This has been sent before, but for our new subscribers here is some of the
latest from the FDA:

See: http://www.fda.gov/cvm/nsaidbrochureFeb07.htm

QUOTE:
TREATING PAIN IN YOUR DOG

Keeping Your Best Friend Active, Safe and Pain Free

Treating pain in your dog

Controlling your dog’s pain is essential to his overall well-being.
Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs) are a class of drugs commonly
used to
control pain and inflammation in dogs. NSAIDs help many dogs lead more
comfortable lives.

What are NSAIDs?

NSAIDs help to control signs of arthritis, including inflammation, swelling,
stiffness, and joint pain.  Inflammation—the body’s response to irritation
or
injury—is characterized by redness, warmth, swelling, and pain.  NSAIDs work
by blocking the production of prostaglandins, chemicals produced by the body
that cause inflammation. Some NSAIDs may also be used to control the pain and
inflammation following surgery.

Your veterinarian may prescribe an NSAID to treat the pain of osteoarthritis
in your dog or to control pain following a surgical procedure.

Veterinary NSAIDs approved for use in dogs:

ETOGESIC (etodolac)
RIMADYL (carprofen)
METACAM (meloxicam)
DERAMAXX (deracoxib)
PREVICOX (firocoxib)
ZUBRIN (tepoxalin)
NOVOX (carprofen)In the United States, there are no veterinary NSAIDs
approved for oral use in cats.

What should you discuss with your veterinarian?

NSAIDs offer pain relief and improved quality of life to many dogs. However,
before giving an NSAID, or any drug, you should first talk to your
veterinarian. You should discuss:

what the NSAID is being prescribed for
how much to give
how long to give it
possible side effects
what to avoid while your dog is taking an NSAID
what tests are needed before giving an NSAID to your dog
how often should your dog be re-examined
your dog’s previous medical history and any previous drug reactions
all medications and products your dog currently receives What should you know
before giving your dog an NSAID?

Never give aspirin or corticosteroids along with an NSAID to your dog.
NSAIDs should be approached cautiously in dogs with kidney, liver, heart and
intestinal problems.
Never give your dog an NSAID unless directed by your veterinarian.
Don’t assume an NSAID for one dog is safe to give to another dog. Always
consult your veterinarian before using any medication in your pet.
Only give the NSAID as prescribed by your veterinarian. Do not increase the
dose, the frequency, or the length of time you use the drug unless first
discussing this with your veterinarian.What Side Effects should you watch for?

Most NSAID-side effects are mild, but some can be serious. Common side
effects seen with the use of NSAIDs in dogs may affect the kidneys, liver, and
gastrointestinal tract and may include:

Not eating or eating less
Lethargy, depression, changes in behavior
Vomiting
Diarrhea, black tarry-colored stool
Yellowing of gums, skin, or the whites of the eyes
Change in drinking
Changes in skin (scabs, redness, or scratching)What to do?

If you suspect a possible side effect to an NSAID, STOP giving the drug to
your dog and call your veterinarian immediately.

When Giving Your Dog An NSAID, If You Notice Any of the Following Signs:

> Behavior Changes
> Eating Less
> Skin Redness, Scabs
> Tarry Stool/Diarrhea/Vomiting

STOP the Drug & Call Your Veterinarian!Published February 2007
 Web page updated by hd - February 7, 2007, 10:52 AM ET
END QUOTE


And, don't forget to ask for the "CLIENT INFORMATION SHEET." As we have
observed, most veterinarians do not bother to give out the sheet and since it is
not mandated for them to do so, we have to learn to ask!
Jean
(Always for George - Always for the Rimadyl Dogs)



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