What You Should Know About NSAIDs for Dogs

Pain can significantly affect the physical and emotional well-being of dogs. However, when pain is reduced and carefully managed, dogs can lead happier, more comfortable lives.

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are a class of medications that can help man’s BEST friend stay pain-free, active and happy.

TALK TO YOUR VETERINARIAN ABOUT NSAIDs

It is recommended that you talk to your veterinarian before giving your dog NSAIDs.

Info you should share:

1. Your dog’s medical history
2. Previous drug reactions your dog may have had
3. Details about drugs and other products your dog currently receives

Questions to ask:

1. Why does my dog need NSAIDs?
2. Does my dog need to be tested before receiving NSAIDs?
3. How much should I give my dog?
4. For how long should my dog take NSAIDs?
5. What are the possible side effects of NSAIDs?
6. Is there something I or my dog shouldn’t do while taking NSAIDs?
7. How and how often will my dog be monitored by a veterinarian to make sure he or she is OK?

WHAT NOT TO DO

• Never give your dog NSAIDs without checking with your veterinarian first
• Don’t ever give NSAIDs prescribed for a specific dog to another dog
• Don’t stray from dosage instructions (amount, frequency and period)
• If your dog is taking NSAIDs, never give him or her aspirin or corticosteroids as well

Caution should be exercised before giving NSAIDs to dogs suffering from heart, intestinal, kidney or liver problems.

POSSIBLE SIDE EFFECTS OF NSAIDs

NSAIDs may cause side effects. Some can be serious, but most are mild. Common ones (that may affect the kidneys, liver and gastrointestinal tract) include:

• Lack of appetite
• Black, tarry diarrhea
• Behavioural changes
• Altered drinking habits
• Lack of energy and enthusiasm
• Yellowing of the gums, skin or eye whites
• Noticeable skin changes such as redness or scabs and/or scratching
• Depression
• Vomiting

HOW TO REMEMBER THE SIGNS

Check Your BEST Friend for:

B(ehavioural Changes)E(ating Less)S(kin Changes)T(arry Stool/Diarrhea/Vomiting)

WHAT TO DO ABOUT POSSIBLE SIDE EFFECTS

1. Contact your veterinarian immediately.
2. Don’t give your dog another dose without talking to your veterinarian.
3. If you cannot get in touch with a veterinarian via a phone, take your dog to one.