My dog limps after shoulder surgery. What can I give for his pain?

Thank you for contacting Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach with your question about Louis. Unfortunately there are no OTC pain medications you can give him. Many human ones like the one you listed above are toxic to dogs, and can be fatal if taken. I would have him seen by his vet. The vet can prescribe a safe pain medication for you to give him as needed. I hope this helps!

There is nothing OTC that can safely be given to your dog. Many OTC medications are toxic or can easily be overdosed. Additionally, our experts are legally prohibited from recommending medications in the absence of a physical exam and a VPCR (veterinarian-patient-client relationship). Restrict her activity for the rest of the night and tomorrow. A warm compress can be applied for 10-15 minutes. If the lameness persists or if she is extremely painful, have her physically examined by your veterinarian. Afterwards, an appropriate medication can be administered or dispensed. Never medicate a pet without the advice of your veterinarian.

Dogs can experience pain from a variety of health conditions, including [osteoarthritis](https://www.petcoach.co/dog/condition/arthritis-1/),[ dental disease](https://www.petcoach.co/dog/condition/dental-disease/), [urinary tract infections](https://www.petcoach.co/dog/condition/utis-in-dogs/) or traumatic injuries, among many others. While it is extremely difficult to see our four-legged friends in pain, there are no safe and effective over-the-counter medications for managing pain in dogs (or cats). Over the counter pain relievers for humans, such as ibuprofen (Advil or Motrin), acetaminophen (Tylenol) and naproxen (Aleve) are all toxic to animals. Aspirin should also not be given to dogs because it causes significant irritation and potential ulceration of the gastrointestinal tract, and it inhibits a dog’s ability to clot blood. If you think that your dog is in pain, your best bet is to take him to your veterinarian. After performing a [physical exam](https://www.petcoach.co/article/what-does-your-veterinarian-look-for-during-a-physical-exam/), your veterinarian will be able to prescribe safe and effective medication. Only give pain medication to the pet for which it was prescribed due to risks with drug interactions, improper doses or contraindications with certain medical conditions. ### Elanco and the diagonal bar logo are trademarks of Elanco or its affiliates. Galliprant is a registered trademark of Aratana Therapeutics, Inc.

Poor Lexi! I'm sorry to hear that she's limping. Unfortunately, there are no over-the-counter pain medications that are safe for use in dogs, so there isn't anything you can give her at home today. I would recommend keeping her as calm and quiet as possible to avoid aggravating her injury further, and taking her to the vet tomorrow for an exam to find out what's going on.

Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! If can only use one, the anti-inflammatory drug would be more useful in this scenario probably. There are no safe over the counter pain control medications that can be used without the guidance of a veterinarian. The pain is likely due to a combination of factors including arthritis and the abnormal bone growth you described. Good luck!

Unfortunately there are no pain relievers you can give Roxy. Many human ones are toxic to dogs, and can be fatal if given. I recommend resting her for the next 48 hours. No running, jumping, or playing. Take her out to toilet on a leash, and bring her right back in when she's done. If she still appears painful after this time, then I would take her into the vet for an exam. The vet can diagnose where the pain is coming from, and can dictate a treatment plan for it. She may also benefit from some pain medications, which the vet can prescribe.

Since she's been lame for a week, an exam with your veterinarian would be recommended. X-rays to diagnose fractures may be indicated after a physical exam. There are very few OTC medications you can give a dog for pain at home. Most are toxic or easy to overdose. Do not medicate Diamond without the advice of your veterinarian.