Why I Avoid Long-Term NSAIDs and What I Use Instead

Many of you reading this either have a dog or cat on an NSAID, a non steroidal anti inflammatory drug, or know a veterinarian who commonly prescribes them.

Yes, these drugs can be effective for short term pain relief. But I personally avoid them whenever possible.

NSAIDs come with real risks. They can cause serious side effects, they can delay healing, and they should never be used long term. Cats should never be given NSAIDs long term.

Research now shows that when we block the body’s initial inflammatory response, we can actually slow healing. That early inflammation is not the enemy. It brings in cells that clear damaged tissue and stimulate new bone and tissue growth. Suppressing it too aggressively can interfere with recovery, especially after injury or fracture.

So what can you do instead?

Natural Pain Relief Options That Do Not Delay Healing

There are effective natural options that reduce pain and inflammation without shutting down the healing process.

UC2 Hemp Infused Joint Chews

One option I recommend is our UC2 Hemp Infused Joint Chews. They contain undenatured type 2 collagen along with glucosamine, chondroitin, MSM, boswellia, and ninety five percent curcumin. Dogs love the taste, and I have seen them work extremely well for joint pain and mobility support.

DMSO for Joint Pain and Swelling

Dimethyl sulfoxide, or DMSO, is a colorless liquid that penetrates the skin very easily. It can be used on its own for joint swelling, arthritis, and localized pain. It is typically applied topically to the affected joint twice daily.

I often combine DMSO with a topical pain cream such as arnica gel, Traumeel, or CBD oil. Used together, they can be very effective.

Essential Oils for Pain Relief

Frankincense, also known as boswellia, can be helpful when used topically. It should always be diluted with a carrier oil such as olive, coconut, or almond oil before applying to affected areas. I have seen good results in dogs when used correctly.

Ginger for Joint and Muscle Pain

Ginger contains natural compounds that help reduce inflammation. When used in small amounts, it is very safe. Fresh ginger works well steeped in boiling water as a tea or grated into vegetable juice and added to food.

Heat and Cold Therapy

Cold therapy is extremely important right after an injury. It reduces blood flow, swelling, and pain. This was the most effective pain relief I used when I tore my Achilles tendon.

Once the initial swelling and pain decrease, heat becomes very helpful. Heat increases blood flow, oxygen, and nutrient delivery to injured tissue and can significantly reduce pain. Heating pads and heated braces work well.

Essential Fatty Acids for Inflammation

Therapeutic levels of essential fatty acids can help reduce inflammation. Flax, fish oil, and krill oil are all useful. Flax can be given at one teaspoon per ten pounds once or twice daily. Fish oil is commonly used at one thousand milligrams per ten pounds daily. Krill oil is typically dosed at one thousand milligrams per fifty pounds.

Castor Oil Packs

Studies show that castor oil applied topically can reduce inflammation and relieve pain. One study found that ricinoleic acid significantly reduced pain and inflammation when applied to the skin compared to other treatments.

Arnica and Homeopathic Support

Arnica 30C is a well known homeopathic remedy for acute injury, muscle pain, stiffness, and swelling. For acute injury, it can be given every two to four hours. For longer term use, once daily dosing is typical. I have also found the combination homeopathic cream Traumeel to be very helpful.

CBD and Other Cannabinoids

CBD and other non psychoactive cannabinoids such as CBC, CBG, and CBN have strong evidence supporting their use as natural anti inflammatories and pain relievers. They do not delay healing. A common dose is three milligrams per ten pounds once to twice daily.

Our Complete Cannabinoid Blend for Dogs and Cats is a great option.

Dr. Jones’ Ultimate Cannabinoid Blend for Dogs and Cats

Boswellia for Inflammatory Pain

Boswellia, also known as frankincense, has been used traditionally to support joints, digestion, and immune health. It is helpful for arthritis and inflammatory conditions. Effective dosing is typically ten to twenty milligrams per ten pounds daily.

Ninety Five Percent Curcumin

Curcumin has been extensively studied for arthritis and pain relief. Research shows it can be a safe and effective long term option for reducing inflammation and improving comfort in osteoarthritis.

This is why we included ninety five percent curcumin in our UC2 Joint Chews.

Final Thoughts on Natural Pain Relief

There are many effective natural options for dogs and cats in pain. It is important to understand the real risks of conventional anti inflammatory drugs and to choose pain relief methods that support healing instead of delaying it.

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P.S. There are safe and effective ways to manage pain without the long term risks of NSAIDs. Natural options can make a real difference.

P.P.S. Dr. Jones’ Joint Care Chews are designed to support joint health, flexibility, and comfort using undenatured type 2 collagen and powerful anti inflammatory ingredients. They are suitable for dogs and can also be given to cats.