Pawsitive Pain Management

🐾 What to Do If You Suspect Your Dog Is in Pain

If you think your dog may be experiencing pain, the first step is to consult a veterinarian and discuss a pain trial.

Pain in dogs can manifest in both obvious and subtle ways, including:

🔹 Limping or difficulty moving

🔹 Nibbling or licking a specific area

🔹 Bunny hopping (often mistaken as normal)

🔹 Changes in fur texture or condition

Regular annual vet check-ups can help identify hidden health issues that might not be immediately visible to the untrained eye.

🩺 Natural Support & Pain Management

There's a misconception that pain management must be either natural remedies OR conventional medication—but in reality, a multi-modal approach is the most effective.

Supporting your dog’s health through a combination of veterinary treatments and natural methods can lead to better pain management while addressing underlying causes of discomfort.

🌿 Natural Remedies for Pain Relief

While natural remedies can complement traditional treatments, they should always be approved by your veterinarian to avoid medication interactions. Here are some potential options:

✅ Dietary Supplements – Glucosamine & chondroitin such as Jointwell (for joint health where a pre-existing joint condition is not yet diagnosed) or Movewellia (for joint health where a pre-existing joint condition has been diagnosed), probiotics (for gut support).

✅ Herbal Remedies – Chamomile (calming), ginger (anti-nausea), turmeric (anti-inflammatory).

✅ CBD Oil – Sometimes used for pain, anxiety, or seizures, but requires a vets approval due to product quality concerns and the need for safer regulation.

✅ Hydrolat's – Pet-safe hydrolats (e.g., lavender, chamomile, rose) for relaxation when correctly diluted, a great source is Yorkshire Pooches Therapies.

✅ Acupuncture – Performed by trained veterinary acupuncturists, useful for pain & mobility issues.

✅ Physical Therapy – Includes stretching & massage, beneficial for dogs with mobility challenges.

✅ Hydrotherapy – Pool or underwater treadmill therapy for joint issues or post-surgery recovery.

✅ Canine Massage – Reduces muscle tension, promotes relaxation when performed by a trained practitioner.

✅ Environmental Enrichment – Mental stimulation through puzzle toys, interactive games, gentle exercise to reduce stress.

📌 Always seek veterinary guidance before introducing new treatments or supplements. Monitor your dog closely for any adverse reactions when using natural therapies.

🦠 Supporting Gut Health While on Medication

Certain medications, especially antibiotics, can disrupt gut health. Understanding potential side effects can help prevent complications:

🚨 Common Gut-Related Side Effects:

✔️ Gastrointestinal Upset – Diarrhoea, vomiting, or discomfort.

✔️ Reduced Appetite – A temporary decline in food intake.

✔️ Constipation – Some medications slow digestion.

✔️ Changes in Stool Consistency – Can become unusually soft or firm.

✔️ Nutrient Absorption Issues – Medications may impact digestion and lower nutrient uptake.

✔️ Behavioural Shifts – Monitor for signs of stress, fatigue, or agitation.

🔍 If any of these symptoms occur, consult your vet immediately for tailored support.

A pain diary can help you to track your dogs pain & can help to open conversations about pain, such as progress on a pain trial, with your vet. Yorkshire Pooches Therapies provides a fabulously thorough yet easy to understand version.

🔹 How to Naturally Support Gut Health on Medication

💊 Probiotics: High-quality probiotic supplements encourage beneficial gut bacteria growth.🧪 Digestive Enzymes: Aid digestion & nutrient absorption. Whole food sources include:

• Papaya, flaxseed, kelp, chicory root

• Pumpkin, raw honey/bee pollen, raw dairy products

• Kefir, coconut water, raw pancreas

  💧 Hydration: Encourage fresh water intake to support digestion.

  🥩 Raw Diet: Provides 60–70% moisture, packed with essential nutrients.

  🍲 Bone Broth: Adds extra hydration & gut support—available from brands like Alexander’s Natural, Karnlea, Anco, or homemade.

  📌 Regular Monitoring: Watch behavior, stool consistency, appetite changes, and report concerns to your vet.

  
  

🩺 Integrating Traditional & Holistic Approaches

Veterinary treatments and natural remedies work best together—here are additional holistic options for pain relief and gut health:

✔️ Homeopathic Treatments – Some are believed to help, but vet consultation is necessary for efficacy.

✔️ Herbal Supplements – Chamomile, ginger, turmeric (with vet approval essential where medication is being used especially).

✔️ CBD for Pain & Anxiety – Requires vet approval for dosage safety.

✔️ Hydrolat's – Pet-safe hydrolats (e.g., lavender, chamomile, rose) for relaxation when correctly diluted, a great source is Yorkshire Pooches Therapies.

✔️ Physical Therapy & Acupuncture – Provided by qualified specialists.

✔️ Hydrotherapy & Massage – Aids muscle recovery & relaxation.

✔️ Mental Enrichment – Puzzle toys, sensory stimulation, controlled playtime help overall well-being.

🚫 Avoid unnecessary chemicals, flea treatments, and wormers—consult a pro-raw or holistic vet for safe alternatives.

Final Thoughts: Providing Comprehensive Care

✔️ Recognising pain in dogs can be difficult—symptoms range from limping to subtle behavioural shifts.

✔️ Vet check-ups are key for early detection and ensuring a multi-modal approach to pain management.

✔️ Natural remedies should always be approved by a veterinarian before use.

✔️ Gut health is essential—adjust diet, hydration, and supplementation to counteract medication side effects.

📌 By combining medical support, natural therapies, and lifestyle adjustments, you can significantly improve your dog’s comfort and well-being.

RFFDMSUK Privacy Policy can be found here, our Statement of Transparency is here, and our Terms & Conditions here

As an Amazon Associate, RFFDMSUK earn from qualifying purchases #CommissionsEarned