Rimadyl® Tablets and Chews for Dogs

Rimadyl® is the brand name for carprofen, a veterinary nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug for dogs. It helps relieve pain and inflammation from osteoarthritis and supports recovery after surgery so pets can move more comfortably. Available with US delivery from Canada, it is a trusted option many pet parents purchase even without insurance.

What Rimadyl® Is and How It Works

Rimadyl® contains carprofen, a COX-2–preferential NSAID that decreases prostaglandin production. By dampening inflammatory mediators, it reduces joint swelling, stiffness, and discomfort. The result is improved mobility and a better ability to rest and exercise while long-term management plans are optimized by the care team.

At CanadianInsulin, orders are filled by licensed Canadian pharmacies after we confirm a valid prescription with your clinic. This referral model supports safe access while maintaining Canadian pricing and pharmacy standards.

Many dogs receive Rimadyl for chronic osteoarthritis, while others use it short term after soft-tissue or orthopedic surgery. Background education on joint disease can be helpful alongside veterinary guidance; see our overview on Arthritis in dogs and cats. For more options across conditions, browse Pet Medications.

Who Rimadyl® Is For

Rimadyl is indicated for the relief of pain and inflammation associated with canine osteoarthritis and for the control of postoperative pain in dogs. It is not approved for cats. Use with caution in dogs with a history of gastrointestinal ulceration or bleeding, significant kidney or liver disease, dehydration, bleeding disorders, or in very young, geriatric, pregnant, or lactating dogs. A veterinary exam with appropriate baseline labs is typically recommended before starting an NSAID, especially for long-term therapy.

Dosage and Usage

Carprofen dosing is individualized by the veterinarian according to the dog’s weight, condition, and response. Labeling generally supports either a once-daily regimen or a divided twice-daily regimen that totals the same daily dose. For osteoarthritis, many clinicians begin with a weight-based daily dose, then reduce to the lowest effective dose once control is achieved. For postoperative pain, a single preoperative dose followed by limited postoperative dosing is commonly used per the surgical plan.

Chewable tablets are palatable for many dogs; caplets can be given in a small treat or with food. Administer with food or shortly after a meal if stomach upset occurs. Never combine Rimadyl with another NSAID or a corticosteroid unless the veterinarian expressly directs a transition and observes an adequate washout period.

Do not exceed prescribed amounts, and do not give to cats. Periodic rechecks and bloodwork are often advised for dogs on chronic therapy.

Strengths and Forms

• Chewable tablets: commonly available in 25 mg, 75 mg, and 100 mg
• Caplets: commonly available in 25 mg, 75 mg, and 100 mg
• Injectable solution: commonly 50 mg/mL for veterinary use

Pack sizes and presentations vary by manufacturer and market. Availability may change based on pharmacy stock and prescribing preferences.

Missed Dose and Timing

If a scheduled dose is missed, give it when remembered unless it is close to the time for the next dose. In that case, skip the missed dose and resume the regular schedule. Do not double up doses. Consistent timing day to day helps maintain steady pain relief.

Storage and Travel Basics

Store tablets or caplets in the original, child-resistant container at room temperature, protected from moisture and excessive heat. Keep out of reach of children and other pets. For travel, carry your dog’s medication in its labeled container, pack it in a secure bag, and avoid leaving it in hot cars. Keep a copy or photo of the prescription label in case transport authorities request documentation.

Temperature-sensitive items ship with cold-chain handling and insulated packaging, and all shipments use prompt, express, cold-chain shipping.

