Ibuprofen for Arthritis in a Dog
Many owners assume medications that are safe for humans are also safe for dogs. Unfortunately, this is not the case and can lead to dogs being brought to an emergency veterinarian. While the owner likely did not intend to poison the dog, giving ibuprofen to a dog for arthritis should not be done. Dogs who accidentally or intentionally consume ibuprofen should be brought to an emergency veterinarian immediately.
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Symptoms of Canine Arthritis
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Symptoms of arthritis are relatively easy for an owner to recognize, especially if the dog is aging. Many dogs will have stiff joints, difficulty with sitting down or getting up and a general decrease in activity will occur, according to the Arthritis Foundation website. The affected dog may also sleep more or favor a limb when walking. Furthermore, the dog may be less apt to climbing stairs, running or they may be hesitant to jump.
Identification
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Ibuprofen is a generic name for medication that can go by multiple brand names including Motrin, Midol and Advil. It is a type of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug, also known as an NSAID, used to treat inflammation and pain in the patient. Unfortunately, the drug’s uses in humans often mislead owners into thinking that it will have the same effect for their canine companion.
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Symptoms of Canine Ibuprofen Toxicity
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The symptoms of ibuprofen toxicity in a dog are generally straightforward. Ibuprofen causes bleeding stomach ulcers in canines, so blood may be present in the vomit or it may be seen as dark, tarry stools that are passed by the dog, according to information provided by the Pet Place website veterinarians. The Pet Place website adds that, as the toxicity progresses, there will be a lack of appetite, abdominal pain and weakness. Many dogs will become lethargic and some will also suffer from dehydration.
Treatment for Ibuprofen Toxicity
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The veterinarians at PetPlace.com recommend that if the ibuprofen was consumed less than two hours ago, the veterinarian may give activated charcoal which can help absorb the ibuprofen. Aside from this, the owner can expect that the dog will need to be hospitalized with IV fluids until the dog’s condition stabilizes. In severe cases, blood transfusions may be needed for anemia due to the blood loss from stomach ulcers. Even with treatment, dogs who consume excessive amounts of ibuprofen may not survive.
Treatments for Canine Arthritis
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While canine arthritis patients cannot be given ibuprofen, there are medications that are safe for use in dogs that are just as effective for treating the symptoms of arthritis. Owners who are seeking pain management medications for their dog will need a prescription from the veterinarian. Furthermore, maintaining an ideal weight and regular exercise can also help control the symptoms of canine arthritis.
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References
Resources
- Photo Credit dog image by Michal Tudek from Fotolia.com
