Consult your vet if your dog is experiencing pain

If you suspect that your dog may be in pain, the first and most important thing to do is contact your veterinarian — immediately. Don't wait to see whether your dog's situation improves. Call your vet to discuss your observations and schedule an appointment to have your pet examined. Your vet will be able to evaluate your pet's health and, if necessary, suggest an appropriate course of treatment that may include prescription pain relief.

Things you can do to help a dog in
pain due to veterinary surgery

If your dog is in pain due to surgery, you may be given specific advice differing from the general advice below. Always follow your vet's instructions.

Your vet may want you to:

• Limit your pet's movement. Crate your dog or put their food, water, and bed or blanket together in a quiet area where your pet can relax in peace.
• Check in on your dog often. It gives you an opportunity to monitor their situation and gives your pet the comfort of your presence.
• DO NOT give your dog over-the-counter pain-relief medicines without instructions from your vet. Many human medications can be toxic or even deadly to dogs.

Things you can do to help a dog in chronic pain

If your vet has diagnosed your dog with an ongoing chronic condition like osteoarthritis, he or she may have prescribed a medication for pain relief. In addition to treating your dog's pain with medication, there are a number of things you can do to help.

• Controlled exercise helps control weight, improves muscle strength and, over time, increases the range of motion of joints. Of course, it's also an enjoyable time together for you and your pet — and good for you too!
• Weight loss in an overweight dog removes unnecessary additional stress on painful joints.
• Supplements or an EPA-enriched diet may be helpful — talk to your vet for specific recommendations.
• Well-designed, regular physical rehabilitation (especially following surgery) can decrease pain, improve endurance, and improve joint range of motion.
• A firm bed in a warm, draft-free area will be more comfortable, provide support to joints, and make getting up easier.