Dogs feel pain for many reasons: dental issues, arthritis, infections, disease, and cancer. But since we can’t communicate with them easily, what do we do? By noticing subtle behavioral changes that indicate suffering, you can help diagnose your pet so that it can return to a normal, healthy life.
Signs a Dog Is in Pain
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Understanding the signs that your dog is in pain is the only way you will know when to seek help from their veterinarian. Recognizing these signs and acknowledging the symptoms will allow you to monitor your dog’s progress when they’re healing, taking medication, or experiencing new pain. Proper pain management is important so that you can provide your dog with the best life possible.
Signs your dog is in pain can include:
- Restlessness
- Constant distraction
- Visible discomfort, such as pacing, panting, or an arched back
- Chewing, licking, or biting a surgery site or infected area
- Worrying looks, shifty eyes, droopy ears
- Unresponsiveness
- Lethargy
- Limping or constant weight-shifting
- Growling and flinching in response to activity
- Crying, biting, or whimpering
Are Human Pain Meds Safe for Dogs?
Disclaimer: Never give your dog any medications, even over-the-counter medications, without first consulting their veterinarian.
What can you give a dog for pain relief at home? There are a few medications that are safe for both owners and dogs, such as specific heart medications, antibiotics, and thyroid medications. It’s important to note that even if a medication is deemed “safe” for dogs, the dosage is completely different between pets and humans. Plus, the form of the medication is often different for pets—while it might be find for a human to take a tablet or a capsule, those might be dangerous and harmful for your dog.
Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs, or NSAIDs, are processed much differently in dogs than they are in people. Pain meds for dogs are meant to be given in a specific way, in specific dosages. NSAIDs meant for people can affect your dogs by:
- Lasting longer
- Processing in the body differently
- Absorbing faster in the stomach and intestines
- Forcing higher blood levels
Humans and dogs have completely different metabolic rates. Some medications and dosages that are safe for people can be toxic or fatal to dogs.
Never give your dog these pain relievers:
- Acetaminophen (Tylenol™)
- Ibuprofen (Advil™ or Motrin™)
- Naproxen (Aleve®)
These medications can cause kidney failure, liver failure, and stomach bleeding—you should always seek veterinary services before giving your dog any kind of human medication.
Meds for Acute Pain in Dogs
Acute pain, or short-term pain, might happen as a result of an infection or injury after surgery. There are a few painkillers and anti-inflammatories for dogs your veterinarian might prescribe for temporary pain relief, but they will also note the potential side effects. While some side effects are more common than others, you should consult with your veterinarian if you have any concerns.
Carprofen, known by the brand names Carpox, Norocarp, Zinecarp, and Carprodyl, can have several side effects including:
- Ulcers
- Kidney problems
- Liver problems
- Decrease in appetite
- Behavioral changes
- Bowel movement or urinary problems
- Redness, scabbing, and other skin issues
Meloxicam, known by the brand names Loxicom, Metacam, Mobic, and OroCAM, can have several side effects including:
- Apathy or lethargy
- Ulcers
- Kidney failure
- Diarrhea
- Vomiting
- Decrease in appetite
Deracoxib, known by the brand names Deramaxx, Ostimax, and Doxidyl, can have several side effects including:
- Decrease in appetite
- Behavioral changes
- Drinking changes
- Increased aggression or depression
- Bowel movement or urinary problems
- Yellowing of skin, gums, or eyes
Firocoxib, known by the brand names Firox, and Previcox, can have several side effects including:
- Liver and kidney issues
- Decrease in appetite
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Increased aggression or depression
- Bowel or urination changes
- Sudden weight loss
- Yellowing of skin, gums, or eyes
- Redness, scabbing, or other skin reactions
Grapiprant, known by the brand name Galliprant, can have several side effects including:
- Diarrhea
- Vomiting
- Decrease in appetite
- Lethargy or apathy
- Mouth ulcers
- Anemia
Robenacoxib, known by the brand name Onsior, can have several side effects including:
- Diarrhea
- Vomiting
- Liver disease
- Skin changes
- Severe allergic reactions
- Lower blood pressure
- Difficulties walking
Meds for Chronic Pain in Dogs
Many dogs experience chronic or long-term pain due to health issues caused by arthritis, joint problems, or cancer. Some dogs suffer chronic pain as part of the aging process, and as their owner, you will feel a desire to do what you can to alleviate this pain.
If your veterinarian deems it necessary to give your dog painkillers over a longer period, they’ll prescribe a lower dose. They might also recommend more regular checkups and blood tests to monitor your dog’s health and quality of life.
Here are a few long-term painkillers your veterinarian might prescribe, including their side effects:
- Gabapentin, known by its brand names Gantin, Neurotonin, Gralise, and Aclonium, can have side effects such as reduced coordination, confusion, and drowsiness.
- Amitriptyline, known by its brand names Levate, and Elavil, can have side effects such as drowsiness, restlessness, and weight gain.
- Pregabalin, known by its brand name Lyrica, can have side effects such as drowsiness and lack of coordination.
- Amantadine, known by its brand names Symmetrel, Osmolex, and Gocovri, can have side effects including drowsiness, vomiting, diarrhea, restlessness, and seizures.
Managing Your Dog’s Pain
Veterinary guidance is the best way to manage your dog’s acute or chronic pain. It’s important to reach out to your trusted local veterinarian, such as the experts at Paoli Vetcare who have years of experience helping pets just like yours.
If your dog is experiencing pain, please contact us today at Paoli Vetcare and we will schedule an appointment right away!
