Pain Management

From routine procedures such as spaying and declawing, to more advanced procedures like orthopedic (bone) or foreign body surgery, and even including chronic, painful conditions such as arthritis or back pain - we are dedicated to providing safe and effective pain management to every patient. We will help you to recognize the signs of pain so that we can modify your pet's pain management as necessary.

Pain can not only affect your pet's appearance, but their body's physical function and state of mind. Pain can make your pet depressed, causing them to hide or not eat properly. It is very important that we take care of our patients on every level possible and that's why we want to use proper pain control when needed. Your pet may act like nothing is wrong because it's their instinct not to appear weak. Even little things, such as increased heart rate or a change in breathing patterns, can possibly be due to pain.

Causes of Pain

Pain can be caused by many things and will present itself in many different ways. Acute pain starts suddenly, but doesn't normally last very long. That kind of pain should subside once everything is healed . Chronic pain, however, can go on for weeks or even years and may need life long treatment. It tends to be more of a dull, lingering pain.

By knowing the cause of pain, the doctor is better able to prescribe the correct medication and/or other treatments needed.

• Pets undergoing routine procedures (such as spaying, castrating, and dental extractions) are treated for pain because we know it's coming - we don't wait for it to start. This is usually treated over 3-5 days post-op and if pain persists your pet will need to be seen to make sure nothing serious is going on.
• Conditions such as arthritis or back pain must present signs before we are able to treat the pain properly. With these issues, sometimes a simple supplement, such as glucosamine, is enough, but it is often used along with other pain management.
• Other causes of pain, such as broken limbs or wounds, will need to be evaluated on a case by case basis.

Signs of Pain

Recognizing and alleviating pain in our patients is our goal and we will do all we can to ensure your pet's comfort, well being, and recovery. We have various types of medications and supplements as well as a therapy laser that we can use to help your pet remain comfortable.

If you notice any of these signs you should contact us for an exam. Unfortunately, we won't be able to tell you what's wrong without seeing your pet first.

Discernable Behavior

• Protecting painful areas
• Limping
• Vocalizing - especially when moving/touching a specific area
• Licking, biting, scratching, or shaking affected area
• Hiding or reluctance to move
• Loss of appetite
• Restlessness
• Pacing
• Dull eyes
• Increased heart rate or respiration
• Lethargy
• Just "not themselves"

Therapy Laser

Laser therapy is a surgery free, drug free, non-invasive treatment used to reduce pain and inflammation as well as increase the speed of healing. We use a class IV laser (different than the carbon dioxide laser used in surgeries) that is delivered through a non-invasive hand piece to the affected area without harming any deep tissues.

Many of our patients receive therapy for arthritis, but we also use the laser for other things such as faster healing of wounds and post-surgical sites. Your pet will feel a gentle, soothing warmth and be treated in a matter of minutes. The treatment may be done alone or along with other treatments to meet your pet's needs. Treatment protocols are unique to each patient and condition so time and cost will vary.

Benefits of Laser Therapy