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Dogs are prone to inflammation, just like humans. This can be caused by a variety of things, such as allergies, injuries, and infections. When your dog is experiencing inflammation, it can be very uncomfortable and even painful. Fortunately, there are a number of over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications available for dogs.
In this article, we will discuss the pros and cons of the five most popular over-the-counter anti-inflammatories for dogs. We will also provide a buyer's guide to help you choose the best one for your furry friend.
Zesty Paws Wild Alaskan Salmon Oil
Amazing Nutritionals Omega 3 Chews Pure Fish Oil
Nutramax Welactin Omega-3 Softgels Skin & Coat Supplement for Dogs
Grizzly Omega Health for Dogs & Cats
PetHonesty 100% Natural Omega-3 Fish Oil for Dogs from Iceland
What is inflammation?
Inflammation is the body's response to injury, and can be either acute or chronic. Acute inflammation is a short-term response to an injury or infection, while chronic inflammation is a long-term response to an irritant. Both types of inflammation can cause pain, swelling, and stiffness.
What is an Over-the-Counter Anti-Inflammatory for dogs?
An over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medication is a type of drug that can be purchased without a prescription from a veterinarian. These drugs are used to treat various conditions in dogs, such as pain relief, fever reduction, and inflammation.
There are many different types of over-the-counter anti-inflammatories for dogs on the market, and it can be difficult to know which one is the best for your pet. For example, if your dog is suffering from arthritis, you'll want an anti-inflammatory that can relieve pain and improve joint function. If your dog has a skin condition, you'll want an anti-inflammatory that can reduce itching and inflammation.
How do I know if my dog needs an anti-inflammatory supplement?
If your dog is experiencing pain, inflammation, or swelling, they may need an anti-inflammatory supplement. Anti-inflammatories can help to reduce these symptoms and make your dog more comfortable.
Before giving your dog any over-the-counter medication, it's important to speak with your veterinarian. They will be able to determine if an anti-inflammatory is right for your dog and help you choose the best one.
What is good to give a dog for inflammation?
There are many over-the-counter anti-inflammatories available for dogs, but not all of them are created equal. It's important to choose an anti-inflammatory that is safe for dogs and effective at treating their condition. Some of the most popular over-the-counter anti-inflammatories for dogs include Omega 3 supplements
Can dogs take human inflammatory tablets?
Your dog may be able to take some over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications. However, you should always check with your veterinarian before giving your dog any medication, even over-the-counter ones.
Is Benadryl an anti-inflammatory for dogs?
Yes, Benadryl is an anti-inflammatory for dogs. It can be used to treat a number of conditions, including allergies, anxiety, and motion sickness. Again, as with any medication, it is always best to check with your veterinarian before giving your dog Benadryl.
What are the side effects of anti-inflammatories for dogs?
Like all medications, over-the-counter anti-inflammatories can cause side effects in some dogs. The most common side effects include:
upset stomach
vomiting
diarrhea
loss of appetite
constipation
drowsiness or fatigue
These side effects are usually mild and go away on their own. However, if your dog is experiencing severe side effects, you should stop giving them the medication and speak with your veterinarian.
What causes inflammation in dogs?
There are many different causes of inflammation in dogs, such as arthritis, injuries, and diseases. Some of the most common causes of inflammation in dogs include:
Arthritis
Arthritis is a condition that causes inflammation and pain in the joints. It is the most common cause of inflammation in dogs.
Injuries
Injuries can cause inflammation in the tissues and joints.
Diseases
Diseases such as cancer and autoimmune disorders can cause inflammation.
Why would my dog get an autoimmune disorder?
There are many different causes of autoimmune disorders in dogs, but the exact cause is unknown. Autoimmune disorders occur when the body's immune system attacks healthy cells. This can cause inflammation and pain.
How do I know if my dog has an autoimmune disorder?
If your dog is experiencing symptoms such as pain, swelling, or fatigue, they may have an autoimmune disorder. Autoimmune disorders can be difficult to diagnose, so it's important to speak with your veterinarian if you think your dog may be affected.
How can I tell if my dog is in pain?
