Before Using dogs NSAIDs , Think Twice!
Written by : Maky
You are probably familiar with the names of dogs NSAIDs (Non Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs).
If you aren’t , these drugs are mostly prescribed by your vet , and they manage pain and inflammation ( not for long term diseases ) but they are for acute conditions and for injuries. Your veterinarian may recommend dogs NSAIDs at some point during your dog’s life, but he may not tell you the risks associated with these drugs.
You should know these informations:
How they works?
Non Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs work by inhibiting the production of
prostaglandins.
Prostaglandins – they are made from fatty acids. In the body , there are many
different types of prostaglandins. Two main functions of prostaglandins are:
Cox 1 function :
1. Increasing blood flow to the kidneys.
2. Inhibiting stomach acid production – promoting gastrointestinal mucus secretion
and protecting the gut lining.
3. Promoting blood vessel constriction.
Cox 2 functions:
1. Activating an inflammatory responce with fever and pain.
2. Inhibiting blood vessel constriction.
You should know that manufacturers are trying to produce Non Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs that inhibit cox 2 more than first ( Cox 1 ) . Carprofen is active ingredient in Rimadyl, but aspirin inhibits both , aspirin can cause stomach ulcers.
If you are trying to prevent blood clots , then it is okay, but it is not good if your dog is consuming aspirin for arthritis because of bleeding ( can’t be stopped if he would go to the vet for a dental extraction ) .
Watch out for this…
If you are giving Non Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs) to your dog , you should
take care if your dog is vomiting , if he has black stool , blood in the vomit, loss of appetite ,
or if he is letarghic. Monitor your dog!
Alternatives to Non Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs)
These several treatment alternatives have been shown to relieve discomfort in dogs ( Without bad side effects of Non Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs ) :
Traumeel , Zeel , California Poppy, Boswellia, Corydalis, Arnica.
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