Using Aspirin for Dogs

Aspirin is a great pain reliever for mild to moderate pain and discomfort in humans, but is it safe to use aspirin for a dog? Human aspirin should not be given to a dog because it is too high a dosage, and can cause serious side effects. However, a veterinarian formulated dog aspirin can be given safely to dogs over six months old. Your vet will recommend the use of a buffered aspirin, as a dog’s stomach is very sensitive to the effects of non-buffered aspirin. Consultations with your veterinarian to discuss appropriate dosing requirements and the underlying cause for your dog’s pain is essential to your dog’s health. Pain is very personal and each dog reacts to it differently. So, how can you tell if you’re dog is in pain?

Some subtle signs that your dog may be in pain are:

    * Becoming withdrawn or unusually meak
    * Decreased activity level
    * Changes in behavior
    * Reluctance to climb stairs
    * Reacting negatively to being held, touched or picked up

If your dog is exhibiting any of these behaviors, it is possible that he/she may benefit from some amount of pain management. Using a vet formulated aspirin for your dog has the ability to temporarily relieve the mild to moderate pain associated with certain conditions and does so when used properly. Your vet can explain the correct dosage for your dog’s age, weight and general health and be sure to follow the dosage instrructions on the dog formulated aspirin bottle. Your vet will also give you advice on how to administer the medication with the least amount of distress to your dog. Using a flavored aspirin developed specifically for dogs can make giving your dog aspirin a whole lot easier.