Signs of a Pet in Pain: Top 10 Signs Your Pet May Be in Pain and How to Help

Why I Avoid NSAIDs for My Pets

Many of you reading this either have a dog or cat or know an online veterinarian who has used NSAIDs—Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs—for pain relief. While these medications can be effective for managing acute pain, I personally avoid using them whenever possible, and here’s why.

The Risks of NSAIDs

NSAIDs are commonly prescribed for pain relief, but they come with significant risks. These medications can have serious side effects, and more concerningly, they can delay healing. If you’re dealing with an injury or surgery, this delay in healing could actually prolong your pet’s discomfort.

It’s important to note that NSAIDs should never be used long-term in cats.

How NSAIDs Interfere with Healing

Research has shown that while NSAIDs may help reduce inflammation in the short term, they actually hinder the healing process in some cases. For example, when you break a bone, the initial inflammation is essential. It signals the body to send cells that remove dead tissue and stimulates new bone growth. By blocking this initial inflammation, NSAIDs can delay these important healing processes.

A Safer Alternative: Hemp-Infused Joint Care

So, what can you or your vet do instead? I recommend considering an alternative like my NEW Hemp Infused Joint Chews. These chews combine Hemp, Glucosamine, Chondroitin, MSM, Turmeric, and Yucca—a blend that supports joint health without the risks of NSAIDs. Not only do dogs love the taste, but these chews are highly effective in managing joint discomfort.

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By choosing these natural alternatives, you can help your pet feel better without the risks associated with NSAIDs.

Effective Natural Pain Relief for Dogs and Cats

As a veterinarian, I’m always looking for ways to help our pets feel better naturally. Many pet owners turn to conventional medications, but there are plenty of holistic options that can provide effective pain relief without the potential side effects of traditional drugs. Here are some of the most effective natural pain relief methods for dogs and cats.

1. DMSO (Dimethyl Sulfoxide)

DMSO is an organosulfur compound that comes in a colorless liquid form. It penetrates the skin easily and can be used as a single agent for treating conditions like knee swelling and arthritis in pets. To use it, apply DMSO topically to the affected joint twice daily.
For a more holistic approach, you can combine DMSO with topical pain creams such as Arnica gel, Traumeel, or CBD oil. This combination works well when applied twice daily.

2. Essential Oils

Essential oils like Frankincense (Boswellia) and Almond oil can be effective for relieving pain in pets.

• How to use: Dilute with a carrier oil, such as olive, coconut, or almond oil, and apply it topically to the affected area.
  Frankincense has anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce pain and is especially beneficial for dogs.

3. Ginger

Ginger is known for its anti-inflammatory properties, which can help with joint and muscle pain. It contains phytochemicals that work to stop inflammation. When used in small doses, ginger has very few side effects.

• How to use: Fresh ginger can be steeped in boiling water to make tea, or grated into vegetable juice for your dog.

4. Heat and Cold Therapy

Heat and cold therapy can be incredibly effective for pain relief. Cold therapy helps reduce blood flow during the initial stages of injury, which is crucial for reducing swelling and pain.

• Cold Therapy: When I tore my Achilles tendon, cold therapy was one of the most effective treatments in reducing initial swelling.
  Once the swelling subsides, heat therapy can be used to increase blood flow, which promotes healing by delivering oxygen and nutrients to the affected area.
• Heat Therapy: Heating pads and heated braces are great options for applying heat to the affected area.

5. Essential Fatty Acids (EFA’s)

Essential fatty acids, such as flax oil, fish oil, and krill oil, play a significant role in reducing inflammation.

• How to use:
  • Flax oil: 1 teaspoon per 10 lbs of body weight, once or twice daily.
  • Fish oil: 1000 mg per 10 lbs of body weight.
  • Krill oil: 1000 mg per 50 lbs of body weight.

6. Castor Oil

Studies have shown that castor oil, when applied topically, can reduce inflammation and relieve pain. One study demonstrated that treatment with a gel containing ricinoleic acid significantly reduced pain and inflammation when applied to the skin.

7. Arnica 30C

Arnica is a popular homeopathic remedy for acute injuries, muscle pain, stiffness, and swelling caused by injuries. It’s an easy remedy to administer—simply place the capsule under your pet’s lips to let them absorb or swallow it.

• Dosage: 1 capsule per 10 lbs of body weight every 2-4 hours for acute injuries and 1 capsule per day for long-term use.
  I also recommend Traumeel, a homeopathic cream, which I’ve found to be very helpful for managing pain.

8. CBD (Cannabidiol) and Other Cannabinoids

Cannabidiol (CBD) and other cannabinoids such as CBC, CBG, and CBN are natural anti-inflammatories that can be very effective for pain relief in pets. These non-psychoactive compounds do not delay healing, making them a great choice for managing pain.

• How to use: A typical dose is 3 mg per 10 lbs of body weight, given once or twice daily.
  Dr. Jones’ Complete Cannabinoid Blend for Dogs and Cats is a great option for pain relief and inflammation reduction.

9. Boswellia (Frankincense)

Boswellia is an herb traditionally used in India to treat arthritis and boost the immune system. It’s also known to treat other conditions like inflammatory bowel disease and heart disease.

• How to use: A therapeutic dose of 10-20 mg per 10 lbs of body weight per day will provide the anti-inflammatory benefits you’re looking for.

10. Curcumin

Curcumin, the active compound in turmeric, is well-known for its potent anti-inflammatory properties and has been extensively studied for its benefits in treating arthritis and natural pain relief.
Research has shown that curcumin can help ease the symptoms of osteoarthritis, making it a safe and effective option for pets with joint pain.

• How to use: Curcumin is a key ingredient in our new and tasty Hemp Infused Joint Chews for Dogs.

Heal Your Pet At Home!

As a pet owner, it’s important to consider all options when managing pain for your pets. Many of the treatments I’ve outlined can help your dog or cat feel better naturally, without the need for prescription medications that might delay healing or cause unwanted side effects.

I recommend trying these holistic remedies and monitoring your pet’s progress. If you have concerns or if the pain persists, it’s always best to consult with your veterinarian.

P.S. There are many natural options available for pets in pain, and it’s important to be aware of the serious side effects of conventional anti-inflammatory drugs. Look for pain relievers that don’t delay healing.

Dr. Jones’ Joint Care Chews are a premium supplement designed to promote joint health, mobility, flexibility, and reduce joint discomfort in dogs (and cats). These chews are infused with organic hemp and a blend of powerful joint-supporting ingredients, helping keep your pet active and comfortable.

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