If your dog is in pain, you might want to do something to help him feel better. You might wonder if you can give him aspirin, a common painkiller that many people use for themselves.
However, aspirin is not an easy or secure treatment for dogs. In fact, if administered improperly or without a doctor’s approval, aspirin can be harmful to dogs.
In this article, we will explain what is aspirin for dogs, how it works, why vets prescribe it for dogs, what are the benefits and risks of aspirin for dogs, how much aspirin you should give your dog, and what are some alternatives to aspirin for dogs.
Contents
What Is Aspirin for Dogs? and How Does It Work?
Aspirin is a kind of medicine that is included in the group of medications known as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).
NSAIDs function by lessening the quantity of prostaglandin, a naturally occurring chemical generated by the majority of body cells.[1]
Prostaglandin has a role in blood coagulation, fever, pain, and inflammation. Aspirin can aid in the alleviation of certain signs and illnesses by reducing prostaglandin levels.
How Does Aspirin Differ From Other NSAIDs?
There are two ways in which aspirin is unique from other NSAIDs. An enzyme called cyclooxygenase (COX), which is necessary for the synthesis of prostaglandin and thromboxane, is permanently inactivated by aspirin, which has the added effect of reducing blood clotting.
- The risk of bleeding may rise, although it may be helpful in avoiding heart attacks and strokes.
- Second, compared to specific NSAIDs like meloxicam and carprofen[2] aspirin has not been given the FDA’s approval for use in canines.
As a result, there is little information available about the safety and effectiveness of aspirin for canines.
Why Do Vets Prescribe Aspirin for Dogs?
Aspirin may be prescribed by vets for dogs that suffer from certain conditions that cause pain, inflammation, or fever.
Some of these conditions include osteoarthritis, musculoskeletal problems, or injuries. Aspirin can help reduce the discomfort and improve the quality of life of these dogs.[3]
Limitations of Aspirin for Dogs
- Aspirin is not, however, a first-line option for the majority of dogs as there are alternative NSAIDs like carprofen and meloxicam that are created and authorized for canine usage.
- There is less study and regulation on aspirin’s safety and effectiveness for dogs because the FDA has not licensed it for use in canines.
- As a result, veterinarians should only recommend aspirin for dogs when no other options are available, and dog owners should always speak with their veterinarian before providing aspirin to their pets.
- It is crucial to let the doctor know about any additional medications your dog is taking since aspirin can interfere with other prescriptions or supplements your dog may be taking.
Benefits and Risks of Aspirin for Dogs
Aspirin can have some benefits for dogs that are in pain or have inflammation due to certain conditions. However, aspirin also carries some benefits, risks and side effects for dogs that should not be ignored.
Benefits of Aspirin for Dogs
Aspirin can temporarily reduce the discomfort and improve the mobility and quality of life of dogs that suffer from conditions such as osteoarthritis, musculoskeletal problems, or injuries.[4]
Aspirin can also prevent blood clotting, which can be helpful for dogs with heart disease or risk of stroke.
Risks and Side Effects of Aspirin for Dogs
Aspirin can also have some risks and side effects for dogs that should not be ignored. In this section, we will discuss some of the potential complications and adverse reactions that aspirin can cause in dogs.
a). Stomach and intestinal damage: Aspirin can cause irritation and damage to the stomach and intestinal lining, leading to ulcers, bleeding, or perforation.
This can result in symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, black or tarry stool, or loss of appetite. Dogs that have a history of stomach problems, such as ulcers or gastritis, should not take aspirin.
b). Liver and kidney damage: Aspirin can also affect the liver and kidney function, especially in older dogs or dogs with pre-existing conditions.
This can lead to symptoms such as lethargy, fever, increased thirst or urination, jaundice, or blood in urine. Dogs that have liver or kidney disease should not take aspirin.
c). Drug interactions: Aspirin can also interact with other medications or supplements that the dog may be taking, such as steroids, anticoagulants, or herbal remedies.
This can increase the risk of bleeding, toxicity, or adverse effects. Dog owners should always inform their vet about any other drugs that their dog is on before giving aspirin.
d). Impaired healing and infection: Aspirin can also lower the dog’s ability to heal and increase the risk of infection.
This is because aspirin inhibits the production of prostaglandins, which are involved in inflammation, wound healing, and immune response. Dogs that have wounds, infections, or cancer should not take aspirin.
e). Aspirin toxicity: Aspirin toxicity is a serious condition that can occur if the dog takes too much aspirin at once or over a long period of time.
Aspirin toxicity can cause symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, fever, loss of appetite, blood in vomit or stool, difficulty walking, seizures, coma, or death.
