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Is ibuprofen or aspirin safe for my dog's sore legs after ACL surgery?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Large (61lb +) | Female | spayed | 7 years old | 80 lbs

Is ibuprofen and aspirin okay for dogs. My labrador tore her ACL 3 years ago and had surgery and now is sore on both back legs

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Dr. Davis

Veterinarian

Published on October 8th, 2017

No ibuprofen is not safe to give to your dog. While aspirin had been used for pain relief many years ago now there are safer pain medications specifically for dogs. Aspirin can cause gastric ulcers and intestinal bleeding so I never recommend it. Your veterinarian should examine Hershey as she may have injured the ACL on the other leg. Over 70% of dogs who damage one ACL damage the other one within a few years. Hershey will need rest, no jumping, controlled leash walks and pain medication to get better without surgery. If there is a dog rehabilitation center near you they can give exercises for home care and can provide therapy usually including hydrotherapy. If the ligament is torn completely and the lameness not improving in a few weeks with rest, therapy and medication then Hershey may need surgery on the other knee too. Please talk with your veterinarian about prescribing a safe pain medication for Hershey. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach to help you care for Hershey.

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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