My dog has a sore paw. What over-the-counter pain meds are safe?

Unfortunately there are no over the counter pain medications that are safe for dogs. I would recommend discussing with your veterinarian if there is something you can switch him to that is more cost effective and still approved for use in dogs. You can also check into online pharmacies or box stores (such as Costco) that offer pet medications at a lower price.

Unfortunately no. Many human pain medications 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.

I'm sorry to hear that Brian seems so uncomfortable. Unfortunately, there are no safe over the counter pain medications that can be given to dogs. The most effective way to manage his pain is by taking him to his vet for prescription-based pain medication. Depending on the type of wound, a cool or warm compress can briefly ease discomfort. If Brian is licking at his paw, be sure to keep an e-collar (cone) on him until you can get to the vet. If you do not have an e-collar, this link has tips on making one at home: http://dogsaholic.com/care/homemade-dog-cone.html. I hope that all goes well!

Unfortunately I do not recommend giving any over the counter pain medications to dogs. While aspirin is available in some pet stores and technically can be given to dogs it can easily cause stomach upset and if Koda was recently given any kind of NSAID medication it could cause serious problems. It’s also not the best for pain! I would recommend calling your vet to see if they can refill the pain medication for Koda since she’s still sore. Sometimes a warm compress can also help with comfort.

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 pup! If his paws are sore, then I would rest for the next 72 hours. Keep him as quiet as possible, no running, jumping, or playing. I would take him out to toilet on a lead only, and bring him right back in when he's done. Do not give him any human pain medications, as many are toxic to dogs and can be fatal if given. If his paws are still sore after 72 hours, then I would take him into the vet for an exam as he may benefit from some safe pain medication. Hopefully, a few days rest will help his paws feel better.

There are no over the counter pain killers/anti inflammatories that are safe for dogs unfortunately, keep him rested as much as possible, if it doesn't get better within a couple days- take him to the vet in order to get it checked and treated.