Pain management in dogs
Pain management is a joint project between the pet owner and the veterinarian which, when successful, improves the dog's quality of life and provides more pain-free days.
When should a dog's pain be treated?
Pain that affects the dog's behavior – that is, noticeable pain – must be treated. Treatment should also be given when there is reason to suspect that the dog is in pain. Human and canine pain mechanisms are similar, which means that dogs experience pain in situations comparable to humans.
Since dogs cannot describe their pain to us and often try to hide it, pain must be detected through even small behavioral changes. The owner is usually the best person to notice these changes. At the veterinary clinic, fear and stress can often make pain assessment more difficult.
Behavioral changes that may indicate pain in dogs:
- Licking, scratching, or biting the area where the dog is in pain
- Difficulty lying down or getting up
- Stiffness after rest or exercise
- Unwillingness to go for walks or play
- Difficulty jumping into the car or onto the sofa
- Limping
- Panting or rapid breathing
- Depression
- Withdrawing from social interaction
- Loss of appetite
- Avoiding touch on the painful area
- Irritability or aggression
- Vocalizing (whining, whimpering)
What conditions or diseases cause pain in dogs?
The most common surgical procedures that cause pain in dogs are neutering of males and spaying of females. Various dental procedures, such as tooth extractions, are also common and painful. Among diseases that cause chronic pain in dogs, the most common are osteoarthritis, ear infections, other skin infections, and various types of cancer.
Pain treatment
Dog pain can be treated with surgery, physical therapy, or acupuncture, but the most common form of treatment is medication – either on its own or combined with other methods.
The most frequently used medications in veterinary pain treatment are anti-inflammatory drugs, which work by reducing inflammation. These act directly at the source of the pain and do not sedate the dog. Centrally acting painkillers, such as opioids, are used when anti-inflammatory drugs are not effective enough or cannot be used safely. Opioids are classified as controlled substances and are only used under strict veterinary supervision.
Side effects of anti-inflammatory drugs
Dogs are more sensitive to side effects from anti-inflammatory drugs than humans. Therefore, these medications are prescription-only. There are no over-the-counter painkillers for dogs. Never give human pain medication to a dog without veterinary instructions.
Common side effects include loss of appetite, vomiting, or even bloody diarrhea. If the dog stops eating or vomits during treatment with anti-inflammatory drugs, stop the medication immediately and contact your veterinarian.
Pain conditions are often treated in older dogs, whose kidney and liver functions may be reduced. These functions should be monitored during treatment. If you have given your dog any medication at home, always inform the veterinarian about it.
Pain treatment is individual
The dosage of pain medication is always individual. Always follow the dosage instructions from your veterinarian. If you have difficulty administering the medicine, contact your vet. There are different forms of anti-inflammatory drugs (liquid, tablets, chewable tablets), and another form may be easier to give to your dog.
💡 Read more: Giving medicine to a pet
For long-term pain treatment, the veterinarian may suggest gradually lowering the dose to find the smallest amount needed to keep the dog symptom-free. This dose may be as little as half the standard dose. The lower the dose, the lower the risk of side effects. Liquid medication makes it easier to adjust the dose in small steps. Always read the package insert that comes with the medication.
Pain symptoms usually improve within 3–4 days of starting medication. If there is no improvement within 10 days, contact your veterinarian again.
