Let’s face it; our dogs are family. When they’re in pain, we’re in pain. As dog owners, we want nothing more than to see our furry friends happy and healthy. So, when they fall ill or get injured, we’re naturally going to want to do everything in our power to make them feel better, but that’s why so many people ask “what can I give my dog for pain?”.
But what can we do? Fortunately, there are a few options available to us when it comes to easing our dog’s pain. But first, let’s take a look at the following signs of pain in your dog.
Signs of Pain
- Panting and heavy breathing. If your dog is normally a calm couch potato and you suddenly notice them panting a lot, take them to the vet. Rapid breathing could be a sign of pain or distress.
- Whining or whimpering. A small amount of whining when your dog wants to go outside or get a treat is normal behavior. But if your dog starts whimpering for no reason, it might be a sign that something hurts.
- Drooling and licking. Dogs lick their wounds to clean them and make them feel better. But if your dog is drooling more than usual or licking an area obsessively, it could be a sign that something is wrong. Excessive drooling can also be a sign of organ failure, so if you notice this behavior, take your pup to the vet right away.
- Eating less (or not at all). If you notice that your dog has lost their appetite or is eating less than usual, it could be a sign of pain. This is especially true if they’re also drinking less water. Loss of appetite can also signify other health problems like dental disease, so it’s essential to consult with your vet to figure out the cause.
- Sleeping more (or not at all). Just like with people, when dogs are in pain, they often sleep more than usual as a way to cope and heal. So if you notice your dog sleeping more than usual, it could be a sign that they’re not feeling well. Conversely, if your dog isn’t sleeping at all, that could also be a sign of pain since they’re not able to get comfortable enough to fall asleep.
- Hiding or isolating themselves from the family. If your normally social dog suddenly starts hiding away by themselves, it’s probably because they don’t feel well and just want to be left alone. This behavior is often seen in conjunction with other signs like excessive panting or drooling since they’re trying to hide these symptoms from you.
- Change in bathroom habits. While this one might not seem like such a big deal at first, changes in bathroom habits—like urinating more often or accidents inside—can actually be indicative of bigger problems like kidney disease or arthritis pain. If you notice any changes in how often or where your dog does their business, give your vet a call so they can investigate further.
Now that you know the signs, what can you give your pup for pain? Here are some common pain remedies:
Dog NSAIDS Prescribed by a Veterinarian
Here’s a quick overview of three popular choices.
Deramaxx
Deramaxx is a prescription nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that can be used to treat pain and inflammation in dogs due to osteoarthritis or soft tissue surgery.
Previcox
Previcox is also a prescription NSAID that can be used for pain and inflammation relief in dogs.
Metacam
Metacam is an injectable NSAID that can be used short-term (up to five days) for pain management following surgery in dogs.
CBD Oil or CBD Treats
CBD oil is a hot topic right now. Everyone seems to be talking about the potential benefits of CBD oil, from reducing anxiety to relieving pain. But what about our furry friends? Can CBD oil help dogs with pain? Let’s find out!
CBD oil and CBD treats are becoming increasingly popular for dogs, as many pet owners are looking for natural ways to help their furry friends. CBD, or cannabidiol, is a compound found in cannabis plants that have been shown to have numerous health benefits.
Benefits of CBD for Dogs
Studies have shown that CBD can help relieve pain, reduce anxiety, and improve the quality of life for dogs suffering from various conditions. While more research is needed to determine the full extent of CBD’s therapeutic potential, there is no doubt that it can be an effective treatment for many dogs.
CBD oil comes from the hemp plant and contains less than 0.3% THC, so it won’t get your dog high. CBD oil interacts with the endocannabinoid system, which regulates many bodily functions, including pain perception, appetite, and mood. So when CBD oil is administered, it can help to reduce pain and inflammation.
Reputation Matters
When choosing a CBD product for your dog, selecting a high-quality product from a reputable manufacturer is crucial. CBD oil is available in various forms, including treats, capsules, tinctures, and oils. The best way to administer CBD oil to your dog depends on their needs.
If you’re not sure how to start, talk to your veterinarian. They can help you figure out the best way to incorporate CBD oil into your dog’s routine.
What Can I Give My Dog for Pain? The Supplements
While there are certainly some pharmaceutical options out there, you may want to consider supplementation as a first step.
- Glucosamine and chondroitin are two of the most popular supplements for joint health in people and dogs alike. These compounds are found naturally in healthy cartilage and work to keep it strong and elastic. Unfortunately, as dogs age, they often experience a breakdown of cartilage in their joints, which can lead to pain and inflammation. By supplementing with glucosamine and chondroitin, you can help your dog’s body repair and maintain healthy joints.
- Omega-3 fatty acids are another popular supplement for both humans and animals. These essential nutrients have anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce pain and swelling in joints and muscles. They also support brain and heart health, making them a well-rounded addition to your dog’s diet. You can find omega-3s in fish oil supplements or by feeding your dog foods that are rich in these nutrients, such as cold-water fish like salmon or sardines.
- Turmeric is a spice that has gained popularity in recent years for its powerful anti-inflammatory effects. Curcumin, the active compound in turmeric, inhibits the production of inflammatory molecules in the body, which can help reduce pain and swelling. You can give your dog turmeric supplements or add it to their food. Just be sure to start with a small amount, as too much turmeric can cause gastrointestinal upset in some dogs.
Alternative Treatments for Dogs in Pain
The first instinct for many dog owners is to head straight to the vet for some pain medication. But did you know that there are alternative treatments that can help your dog with pain? Massage, aromatherapy, and acupuncture are all viable options that can provide your dog with relief without the use of medication. Keep reading to learn more about how these alternative treatments can help your furry friend feel better.
Massage
Most people think of massage as a way to relax. And while it’s true that massage can help reduce stress levels, it can also be used to relieve pain. Massage therapy increases circulation and flexibility while decreasing inflammation. It’s also a great way to bond with your dog! If you’re interested in giving massage a try, there are plenty of resources available online to get you started.
Aromatherapy
Aromatherapy involves the use of essential oils to promote relaxation and ease pain. Lavender oil is one of the most popular essential oils for dogs because it’s known to have calming properties. You can add a few drops of lavender oil to your dog’s shampoo, diffuser, or collar. Just make sure you avoid using essential oils around your dog’s eyes, nose, and mouth.
Acupuncture
Acupuncture is a treatment that has been used for centuries in traditional Chinese medicine. The goal of acupuncture is to restore balance within the body by stimulating specific points on the body with needles. Acupuncture has been shown to be effective in treating a variety of conditions in dogs, including pain relief. If you’re interested in exploring acupuncture for your dog, be sure to find a certified veterinary acupuncturist in your area.
Conclusion
There are a number of safe and effective options available to help ease your pup’s pain. Be sure to talk to your veterinarian about which one might be right for your dog based on their individual health needs. And never give your dog any medication intended for humans—even something as seemingly innocuous as ibuprofen—as it could be deadly.