There are a few signs that may indicate your dog is in pain: whining or crying, restlessness, limping, decreased appetite, and reluctance to move or play. If you notice any of these signs, it's important to take your dog to the vet so they can determine the cause of the pain and recommend treatment.
What do vets prescribe for inflammation?
There are a variety of anti-inflammatory medications that vets can prescribe for dogs, depending on the cause and severity of the inflammation. The most common type of medication is corticosteroids, which can be given orally or injected.
Other options include non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), pain relievers, and immune system suppressants.
What should I look for in an Omega-3 supplement for dogs?
When you're shopping for an omega-3 supplement for your dog, it's important to look for one that contains EPA and DHA. EPA and DHA are two of the most important omega-3 fatty acids for dogs. They help to reduce inflammation and can also improve cognitive function.
Another important thing to look for in an omega-3 supplement for dogs is a product that is certified by the National Animal Supplement Council (NASC). The NASC is a non-profit organization that sets standards for quality and safety in the animal supplement industry.
So, when you're looking for the best omega 3 supplement for your dog, be sure to look for one that contains EPA and DHA, and is certified by the NASC.
How does Omega-3 Help with Inflammation in Dogs?
One of the most popular over-the-counter anti-inflammatories for dogs is omega 3 fatty acids. Omega 3 fatty acids are a type of polyunsaturated fat that can help to decrease inflammation throughout the body.
These fatty acids are found in fish oil, and they have been shown to be effective in reducing inflammation in humans as well.
There are a few different ways that omega 3 fatty acids can help to reduce inflammation in dogs. One is by reducing the production of inflammatory cytokines. Cytokines are proteins that are involved in the inflammatory response.
Omega 3 fatty acids can also help to decrease the activity of enzymes that promote inflammation.
One of the most well-known omega 3 fatty acids is eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA). EPA is found in fish oil, and it has been shown to be effective in reducing inflammation in dogs.
Another omega 3 fatty acid that can help to reduce inflammation is docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). DHA is also found in fish oil, and it has been shown to be effective in reducing inflammation in humans as well.
Omega 3 fatty acids are a safe and effective way to reduce inflammation in dogs. If you are looking for an over-the-counter anti-inflammatory for your dog, omega 3 fatty acids are a good option.
Too much omega 3 can lead to side effects such as diarrhea and vomiting. Also, if your dog is taking any other medications, it is important to talk to your veterinarian before giving them omega 3 fatty acids.
Omega 3 fatty acids can interact with some medications, and it is important to make sure that they are safe for your dog.
If you are looking for an over-the-counter anti-inflammatory for your dog, omega 3 fatty acids are a good option. Just make sure to talk to your veterinarian first and give your dog the proper dosage.
At what age does my dog need over-the-counter anti-inflammatory for dogs?
The age at which your dog needs an over-the-counter anti-inflammatory will vary depending on their individual needs. Some dogs may need an anti-inflammatory supplement at a young age, while others may not need one until they are older.
Speak with your veterinarian to determine if your dog needs an anti-inflammatory supplement and at what age they should start taking one.
How often should I give my dog an anti-inflammatory?
The frequency with which you give your dog an anti-inflammatory will vary depending on the severity of their condition. Some dogs may need to take an anti-inflammatory every day, while others may only need it once or twice a week. Speak with your veterinarian to determine how often your dog should take an anti-inflammatory.
What is the best over-the-counter anti-inflammatory for dogs?
The best over-the-counter anti-inflammatory for dogs will vary depending on your pet's needs. If your dog is experiencing pain, inflammation, or swelling, they may need an anti-inflammatory supplement. Anti-inflammatories can help to reduce these symptoms and make your dog more comfortable.
Below are our top picks for what is the best over-the-counter anti-inflammatory for dogs in 2022:
1.Pupper Omega
Image courtesy Pupper
Omega-3s are polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs). They come from a number of sources and have several benefits for our dogs. ALA is required since it is the only PUFA that can't be manufactured by our dogs' bodies.
Creatine is a phosphorylated molecule found in plant-based foods and required for the body to absorb DHA and EPA. ALA's role in heart health is significant. Seafood delivers omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for brain function, eyesight, and nervous system functioning.
Fish and grass-fed cattle have a high content of omega-3. Its primary function is to aid the immune and inflammatory response mechanisms.
