What can you give a dog for pain?

Pain can trouble our four-legged companions too. Are you wondering what you can give a dog for pain? We bring you a list of essential information on how to recognize pain in dogs, what can be done to help, and which natural remedies are suitable for treating pain in dogs.

How can I tell iIf my dog is in pain?

Every responsible dog owner should be able to recognize when their dog is in pain. While some types of pain may not be immediately obvious, if you are unsure or even slightly suspect that your dog is in pain, it’s essential to visit a veterinarian and address the issue. Pain is very unpleasant and can significantly affect your dog’s quality of life.

There are several signs that may indicate your dog is experiencing pain. It is crucial to observe changes in your dog’s behavior, activity level, and overall health.

How to recognize that your dog is in pain

1. Changes in bBehavior:

   • Your dog may become irritable, seek solitude, or display moodiness.
   • They may become less friendly or lose interest in activities they usually enjoy.

2. Changes i eating habits:

   • Your dog might lose their appetite, refuse food, or eat less than usual.
   • Signs such as sudden weight changes or lack of appetite could indicate pain, especially in older dogs, where it might be related to dental pain.

3. Limited mobility:

   • Difficulty walking, getting up, jumping, or avoiding certain movements may be evident.
   • Your dog may appear uncoordinated or have reduced mobility. In many cases, this is linked to arthritis in dogs.

4. Changes in grooming:

   • Dogs often lick the affected (painful) area excessively.

5. Restlessness or sleep issues:

   • Your dog might struggle to fall asleep or wake up multiple times during the night.
   • Signs of discomfort or restlessness while lying down are also common.

If you notice any of these symptoms or suspect that your dog is in pain, it is best to consult a veterinarian. The veterinarian will perform the necessary examinations and choose the appropriate treatment.

How do I recognize acute abdominal pain in a dog?

A very concerning condition is gastric torsion, where the dog’s stomach twists. Gastric torsion can be fatal for a dog if medical help is not sought in time, so do not underestimate any abdominal pain in your dog.

Abdominal pain manifests as sensitivity to touch, a hunched posture, or refusal to eat.

What to give a dog for pain?

Medications prescribed by a veterinarian

A veterinarian may prescribe the following for a dog in pain:

• Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs): These medications reduce and alleviate pain. The most commonly used NSAIDs for dogs include carprofen, meloxicam, and deracoxib. It is important to follow the prescribed treatment and only use medications prescribed by a veterinarian.
• Opioids: Sometimes, opioids are prescribed to alleviate severe pain in dogs. An example of an opioid medication is tramadol. Opioids have potentially stronger side effects and should be administered under veterinary supervision.
• Other medications: In some cases, a veterinarian may prescribe other drugs such as gabapentin, amantadine, or corticosteroids, depending on the cause of the pain and the individual needs of the dog.

How can you naturally relieve pain in a dog?

You can help alleviate your dog's pain without a prescription by using:

• CBD oil for dogs: This veterinary product is freely available and has been shown to have pain-relieving effects. The concentration and dosage of CBD oil depend on your dog's weight and the severity of the issue.
• Physiotherapy for dogs: This helps relieve tension and reduce pain, especially in dogs with mobility issues. However, it is essential to have your dog properly examined before physiotherapy so the therapist knows what they are dealing with. Always choose experienced physiotherapists.
• Topical products: You can apply products with mild analgesic effects, such as aloe vera or arnica, to your dog. However, topical application can be challenging due to the fur, which makes them harder to apply and absorb.
• Other natural supplements to reduce pain: Glucosamine, chondroitin, omega-3, and boswellia.

What should you not give a dog for pain?

Never give human pain medications, such as ibuprofen, to your dog. These are toxic to dogs and can cause severe health problems, potentially endangering your dog's life. Dogs are more sensitive to these medications than humans and may experience adverse effects such as gastrointestinal ulcers, stomach bleeding, kidney damage, liver disorders, and even organ failure.

How does CBD oil work for pain in dogs?

CBD interacts with the dog's body through the endocannabinoid system (ECS). The ECS plays a role in regulating various physiological functions, including pain, inflammation, and immune responses. CBD binds to ECS receptors and may have modulatory effects on these processes.

Studies have shown that CBD has potential anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects due to its interaction with the ECS. This means it could help reduce inflammation and relieve pain.

If your dog is in pain

Whether it’s determining the cause or identifying the nature of the condition, the best solution is to consult a veterinarian. They will perform the necessary examinations and determine the ideal treatment for your dog. You can complement the treatment process with suitable natural remedies.