None of us like to see our dogs in any pain and so when there is pain, it is often the first instinct to reach for those drugs that our vet might prescribe. But what if these are not available or, more importantly, you are really concerned with the potential side effects of these and you are wanting something more natural for your pet? Today lets check out my top 5 pain remedies to help stop pain in its tracks so stay tuned to learn more.
So we know that pain drugs can be effective but are certainly not without their side effects and some of these can be much worse than the pain they are intending to treat. So are there effective natural pain remedies and if so, that are my top recommendations?
Firstly don’t forget that pain comes when there is inflammation so any supplement that we consider needs to have anti-inflammatory actions as well.
Boswellia serrata -also known as Indian frankincense, is a resin extracted from the Boswellia serrata tree. It has been used for centuries in traditional Ayurvedic medicine for various health purposes, including pain relief. Boswellia contains active compounds known as boswellic acids, which have anti-inflammatory and analgesic (pain-relieving) properties. Boswellia is often used to reduce inflammation, which is a common underlying cause of pain in conditions such as osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. The boswellic acids in Boswellia are thought to inhibit pro-inflammatory enzymes, which can help alleviate pain and discomfort and can also preserve the health of the joint. It can also help reduce stiffness and improve the mobility or movement of the joint.
IN addition, as well as being an excellent anti arthritis herb, Boswellia can help reduce the pain and inflammation associated with inflammatory bowel disease and asthma. Think about a dose of 10-15 mg per kg bodyweight daily although in some cases more might be give depending on the dog. Given over a period of at least 6 weeks but it can be given over longer periods as your dog requires it.
Maritime pine bark, also known as Pycnogenol, is a natural extract derived from the bark of the maritime pine tree . It has been studied for its many potential health benefits, including its use for pain relief where it can have a positive effect on managing pain that is associated with degenerative joint diseases including arthritis. Pine bark is rich in antioxidants and this helps protect the joint from free radical damage and oxidation (think metal that rusts when exposed to the elements).
This coupled with its powerful anti-inflammatory properties make is a good choice to help reduce the pain and discomfort associated with these types of degenerative joint problems that effects particularly older dogs. It not only reduces pain but increases the overall mobility of the joint by helping protect the cartilage over the long term. Look at 3-5 mg per kg bodyweight daily- best given in a divided dose into food and given over a period of weeks to months for best results.
Magnesium oil- while this is not one that you give internally it can be amazing to help the pain and tension around joints that comes from tight or stressed muscles. Magnesium is one of the most common nutrient deficiencies and so using this topically not only helps with the topical pain or joints and muscles but will also improve the magnesium levels as it absorbs into the body. Magnesium will help relax the muscles and nerves as well as having some antiinflammatory properties and in this way it can help reduce pain and calm your dog as well which will also help reduce overall pain. Start with a small amount on the affected area and then apply as needed on a daily basis if required.
PEA (palmitoylethanolamide) this substance is classed as an endocannabinoid and it can be found naturally in egg yolks. While it is not often referred to this substance has been around for many decades. This can be effective not only for arthritis and other joint conditions causing pain but for a whole host of other health problems that lead to pain including neurological conditions such as neuropathy, acute pain from injury and even the pain associated with cancer.
It does this by way of reducing nerve sensitivity to pain, modulating pain pathways and reducing inflammatory response and having an analgesic effect. This very safe supplement can help reduce pain levels by as much as 60% and it generally can do this in a period of weeks. The dose will vary depending on the nature of the pain but in general, give 10mg per 1kg bodyweight daily in divided doses and give over a longer period if required depending on your dog.
Ginger- is a natural anti-inflammatory that has been used for centuries to treat pain and inflammation. It contains compounds called gingerols and which have been shown to reduce inflammation and pain and this spice also improves circulation which is essential if your dog has pain that we get that circulation moving more efficiently. Ginger also contains salicylates, which your dogs body transforms into a chemical substance called salicylic acid. Salicylic acid prevents your nerves making certain prostaglandins and this eases pain and discomfort. Just a note on this if you dog has salicylate allergy then please avoid ginger. As a hot spice, start slowly and build up but look at a dose of 20-50mg per kg bodyweight daily in divided dose added into food. You can also add in fresh ginger but some dogs just don’t like the taste and giving a supplement form will be much stronger for most dogs.
And don’t forget that you can also combine one or more of these remedies for better effect although you may wish to try one at a time to see which brings the best results for your dog.
Great Vlog Lyndall :-) My foster dog has a lot of pain, tightness and inflammation in his joints and muscles. Can you recommend a reliable source for these suggested supplements? Currently I have been supplementing with golden paste, rosehip and a hip and joint blend (glucosamine, MSM and chondroitin) on top of massage, red light laser therapy and just starting chiropractic. I also try to hide your anti-inflam drops in his food. He is certainly showing signs of improvement in mobility and is getting more active but still a long way to go. The issues mostly stem from being overweight and inactive for an unknown length of time but he is now enjoying daily walks and losing weight slowly.