otc pain relief for dogs Seeing your dog in pain is one of the toughest experiences for any pet parent. Just like humans, dogs can suffer from pain for various reasons, such as chronic conditions, illnesses, injuries, or infections.
otc pain relief for dogs While your vet might prescribe medication to help manage the pain, there are also plenty of things you can do at home to make your dog feel better. In this blog, we’ll guide you on how to recognize the signs of pain in dogs and explore eight effective home remedies to bring your furry friend some much-needed relief.
How to Tell if Your Dog Is in Pain
otc pain relief for dogs Dogs don’t show pain the same way humans do, and their signs can be much more subtle. That’s why it’s so important to watch for any changes in their behavior or mood that might indicate they’re in discomfort.
otc pain relief for dogs There are three main ways dogs express pain: through physical symptoms, behavioral shifts, and mobility issues. For example, your dog might become unexpectedly aggressive, bark more than usual, or shy away from being touched. You may also notice them limping, moving slower than normal, or having difficulty getting up or lying down. Other common signs include:
Shakiness
An arched back
A lowered head
Panting
Tight or twitching muscles
otc pain relief for dogs Arthritis is a leading cause of chronic pain in dogs, affecting 20% of dogs by the age of 1 and up to 80% by the time they reach 8 years old. The key is to take steps to protect your dog’s joints early on. Glyde Mobility Chews are a great option to help prevent joint pain before it starts. The ingredients in Glyde are scientifically proven to reduce hip and joint pain, fight inflammation, and improve mobility. Don’t just take our word for it—check out the success stories shared by pet parents around the world!
9 Ways to Relieve Your Dog’s Pain at Home
otc pain relief for dogs If you suspect your dog is in pain, it’s important to reach out to your veterinarian right away. After a thorough examination and diagnosis, your vet will provide treatment options, and these home remedies can be used alongside that professional care to help ease your dog’s discomfort.
Glucosamine and Chondroitin
otc pain relief for dogs Glucosamine and chondroitin are essential components of joint health and are commonly found in high-quality joint supplements for dogs. Naturally produced in animal cartilage, these compounds help lubricate and protect the joints by providing shock absorption and preventing cartilage breakdown.
otc pain relief for dogs You’ll find joint supplements with these ingredients in various forms, including chews, tablets, capsules, or powders that can be sprinkled on your dog’s food. They offer a safe and effective way to ease pain caused by arthritis and other joint issues. Over time, as the levels of these nutrients build up in the joints, they become even more effective at improving mobility and reducing discomfort.
New Zealand Green Lipped Mussel
otc pain relief for dogs New Zealand Green Lipped Mussel (GLM) is a powerful, all-natural ingredient that can help combat joint pain and arthritis in dogs. Packed with fatty acids, vitamins, and complex proteins, this nutrient-rich mollusk provides effective, natural anti-inflammatory relief for swelling and supports overall joint health. It’s a key ingredient in Glyde Mobility Chews, which is the only joint supplement that combines proven levels of GLM, glucosamine, and chondroitin to promote youthful mobility in dogs.
otc pain relief for dogs Studies have shown that when combined with glucosamine and chondroitin, GLM can help reduce pain and maintain joint function. Glyde Mobility Chews Hip and Joint Supplement contains scientifically proven levels of these ingredients, offering your dog the best chance to relieve joint pain and support long-term joint health.
Turmeric
otc pain relief for dogs Turmeric is another natural ingredient known for its powerful anti-inflammatory properties. The active compound in turmeric, curcumin, has been shown to help fight arthritis, diabetes, cancer, gastrointestinal issues, and more in dogs.
otc pain relief for dogs Research has found that curcumin can be just as effective as common anti-inflammatory medications, and in some cases, it may even fight pain more efficiently than ibuprofen or aspirin. To make it easier for your dog to digest and benefit from, mix a small amount of turmeric with fish oil or coconut oil. This combination enhances absorption and supports overall health.
