4. Decreased Play and Exploratory Behaviours
Play is considered a positive welfare indicator in many species, including humans. When an animal seeks opportunities to engage with potentially rewarding experiences, it can be assumed that their welfare is improved by such activities. In the same way, exploratory behaviour can also be a positive sign of seeking rewarding experiences, while decreases in these behaviours have been associated with negative affective states, as the animal’s desire to seek new information is reduced, and avoidance is more likely [59,60]. Dogs on exogenous corticosteroid treatment were significantly less exploratory in a behaviour test [18] and a survey conducted with dog owners reported that dogs on corticosteroids were significantly less playful when in treatment with these drugs [18]. Reduced play and exploration are not likely to be perceived as problematic behaviours because they may not immediately negatively affect owners unlike the occurrence of aggressive behaviours or excessive vocalization [61,62]. Owners may not consider these behavioural signs unless informed about them or prompted with appropriate questions.
The circumstances, animal’s history, and personality need to be taken into account when considering the level of play and/or exploratory behaviours as potential indicators of negative affective state. A comparison should be made with previous levels of these behaviours in similar circumstances, in order to gain insight into the animal’s affective state [60,63,64]. When there are behavioural signs that can be linked to negative emotional states, this suggests the welfare of the animal is compromised, and there is an increased risk of other behavioural problems.
How to Handle the Side Effects of Prednisone
The best way to limit the side effects of prednisone for your dog is to reduce the duration of the medication, however, this is not always possible. We discuss this idea more below.
With nutritional support, the side effects of prednisone can be reduced during therapy, and in some cases, you may be able to get your dog off prednisone altogether. We recommend a nutritional strategy that involves supporting the gut and discouraging toxin and yeast build up. Supply your dog with a good probiotic and multi-enzymes supplement, and remove grains from the diet. If possible, feed raw.
Side effects of prednisone can include the following behavioral changes:
Your dog is not feeling “right” while on prednisone. He knows his body is in a state of imbalance and this results in behavioral changes which can be almost unbearable. Counteract the side effects of prednisone with nutrition and a few adjustments during the day which weve listed below.
Can prednisone and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory (NSAID) drugs be given together?
If a dog is already taking an NSAID, say for arthritis pain, steroids are a big, emphatic “no!” Using those two drugs together carries a high likelihood of GI (gastrointestinal) ulceration and GI bleeding. As a side note, the answer to the question “Can I give my dog Advil?” is also a resounding “no.”
Dogs who have a stomach ulcer may vomit. Sometimes the vomit contains red, fresh blood. Bleeding can also happen further down the GI tract in the intestines. As the blood gets digested and passed through the intestines, it turns into a black, sticky, tarry substance that shows up in the stool. The term for this is melena. If you notice any of these symptoms, contact your vet immediately.
Steroids in Dogs and Cats: should you avoid prednisone? (essential guide!) – Pet Health Vet Advice
So your veterinarian has prescribed prednisone for your dog. What does this mean? Prednisone is a steroid thats used in veterinary medicine to treat a variety of conditions. Before starting this medication, its helpful to learn about potential prednisone side effects in dogs so youll know what to expect.