Pain and inflammation in dogs
Inflammation has 5 characteristic features: redness, warmth, swelling, pain, and loss of function. Inflammation is the body’s response to a specific stimulus.
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What is inflammation?
This can be a response to a microorganism such as bacteria, fungus, or yeast; it can be a reaction to a corrosive substance or a physical change like heat. In addition to external stimuli, inflammation can also be caused by internal stimuli, as is the case with autoimmune disorders. Inflammation can be associated with an infection (e.g., bacterial) but can also occur without an infection.
Symptoms of inflammation
Inflammation can occur throughout the entire body. Depending on the cause, severity, and location of inflammation, this can result in various symptoms. In the case of inflammation in a limb, dogs may limp, refuse to walk, or excessively lick the inflamed area. Sometimes there may be little noticeable, except for swelling. An inflammation in the uterus logically presents entirely different symptoms, as does, for example, an ear infection.
Treatment
Since there are many different types of inflammation, the required treatments depend on the cause and location. In many cases, anti-inflammatory drugs are necessary, which also reduce pain. In the case of an infection, the causative agents must also be addressed, often requiring antibiotics.
Acute pain
Some inflammations cause acute, suddenly occurring symptoms. This can be due to the pain associated with it, sometimes because of swelling. Anti-inflammatory drugs can immediately alleviate the pain of these animals and reduce swelling. Additionally, the cause of the inflammation must be addressed.
Pain from chronic inflammation
In the case of chronic pain, we can think of wear and tear on the body due to aging. Inflammations in the dog’s musculoskeletal system, such as arthritis, can occur. Indications include stiffness when getting up or after a long walk and a reluctance to jump. Often, these dogs also rest much more than before. Because joint wear and tear are more common in older dogs, it gradually creeps in. It is a gradual process, and sometimes the symptoms may not be very noticeable or are attributed to the dog’s age. The most sensible option is to visit the veterinarian so they can examine the dog and determine the cause. Only during treatment does it become clear how much such a problem influences the dog’s behavior.
Read more about painkillers for your dog here.
