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My arthritic dog is in pain. What can I safely give her until the vet?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Bull Terrier | Female | spayed | 9 years and 11 months old | 65 lbs

My nine year old Bull Terrier has arthritis in between her hips, I have be treating her with a natural remedy called Arth-ionx. This morning on our walk we ran into a large young very playful dog and my dog over did it and is now in more pain then normal. one of her back hocks is swollen and she is whining which she rarely if ever does because of pain. is there anything I can safely give her until tomarrow when I can take her to the vets if she is still in pain. Thank you Donna Warnberg

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Anna M., DVM

Veterinarian

Published on July 23rd, 2017

Poor Willow! Unfortunately no, there are no safe effective over-the-counter pain medications for dogs. The best thing to do for her is minimize her activity and keep her quiet until she can get to the vet. If she needs help getting around, you can loop a towel under her tummy to use as a sling and take some of the weight off her legs. I would discourage even giving aspirin, as anything you give may interfere with the medications your vet may start tomorrow. If her pain level is excessive and you feel she can't wait that long, the next best thing would be to take her to the nearest emergency vet. I know it's hard to see our pets in pain! Hope she feels better soon.

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    Answered By Rodrigo Roca, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    Hello, sorry to hear about Willow. I would shy away from using any over the counter remedies for humans like Tylenol (Acetaminophen) or Advil (Ibuprophen) as these have a very narrow safety margin and can be very toxic for Willow. You may try somewhat of a RICE therapy, where you have her rest, ice her hocks if she will allow you, compress her hocks with a tight fitting sock, and if possible raise her hind end (which always nearly impossible). If her pain isn't getting any better or is severe, then you may need to bring her to an emergency hospital so they can give her some pain meds and check for any injuries to her legs or bones. Hope this helps.

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