Hot and Cold Therapies
otc pain relief for dogs If your dog’s pain is coming from their joints, hot and cold therapy can provide relief. The best option depends on the cause of the pain, as each therapy serves a different purpose.
otc pain relief for dogs For chronic conditions like arthritis or hip dysplasia, a heat pack applied to your dog’s joints for up to 20 minutes can help relax the area and ease discomfort. On the other hand, if the pain is due to an injury, using a cold pack briefly can reduce swelling and promote recovery. Always monitor your dog during these treatments to ensure their comfort and safety.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids
otc pain relief for dogs Omega-3 supplements, such as fish oil, offer a range of health benefits for your dog, from alleviating allergies to promoting a shiny, healthy coat.
The EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) and DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) in fish oil help reduce inflammation, making them effective at relieving both chronic and acute pain. One of the easiest ways to give your dog Omega-3s is by adding a joint supplement to their routine. For example, Green Lipped Mussel, found in Glyde, is a natural source rich in Omega-3 fatty acids that can support joint health and overall well-being.
Ginger
Chronic pain is often linked to inflammation, and ginger is a natural remedy that can help reduce it. Packed with antioxidants, ginger helps fight inflammation and acts as a circulatory stimulant to support your dog’s overall health.
Beyond its anti-inflammatory properties, ginger also serves as an effective anti-nausea and anti-vomiting supplement for dogs. To offer your dog the health benefits of ginger, simply grate a small amount of fresh ginger over their food. This easy addition can help ease their discomfort while supporting their digestive health.
A Change to Your Dog’s Diet
If your dog is overweight, the extra weight can put unnecessary strain on their joints, leading to pain and discomfort. It’s important to talk with your veterinarian to determine a healthy weight for your dog and create a safe, effective nutritional plan to help them reach their goal.
Overfeeding and providing too many calories each day is a common cause of obesity in dogs. With your vet’s guidance, you can adjust your dog’s diet to not only help relieve joint pain but also prevent other health issues down the line. Managing their weight is key to supporting their overall well-being.
CBD Oil
While research on CBD oil for dogs is still ongoing, many pet parents have reported positive results, sharing their experiences of it helping to treat pain and seizures in their dogs.
CBD is a cannabinoid that interacts with receptors in your dog’s endocannabinoid system, particularly those in the central nervous system. These receptors play a key role in regulating various bodily functions, including how the body responds to pain. By influencing these receptors, CBD oil may help change how your dog’s body reacts to discomfort, potentially offering relief from pain.
Boswellia Serrata (Frankincense)
Boswellia, also known as frankincense, has been used for centuries as a natural pain reliever for humans, and it can offer similar benefits for dogs. This herbal extract comes from the Boswellia tree, which is native to India, Africa, and the Arabian Peninsula.
As an anti-inflammatory, Boswellia can help improve circulation, increase joint lubrication, and reduce inflammation around your dog’s joints. It works by blocking the production of a specific type of leukotriene, which affects the body’s immune response to inflammation.
Beyond joint health, Boswellia can also help soothe skin irritation, promote healthy digestion, and manage symptoms associated with conditions like asthma and cancer. This versatile herbal extract offers a range of benefits for your dog’s overall well-being.
Which Home Remedy Is Best for Your Dog?
While many of these home remedies can help ease your dog’s pain, it’s important to remember that not all solutions may be right for your pet. Always consult with your veterinarian if you suspect your dog is in pain. Your vet can help identify the underlying cause and recommend the most appropriate treatment options.
Once you have your vet’s guidance, these home remedies can be used alongside their treatments to keep your dog happy, healthy, and comfortable. You can also discuss which remedies might work best for your dog’s specific needs.
One such option is Glyde Mobility Chews for dogs, made by Parnell. This joint supplement is backed by strong scientific research and contains a unique combination of green-lipped mussel (GLM), glucosamine, and chondroitin, all of which promote healthy joints. GLM is rich in beneficial nutrients like Omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. When combined with glucosamine and chondroitin, GLM helps reduce pain and preserve joint function. With Glyde, protecting your dog’s joints is as easy as giving them a tasty daily chew—they’ll love it, and you’ll love how it supports their joint health!
