No guardian wants to see their canine companion in pain. Surgery can be an anxiety-inducing prospect, but soft tissue surgery for dogs is something that most canines will experience at one point or another. Spay/neuter procedures, oncologic surgery, and other soft tissue or orthopedic operations are a necessary part of veterinary care, and knowing how to care for your fur-baby afterward is essential. NSAIDs are a common method of pain management after soft tissue surgery for dogs, but what are they? Let’s find out.
Managing Pain After Surgery for Dogs
Post-operative pain is to be expected in most cases. While veterinary surgeons can utilize injections and various types of pain medication when the patient is physically under their care, veterinary professionals must send their patients (and their parents) home with sufficient supplies to soothe discomfort and manage breakthrough pain. Because dogs aren’t always the easiest to understand, it is vital for guardians to follow all of their care team’s medication and post-operative care guidelines. Guardians must be on the lookout for symptoms of pain or discomfort, and open lines of communication with the patient’s veterinary care team are essential.
NSAIDs: What are They and How are They Used?
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatories (NSAIDs) are a standard tool in any pain management arsenal, and most people already have some NSAIDs at home. Medications like ibuprofen, naproxen, and high-dose aspirin are designed for human use and should NEVER be administered to pets.A handful of similar drugs are safer for our furry friends. Your companion’s veterinary surgeon may prescribe meloxicam, carprofen, galliprant, meloxicam, or another NSAID to manage inflammation and pain.
Watch for These Signs After Soft Tissue Surgery for Dogs
While NSAIDs like carprofen are often well tolerated by canine patients, there are a few signs that guardians should watch for when administering medications. One helpful acronym is BEST: behavior, eating less, skin symptoms, and tarry stool. These signs can indicate severe side effects or complications, and they (and any other noticeable symptoms) should be reported to your veterinary care team immediately.
Trust Maryland Veterinary Surgical Services With Your Companion’s Health
Your companion’s health is important, and the team at MVSS is ready to provide the best care possible for your furry family. We are dedicated to combining comprehensive exams and assessments with informative and honest discussions of your companion’s care. Once we have worked with you to decide on the best course of action for your dog, our professionals will use their surgical expertise to work towards the goal of giving your companion an active and pain-free life. We are proud to serve loyal companions in Catonsville and Baltimore. To learn more about our services, give us a call at 410-788-4088 or visit us online. For more information and tips for pet health, follow us on Facebook and Pinterest.