Here Are the Best Pain Management Options for Your Dog
When it comes to our most beloved pets, we do not want them to feel any sort of suffering at all. As much as possible, we want to make life easy and enjoyable for them. So when we feel like something is wrong or hurting them, we want to make sure that they are relieved of this pain immediately.
So how exactly do we go about pain management in a way that is safe for our pets? Keep reading below to learn more about the options you have.
How to Know If Pet Is in Pain
The first thing that you will need to do is identify whether your pet is in pain or not. So what are the signs of a hurting pet?
- Acting Strange
While many of us find strange behaviors in pets hilarious, this behavior is often there for a reason. While some reasons are nothing to worry about, it is still best to find out the cause. So if your pet is acting lethargic or a little strange, then try to look out for other signs immediately.
- Random Yelping
We often hear a pet squeal if they are surprised or in pain. If you hear your pet yelp without any direct cause or nothing visible causing it, then this is a good sign to take them to your local vet. They may be experiencing an issue with their bones, joints, or muscles that you may not know about.
- Limping
Is your dog walking funny? Then they most likely have an injury. Once you see your dog walking oddly or with a limp, even if it is not continuous, then try to get them checked. The vet should be able to tell what the issue is.
Over-The-Counter (OTC) Medications for Dogs
Sometimes, fur parents do not have immediate access to a vet or do not have the resources to get their pet checked immediately. This is not something to be ashamed of, as things like these can happen to any of us. In these situations, you may want to consider OTC medications for dogs.
Before going ahead and buying OTC medication for your dog, make sure that this is your last resort. Do not do this if you can afford to get a checkup at the veterinarian, as that is more ideal. Aside from the information provided in this article, make sure to do your own research as well. One mistake when it comes to OTC medicine, and you are putting your dog at high risk of long-lasting physical damage as well as possible death.
So what OTC medication is safe to give? Check out our list below.
- Tylenol (under strict supervision of vet)
- Aspirin (under strict supervision of vet)
- Benadryl
- Most antihistamines (make sure that they do not contain decongestants)
- Pepto Bismal
While it is encouraged that you always check with your veterinarian first before giving any of these medications to your dog, this is especially important for Tylenol and Aspirin. This is because these two medications have side effects like gastrointestinal damage, kidney and liver failure, bleeding disorders, and more.
Aside from that, there are also certain OTC medications that you should not give to your dog. These are listed below:
- Ibuprofen
- Xanax
- Decongestants
- Advil
- Aleve (can be given under the supervision of a veterinarian and if your dog cannot tolerate other NSAIDs)
No matter how much pain your dog is in, never give them any of these OTC medications. It could seriously harm your dogs and their organs.
Alternative Options for Pain Management in Dogs
If you aren’t a fan of getting medication for your dog, then you may want a natural and alternative option to help relieve your dog of any pain. Luckily, you have two choices: CBD oil and Omega-3 fatty acids.
CBD Oil
CBD Oil has long been used as an alternative treatment in dogs. Several studies have shown that CBD oil has a lot of beneficial healing properties in dogs, such as:
- Anti-inflammatory
- Reduction of seizures
- Lessen anxiety
- Strengthen immune system
- Boost nervous system support
Studies have especially focused on the effects of CBD oil in arthritis in dogs and how it helped relieve them of any pain from the diseases. Most of these studies have also shown that the quality of life in dogs has greatly improved after taking CBD oil.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Another option for alternative treatment in dogs is Omega-3 fatty acids. Just like with CBD oil, there are many studies that show that Omega-3 fatty acids are beneficial for dogs, especially those suffering from arthritis.
Aside from helping with arthritis, there are also many other benefits to giving Omega-3 fatty acids to dogs. These benefits are:
Helps with the brain and eye development
Improves heart and kidney health
Reduces anxiety and depression
Boosts their immune system
The benefits show that omega-3 fatty acids can help dogs in many aspects. With these benefits, your dog’s life will be greatly improved. Not only will they be relieved from pain but they will also be reaping many other benefits.
Talking to Your Vet about Pain Relievers for Your Dogs
While there are many things that you can do for your dog to manage their pain, it would be best to talk to your veterinarian first. They are trained to give you the best possible treatment for your dog and will know exactly what is best for them.
They will also be able to give you some recommendations for any medications that you can use for your dog for their pain, like the medications mentioned above. The more you know about pain relievers for dogs, and the more that you learn about it, the easier it will be for you to decide what to do with them.
Just be sure to make the vet aware of what kind of symptoms your dog has shown. It is also important for you to let your vet know about your dog's medical history, if any.
Conclusion
Pain management is no longer something that pet owners should be afraid of. There are several ways to go about this as well as many medications that can help your dog. Whether you choose to go to the vet or give your dog some medication like mentioned above, there is no way that your dog will have to live in pain.
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