Sometimes, dogs experience physical pain. This may take the form of a strained muscle or joint and can range from mild to severe. The discomfort has many causes, including illnesses like arthritis or injury. Dogs suffering from physical pain are likely to show signs such as limping, walking stiffly with a noticeable hitch, or shaking out of anxiety.
If your dog shows any of these signs, it might be from physical pain. The following are ways to help your dog when suffering from physical pain.
1. Don’t Ignore the Pain and Hope it Will Go Away
The longer you wait to take your dog to a veterinarian, the harder it will be for your dog to recover. A trip to the vet the moment you notice they are in pain can help your dog heal and avoid discomfort in the future. If not, your dog may be re-injured and in a worse condition than what you currently avoid.
2. Take Your Dog to a Veterinarian
Don’t worry about how much it will cost or whether you can afford it. Your dog’s health and well-being should be your top priority. If you research and find the best veterinarian for your dog’s needs, head there immediately or call to see what is hurting your dog. Most vets offer financial plans for dogs needing physical therapy or surgery.
3. Give Pain Medication as Directed by Your Veterinarian
Your vet will have specific instructions on how long to give the medication, what type to use, and how often to give it to your dog. Also, natural supplements that help reduce pain and inflammation, like WiggleLess pain relief, are often recommended. Research more on these natural supplements or speak to your vet to get their opinion.
4. Monitor the Dog’s Health Daily Until the Discomfort Subsides
If the cause of the pain is not addressed, it could lead to a chronic condition that your vet will have to treat for an extended period. Dog owners must be diligent in monitoring their dogs’ health when in pain. Observe any signs of recovery and be careful not to rush your dog, be patient and take notes to share with your vet. The information might help the vet as they diagnose your dog’s condition.
5. Keep the Dog Comfortable
Physical pain is a severe health problem; you can reduce it by ensuring your dog gets comfortable. For instance, you may give them a warm bath, massage the affected area with a warm, soapy washcloth, or keep them warm using a heating pad or electric blanket. Also, make the place they sleep more comfortable. For example, you could add feather pillows to their beds or increase the room temperature to keep them warm on a cold night.
6. Don’t Give Up if Your Dog Doesn’t Respond Quickly to Treatment
It may take more time and patience than you realize, but if you stick to these steps, your dog should eventually recover from the pain. Most dogs recover within three days, with recovery times varying depending on breed mix and severity of the injury.
7. Exercise the Dog To Prevent Muscle Contractions and Tissue Damage
Circulating oxygenated blood through muscles is essential for easing pain in your dog’s legs or spine. However, be careful when moving the dog to avoid worsening the situation. Be gentle and help the dog take gradual steps as they recover.
Common Issues That Cause Dogs To Suffer Physical Pain
Arthritis
It is a common issue in dogs and can be caused by injury, the dog’s genetics, or inflammation and swelling in the joints. Dogs experiencing arthritis may limp, walk stiffly, or have muscle tightness around the joints.
Joint or Hip Dysplasia
This hereditary disease commonly affects large, giant-breed dogs such as German Shepherds, Rottweilers, Bulldogs, and Irish Wolfhounds. The condition causes pain when dogs are young and just starting to grow.
Bone Cancer
Bone cancer is a type of cancer that originates in the bone or tissue around the bone. Dogs of various breeds are affected by this condition, usually between the ages of 5 and 10.
Fractured Rear Leg
Dogs experience rear leg fractures when they fall from high ground or get hurt while playing. The condition is severe in that the dog will fail to walk independently.
Kidney Stones
Kidney stones are common in dogs, especially giant breeds. They can be caused by certain foods or medications that your dog may have taken or ingested. The vet will verify the condition’s cause and advise on the best approach for treatment.
Conclusion
Dog injuries can be fatal and must be addressed immediately. If your dog suffers physical pain without injury, it could result from health complications. In this case, reach out to your vet for treatment before it is too late.