Petco Text Logo
Petco Pet Logo

My old dog has arthritis symptoms. What pain medicine is safe for her?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Jack Russell Terrier | Female | spayed | 16 years old

Evie is about 16 years old. We think she has arthritis, as it has gotten very cold in the last two days and she is suddenly whining and having trouble getting up the steps. We knew a boxer with hip arthritis who acted similarly. Is there medicine we can give her to help out? We only have human medicine like Bayer in our house and Im not sure what to do to ease the symptoms.

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Image profile

Answered By Andrea M. Brodie, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on January 11th, 2019

You will need to take your dog to a veterinarian for an exam and a blood test checking kidney and liver function. This will ensure that your dog can safely take NSAIDs in order to alleviate pain and inflammation caused by osteoarthritis.

Vote icon

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

image
Have A Vet Question?

Book an appointment with the pros – our expert vets are here to help.

Sponsored