Do Dogs Get A Headaches?

Whether you are mild or heavy, or split into migraine so we can not get out of bed, headaches are never a pleasant or easy affair. When we get a headache, many of us have routines to overcome it - painkillers, water, salty or sweet foods, whatever works for us. But did you know that dogs are potentially as prone to headaches as we are? If you are wondering if your dog may have a headache, what symptoms to look for and what solutions can you offer to your dog friend to make him feel better?

What is a headache?

In addition to an almost guaranteed ability to make your day a little bit harder, headaches are defined as persistent headache and occur when the pain-sensitive parts of your brain are overstimulated in the Mayo Clinic's view. The brain contains nerves, blood vessels, and muscles that all feel pain, causing our head to feel painful. Headaches can be caused by a number of primary or secondary problems, including dehydration, neck pain, too much alcohol or nicotine, other illnesses and even stress, just to name a few. Headaches are very common and can usually be treated with over-the-counter remedies or home remedies, although recurrent or chronic headaches can be a sign that something else is wrong.

Can dogs get a headache?

It is terrible to remember that your dog suffers quietly from standing by a sore head while we are none smarter. Although there is little research on this topic, namely the causes of headaches in dogs, one thing is for sure: since they too have brains of muscles, blood vessels and nerves, they have the ability to get them. Like any other part of the body, dogs are definitely sensitive to the same physical pain people experience, and their precious heads do not differ.

The causes of headache in dogs can never be known with certainty, but Innovative Veterinary Care lists what causes secondary or secondary headaches, or headaches that are a symptom of another problem. Of course, this depends on your pet and circumstances, but secondary headaches can be caused by pulling a collar around the neck too much, heat exhaustion, dental problems, stress from sudden changes and chemicals such as carbon monoxide and pesticides, and even certain additives such as nitrites.

How can you tell if your dog has a headache?

So we know that dogs can potentially have a headache, but how do you tell if your dog has one? Innovative Veterinary Care lists the symptoms that are common in dogs and may have headache pain. Overall, a dog with a sore head seems fussy, steadfast and does not really want to be touched or engaged - much the same way we feel when we have one. The listed behaviors include twitching as you pet your dog's head, a lowered or irregularly elevated posture, an excessive need for rest or unwillingness to go outside, frequent blinking, and furrowed brows. Since headaches can sometimes reach as far as the neck, your dog can also hide out of the way or resist a collar as it can cause more irritation.

Fortunately, there is a headache if you suspect your dog is suffering from a headache. Chiropractic and acupuncture have been shown to relieve pain symptoms in animals due to headache. Near-natural arnica can also relieve the symptoms that are not analgesic. If your dog allows you to put a cold ice pack on your head or a warm compress on the neck, it can also help relieve headaches.

Finally, it is important to mention that, unlike us, dogs should not be given medicines containing paracetamol like Tylenol to relieve their headaches. VCA Hospitals warns that even small doses of acetaminophen can be very harmful to dogs because their body does not metabolize it in the same way as we do. If it looks like your dog is suffering from a headache, try to offer him what you would do in the situation yourself: access to plenty of water, rest and plenty of rest.