Pupper believes that excellent ingredients are at the heart of great products. Every stage of the supply chain has been assessed and audited. Using high-quality components provided by their collaborator farmers and suppliers, Pupper is able to assure the quality of their product. Nothing less can be given to your dog.
2.Paws & Pals Salmon Oil
Image courtesy Amazon
Paws & Pals Salmon Oil is a great way to give your dog some of the health benefits associated with omega-3 fatty acids. It's a naturally occurring substance derived from salmon that has been caught in the wild.
The oil is cold-pressed to ensure that it contains all of the nutrients and taste. It's also free of any contaminants or solvents, making it safe. The Paws & Pals Salmon Oil is a wonderful way to improve your dog's coat and skin health, as well as reduce shedding.
The oil is also high in antioxidants, which can help to ward off cell damage in your dog.
3.Zesty Paws Wild Alaskan Salmon Oil
Image courtesy Amazon
Zesty Paws Wild Alaskan Salmon Oil is a high-quality fish oil derived from wild Alaskan salmon. Omega-3 fatty acids in the oil may help to improve your dog's coat and skin health.
It's also high in antioxidants, which can help to prevent your dog's cells from harm. The oil is also free of any hazardous chemicals or solvents.
Wild Alaskan Salmon Oil is a wonderful method to provide your dog with omega-3 fatty acids' advantages.
4.Amazing Nutritionals Omega 3 Chews Pure Fish Oil
Image courtesy Amazon
Omega chews from Nutritionals are a wonderful method to give your dog the advantages of omega-3 fatty acids. The chews include only pure fish oil, which is high in omega-3 fatty acids.
They're also high in antioxidants, which may assist to safeguard your dog's cells from harm. The chews are also free of any hazardous chemicals or solvents.
Nutritionals omega chews are an excellent method to improve your dog's coat and skin health. They may also aid in the reduction of shedding. The chews are also high in vitamins A, D, and E, which can help to strengthen your dog's immune system.
5.Vital Pet Life Salmon Oil
Image courtesy Vital Pet Life
Vital Pet Life Salmon Oil is a high-quality fish oil that is derived from wild-caught salmon. Omega-3 fatty acids are present in the oil, which may aid in the maintenance of your dog's coat and skin health.
It's also high in antioxidants, which can help to protect your dog's cells from harm. The oil is also free of any hazardous chemicals or solvents. Vital Pet Life Salmon Oil is a wonderful way to give your dog the advantages of omega-3 fatty acids.
6.Nutri-Vet Fish Oil Softgels
Image courtesy Nutri-Vet
Nutri-Vet Fish Oil Softgels are an excellent way to give your dog with omega-3 fatty acids. Pure fish oil is used to make the softgels, which are high in omega-3 fatty acids.
They're also a fantastic source of antioxidants, which can help your dog's cells avoid damage. The softgels are also free of any hazardous chemicals or solvents.
The Nutri-Vet Fish Oil Softgels are a fantastic way to help your dog's coat and skin health. They may also aid in the reduction of shedding. The softgels include vitamins A, D, and E, which can assist your dog's immune system.
7.PetHonesty Omega Salmon Oil
Image courtesy PetHonesty
Omega Salmon Oil is a high-quality fish oil made from wild-caught salmon. Omega-3 fatty acids are present in the oil, which can assist with your dog's coat and skin health.
It's also high in antioxidants, which can help to maintain the health of your dog's cells. The oil is also free of any hazardous chemicals or solvents. PetHonesty Omega Salmon Oil is a fantastic way to give your pet omega-3 fatty acids.
8.Nutramax Welactin Omega-3 Softgels Skin & Coat Supplement for Dogs
Image courtesy NutraMax
These softgels are produced using only pure fish oil, which is high in omega-3 fatty acids.
They're also high in antioxidants, which can assist to guard your dog's cells from harm. The softgels are also free of all hazardous chemicals or solvents.
Nutramax Welactin Omega-Softgels are an excellent method to improve your dog's coat and skin health. They can also aid in the reduction of shedding. Vitamins A, D, and E are also present in the softgels, which may help to strengthen your dog's immune system.
