Acute pain, which is typically sharp and occurs suddenly due to injury or surgery, can be effectively managed with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).
Thanks to advances in veterinary care and the availability of healthier foods, dogs are living longer than ever. With increasing longevity, however, comes a greater chance that your senior dog may experience pain during their lifetime.
Fortunately, pain medications for dogs, like Rimadyl (aka Carprofen), are better than ever before and can improve your pet’s quality of life, even when ailments are having an effect on their health. Causes of pain can vary from chronic conditions to short-term recoveries, and there are different medications to suit different ailments.
TYPES OF PAIN Medications FOR DOGS
All types of pain meds, for humans and dogs (and cats and horses and so on), are called analgesics. There are several classifications of analgesics that are used for pets.
NSAIDs | Including Metacam, Piroxicam, Rimadyl, Novox, Deramaxx , Etodolac and Previcox
Pain medications for dogs are primarily comprised of NSAIDs. NSAID stands for “non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug.” These medications work by blocking the body’s production of certain enzymes that cause tissue swelling at the point of injury.
Modern NSAIDs for dogs have far less risk of complication than the canine NSAIDs of yore. Thanks to NSAIDs, it’s easier than ever to keep your dog’s pain in check without damaging side effects. The key is working with your vet to find the right medication and right dosage for your individual dog. For dogs on long-term NSAIDs, regular blood tests are essential to monitor liver and kidney function and prevent potential side effects.
Opiates | Including Buprenorphine, Morphine, Paregoric, and Codeine
Opiates work by blocking the dog’s ability to recognize the pain they’re in. Opiates are narcotic and are by far the strongest pain medication for dogs. They’re currently used only in severe cases on a short-term basis.
Most veterinarians have stopped prescribing opiates in favor of NSAIDs. Narcotics, even the veterinary kind, are regulated in the U.S. by the DEA. As such, many veterinarians opt not to deal with substances that are under such close scrutiny. Dogs also develop a tolerance to opiates, and doses must be increased, which can lead to more intense side effects.
Steroids | Including Prednisone, Dexamethasone, Corticosteroids, and more
Steroids are used to control inflammation, which can cause severe pain. These days, most veterinarians opt for non-steroidal anti-inflammatories (NSAIDs), as steroid use can cause devastating side effects, including Cushing’s disease
Nutraceuticals | Including Omega-3 Fatty acids, “MSM”, and Glucosamine
These supplements are often used in conjunction with another pain medication to manage chronic pain, especially when it’s associated with arthritis. These supplements are particularly beneficial for reducing arthritic pain and promoting joint health.
Antidepressants | Including Tofranil and Elavil
Some antidepressants are also effective pain medications for dogs. The same is true in humans!
Alternative Pain Management | Holistic, Environmental, Herbal
Many pet owners wish to avoid pain medication for dogs for a whole host of reasons. There aren’t a lot of “alternative” pain medications on the market, but there are non-medication actions you can take that may help to alleviate your pet’s discomfort. Massage can help arthritic joints. Keeping rambunctious kids out of the room or turning the music down can help eliminate stress while your dog is recovering from an injury or from surgery, which will help them heal faster. Sometimes, a new bed can ease pain, as can slipping a heating pad under a towel in the dog’s bed. Discuss options with your veterinarian.
There are also alternative treatment options including veterinary acupuncture and traditional Chinese veterinary medicine (TCVM). Many pet owners have seen positive results when these practices are applied to manage or reduce pain, and to heal the source of the pain. Heat therapy and shock wave therapy are non-invasive treatments that can alleviate joint pain by promoting blood circulation and encouraging healing.
COMMON SIDE EFFECTS WHEN MANAGING YOUR DOG'S PAIN
Canine NSAID Side Effects
NSAIDs can be effective, but they do come with their fair share of side effects. Many of the side effects are minor and manageable, but serious side effects can occur as well. Contact your vet if side effects present.
Common but Manageable Side Effects of NSAIDs in Dogs
Serious but Less Common Side Effects of NSAIDs in Dogs
- Ulcers
- Gastrointestinal bleeding or perforations
- Kidney damage and liver problems
- NSAIDs can also cause sudden-onset kidney failure, particularly in dogs with pre-existing kidney disease or conditions that reduce blood flow to the kidneys.
Canine Opiate Side Effects
Canine Steroid Side Effects
A dog showing signs of any side effect, even a minor one, should see a vet right away. Your vet can then decide whether your dog should be taken off the medication or if the dosage should be reduced.
VETERINARY CONSULTATION IS A MUST
A vet should always decide whether to administer pain medication to dogs. Never take the matter into your own hands. Even if you and your dog have been down this road before, it is possible that your dog’s condition has changed. A treatment that once worked may no longer be the best option. Your veterinarian can do a variety of tests that you can’t do at home, which will determine which meds are best. Never give your dog human pain medications unless directed by a veterinarian, as they can cause severe side effects such as kidney and liver failure.
Long-term use of NSAIDs carries a higher risk of problems than short-term use. So with a chronic condition like arthritis, be sure to see your vet often. Your veterinarian can help manage pain effectively by prescribing the right medications and dosages tailored to your dog's specific needs.
Working closely with your vet ensures that you can control pain safely and effectively, making necessary adjustments to the treatment plan as needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
What can I give my dog for immediate pain relief?
The most available painkillers for dogs are nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), including carprofen (Rimadyl or Novox), deracoxib (Deramaxx), firocoxib (Previcox), meloxicam (Metacam), and grapipant (Galliprant). NSAIDs are effective in controlling pain and inflammation in dogs with conditions such as osteoarthritis and post-surgery recovery.
What is the most effective painkiller for dogs?
NSAIDs are the first line of defense. See #1 for effective painkillers, including Piroxicam, Etodolac, Robenacoxib (e.g. Onsior), and mavacoxib (e.g. Trocoxil). Vet-prescribed NSAIDs can help relieve pain by decreasing inflammation and providing effective pain relief.
Is there an over-the-counter painkiller I can give to my dog?
Over-the-counter (OTC) painkillers for dogs include Deramaxx, Previcox, Novox, Rimadyl, and Metacam. NSAIDs are commonly used to manage pain in dogs with conditions such as osteoarthritis, post-surgery pain, and acute injuries.
What kind of painkiller can you give a dog?
You want to address your dog’s pain and ensure its quality of life. See the above NSAIDs as fever reducers and pain relievers. NSAIDs are commonly used to manage pain in dogs with conditions such as osteoarthritis, post-surgery pain, and acute injuries.
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This information is for informational purposes only and is not meant as a substitute for the professional advice of, or diagnosis or treatment by, your veterinarian with respect to your pet. It has, however, been verified by a licensed veterinarian for accuracy.
