Don't mistake your dog's croon for howling at the moon; Fido could be hurting. In fact, more than eight million
dogs suffer from osteoarthritis and, in 2002, veterinarians performed nearly 14 million painful surgeries on our
four-legged friends.
      Talk with your veterinarian about canine pain management and, in the meantime, educate yourself about the myths
versus the realities of canine pain.

Myth: Dogs feel pain differently from humans.
Fact: The nervous systems of dogs and humans are very similar. "Dogs feel pain just like people do. However, how we
react to and communicate pain can be very different," said Dr. Michael McFarland, a veterinarian and director of the
Pfizer Animal Health Sedation and Pain Management Team. "When we hurt, we take action. Dogs rely on us to identify
and relieve their pain."

Myth: Anesthesia and sedation are the same as pain relief.
Fact: Anesthesia and sedation simply block a dog's perception of pain. "When a dog wakes up from surgery without
receiving pain medication, he will be in pain," said McFarland.

Myth: Dogs tolerate pain better than humans.
Fact: For dogs, hiding pain is an instinct. In nature, a hurt animal is considered vulnerable. As a result, dogs hide their
discomfort, even though they may be in significant distress.

Myth: Dogs should feel pain after surgery.
Fact: "It was once believed that dogs in pain after surgery are easier to keep still. In fact, the opposite is true," said
McFarland. "Dogs in pain will try to escape the discomfort, possibly re-injuring a wound or surgical area."

        Fortunately, veterinarians can now provide a new pain-management solution. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration
approved an injectable form of Rimadyl® (carprofen), the most prescribed canine pain medication. Pet owners also now have access to convenient take-home dosing of Rimadyl.

For more canine pain management information, consult a veterinarian or call 1-800-720-DOGS.

Safety Information
       As with other pain relievers in this class, signs of Rimadyl intolerance may include appetite loss, vomiting and diarrhea,
which could indicate side effects involving the digestive tract, liver or kidneys. Some of these side effects, like those of
other NSAID-class medications, may occur without warning and, in rare situations, may be serious, resulting in
hospitalization or even death. In field use, the reported rate of all side effects for Rimadyl has been less than one
percent. If signs of intolerance occur, discontinue Rimadyl therapy and contact your veterinarian. See the Important
Information for Dog Owners section for the full prescribing information at www.rimadyl.com.

A recent survey of more than 800 dog owners found man's best friend really is part of the family when being treated for pain.