What they don't mention is that these drugs should only be used as an absolute last resort or if your pet sustains an injury, not as part of a lifestyle.
The FDA has released information concerning the top four non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs for pets which includes:
Deramaxx maker Novartis stated, "Deramaxx has been safely and effectively used to treat more than 1 million dogs for canine osteo-arthritis." Boehringer Ingelheim, maker of Metacam, said it was "confident that there are millions of animals whose lives have been improved by the pain relieving benefits of (Metacam)." Both companies note they provide vets with information sheets concerning the side effects.
- Metacam
- Deramaxx
- Previcox
- Rimadyl
Deramaxx maker Novartis stated, "Deramaxx has been safely and effectively used to treat more than 1 million dogs for canine osteo-arthritis." Boehringer Ingelheim, maker of Metacam, said it was "confident that there are millions of animals whose lives have been improved by the pain relieving benefits of (Metacam)." Both companies note they provide vets with information sheets concerning the side effects.
The FDA states that the pet NSAIDs are considered safe and effective when used according to the label and if owners are aware of the side effects. But Chris Sweeney, who used to own a 9-year-old cocker spaniel named Ari, said she never would have used the drugs if she had been aware of the possible side effects.
"I went from having a healthy dog to having a dog that had to be rushed to the hospital and they said he might die on the way," Sweeney said, adding that she believes Metacam is responsible for Ari's death.
Boston veterinarian Dr. Margo Roman said she feels cases such as Ari's are the tip of the iceberg. "There's liver issues, there can be kidney issues, there can be gastrointestinal irritation issues," Roman said, adding that she would never prescribe these NSAIDs to her patients or use them on her own pet.
Pet owners do not have to turn to potentially harmful prescription drugs for their pets' health, however. Natural options are available.
It is tragic, although not surprising, that so many beloved pets are falling victim to these side effects.
The bottom line is: The healthiest thing you can do for your pet is love it, feed it properly, and keep prescription drugs as far away from it as possible.
I lost three dogs because of prescription drugs! It was devastating to me, as you can imagine, for this to happen. I've since learned that most vets AND conventional doctors don't read the side effects of these dangerous and deadly drugs they're giving out like candy.
Be aware of what they're giving your pet...do research on the internet or try an alternative to drugs by visiting a holistic vet who heals "naturally".