Pain Relief for Dogs

Is your dog in pain? If so, you may be looking everywhere to help relieve it. Maybe even your own medicine cabinet.

Do not under any circumstances administer human pain relievers to your dog. They could be fatal — and while over-the-counter medications for dogs may be lacking at the local pharmacy, there’s plenty you can do to help your dog feel better, faster.

5 ways to help decrease your dog’s pain:

1. Rest and Ice
2. Supplements: Glucosamine and Chondroitin
3. CBD products
4. Acupuncture & Massage
5. Veterinary help

Rest and ice

If your dog is in pain from something like an injured leg, hurt back, or surgery, ample rest and relaxation are critical to their pain management and recovery. Do not let them continue to run around, play or even walk more than they need to. Decrease the length and speed of their walks, and when you do take them out to relieve themselves, make it a quick trip.

If you notice any swelling around the joints, applying ice for about 5 minutes twice a day should help decrease the inflammation.

Glucosamine and chondroitin

Glucosamine and chondroitin are two supplements that can help dogs with joint pain, that are easily found at your pet store and often in the form of a tasty treat. Both glucosamine and chondroitin take some time to build up in your dog’s system and stimulate the body’s muscle, joint and bone repair processes. So be patient, don’t expect to see results overnight, it may take a few weeks for effects to be noticeable. 

CBD products

Recent studies have shown that CBD does help decrease pain and inflammation associated with arthritis, and luckily, CBD products now come in easily-fed forms like oils, capsules and tasty treats. When looking for a CBD product, make sure that you find one specifically for pets that comes from a reputable source that shows product testing for contaminants and CBD content. 

While plenty of stories circulate the web regarding CBD’s miracle work, the jury’s still out on the science behind it, but emerging clinical evidence appears supportive. Good news is, it is pretty safe for your dog, and may be worth a try.

Give them a massage

If your dog is sore, a short, gentle massage can help decrease their pain and inflammation. Many dogs enjoy massages as much as humans, and it helps relieve any muscle tension or cramping. In fact, you may be able to seek out licensed vets in your area trained in acupuncture and massage, who can target what’s ailing your dog specifically.

Take them to your vet

If your dog is in extreme or chronic pain that won’t seem to cease, it’s best that you take them to see your vet. Your vet can examine your dog and help determine the cause of their pain and prescribe the appropriate pain medications. Some of the more common prescriptions include:

• Non-Steroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs) such as Carprofen
  
  
• Tramadol
  
  
• Gabapentin

Each with their own strengths and use cases. Be sure to follow your vet’s instructions for dosing closely, and if you notice any side-effects contact them right away.

One parting note to remember: Most human over-the-counter pain medication is toxic to your dog and should not be given to them. Do not under any circumstances look in your own medicine cabinet to help your dog in pain, and instead reach for supplements, lifestyle adjustments and advice from the vet.