My dog is on pain meds. When should I worry about his whining?

It can take a long time (2-4 weeks, in most cases) for symptoms to resolve completely with rest and medication. So as long as things are gradually improving, I would be patient and continue to follow your veterinarian's instructions :)

Some dogs react to opioids with whining or crying. While this can be upsetting or a nuisance, it is nothing to worry about. It is not a sign of pain. You may want to put him in a quiet dark room so he can calm down and possibly sleep it off. I hope the vet gave you an NSAID or another pain medicine to follow with.

Poor puppy!! It sounds like your dog is on all the correct medications. I would try to find a canine acupuncturist as it can help greatly in cases of wind up pain such as you are describing. Intractable pain is also a reason for surgical decompression of the spinal cord as well. Otherwise keep doing what you are doing. If your dog will allow you to hot pack his neck that can be helpful as well.

That won't be effective as dosage will be too low and won't work well twice daily. I would recommend to ask to you local veterinarian for another medication (tramadol could be an option for example). Please do not hesitate to contact us again on the forum or by requesting a consultation if you have any more questions or to discuss it any further.

He may have some spinal cord problems, especially with the cervical spinal cord, such as a slipped disk or arthritic changes that press on nerves and are painful. Ob is apparently very much in pain and therefore should be seen by a veterinarian tonight. The vet will do a thorough physical exam, palpate the spine to find where the pain is coming from, and also do a neurological exam and then x-rays. He will then discuss the exam findings with you and possible treatment. Your dog will get pain medicine and other medications as necessary. Dogs with pain often do not eat, and eating also may be painful as he has to chew, open his mouth and move the jaws. This may be more painful than lapping up water.

Try calling your veterinarian and explaining his lack of improvement. We try not to administer steroids unless absolutely necessary. Additionally, it is crucial to crate rest Barklie for at least 2-3 weeks. This means no running, jumping, or rough housing. He should only be taken out for short leash walks with a harness not a neck collar.

Since she is taking carprofen she should not be in severe pain. She is probably upset because she has to wear the cone. I am afraid you have to bear it out as she will try to "whine you into submission" ie hopes you will take the cone away. The whining should stop within two or three days. If she keeps whining for longer and you think something is wrong with her or if she gets pale mucous membranes, cannot urinate or stops eating you should take her back to the vet for a recheck,