If a dog owner suspects that their dog has aspirin toxicity, they should contact their vet immediately and seek emergency care. Aspirin toxicity can be fatal if not treated promptly.
How Much Aspirin Should I Give My Dog?
The amount of aspirin that a dog can safely take depends on several factors, such as the dog’s condition, weight, age, and other medications or supplements that the dog may be taking.
Therefore, it is essential to consult a vet before giving aspirin to a dog and follow their instructions carefully.
Dosage Guidelines for Aspirin for Dogs
According to the Merck Veterinary Manual, the recommended dosage range for aspirin for dogs is 10-40 mg per kg of body weight, given twice a day.
However, this dose can vary depending on the dog’s condition and individual response.
For example, dogs with arthritis may need a lower dose than dogs with injuries or fever. Older dogs or dogs with liver or kidney problems may also need a lower dose or a different medication altogether.
To avoid overdosing or toxicity, it is advisable to use baby aspirin or aspirin made for dogs rather than regular human aspirin.
- Baby aspirin contains 81 mg of aspirin per tablet, while regular human aspirin contains 325 mg per tablet.
- Aspirin made for dogs may have a lower dose or a different formulation that is safer and more effective for dogs.
- When giving aspirin to a dog, it is important to monitor the dog’s behavior and look for any signs of side effects or adverse reactions.
- If the dog shows any symptoms of vomiting, diarrhea, bleeding, lethargy, or difficulty walking, the owner should stop giving aspirin and contact their vet immediately.
Aspirin should not be given for more than a few days unless prescribed by a vet.
FAQs
How much aspirin can you give a dog?
The aspirin dosage for dogs varies depending on various factors and should be determined by a vet. The general guideline is 10-40 mg per kg of body weight, given twice a day.
Is it safe to give aspirin to dogs?
Aspirin can be beneficial for dogs with some conditions, but it can also be harmful for dogs with other conditions or if overdosed. Aspirin should only be given to dogs with a vet’s prescription and supervision.
What will aspirin do to a dog?
Aspirin can relieve pain and inflammation and prevent blood clots in dogs with some conditions. However, aspirin can also cause side effects and complications in dogs with other conditions or if overdosed.
What human painkiller can you give a dog?
Most human painkillers are not safe for dogs. Aspirin can be given to dogs with a vet’s prescription and supervision, but it can also be harmful for dogs. The best painkillers for dogs are those that are made for dogs.
Conclusion
In the conclusion of Aspirin for Dogs, Aspirin is a medication that can help reduce pain, inflammation, fever, and blood clots in dogs with certain conditions. However, aspirin can also cause side effects and complications in dogs with other conditions or if overdosed.
- Aspirin should only be administered to dogs under the direction and with a prescription from a veterinarian because the FDA has not approved its usage in canines.
- Before giving their pets aspirin, dog owners should always see a veterinarian and carefully follow their advice.
- Also, owners need to keep an eye out for any symptoms of an adverse response in their pets and get in touch with their vet right once if they do.
“The best and only solution for canine pain treatment is not aspirin.“
Some analgesics, such carprofen and meloxicam, are made especially for canine usage and have received approval.
Compared to aspirin and other NSAIDs used by humans, these drugs are both safer and more efficient. While choosing the appropriate painkiller for their dog’s condition and wellbeing, dog owners should consult their veterinarian.
References:
- Saad, J. (2022, July 18). Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs Toxicity. StatPearls – NCBI Bookshelf. Retrieved June 26, 2023, from – NCBI
- NSAID (Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drug) Medication guide for. (2021, December 1). Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine. Retrieved June 26, 2023, from – Cornell University
- Crnec, I., DVM. (2023). Can I Give My Dog Aspirin? A Guide to Aspirin for Dogs Dosage & More! – Veterinarians
- Anderson, K. L., Zulch, H., O’Neill, D. G., Meeson, R., & Collins, L. M. (2020b). Risk Factors for Canine Osteoarthritis and Its Predisposing Arthropathies: A Systematic Review. Frontiers in Veterinary Science, 7. –Frontiers
- Pathophysiology of aspirin overdosage toxicity, with implications for management. (1978, November 1). Retrieved June 26, 2023, from – PubMed
Julia is a Board Certified Veterinary Nutritionist, practicing veterinarian in a non-profit animal hospital and feline sanctuary located in Rochester, NY. She is also a full-time veterinary advisor at DogLikesBest. She focuses on writing healthcare-related topics including dog foods, treats, veterinary diets, food for specific healthcare features, etc. Moreover, any article on DogNeedsBest that has to concern feline health in any way, goes under her scrutiny before being published.