9.Grizzly Omega Health for Dogs & Cats
Image courtesy Grizzly Omega Health
Grizzly Omega Health for Dogs & Cats is an excellent method to give your dog or cat the health benefits of omega-3 fatty acids. The oil is free of artificial colors and preservatives, as well as other additives that might harm your pet over time. It's made with pure fish oil, which is high in omega-3 fatty acids.
It also contains a high amount of antioxidants, which can help to protect your dog's cells from harm. The oil is also free of any poisonous chemicals or solvents. Grizzly Omega Health for Dogs and Cats is an excellent method to improve the health of your dog's coat and skin.
They can also aid in the reduction of shedding. The oil is chock-full of vitamins A, D, and E, which may help to strengthen your dog's immune system.
10.PetHonesty 100% Natural Omega-3 Fish Oil for Dogs from Iceland
Image courtesy PetHonesty
This is the finest omega 3 supplement, which provides your dog with the advantages of omega-3 fatty acids. The oil is comprised only of high-quality fish oil, which is high in omega-3 fatty acids.
It's also high in antioxidants, which can help to protect your dog's cells from harm. There are no hazardous chemicals or solvents in the oil. PetHonesty 100% Natural Omega-Fish Oil for Dogs from Iceland is a wonderful way to enhance the health of your dog's coat and skin.
What are some ways I reduce the risk of inflammation in my dog?
There are a few things you can do to help reduce the risk of inflammation in your dog.
Keep your dog at a healthy weight
Many other diseases may be linked to obesity, including diabetes and heart disease. This is one of a number of reasons it's critical to maintain your dog's ideal weight.
If your dog has to lose a few pounds, work with your veterinarian on a strategy to help them get rid of weight gradually and permanently. Crash dieting or going on a cycle of losing weight fast before gaining it back is just as harmful for your dog as it is for you.
In addition to diet, speak with your veterinarian about an exercise program. Start with small amounts and gradually increase the time spent outside if you don't have access to a lot of sunshine. If the weather isn't good for spending time outdoors, consider adding minutes to your walks or coming up with new and exciting ways to play inside instead of going out.
Provide your dog with a well-balanced diet
Furthermore, a balanced diet may help eliminate inflammation in your dog. This is one of our favorite methods to decrease inflammation at Ollie. Our food is intended to be easily digested so that your dog can get the most out of our human-grade ingredients.
Our meals are high in Omega-3 fatty acids, which aid in the reduction of inflammation. Furthermore, our recipes include superfood ingredients like as spinach, blueberries, and chia seeds.
Use natural anti-inflammatories
If your dog's condition doesn't improve despite being at a healthy weight and eating properly, they could require additional anti-inflammatory therapy. Anti-inflammatory medicines as well as natural supplements are available.
It's generally a good idea to check with your veterinarian before giving your dog supplements. Even if they're all natural or plant based, they may still cause side effects or interfere with other drugs your pet is taking.
Turmeric is a spice that's also used to treat inflammation. You can get it at your local Asian market or in your spice rack. The active component, curcumin, fights inflammation. There are several brands on the market with turmeric or the active component curcumin in them, so talk to your vet about the best brand and proper dosage for your dog.
Other supplements that may help include omega-3 fatty acids, green-lipped mussel extract, SAMe, and boswellia.
Give your dog a massage
One of the simplest things you can do to ease your dog's inflammation is to give them a massage. It sounds odd, but it's true.
Start by gently petting your dog and then progress to rubbing their coat in circular motions. If you have a short-haired dog, you can use your fingertips to massage their skin directly. For long-haired dogs, be sure to move the fur out of the way so you're not pulling on it.
You can also use a petting tool like a Furminator to help with the massage. These have different attachments for different types of fur, so you can find one that's perfect for your dog.
When you're done, give your dog a treat and some extra attention. They'll love the affection and they may even start to look forward to their massages
Final Thoughts on What is the Best Over-the-counter anti-inflammatory for dogs in 2022
As you can see there are a number of things you can do to help reduce inflammation in your dog. These include maintaining a healthy weight, providing a balanced diet, and using natural anti-inflammatories. You can also give your dog a massage to help ease their discomfort.
If you're concerned about your dog's inflammation, be sure to speak with your veterinarian. They can help you come up with a plan that's specifically tailored for your dog.
