Pain Trial: WHAT TO WATCH OUT FOR

If a pain trial is effective, you may notice positive behavioural changes indicating reduced discomfort. Some key signs that the medication is working include:

1. Increased Activity & Willingness to Move

  • More enthusiasm for walks and play

  • Less hesitation when standing up, lying down, or using stairs

  • Jumping onto furniture or into the car more easily

  • Longer or more energetic play sessions

2. Improved Mood & Sociability

  • More engagement with family members and other pets

  • Increased affection (seeking attention, tail wagging, initiating contact)

  • Less irritability or withdrawal from social interactions

  • Happier and more relaxed overall demeanor

3. Reduction in Aggression or Reactivity (can take minimum 6-8 weeks)

  • Less growling, snapping, or avoidance when being handled

  • Reduced sensitivity to touch, especially in previously sore areas

  • Decreased reactivity toward people or other dogs

4. Changes in Resting & Sleeping Patterns

  • Sleeping more soundly or choosing different (less protective) resting positions

  • Sleeping through the night rather than waking frequently

  • Stretching more upon waking instead of stiff, cautious movements

5. Reduced Stress-Related behaviours

  • Less excessive licking, chewing, or tail-chasing

  • Decreased pacing or restlessness

  • Less panting or whining without an obvious cause

6. Improved Appetite & Chewing Comfort (if dental pain was suspected)

  • Eating more readily without hesitation

  • Chewing toys or harder treats more comfortably

  • Less drooling or pawing at the mouth

7. More Confidence & Less Avoidance

  • Willingness to explore new areas instead of hesitating

  • Less reluctance to walk on certain surfaces or go up/downstairs

  • Increased engagement with training and mental stimulation activities

What to Watch For

Pain trials should lead to noticeable improvements, but it's important to observe subtle changes over time. If no improvements are seen, the dose, medication type, the time the medication is given (break through pain) or underlying cause may need to be re-evaluated. If there are significant improvements, it strongly suggests that pain was a contributing factor to the dog's previous behaviour.

Suzi Walsh