Tylenol for Dogs' Arthritis

Arthritis can affect many dogs, particularly large breed and older dogs. While arthritis can cause the dog pain, it does not have to inhibit the dog's quality of life. Many treatments exist for arthritis, including the use of oral medications such as aspirin. But you should not administer Tylenol to dogs, as it can cause liver damage and even death.

  1. Arthritis

    • Arthritis is an degenerative joint disease that affects humans and animals. With arthritis, the cartilage between joints wears away, and eventually the joints grind together. This causes chronic pain that worsens with age and damp weather. Dogs that are obese, large or old will be more likely to experience arthritis. To keep the animal out of pain, you must provide treatment.

    Tylenol

    • Tylenol, also known as acetaminophen, is a analgesic drug that is a common pain reliever and anti-inflammatory medication. Acetaminophen is also used to treat allergies, colds, flu and extreme pain (in the form of codeine).

    Tylenol for Dogs

    • When a dog suffers from arthritis, you should not administer Tylenol. According to Vet Info, the acetaminophen in Tylenol is very toxic for dogs. Dogs who ingest Tylenol, by accident or by a well-wishing owner, can experience liver failure, the destruction of red blood cells and the creation of methhemoglobin, a useless red blood cell.

    Symptoms of Tylenol Poisoning

    • If the dog has ingested Tylenol, you can look for many symptoms to see if the animal has been poisoned. Symptoms include brown gums, vomiting, breathing problems, lethargy and excessive drooling. Eventually these symptoms worsen into bodily swelling, coma and liver failure.

    Alternative Treatments

    • While Tylenol is toxic to dogs, aspirin is a very common pain reliever for arthritic canines. Some owners, however, do not wish to keep their dog on an endless stream of medication. Luckily, there are other treatments for canine arthritis. According to Pet Education, alternative arthritis treatments include physical therapy and massages; weight management through diet and exercise; supplements such as MSM, Omega-3s, and Glucosamine-chondroitin compounds; installing stair ramps; providing warm places to sleep; and sometimes surgery. You should always discuss alternative treatments with a veterinarian.