Rimadyl for dogs or Carprofen is a 24-hour, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that is usually administered once a day, or a half dose in the morning and evening. It is manufactured by Pfizer Animal Health and prescribed for dogs that are suffering from arthritis pain or pain from surgery. Rimadyl cannot be purchased in a pet supply store; it must be prescribed by your veterinarian.
Benefits
The benefits of using Rimadyl for dogs is noticeable in their increased mobility. You may also notice less groaning when they are trying to get comfortable, and an increase in their mood. Depression or lack of interest in an older dog is often a sign they may be suffering in some manner, or it may be caused by loss of vision or hearing. If you have a large breed dog, mobility as long as possible is very important as it may become difficult or impossible for you to help your dog outside to relieve himself or herself.
Rimadyl is often prescribed for post-surgery pain and may be injected prior to surgery to control pain. Rimadyl is the only injectible NSAID product on the market at this time. A pre-surgery injection will allow for faster recovery and better pain management for your pet who cannot tell you how much or where it hurts. According to Rimadyl.com, an injection can control pain for up to 24 hours, which is the timeframe in which your dog will experience peak pain levels.
Side Effects
Some dogs may experience side effects such as upset stomach, diarrhea or loss of appetite. These can be symptoms of liver or kidney problems associated with Rimadyl. If any of these side effects occur, discontinue using the product and consult your veterinarian as soon as possible.
Quality of Life
Rimadyl for dogs may be prescribed with additional instructions from your veterinarian. Often when arthritis sets in, your dog may not want to exercise as much and can begin to gain weight, especially if your pet is confined. Just like in humans, weight gain can aggravate your dog’s condition. Have your vet analyze your pet’s weight chart for the past few years to determine if this problem seems to be accelerating. Your vet may prescribe more frequent walks, a dietary change , a change in the amount of food offered, or a combination of these. Diseases such as arthritis can greatly reduce the quality of life of your canine friend, so be sure and follow your veterinary’s advice as closely as possible.