Dog Pain Management
Much like seeing your children in pain, it’s difficult to see your dog struggling, and sometimes it’s challenging to even notice since they don’t vocalize it. If your dog is acting out of character and you suspect they might be in pain, you’ve probably already turned to the internet for answers. At Bridge Veterinary Hospital, we work extremely hard to get you the accurate information you need. Unfortunately, many well-meaning pet parents or bloggers share material that isn’t factually accurate or what your veterinarian would want you to know or do. That’s why we’ve taken the most frequently asked questions about dog pain management and answered them thoroughly and accurately, as a dog in pain is not something you want to overlook.
If you’re seeking a highly trained veterinarian in Point Pleasant, NJ, we’d love to help with your dog’s pain management. First and foremost, we need to get to the root cause of the pain, determine whether it’s acute or chronic pain, and then determine a plan of action, so please call us right away at (567) 361-3407.
What is the Difference Between Acute and Chronic Pain in Dogs?
The first step to understanding and managing your dog’s pain is to understand the difference between acute and chronic pain. Acute pain is a type of pain that has just come on or has only been present for a short amount of time. It is typically associated with an illness, injury, or surgery, and it serves a protective purpose by signaling to the brain that an area should be protected to allow for healing. Acute pain can cause behavior changes. in dogs, such as not wanting to be touched, hiding, or keeping weight off an injured paw. If acute pain is not addressed, or the cause of the pain is untreated, it can transition to chronic pain.
Chronic pain in dogs is pain that is ongoing and does not serve a protective purpose. Chronic pain can cause severe stress to your dog and greatly decrease their quality of life. Examples of conditions that cause chronic pain in dogs include diseases that cannot be cured, like arthritis, which constantly sends painful signals to the brain. If chronic pain is not recognized and properly managed, it can progress and fire painful signals to the brain, even in different parts of the body, when no painful stimulus is present.
Recognizing and understanding these two types of pains are crucial for pet owners as it allows them to seek timely and appropriate treatments for their pets. Early recognition and rapid effective treatment of acute pain are important in the prevention of chronic pain syndromes. If acute pain is not recognized early enough, this can lead to chronic pain that could have been prevented by treating it earlier.
How Quickly Should I Bring in My Dog if I Suspect They Are in Pain?
If you suspect your dog is in pain, it’s important to bring in your dog as soon as possible. Any signs of pain should not be disregarded, even if they are subtle. Chronic pain can result in severe health issues if not addressed promptly. It’s always better to err on the side of caution when it comes to your pet’s health. If you’re unsure whether or not your dog needs to be seen by a veterinarian, call the clinic and describe the symptoms. They will advise whether you need to bring your dog in for a check-up or not.
What Are Some Signs and Symptoms of Pain in Your Dog?
There are numerous signs of pain in your dog, with some being easily overlooked.
Signs of pain you might notice include:
- Limping – A dog will limp or stop using a limb due to a broken nail, broken bone, strain, sprain, or ACL tear.
- Hiding – A dog in pain might hide in corners or under beds to avoid being social.
- Not eating or drinking – Depending on the location of the pain, the dog might stop eating.
- Swelling – This would most likely be at the pain site.
- Licking or chewing a specific spot – A dog will lick or chew a cut to make it feel better.
It’s important to note that just because your dog isn't vocalizing pain by whining doesn't mean they're not in pain. Much like humans, if we sprain our ankle, others can tell we’re in pain because they’ll notice we’re limping along. The same goes for dogs. You know your dog best, so pain might be the reason if he’s acting out of the ordinary. The American Animal Hospital Association offers a great cheat sheet to help determine if your dog is in pain.
Are Human Pain Pills Like Tylenol or Advil Okay to Give My Dog?
No, we do not recommend giving your dog any medication intended for humans (or even other pets). A single dose of certain human medications, such as Advil and Tylenol, can cause GI issues, including stomach ulcers, bleeding, and vomiting. These drugs can also damage the kidneys and/or liver.
If your dog is in pain, talk to us. We are here to prescribe suitable medications at safe dosages and will work with you to find effective solutions for your dog.
What Are the Medications Used for Dog Pain Management?
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are commonly used to reduce swelling, stiffness, and joint pain in dogs. They are particularly effective in managing pain associated with arthritis or post-surgery. Some NSAIDs designed specifically for dogs include Carprofen, Deracoxib, Firocoxib, Meloxicam, and Grapiprant. These medications come under many different brand names and types (chewable tablet, capsule, liquid, etc.). While your dog is taking any NSAID, it's important to monitor their kidney and liver values every few months and notify your veterinarian if your pet develops any digestive issues.
Corticosteroids such as prednisone, prednisolone, methylprednisolone, and dexamethasone are potent anti-inflammatory medications often used for pain management in pets. Other medications, such as gabapentin or tramadol, may be prescribed depending on the nature and extent of the pain. Gabapentin treats nerve damage that causes chronic pain, while tramadol is a mild opioid medication given to aging dogs with constant discomfort. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration details the facts about pain relievers for pets.
Can a Veterinarian Help Me Manage My Dog’s Chronic Pain?
Absolutely! A veterinarian will be able to diagnose the cause of your dog’s pain and create a personalized pain management plan tailored to your dog’s needs. The treatment plan may involve lifestyle changes, such as dietary modifications and exercises to help manage chronic pain. In addition, they may also prescribe medications to help reduce inflammation or provide relief from chronic conditions like arthritis. The veterinarian can also periodically monitor your dog’s condition and adjust the treatment plan accordingly.
Where Is the Best Place for Me to Get Pain Medication for My Dog?
Your veterinary clinic is always the best place to get pain medication for your dog. As veterinarians, we have the knowledge and experience to prescribe safe and effective medications. And working with us means you’ll have someone to turn to if you have questions or if your dog experiences any reactions or adverse effects.
At Bridge Veterinary Hospital, your pet is our priority. If you have any questions, don't hesitate to call our team at (567) 361-3407, or you can email us at [email protected]. Our staff would love to talk with you!
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