Glucosamine: This naturally occurring substance helps protect cartilage and is used for mild pain associated with hip dysplasia and spinal cord injuries. It is available over the counter in various forms.
- Chondroitin: Similar to glucosamine, chondroitin protects cartilage and is beneficial for mild pain from conditions like hip dysplasia. It is also available over the counter.
- Fish Oil: Known for its anti-inflammatory properties, fish oil can help with pain related to osteoarthritis, skin conditions, kidney disease, heart disease, inflammatory bowel disease, diabetes, and epilepsy. It is available over the counter for pets.
Safety of Human Pain Medications for Dogs
While some medications are safe for both humans and dogs, such as certain heart or thyroid medications and antibiotics, the dosage and formulation often differ significantly. Furthermore, additives in human medications can be toxic to pets. A dog’s metabolism is distinct from a human’s, making some human medications potentially harmful or even fatal to them.
Never administer common over-the-counter human pain relievers like ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) to your dog, as they can lead to severe gastrointestinal bleeding, kidney failure, and liver failure. Always consult your veterinarian before giving your dog any human medication.
Recognizing Signs of Pain in Dogs
Understanding the indicators of pain in your dog is crucial for timely intervention. Various pain scales, such as the canine acute pain scale, can assist in assessing your pet’s pain level.
Common signs of pain in dogs include:
- Restlessness or being easily distracted
- Visible signs of discomfort such as pacing, panting, hiding, or an arched back
- Vocalizations like whimpering, crying, groaning, or howling
- Facial expressions such as droopy ears or a worried look (shifty eyes, arched eyebrows)
- Lack of response when called
- Reluctance to move all or part of their body
- Reduced interaction with people
- Aggressive behaviors such as growling, flinching, pulling away, crying, biting, or whimpering when touched
Comforting a Dog Experiencing Pain
Effective pain management often involves a collaborative approach between the owner and veterinarian, including home modifications to enhance comfort.
Weight Management
Maintaining a healthy weight for your pet reduces strain on their joints and lowers the risk of developing concurrent diseases like diabetes or heart disease. Work with your veterinarian to adjust your pet’s diet and implement gentle exercise routines.
Encourage Movement
Regular, low-impact exercises such as daily walks or swim therapy keep muscles and joints healthy and mobile. These activities also provide mental stimulation and can release natural endorphins, helping to manage pain.
Home Modifications
Making your home more accessible can significantly improve your dog’s comfort. Consider using carpet runners for better traction, dog boots, or socks with grips. Assess and modify areas that may be difficult for your dog to navigate, such as stairs or pet doors, by using pet ramps or dog gates. Elevated food and water bowls may also be beneficial for dogs experiencing neck or joint pain when bending to eat or drink.
Alternative Therapies
Complementary therapies can be a valuable addition to your dog’s pain management plan. Discuss these options with your veterinarian:
- Physical therapeutic exercises
- Underwater treadmill rehabilitation
- Massage therapy
- Passive range of motion exercises
- Neuromuscular stimulation
- Therapeutic ultrasound
- Acupuncture
These natural approaches can enhance pain control, particularly for pets that don’t tolerate medications well or require supplementary care. It is recommended to use these therapies in conjunction with conventional medical treatments for optimal results. If your dog is in pain, seek prompt veterinary examination.
Always administer all medications and supplements exactly as prescribed by your veterinarian.
Pain Meds for Dogs FAQs
What pain relievers are safe for dogs?
Safe and effective pain medications for dogs include veterinary-approved NSAIDs (like Galliprant and carprofen), opioids, and other specialized drugs. Certain dog supplements can also contribute to pain management. Your veterinarian is the best resource for determining the safest options for your dog’s specific needs.
Can I give a dog pain meds without a vet?
Never administer pain medication to your dog without consulting your veterinarian first. Many human pain relievers are toxic to dogs, and your vet can recommend a safe, appropriate dosage for your pet’s condition.
Can I give my dog aspirin or Tylenol?
Aspirin and Tylenol, like other human pain medications, should not be given to dogs unless specifically directed by a veterinarian. These medications can cause severe side effects in dogs, including internal bleeding. Veterinarian-approved pain medications designed specifically for dogs are safer and more effective.
References
- US Food and Drug Administration. “Galliprant — A Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drug (NSAID) for Dogs with Osteoarthritis.” September 2019.
- Wunsch L, Schmidt B, Krugner-Higby L, Smith L. “A comparison of the effects of hydromorphone HCl and a novel extended-release hydromorphone on arterial blood gas values in conscious healthy dogs.” Research in Veterinary Science. 2010;88(1): 154-158.
Written by:
Amanda Simonson, DVM
Veterinarian
