Parenting a pet is a round-the-clock duty. Sometimes, it can feel physically draining when you have too many things to handle. Still, all the troubles vanish when your furry friend smiles at you unconditionally or cuddles you like you are the world to them. They depend on you for everything. But nothing can match their loyalty and affection for you. But how do you feel when they are in pain? It can be heartbreaking. Yet, you must gather yourself and comfort him. Your doggy needs the most attention at this time. Here are a few insights to help you cope with this situation and make the right decisions for your pet’s health.
Signs your dog is in pain
Like humans, they also suffer pain. But they cannot vocalize it. When in pain, they retreat to a calm corner, hide, sleep, and curl up. They avoid revealing their sickness. As a result, you may discover their condition only a little later. Please don’t blame them for this. Their biological conditioning prevents them from showing their vulnerability or weakness. How to tell if a dog is in pain? Observe them closely for sleep patterns. They either sleep more or too little. Their appetite can increase or decrease. They will avoid their favorite activities. You can also hear their grunt, groans, or whines when they move. Excessive panting, limping, licking, snappish behavior, or anything unusual hints at the trouble. When you notice any such things, show him to his vet immediately.
Things to avoid or give to your dog in pain
Specific home remedies can relieve their pain briefly. Consider options like cold therapy, heat therapy, massage, physiotherapy, etc. But don’t tamper with their lifestyle, diet, or exercise without discussing it with the vet. Nevertheless, if none of these work, you can assume your canine friend has too much pain or discomfort. Some people wonder whether baby medicines can suit them. Please don’t resort to this because their content can harm your dog’s health. Or, you can think of giving aspirin or tramadol to comfort his pain. While vets occasionally prescribe smaller doses of aspirin for inflammation, blood clot control, pain, and fever, you should not take this step voluntarily. Ask the vet, who decides treatment based on their pre-existing condition and diagnosis.
As for tramadol, this pain-relieving opioid medication tends to be a prescription drug for dogs and cats. But the FDA disapproves of it. Studies also show the possibility of side effects from tramadol on the dogs. These include appetite loss, fatigue, upset tummy, anxiety, dizziness, seizures, sedation, etc. Some pets can also have sensitivity to this medication.
One must understand that OTC medicines for humans are not suitable for dogs. Only vets can tell which ones are safer and in what quantity. If you ignore this, you may harm your pet more instead of making it feel better. Also, dogs can be unwell for a day or two following vaccination. In that case, you can relax. If they experience intolerable pain, the vet will give pain relief. So, consult the experts before deciding or doing anything yourself.