Companion Animal Welfare

Dog Canine Gastric Ulcer Welfare

Gastric ulceration causes significant pain in dogs - recognition, treatment, and prevention of NSAID-associated ulceration are key welfare priorities.

Key Facts

NSAID gastropathy is the most common cause of gastric ulceration in dogs
Clinical signs include vomiting, reduced appetite, and melaena (dark digested blood in faeces)
Omeprazole is significantly more effective than H2 blockers for NSAID-associated ulcers
Concurrent misoprostol protects the gastric mucosa during NSAID therapy
Switching to COX-2 selective NSAIDs with food reduces gastric side effects significantly

Welfare Considerations

Gastric ulceration causes real, often chronic pain in affected dogs. Using gastroprotective strategies when prescribing NSAIDs, recognising early ulceration signs, and treating promptly prevents the significant welfare cost of unrecognised, untreated gastric disease.

What You Can Do

Always administer NSAIDs with food and use the lowest effective dose
Discuss gastroprotective co-prescription with your vet if long-term NSAID therapy is needed
Seek veterinary assessment for any dog showing reduced appetite or dark stools during NSAID use