FAQs
What is the new anti-inflammatory for dogs? ›
A new anti-inflammatory drug, grapiprant, was approved by the FDA for the management of chronic canine arthritis pain.
What human anti-inflammatory Can I give my dog? ›NSAID options that are approved for use in dogs include carprofen (e.g. Rimadyl), deracoxib (e.g. Deramaxx), etodolac (e.g. Etogesic), firocoxib (e.g. Previcox), meloxicam (e.g. Metacam), robenacoxib (e.g. Onsior), and mavacoxib (e.g. Trocoxil).
What over-the-counter medicine can I give my dog for pain and swelling? ›- Acetaminophen (Tylenol) can be safe when carefully dosed and used short term. ...
- Aspirin—specifically buffered baby aspirin—can be safe when dosed carefully but is not as safe or effective as prescription medications.
- Ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) is toxic to dogs and should never be used.
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) play a major role in controlling dog joint pain and inflammation. Prescription medications such Galliprant, Carprofen, and Meloxicam are the safest options for controlling pain and inflammation compared to over-the-counter, non-veterinary products.
How do you get rid of inflammation in dogs? ›- Turmeric. Turmeric is one of the best foods that can help joint discomfortand mobility in dogs. ...
- Glucosamine. ...
- Massage and Accupressure. ...
- Yucca. ...
- Essential Fatty Acids. ...
- CBD Oil and Hemp Oil. ...
- Weight Management. ...
- Physical Therapy.
Two new NSAIDS, etodolac and nabumetone, do not inhibit cyclooxygenase 1 prostaglandins, which occur in the stomach and kidneys, but more selectively block cyclooxygenase 2 prostaglandins, which cause arthritic inflammation.
Can I buy anti inflammatories for my dog? ›There are some NSAIDs just for dogs: Carprofen (Novox or Rimadyl) Deracoxib (Deramaxx) Firocoxib (Previcox)
Is there an over-the-counter painkiller I can give my dog? ›While there aren't over-the-counter (OTC) pain meds for dogs, dogs can take veterinary NSAIDs. These have to be prescribed by a vet. Most human medications are toxic to dogs and can cause more harm than good. Talk to a veterinarian before giving your dog anything from your medicine cabinet.
Is Benadryl an anti-inflammatory for dogs? ›The anti-inflammatory properties of Benadryl can help to reduce the swelling of the dog's airways, making it easier for them to breathe. In addition, the medication can also help to relieve itchiness by inhibiting the production of histamines.
What can I give my dog for quick pain relief? ›- Carprofen (Novox or Rimadyl) Prescription medication. ...
- Deracoxib (Deramaxx) Prescription medication. ...
- Firocoxib (Previcox) Prescription medication. ...
- Meloxicam (Metacam) Prescription medication. ...
- Grapipant (Galliprant) Prescription medication. ...
- Aspirin. Over-the-counter medication.
What can you give a dog for pain relief at home? ›
- Hot and Cold Therapy.
- Ginger.
- Turmeric.
- Boswellia.
- Devil's Claw.
- CBD Oil.
- Acupuncture.
- Fish Oil.
Prescription foods sold by veterinarians might be particularly useful in helping your dog's arthritis. These foods often contain natural anti-inflammatory, antioxidants, or Omega fatty acids. Furthermore, you might want to consider a food containing glucosamine or giving glucosamine or chondroitin as supplements.
What is the best thing to give an older dog for arthritis? ›If your dog is diagnosed with arthritis, your veterinarian can recommend nutraceuticals such as fish oil, glucosamine, MSM, MicroLactin (Duralactin), and herbal supplements, or prescribe daily pain medication to keep her comfortable.
What is the new treatment for arthritis in dogs? ›Hydrogel is a cutting-edge therapy for canine arthritis management. It is particularly effective in older dogs with chronic arthritis and we have seen excellent results from usage in more than 125 joint injections.
What is the most powerful natural anti-inflammatory? ›Omega-3 fatty acids , which are abundant in fatty fish such as salmon or tuna, are among the most potent anti-inflammatory supplements.
What are some natural anti-inflammatories? ›- tomatoes.
- olive oil.
- green leafy vegetables, such as spinach, kale, and collards.
