Strategies for Consoling a Distressed Canine: 8 Advice Points
Dogs are known for their playful and active nature, but when they are in pain, it can be challenging to help them feel better. In such situations, puzzle toys can be a great way to keep them occupied while they cannot engage in their normal activities.
However, identifying the root cause of the pain is crucial, and a veterinarian's assessment is essential. Signs that a dog's pain management plan isn't working may include limping, a hunched back, a stiff gait, shying away from being touched, ears in a down position, or laying in unusual positions.
When it comes to complementary therapies for pain relief in dogs, several evidence-based options are available. These include acupuncture, massage, physical therapy, herbal medicine, and CBD supplements, among others.
Acupuncture has been recognized for effectively reducing pain and improving mobility in conditions like stifle joint pain and arthritis. It involves placing small needles at specific points on the dog's body to reduce inflammation and nerve pain.
Massage can help improve blood flow, muscle relaxation, and joint flexibility, thereby relieving muscle soreness and stiffness and supporting overall mobility.
Physical therapy and exercise techniques such as stretching, hydrotherapy (pool exercises), and joint manipulation enhance muscle flexibility and strength while reducing pain.
Chinese herbal medicine and naturopathic blends can reduce inflammation and support joint health. For example, products like the herbal blend "Ouchie" provide fast-acting natural pain relief by targeting inflammation and discomfort.
Nutraceuticals like glucosamine, omega-3 fatty acids, and CBD may contribute to joint health and pain relief. However, it's important to consult with a veterinarian before using CBD to ensure safety and appropriate dosing.
When identifying suitable therapies, a veterinarian or veterinary integrative medicine specialist should assess the dog's specific condition (e.g., arthritis, injury, chronic pain) and may recommend a clinical evaluation to confirm pain sources and severity. They might suggest a trial of integrative approaches combined with conventional therapies (medications, rehabilitation), monitoring improvements using outcome measures such as mobility, pain scores, and quality of life, and careful observation of any side effects and continual adjustment of treatment modalities as needed.
In addition to these therapies, making adjustments to your dog's environment can also help manage their pain. For instance, adding ramps for dogs with arthritis or chronic illnesses can make it easier for them to get to their favourite spots without putting added pressure on their joints. Providing items like an orthopedic bed and soft blankets will keep your dog comfortable while they recover from an injury or surgery, or rest during illness.
Setting up a crate in a spare bedroom or other quiet spot will give your pet a space to recover and decrease the risk of making the pain worse. Installing non-slip mats or carpet runners can prevent dogs from slipping and improve their ability to move around the house.
In some cases, a dietary supplement was found to be effective in dogs with osteoarthritis in a randomized placebo-controlled, double-blind clinical trial. Cold laser therapy and physical therapy are also suggested for dogs in pain.
Remember, most over-the-counter pain medications made for pet parents are toxic to dogs. If signs of pain are seen, a veterinary exam is necessary to determine the source and receive treatment. CBD supplements may help dogs with osteoarthritis pain, with one study at Cornell showing that 80 percent of dogs experienced decreases in osteoarthritis pain.
Lastly, it's important to stick to a schedule with medications that help relieve dog pain, setting a reminder in your smartphone to ensure that you don't miss a dose or accidentally give your dog their medication before the next dose is due. Dogs in pain might not want to interact with their family as they normally do, so providing a comfortable and safe environment can help them feel more at ease.
Scientists have explored and proven the effectiveness of various complementary therapies, such as acupuncture, massage, physical therapy, and herbal medicine, in relieving pain and improving the health-and-wellness of dogs. A veterinarian's guidance is valuable when exploring integrative therapies, as they can assess the dog's specific condition and recommend the best treatment plan, including scientifically-supported options like CBD supplements for dogs with osteoarthritis pain.
