What To Give Your Pet In Muscle Pain

Dogs have nearly 700 muscles in their bodies, each one of them work in pairs. When one contracts the other relaxes thus creating the movement of the joints. So, it’s definitely no surprise if these muscles get injured and cause pain. The reason behind may be plenty, but to diagnose it can be hard. Thus, it can turn into quite a distressing experience to see your dog in pain. If you’re wondering as to what you can give your pet to ease the pain, we have a few safe solutions to recommend.

Hot And Cold Compress

A hot and cold compress can be said as the best natural pain relief for dogs even if it’s temporary. Trust us, it’s no rocket science. In fact, cold compress works to minimize the swelling and the hot compress works to reduce the ache and pain. Heat is very much useful in a case where a muscle has been pulled and also in the case of arthritis. Don’t even think twice, just do it!

Mineral Salt Bath

It is already clear from above that heat is useful to treat a pulled muscle. To it, adding a little extra will help your dog relax a bit more. One of the best ways to do it is by giving them a mineral salt bath using Epsom salt or any other salt. This can be arranged easily at home to help relax and Soothe the pulled muscles along with the pain in your dog’s leg. After the bath, rub eucalyptus oil on the injured leg. It’s a well known natural pain relief for dogs for their aching muscles.

Herbal Treatment

Using herbal remedies may take a little longer than other prescription medicines. Or they may even lack the depth of activity of the conventional medicines. But, they are far safer, non-addictive, and thus tend to have a broader spectrum of activity. Let these be your first choice to help your dog. To begin with, here are a few herbs that can be used to alleviate pain along with taking care of other problems. They can be applied in the form of tincture or oil infusion on the affected area.

  • St. John’s wort –  It can be used to reduce pain if the muscles, joints or nerve endings have been bruised or crushed.
  • Licorice – Due to the presence of glycyrrhizin, it can be used to alleviate muscle pain as well As reduce swelling caused due to arthritis.
  • Ginger – If used topically, ginger can be made into a poultice for the treatment of muscle Pains and strains. Also, this root due to its anti-spasmodic property makes it a great remedy For stomach pain and lower back pain.
  • Yucca – Saponin, an important constituent in it has anti-inflammatory actions. Thus, it stimulates the body to produce hormones that help to relieve pain and inflammation. It is Particularly effective when used in combination with alfalfa and licorice.

Over The Counter Meds

Prescription and over-the-counter meds are often given to the pet to ease the pain. Thankfully, they are far less risky and equally effective alternative. Yet prefer anti-inflammatory pain tablets that are Specially designed for pets. Just crush them up and mix them into the moist dog food. They are a great option, especially for those dealing with general ache and pain along with arthritis as well as Other degenerative joint diseases.

Conventional Pain Meds

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medicines are effective, but also quite dangerous. Since they are powerful medications, instead of alleviating the pain they can cause more suffering easily. This, in particular, is true for puppies. Therefore, talk to a trusted vet before administering any potent drug In this category. It needs to be used with great caution. Names of some well-known meds include Ibuprofen, Advil, Tylenol, Aleve, and Bayer. Let this quick and cheap fix be the last option of all, if You love your dog.

If such little problems are left untreated, they can get worse and turn into a chronic condition with Time. So, do not let your dog suffer in pain. If these remedies do not seem to work, do book an Appointment with your vet.

By: Kathreen Miller

Kathreen Miller is a pet health expert. She lives in Chicago with her daughter and a dog named “Buddy”.  She regularly contributes her write ups to pet health related websites and blogs. In her Free time, she loves listening to music, watching TV and travelling.

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