- nuts like almonds and walnuts.
- fatty fish like salmon, mackerel, tuna, and sardines.
- fruits such as strawberries, blueberries, cherries, and oranges.
...
This class of medications includes:
- Aspirin (full dose)
- Celecoxib (used in Celebrex)
- Diclofenac (used in Votaren)
- Ibuprofen (used in Advil or Motrin)
- Naproxen (used in Aleve)
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are medicines you can take for pain relief. They are often sold over the counter (OTC). This means you can buy them without a prescription from your doctor. Some common brand names are Advil, Motrin, or Aleve.
What painkillers can I give my dog without vet prescription? ›Paracetamol is a common human medication and can be bought without a prescription. In certain circumstances, it can be used in dogs.
Can I buy meloxicam over-the-counter? ›Meloxicam is only available on prescription and ibuprofen is available over the counter as well as on prescription. Meloxicam is a long-acting medicine that only needs to be given once a day.
How can I ease my dogs pain without medicine? ›
- Cold therapy.
- Medical massage.
- Nutraceuticals/supplements.
- Herbal medications.
- Pulsed electromagnetic field therapy (PEMF)
- Rehabilitation therapy.
- Weight management.
Benadryl Tablets
According to the Merck Veterinary Manual, the standard dose for Benadryl is 2-4 milligrams per kilogram of body weight, or 0.9-1.8 milligrams (mg) of Benadryl per pound. Therefore, a simple and practical dose is 1 mg of Benadryl per pound of your dog's weight, given 2-3 times a day.
No, Benadryl is not an NSAID (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug); Benadryl is an antihistamine.
Is Benadryl or ibuprofen better for inflammation? ›Relieves pain, fever, and swelling.
Advil (ibuprofen) works well for treating fever, inflammation, and a variety of mild to moderate pain conditions, but it doesn't last as long as other NSAIDs. Benadryl (Diphenhydramine) is often better than other antihistamines at treating allergy symptoms and hives.
The most available painkillers for dogs are nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), including carprofen (Rimadyl or Novox), deracoxib (Deramaxx), firocoxib (Previcox), meloxicam (Metacam), and grapipant (Galliprant).
Can dogs have baby aspirin? ›Many pain medications considered safe for people can be toxic or even fatal for dogs. Never give your dog aspirin, ibuprofen (Advil), acetaminophen (Tylenol), or any other medication designed for humans without first consulting your vet.
Can I give my dog Benadryl for pain? ›If the source of your dog's pain is an allergic reaction, there's one human-grade drug that can be administered with confidence: Benadryl. Veterinarians regularly give dogs a dose of this antihistamine when experiencing a minor allergic reaction.
Which is safer for dogs Tylenol or ibuprofen? ›Many pain medications considered safe for people can be toxic or even fatal for dogs. Never give your dog aspirin, ibuprofen (Advil), acetaminophen (Tylenol), or any other medication designed for humans without first consulting your vet.
Does Benadryl help dogs with inflammation? ›If your dog is experiencing any of the allergy symptoms below, Benadryl can surely help with your dog's health: Hives. Itchy skin. Facial swelling and inflammation.
What can I give my dog for arthritis over the counter? ›Pupper Calming Chews. PetHonesty Hemp Mobility Chicken Flavored Soft Chew Joint Supplement for Senior Dogs. VetClassics Pain Plus Extra Strength Soft Chews Dog Supplement. NaturVet Senior Wellness Aches & Discomfort Plus Glucosamine Dog Supplement.
Are there OTC meds for dogs? ›
Antihistamines are some of the most commonly prescribed OTC allergy medications for dogs. As always, it's a good idea to talk to your vet before giving any allergy medications to your dog.
Can I self medicate my dog? ›Don't take matters into your own hands: Talk to your vet
Obviously, pets should never be given any type of human medication, prescription or over the counter medicines. If you feel your pet needs medication, or may benefit from a herbal/ homeopathic medicines, it's always vital to discuss this with your vet.
...
There are some NSAIDs just for dogs:
- Carprofen (Novox or Rimadyl)
- Deracoxib (Deramaxx)
- Firocoxib (Previcox)
- Meloxicam (Metacam)
- Grapiprant (Galliprant)