There are many different types of pain medication for dogs. Your veterinarian is the correct person to talk to about what is the correct medicine/s for your dog.

Over the counter (OTC) medications and natural medicines are readily available and they are a very useful pain medication for dogs.

Herbal and homeopathic medicines as well as aspirin (correct dosage), have all been shown to be effective.

Before treating your dog always consult with the veterinarian as to what is the correct dosage and frequency. Modern drugs and medications are extremely effective, and are always subjected to rigorous clinical trials before appearing on the market for sale.

Pain Medications

Analgesics are the class of drugs which is used for the relief of pain, and they come in various forms. Unless you have a prescription, codeine and morphine and other powerful narcotics are not available. Once you have visited the Vet with your dog and a diagnosis has been given, your vet may prescribe pain medication for your dog.

Aspirin is quite an effective over the counter drug, and if administered correctly at home, can be a useful solution in the short term. Use a non-coated aspirin as this will be absorbed better, and it is best to mix it with the dog’s food. Aspirin should only be used for 2 or 3 days because it can possibly cause stomach problems or ulcers.

Aspirin may give temporary relief from localized swelling, but the swelling might be a symptom of a much bigger, underlying problem. Whilst aspirin may be an effective over the counter pain medication for dogs, always consult a veterinarian.

In the treatment of arthritis where inflammation and swelling is present, there are other, safer drugs available. These are far less likely to cause side-effects such as stomach ulcers or gastro-intestinal problems. Remember your vet is a professionally trained expert and will respond to any concerns or questions you have in relation to pain medication for dogs.

Do not administer Ibuprofen to your dog as this drug is designed only for human consumption and could be fatal to your dog. Tylenol should also be avoided for the same reasons. All drugs have the potential to cause side-effects and aspirin is no exception. Common side-effects are vomiting, diarrhoea, appetite loss and tiredness.

Serious side-effects are liver and or kidney damage, stomach ulceration and gastro-intestinal bleeding. Dogs with higher weights need more aspirin per kilogram. Pain medication for dogs is best managed by your Vet.

Other Pain Medication For Dogs

Just as your doctor takes the Hippocratic Oath to help alleviate suffering and preserve life. A veterinarian is similarly disposed for animals. He or she will always be able to offer your pet the very best and latest pain medications for dogs.

Below is a brief list and description of the types of drugs your veterinarian may prescribe.

• Amantadine- This drug is now used for pain medication, although it was first used to treat influenza as an anti-viral medicine.

• Aspirin- Used as an anti-inflammatory for short periods of time (2 or 3 days). It is a Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drug (NSAID).

• Buprenorphine- If your dog is in mild to moderate pain the vet may prescribe this drug.

• Butorphanol Tartrate- This is a good pain reliever. However, if used with sedating drugs the sedation will be increased.

• Carprophen- Excellent in the use of pain medication for dogs. Mainly used as an anti-inflammatory for arthritic dogs and for post- surgery pain relief.

• Deracoxib- This is used in the same manner as Carprophen.

• Dexamethasone- This drug belongs to the class of hormones known as gluco-corticoids, they break down stored sugars, fats and proteins, so the dog can use these in times of stress and hasten the recovery time.

• Etodolac- This is a Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drug (NSAID) used in pain relief for arthritis.

• Meloxicam- Although used to treat many painful conditions, its main use is to control arthritic pain.

• Methocarbamol- This drug is a muscle relaxant. It works on the nerves that control the muscles.

• Tramadol- An effective drug in pain medication for dogs.

Summary

Although everyone wants to help their dog when they see it in pain, sometimes trying to treat the dog in a home situation may not be the best option. Only a licensed veterinarian is in the best position to accurately diagnose and treat your dog.

You would not try and treat your child at home if it was in pain, so pain medication for dogs is best left to the professionals.