Dog Community

Pain or Not Pain?

Posted : 8/25/2009 7:24:02 AM

Ok why are dogs so darn STOIC!!!! I can't help but worry about Max. On one hand she seems fine, but is she? We had a bad stretch about 3 weeks ago, the vet put her on tramadol but after 10 days he wanted her off to see if she needed to go right back on or if she could go for a while with out.

She seems "ok", but she is slower, she tires more easily, she is still eating "well", and she is still going up and down the stairs to eat her meals. Now I know the slowing down and tiring could be just the changes going on in her body, but could they be pain? I was very stressed last night about her, and I want to make sure I am not "failing" her.

I guess I am not sure what I should be looking for. The time before it was blatant. She was just not her self. Right now she isn't exactly her self, but I am not sure she isn't either. I don't know if I should talk to my vet, put her back on meds, keep her off.... I CAN'T STAND THIS!!!!

Every day I look in her eyes, I tell her I love her, and I tell her to help me know what to do. She just looks back lovingly. She is such a great dog.

Any thoughts would be appreciated. If none, thanks for listening.

BEVOLASVEGAS

Posted : 8/25/2009 8:13:27 AM

Ann, I know that you are worried but trust me when I say that I KNOW you will not fail her.

I think that slowing down is normal. As long as she is eating, able to go up & down the stairs, and still getting joy out of life, then she's ok. I would use the tramadol as frequently as you think she might need it.

In the end, I am sure that Max will "tell" you in some way, & I KNOW that you will understand that it is time.

((((Hugs))))

willowchow

Posted : 8/25/2009 9:00:44 AM

I agree with Amanda completely. And, also some other signs she might be in pain are if she's not able to get comfortable and lays down then jumps back up, standing staring into a corner, panting and not wanting to go up the stairs. I'm sure you already know this but thought I'd mention in case.

jennie_c_d

Posted : 8/25/2009 7:47:05 PM

If you think the pain medicine might give her a little more pep, TRY IT! There's no harm in it, especially if it's a low enough dose that it doesn't dull her. If it doesn't make any difference, you can just... not, right?

jessies_mom

Posted : 8/25/2009 7:55:33 PM

I can't add to the advice Amanda, Lori, and Jennie gave you; you will know when it's time. {{{{{hugs}}}}}