Benefits

• Reduces joint pain and inflammation to support mobility in canine osteoarthritis
• Helps control postoperative discomfort after orthopedic or soft-tissue procedures
• Multiple forms (chews and caplets) to accommodate preferences and dosing plans
• Veterinary-prescribed dosing tailored to each dog’s needs

Side Effects and Safety

• Common: vomiting, soft stools or diarrhea, decreased appetite, lethargy
• Less common: increased thirst, behavioral changes
• Serious but rare: gastrointestinal ulcer or bleeding (black stools, bloody vomit), liver dysfunction (jaundice, marked lethargy), kidney issues (changes in urination, dehydration), allergic reactions (facial swelling, hives)

Any concerning signs warrant prompt veterinary evaluation, particularly if there is vomiting with blood, tarry stools, yellowing of the eyes or gums, severe lethargy, collapse, or seizures. Long-term use usually includes periodic checkups and lab monitoring to assess liver and kidney parameters.

Drug Interactions and Cautions

• Do not combine with other NSAIDs (e.g., deracoxib, firocoxib, meloxicam) or with corticosteroids (e.g., prednisone, dexamethasone) without explicit veterinary guidance.
• Use caution with diuretics or ACE inhibitors; NSAIDs may influence kidney blood flow. Example: discuss plans if a dog also receives Furosemide injection.
• Highly protein-bound drugs can theoretically interact; the veterinarian will review the full medication list, including supplements.
• Dogs with bleeding risks, active GI disease, or significant hepatic/renal disease require extra caution and monitoring.

What to Expect Over Time

Many dogs show improved comfort and mobility after initiation, with benefits becoming clearer as inflammation settles. For chronic osteoarthritis, the care team often pairs Rimadyl with weight management, controlled activity, and joint-support strategies. Over time, dosing may be tapered to the lowest effective level. Periodic follow-up helps confirm continued benefit and safety.

Compare With Alternatives

Veterinary NSAID options vary by patient profile and clinician preference. Common alternatives include deracoxib and firocoxib. Some dogs respond better to one NSAID than another.

Two frequently used options are Deramaxx tablets and Previcox tablets. If an oral liquid suits a household better, veterinarians may consider meloxicam. Selection should always follow your veterinarian’s assessment of medical history and concurrent therapies.

Pricing and Access

Submit a valid prescription and choose the form and quantity that match the veterinary plan. Orders ship from Canada to the US, providing access to Canadian pricing through a licensed pharmacy network. Many customers find meaningful savings compared with typical local cash pay.

For periodic savings, see our promotions. Refill-friendly workflows help maintain continuity of care, and prompt, express, cold-chain shipping supports product integrity in transit.

Availability and Substitutions

Stock can vary by strength and form. If a specific presentation is unavailable, the prescriber may recommend a suitable alternative or a different dosage form. In some perioperative settings, an injection may be used initially; see Rimadyl injectable. For dogs who need a liquid option instead of tablets, clinicians may suggest meloxicam; compare with Metacam for dogs as appropriate.

Patient Suitability and Cost-Saving Tips

Good candidates are dogs with arthritis-related pain or those needing postoperative analgesia, without contraindicating medical issues. Dogs with active GI ulceration, uncontrolled bleeding risk, or severe liver/kidney disease are typically not candidates. Multi-month supplies can reduce per-unit costs and lower the chance of running out early. If prescribed, scored tablets may be dispensed to match weight-based needs. You can set up refill reminders to align with veterinary follow-ups and keep your dog’s plan on track.

Questions to Ask Your Clinician

• Is Rimadyl the right NSAID for my dog’s diagnosis and other medicines?
• Which dosing schedule and duration best fit the treatment goals?
• What signs should trigger a call or recheck, and how soon?
• How often should we monitor bloodwork during chronic use?
• Is a trial of an alternative NSAID appropriate if response is partial?
• What non-drug strategies can enhance mobility alongside Rimadyl?

Authoritative Sources

• Zoetis Rimadyl product information
• FDA CVM carprofen listing
• Merck Vet Manual NSAIDs overview

Ready to complete your order? Upload the prescription from your clinic, choose the preferred form, and we’ll arrange US delivery from Canada with prompt, express, cold-chain shipping.

Disclaimer: This information is educational and does not replace advice from your veterinarian. Always follow the prescribing clinician’s direction and the product labeling.