What are the Different Uses of Rimadyl® for Dogs?

Using Rimadyl® for dogs can be an effective way to combat canine arthritis pain. The prescription medicine can be used as a part of a pain treatment plan for canine joint disease. This pain killer for dogs is also sometimes used as a post-operative medication.

Canine arthritis pain affects many dogs. Sufferers are often elderly dogs whose bones ache from general wear and tear. Other dogs, however, may suffer from disease or other causes of joint pain, as well as general inflammation following an injury. Rimadyl® can help dog owners manage their companions’ pain from these and other conditions. Rather than giving pets pain medication every few hours, this drug may allow owners to administer a single dose each day. The pill can be broken up into two daily dosages if desired.

Some hormones in the body can cause inflammation and pain. Rimadyl® for dogs works by reducing the excess hormones in the dog’s body, effectively stopping the cause of the pain at its source. Since the medication may be purchased in both chewable and non-chewable form, it is simple to administer to most dogs. Chewable pills are typically liver-flavored to enhance the dog’s desire to chew and swallow the medicine.

Though Rimadyl® for dogs is non-steroidal in origin, and generally considered safe, it is only available by veterinary prescription. It may be purchased in small amounts for post-surgical or other temporary uses. Larger containers of the medication are available for dogs who will require the medicine for longer-term uses, such as lifelong management of arthritis pain.

Dogs under six weeks of age should not be given Rimadyl®. Dogs used for breeding should not be given this pain remedy, either. Rimadyl® for dogs is not intended for dogs that are pregnant or lactating. Cats should not be given this medication. Dosage is determined by weight, and is generally 2 milligrams per pound (.45 kg) of the dog’s total body weight.

Generic alternatives to Rimadyl® for dogs are also available. Veterinarians can obtain such alternatives for a fraction of the cost, and pass the savings to their customers when requested. People who have pets with arthritis pain may wish to inquire about this discount medicine. Veterinarians may recommend additional medications or treatments to help ailing or aging dogs as well, such as the use of the supplements glucosamine and condroitin.

Studies have indicated that the medicine may not be completely safe for use, and several dog deaths may be attributed to the drug. Some symptoms of a bad reaction to the drug can include diarrhea, loss of appetite, and seizures. If side effects occur, a veterinarian should immediately be contacted. It may also exacerbate other, previously undetected conditions within older dogs.