Dogs also experience joint pains and inflammation at an older age, so you must provide them with the relief they deserve from these issues. As your dog ages, it will experience joint pains and inflammation, leading to arthritis. Different types of arthritis are found in dogs, but the most common type is Osteoarthritis (OA). Nearly 25% of the dog population is affected by osteoarthritis.
The symptoms of osteoarthritis in dogs are activity impairment and pain. The best way to manage these symptoms is using a pain killer for dogs. These products relieve joint pains and inflammation, thereby improving the quality of life of your pet.
These painkillers will also treat hip dysplasia and other joint problems. Painkillers for dogs are not for curing the problem but rather to relieve the dog’s discomfort and help bay vets runaway bay. You must talk with your veterinarian if you have been giving your dog regular doses of an NSAID (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug). These drugs may cause complications if used too much or without proper guidance from your vet.
Factors to consider before purchasing pain killers for dogs
- Check with your vet before purchasing painkillers for dogs. A wide range of medications is available for dogs, which can be administered in different ways. Your vet will recommend the most suitable medication and how and when to administer it.
- Ensure that you purchase painkillers that are safe for your dog and recommended by their vet.
- Read the label of any medication carefully before buying it, as some products contain ingredients that could be toxic if ingested by your pet.
- You should also ensure no allergies or side effects are associated with taking this medicine by checking out reviews online or asking your veterinarian about them.
Best Vet-Recommended Pain Killers for Dogs
1. Previcox
Previcox is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that works to relieve pain and inflammation in dogs. Vets commonly recommend Previcox for dogs. It is effective for dogs undergoing orthopedic, soft tissue, and dental surgery. It can be fed either on an empty stomach or with food. It can be safely given to dogs of all ages, including puppies and seniors.
However, it is also important to note that Previcox can sometimes cause side effects in dogs, like vomiting and diarrhea, so you should monitor your dog carefully for signs of adverse reactions.
The drug is available in tablets and capsules form. The recommended dosage for dogs is 1-2 mg/kg, which means that if your dog weighs 10 kg, you should give 20-40 mg daily. It should not be given to pregnant or lactating females as it can cause them to abort their litter or kill their young.
2. Rimadyl
Rimadyl is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) prescribed to dogs for pain, inflammation, and fever relief. It comes in both pill form and chewable tablets, which are easier for dogs to digest than pills. The active ingredient in Rimadyl is Carprofen, similar to ibuprofen. It reduces swelling and pain by reducing the production of prostaglandins.
The recommended dosage of Rimadyl for dogs is 2 mg/lb once daily or 1 mg/lb twice daily. If the drug is injected subcutaneously, the dosage remains the same.
3. Deramaxx
Deramaxx is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) used to treat pain and inflammation in dogs. It is primarily used for arthritis, hip dysplasia, or other joint problems in dogs. Deramaxx is available by prescription only, and you should never give your dog anything that isn’t prescribed by a vet or approved by your veterinarian.
4. Aspirin
Aspirin is a pain reliever used to treat pain, fever, and inflammation. It is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). Aspirin is used to treat arthritis, pain, fever, and inflammation. However, it should not be given if the dog has kidney, liver, or stomach disorders.
5. Meloxicam
Meloxicam is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) used to treat inflammation and pain in dogs. It works by blocking the production of chemicals that cause much of the swelling, redness, and pain associated with arthritis. Meloxicam is available as a chewable tablet, capsule, or injection.
Meloxicam can be used alone or in combination with other medications such as tramadol or corticosteroids. The typical dose for meloxicam ranges from 0.2 mg/lb to 1 mg/lb three times daily, based on your dog’s weight.
You can only notice the effects of the medicine after 7-8 hours of administering the medicine. However, noticing positive pain relief symptoms typically takes 3-5 days. Never discontinue meloxicam without consulting your vet, as it can again cause pain and discomfort to your pet.
6. Carprofen
Carprofen is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that is used to relieve pain. It also treats inflammation associated with osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and certain types of soft tissue injury. This medication may also reduce fever. However, carprofen should not be given to dogs with bleeding disorders or those that are allergic to aspirin or other NSAIDs because it can cause serious side effects such as stomach ulcers and kidney damage.
7. Dasuquin Soft Chew
Dasuquin Soft Chew is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that is used to treat dogs with osteoarthritis and other joint disorders. It’s also been approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) as a supplement for dogs with hip dysplasia. Dasuquin contains glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate, which help enhance your dog’s overall health by increasing mobility and reducing inflammation in joints.
Though it’s not technically a painkiller in its own right, Dasuquin is often used with other medications to reduce pain associated with arthritis or other joint issues. Thus, for example, if your vet prescribes Rimadyl or Metacam for your furry friend, they may recommend giving them this supplement simultaneously to maximize results.
Painkillers are not recommended for dogs under eight weeks of age because their bodies cannot properly process the chemicals in the medications.
Conclusion
Use the products mentioned above to give your dog the relief it deserves from the joint pains and inflammation they experience at an older age. Painkillers for dogs are an important topic to be aware of and discuss with your vet. It can be a difficult decision to make when trying to decide if your dog needs this kind of medication or not. However, if they are showing signs of discomfort and pain, you should seek help from a professional before making that decision.
