Musculoskeletal pain is a common issue for many dogs, affecting their joints, muscles, and bones. Whether due to aging, injury, or conditions like arthritis, these types of pain can severely impact a dog’s quality of life.
As a pet owner, understanding your options for managing and alleviating this pain is crucial. From natural remedies like CBD to prescribed medications, various treatments can help provide relief and improve mobility. This article will explore the most effective musculoskeletal pain relief options for dogs, ensuring they stay happy and active.
Pain Relief for Musculoskeletal Issues in Dogs
The key musculoskeletal causes of pain in dogs are arthritis, hip dysplasia, IVDD, injuries, and sprains. Note that pain relief addresses symptoms of these conditions but doesn't cure the conditions themselves.
Still, making your dog more comfortable in the throes of severe arthritic pain can drastically improve their quality of life. Some of these methods are known to control pain, while others can relieve some of the discomfort as a complementary option.
The Following Options are Common for Most Musculoskeletal Pain in Dogs
Inflammation is the key cause of musculoskeletal pain in dogs because it triggers numerous other painful responses.
Excess inflammation causes swelling that puts pressure on tissues and nerves, releases chemicals that increase sensitivity to pain, limits movement which puts strain on lesser-used muscles, and accelerates the breakdown of cartilage and bone.
Most of the pain medication or relief options below address either inflammation or aim to reduce the pain signals in your dog's nervous system.
NonSteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDS)
NSAIDs inhibit inflammatory enzymes that promote inflammation and pain. The ultimate goal of these drugs is to mitigate the excess inflammation in your dog's body.
1. Carprofen
Function: Carprofen primarily inhibits the COX-2 enzyme which is a key player in inflammation.
Dosage: A dosage of 4.4 mg per pound is the typical daily dose of Carprofen for dogs, but that is cut in half to a "maintenance dose" after 1-2 days, depending on the dog's condition.
Over The Counter Availability: prescription medication, not available OTC.
Side Effects: Carprofen influences the COX-1 enzyme as well as the COX-2 enzyme, and inhibiting the former can cause gastrointestinal issues which is why it should be taken with food.
2. Meloxicam
Function: Meloxicam selectively inhibits COX-2 to reduce inflammation and pain with less impact on COX-1.
Dosage: The typical starting dose is 0.09 mg per pound (0.2 mg/kg) on day 1, followed by 0.045 mg per pound (0.1 mg/kg) once daily for maintenance.
Over The Counter Availability: Prescription medication, not available OTC.
Side Effects: Can cause gastrointestinal issues, kidney, or liver problems, especially with long-term use, and should be taken with food.
Opioids
Opioids can be used for moderate to severe pain in arthritic dogs. Never give your dog opioids made for humans. These medications are strictly reserved as prescription medications from your veterinarian. If you give your dog opioids designed for humans, there is a high chance of overdose and even death.
Opioids are an option commonly used to control pain when it's overbearing or severe.
1. Tramadol
Function: Tramadol functions by binding to opioid receptors and also inhibiting the reuptake of serotonin and norepinephrine. Binding to opioid receptors helps block transmission of pain receptors, whereas inhibiting reuptake of dopamine and serotonin allows more of those neurotransmitters to remain active in the system and relieve pain.
Dosage: The typical dosage of tramadol for dogs ranges from 1 to 5 mg per pound (2 to 11 mg per kg) of body weight, administered every 8 to 12 hours, depending on the severity of pain and the veterinarian's recommendation.
Over The Counter Availability: No. Never give your dog opioids not prescribed by your vet.
Side Effects: Tramadol can cause sedation, gastrointestinal issues, and behavioral changes due to its impact on neurotransmitters like serotonin and norepinephrine, which affect mood and digestion. Rare side effects like seizures or tremors occur because tramadol also interacts with opioid receptors, potentially lowering the seizure threshold or affecting the nervous system.
2. Hydrocodone
Function: Hydrocodone is an opioid that binds to opioid receptors in the brain and spinal cord to block pain signals, providing relief for moderate to severe pain.
Dosage: The typical dosage of hydrocodone for dogs is 0.2 to 0.5 mg per pound (0.5 to 1.1 mg per kg) of body weight, administered every 6 to 12 hours as needed, based on the severity of pain and the veterinarian's recommendation.
3. Fentanyl
Function: Fentanyl is a powerful synthetic opioid that binds to opioid receptors in the brain and spinal cord, offering potent relief for severe pain, including that associated with arthritis or surgery.
