There are many medications your veterinarian may prescribe for pain management. The type of medication depends on the cause of the pain, your dog's general health and age, and how long the dog may need the medication.
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Causes
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Canine hip dysplasia (CHD), a disorder of the hip joint and femur head, is common in the German shepherd dog. Panosteitis in young predominately large breed dogs can last two months to a year. German shepherds are the major breed to develop degenerative myelopathy (DM), which sometimes causes pain. R.M. Clemmons, DVM, says that DM can be compared to multiple sclerosis in humans. Injuries, arthritis and surgery also can result in pain.
NSAID
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Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs are commonly used in dogs to help pain caused by swelling. NSAIDs include aspirin, Rimadyl, Deramaxx, Novix and others. Aspirin for dogs is usually double coated to dissolve in intestines and decrease stomach ulcers.
Opiods
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For severe pain your veterinarian may prescribe an opiod. The most common opiods are morphine, Tramadol, Naloxone Hydrochloride and Buprenorphine. Some opiods are given in patches to absorb into the skin at the site of pain.
Side Effects
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Watch your dog for possible side effects including vomiting, diarrhea, breathing issues and possible stomach ulcers.
Management
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Your veterinarian may recommend swimming, walks, massage, supplements such as bromelain, weight loss and other measures to help decrease pain.
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