Nonprescription Pain Medicine for Dogs

Dogs can benefit from an occassional aspirir

Dogs benefit from the occasional relief from pain as much as humans, but the choices available to dogs are much more limited than in a medicine cabinet. Pet owners need to be aware of which pills are safe for their pet.

Pain Medication Safe for Dogs

Coated or buffered aspirin is safe for most dogs, but some dogs may be allergic. If the dog exhibits any signs of an adverse reaction, aspirin therapy should be discontinued. A veterinarian should be consulted if the condition does not improve in three days.

Aspirin Dosage

The usual dosage is 5 milligrams per pound of body weight every 12 hours. This works out to one aspirin for every 60 pounds of the dog's body weight.

Indications for Pain Medicine Use

Pain medications are often used in dogs with joint problems or arthritis. It is sometimes used for pain management after surgery.

Other Pain Medications

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs can have adverse side effects when administered to dogs. These drugs include ibuprofen and acetaminophen. Stephen Sundlof, director for the Food and Drug Administration's Center for Veterinary Medicine, stresses pet owners should monitor their pets for vomiting, loss of appetites and diarrhea.

Pain Medications Precautions

NSAID pain medications should only be used under the advice of a veterinarian. The dog should be closely monitored. Dogs react differently to the drugs -- what works well for one dog may prove harmful to another.

References

• FDA
• AVMA