Dosage: Fentanyl is typically administered via a patch that releases the drug slowly over 72 hours; dosages are determined based on the dog's size and pain level, with veterinary supervision.
Over The Counter Availability: No. Fentanyl is a potent opioid available only through prescription and is regulated as a controlled substance.
Side Effects: Common side effects include sedation, constipation, and, in rare cases, respiratory depression. Close monitoring is essential due to the high potency and risk of overdose.
Over The Counter Availability: No. Hydrocodone is a controlled substance and is available only with a prescription from a veterinarian.
Side Effects: Hydrocodone can cause sedation, constipation, and vomiting, and prolonged use may lead to tolerance or dependence. It should be used with caution in dogs with respiratory issues.
4. Buprenorphine
Function: Buprenorphine is a partial opioid agonist that binds to opioid receptors to provide pain relief, offering a longer duration of action and generally fewer side effects compared to full opioids.
Dosage: The typical dosage of buprenorphine for dogs is 0.01 to 0.02 mg per pound (0.02 to 0.05 mg per kg), administered every 6 to 12 hours, depending on the dog's condition and response to the medication.
Over The Counter Availability: No. Buprenorphine is a controlled substance and can only be prescribed by a veterinarian.
Side Effects: Buprenorphine is less likely to cause severe side effects like sedation or respiratory depression, but mild sedation, nausea, or constipation may still occur.
5. Morphine
Function: Morphine is a potent opioid that works by binding to opioid receptors in the brain and spinal cord, blocking pain signals and providing strong relief for moderate to severe pain.
Dosage: The typical dosage of morphine for dogs ranges from 0.1 to 0.5 mg per pound (0.2 to 1.1 mg per kg), administered every 4 to 6 hours, based on the severity of pain and veterinary recommendation.
Over The Counter Availability: No. Morphine is a controlled substance and requires a prescription from a veterinarian.
Side Effects: Morphine can cause sedation, constipation, nausea, and respiratory depression. It should be carefully monitored, especially for dogs with preexisting respiratory issues or those on other sedatives.
Natural Relief Options
Natural remedies aim to support joint health, reduce inflammation, and improve mobility without the use of pharmaceuticals. They are often used in conjunction with other drugs or as a milder alternative.
1. CBD Oil
Function: CBD oil has helped countless dogs as a natural support for relief from occasional joint discomfort. It interacts with the body's endocannabinoid system to support dogs with symptoms of light to moderate pain and inflammation. It's important to note that CBD has not been aproved by the FDA and all dogs may respond differently.
Dosage: Dosage varies based on the dog’s size and the product’s concentration, but a typical starting dose is 1 to 2 mg of CBD per 10 pounds of body weight, given once or twice daily.
Over The Counter Availability: Yes, available over-the-counter in pet stores and online, but it should be specifically formulated for pets.
Side Effects: CBD is generally well-tolerated, but side effects may include drowsiness or gastrointestinal upset. Always choose full-spectrum CBD oil formulated specifically for pets.
2. Glucosamine and Chondroitin
Function: Chondroitin and glucosamine are natural joint supplements help support joint health by promoting cartilage repair and reducing inflammation, often used for dogs with osteoarthritis.
Dosage: The typical dosage ranges from 500 to 1,000 mg of glucosamine and 200 to 400 mg of chondroitin, depending on the dog’s weight, typically given once or twice daily.
Over The Counter Availability: Yes, widely available as supplements in pet stores and online.
Side Effects: Generally safe, though some dogs may experience mild gastrointestinal upset, especially at higher doses.
3. Turmeric
Function: Turmeric contains curcumin, a compound known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which may help reduce joint pain and stiffness in dogs with arthritis.
Dosage: A typical dosage for turmeric is 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon per 10 pounds of body weight, added to food once or twice daily. It is often combined with black pepper to enhance absorption.
Over The Counter Availability: Yes, available as powder, capsules, or treats specifically formulated for pets.
Side Effects: Turmeric is generally safe but may cause mild gastrointestinal upset in some dogs, especially if given in large quantities. Should be used with caution in dogs with gallbladder issues or those on blood-thinning medications.
Conclusion
Managing musculoskeletal pain in dogs requires a tailored approach based on your pet’s specific needs. Whether using natural treatments like CBD or turning to medications, it's important to monitor your dog's progress and consult your vet to ensure the best course of action.
With the right treatment plan, you can help your dog live a more comfortable, active life despite the challenges of pain. Always prioritize their well-being and adjust their care as needed to support their health and happiness.
