Pain Relief Medication for Dogs

Today, there are several different types of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs that can help ease the pain and suffering of dogs that develop arthritis.  Commonly referred to as NSAIDs, these drugs can greatly enhance an arthritic dog’s ability to move about freely.  In turn, the animal is freed from the emotional frustrations that often goes hand in hand with the pain of creaking joints and help it to enjoy a standard of life that is much more pleasant.

These same drugs can also be used successfully to help a pet deal with pain that occurs after some sort of surgical procedure. By using the NSAID precisely according to your vet’s instructions, recovery will be much more pleasant for your dog. Often, the drug can be tapered off as the dog continues to heal, thus eliminating the chance for any type of addiction or unpleasant withdrawal symptoms.

Some of the NSAIDs approved for use in the United States include etodolac, melozicam, deracoxib, and firocoxib.  The choice of drug will often depend on the exact symptoms manifested by the dog, as well as the pet’s age and general health.

As helpful as NSAID drugs are for dogs, there is also some degree of risk involved with their usage.  Side effects can be mild and temporary with many pets.  If this is the case, your dog can be given the drugs for extended periods of time under the close care and direction of your vet.  However, some dogs will experience severe side effects that are far worse than the original joint pain.

Vets and owners of dogs taking NSAIDs should carefully lookout for whether the drug is causing the animal to experience any type of emotional discomfort.  Often, this will manifest in the development of rapid mood swings, indicating the presence of some form of depression.  In like manner, if the pet begins to experience a general sense of apathy and fails to respond favorably to food, it may be time to adjust the dosage or look towards another form of treatment.

It is important for any dog currently being treated with NSAIDs to be tested regularly for any type of kidney or liver problems.  Your veterinarian will take blood and other fluid samples to make sure the drugs are not creating additional health issues for your pet. Dog owners should particularly watch for the development of diarrhea or any sudden changes in bowel movements, as this often indicates that the medication is causing some type of internal damage.

For quick relief from temporary circumstances that cause your dog mental agitation, benzodiazepines is often the drug of choice.  Benzodiazepines can help your dog cope with sudden noises or the appearance of strangers that can fill an anxiety ridden dog with fear.  As your dog begins to experience fewer anxiety induced episodes, you gradually reduce the administered dosage and eventually cease using the drug altogether.

If your dog suffers from some perpetual mental anguish, other forms of medications can be called into use.  Tricyclic antidepressants can be very helpful for dogs that experience bouts of severe anxiety when their owners leave the home.  Also, dogs that develop nervous habits or compulsive behaviors may benefit from the use of one of the several selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors currently formulated for pets.  In situations where the dog seems to have lost some degree of mental acuity, monoamine oxidase inhibitors may help to restore at least a portion of the animal’s alertness, making life a little more enjoyable for both pet and owner.

With numerous drugs available to address physical and emotional discomforts of your pet, there is little reason your dog to be in any type of pain.  If administered to your veterinarian exact specifications, doggie pain medication will bring lasting relief and allow your pooch years of health and happiness.

About the Author

Leslie Silver is a freelance writer who writes about pet care, often discussing specific products such as dog medication.

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