💊 Vet’s 2025 Guide to Pain Medications for Dogs: NSAIDs, Safety & Being an Informed Pet Owner 🐶

By Dr Duncan Houston, BVSc

If your dog suffers from arthritis, surgery recovery, or injury-related discomfort, chances are your vet may prescribe a pain medication—most commonly an NSAID. 🐾

Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs) are a powerful and common tool in veterinary pain management. But like any medication, they must be used carefully and with veterinary guidance. In this 2025 guide, I’ll walk you through what NSAIDs are, how they work, and how to use them safely for your dog. 💡

🧪 What Are NSAIDs?

NSAIDs reduce inflammation—the source of much of your dog’s pain. Inflammation leads to swelling, stiffness, and discomfort. NSAIDs block enzymes called prostaglandins that mediate this process. 🔬

🦴 NSAIDs Help With:

• 🐕 Osteoarthritis (arthritis in hips, knees, or spine)
• 🛌 Post-surgical pain and inflammation
• 🏃 Injury-related soreness or swelling

Veterinary NSAIDs are safe and effective when used as prescribed. They’ve helped millions of dogs live longer, more active lives. 🐶💚

💊 Common NSAIDs for Dogs (2025)

These are the currently approved oral and injectable NSAIDs for dogs in the U.S.:

• RIMADYL (carprofen)
• VETPROFEN, CARPRIEVE, NOVOCOX, QUELLIN (carprofen generics)
• METACAM, MELOXIDYL, LOXICOM, OROCAM (meloxicam)
• DERAMAXX (deracoxib)
• PREVICOX (firocoxib)
• GALLIPRANT (grapiprant)
• ONSIOR (robenacoxib, short-term only)

Note: ONSIOR is approved for use in cats for up to 3 days and meloxicam for a single injection post-op. NSAID use in cats is limited. 🐱

📄 Client Information Sheets

Every prescribed NSAID should come with a Client Information Sheet—ask for it! It includes:

• 📋 Drug name and usage
• ⚠️ Side effects to monitor
• 📞 Manufacturer contact info

This sheet is your reference guide—keep it handy. 🗂️

📣 What to Discuss With Your Vet

Before giving any pain medication, talk with your vet about:

• 🔍 Why it’s being prescribed
• 💊 Correct dosage and frequency
• ⏳ Duration of treatment
• ⚠️ Known side effects
• 🔄 Recheck schedule and follow-up tests
• 💉 Other meds your dog is taking
• 📚 Your dog’s medical history (especially kidney, liver, or heart issues)

🚫 What NOT to Do With NSAIDs

• ❌ Never give human NSAIDs (like ibuprofen or naproxen)
• ❌ Don’t combine NSAIDs with corticosteroids
• ❌ Don’t share between dogs—doses vary!
• ❌ Don’t increase the dose without vet approval

⚠️ Potential NSAID Side Effects in Dogs

Most dogs tolerate NSAIDs well, but some may experience side effects. Always monitor closely when starting a new med. 🧐

Common Side Effects:

• 🍽️ Loss of appetite
• 😴 Lethargy or behavior changes
• 🤢 Vomiting
• 💩 Diarrhea or black tarry stool
• 🟡 Yellowing of gums, skin, or eyes (jaundice)
• 🚰 Increased or decreased thirst
• 🐕 Skin redness, scabs, or scratching

🔴 If You Notice These Signs:

Stop the drug immediately and call your vet. Early intervention prevents serious complications. 📞🛑

💡 “FRIEND” Checklist for NSAID Reactions:

Use this mnemonic to remember signs of possible NSAID side effects:

• F – Food refusal or reduced appetite
• R – Redness, scabs, or skin irritation
• I – Inactivity or unusual behavior
• E – Eyes or skin turning yellow (jaundice)
• N – Not drinking or drinking too much
• D – Dark, tarry stool or diarrhea

🧪 Lab Monitoring & Recheck Exams

For long-term use, regular blood work is crucial. 🧫 NSAIDs can affect:

• 🧬 Kidney function (BUN, creatinine)
• 🩸 Liver enzymes (ALT, ALP)
• 🧪 Overall hydration and electrolyte balance

Your vet will guide how often to retest, especially if your dog is on NSAIDs for chronic conditions like arthritis. 📅

📱 Ask A Vet Can Help

At AskAVet.com, we help you become the most informed dog parent you can be. Whether you're deciding on a new pain med or managing an existing one, we offer:

• 📞 Virtual vet consultations on medication safety
• 📲 App alerts for medication timing and recheck reminders
• 📄 Help interpreting blood test results and side effects

📲 Download the Ask A Vet App

Track your dog’s meds, connect with a licensed vet, and get immediate help for any medication concerns. 🐾📱

🦴 Final Thoughts

NSAIDs are incredibly valuable tools for managing your dog’s pain. Used correctly, they restore comfort and function. But they also require monitoring and responsible use. 💊🐶

As always, open communication with your veterinarian is your best safeguard. And when you need help between appointments, Ask A Vet is here 24/7. 🧠❤️

Comfort starts with knowledge. Let’s keep your best friend moving pain-free. 🐾