When a dog diagnosed with arthritis shows symptoms of arthritic pain, make him comfortable with a simple dose of oral aspirin. The over-the-counter medication treats mild arthritis, also known as degenerative joint disease or osteoarthritis, according to the veterinarians at Placerville Veterinary Clinic in California. When combined with weight management and low-impact exercise, aspirin therapy can improve the quality of life for an arthritic dog.
-
Uses
-
Aspirin reduces joint pain caused by canine arthritis. The anti-inflammatory medication temporarily reduces swelling in the pet's hips, knees, elbows and other joints. Aspirin also relieves pain, according to the Doctors Foster and Smith Pet Education website. Giving a dog aspirin at bedtime allows him to rest comfortably with minimized pain.
Medication
-
Dogs can safely take plain, uncoated, buffered aspirin labeled for human consumption. Pill or powder forms of aspirin hidden in a food treat and taken orally will alleviate arthritic pain. Common pain relievers such as ibuprofen, acetaminophen and naproxen should be avoided because these are toxic to pets.
Dosages
-
Picky pets benefit from powdered aspirin mixed into moist dog food. Aspirin dosage is calculated by weight. The Placerville Veterinary Clinic in California recommends giving one 5-grain (325mg) aspirin pill to a 60- to 80-pound dog every 12 hours. Vet Info online recommends administering 5mg of aspirin per pound of dog, every 12 hours.
Definition
-
When dogs get arthritis, cartilage-producing cells begin to die. Then cartilage between the joints thins, causing pain and swelling. The most common joints affected by canine arthritis are the hips, according to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. Large breed dogs, mixed breeds and those with past infections or trauma are at the highest risk of developing arthritis. Puppies exhibiting signs of hip dysplasia also suffer from arthritis.
Symptoms
-
As dogs age, symptoms of arthritic pain become more noticeable. Rather than stretching out on the cool floor, the pet may begin to covet the soft couch or a thick 4-inch foam dog bed. Mobility will become limited, and the dog may not exhibit the same enthusiasm he once did for exercise. When the dog exhibits lethargy and decreased mobility, give him a dose of aspirin.
Warning
-
Dogs of any age may experience stomach upset or ulcers when taking aspirin for arthritis. To alleviate stomach discomfort, give the pet aspirin during mealtime or with a small treat. Gastrointestinal upset is common when pets take aspirin. If the pet has bloody vomit or stools after a dose of aspirin, seek veterinary advice immediately.
-