Is your pet slowing down in its old age?  Is your furry companion getting slower?  Well, I am here to tell you that age is not a disease.  There is a good chance that your pet may be suffering from pain.  It is very common for painful pets to hide their pain and discomfort.  This is hardwired in their DNA and serves as a protective mechanism from the rest of the pack (dogs) or pride (cats).

It is much better for the overall health of your pet to start treating pain as soon as possible.  Too often owners wait until the pet’s issue becomes a problem for the owner and then seek help.  Some pets have been suffering for a long time, however now the owner has to pick the dog up to get it in the car or carry the cat up the steps or the pet cannot walk across the tile so they bring it in for help.  This is typically due to lack of education and understanding of pain.  Veterinarians have failed to teach owners how to properly recognize signs of pain in their pets.

Pain comes in many forms.  Acute pain can be due to surgery (TPLO for cruciate ligament) or a traumatic event (intervertebral disc rupture).  Chronic pain can come from arthritis, hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, collapsed disc space, cancer, or amputation.

Besides oral and injectable medications, there are many helpful modalities that can be used to alleviate your pet’s painful condition.  Some of the modalities are Physical Therapy, Acupuncture, Myofascial Trigger Point Therapy, Laser, Joint Mobilization, Vibration Plate, Shockwave Therapy, Pulsed Electro-Magnetic Therapy, Stem Cell Therapy, Underwater Treadmill and Joint Injections.

Some of the common signs of pain in dogs are as follows:

•             Decreased social interaction

•             Anxious expression

•             Submissive behavior

•             Refusal to move

•             Whimpering

•             Howling

•             Growling

•             Guarding behavior

•             Aggression, biting

•             Decreased appetite

•             Self-mutilation (chewing)

•             Changes in posture

Some of the common signs of pain in cats are as follows:

•             Reduced activity

•             Loss of appetite

•             Quiet/loss of curiosity

•             Defecating outside the litter box

•             Hiding

•             Hissing or spitting

•             Lack of agility/jumping

•             Excessive licking/grooming

•             Stiff posture/gait

•             Guarding behavior

•             Stops grooming/matted fur

•             Tail flicking

•             Weight loss

If you have any questions about your pet and how we can help manage their pain, please do not hesitate to contact us.  If your pet hurts, we can help!

Advanced Care Veterinary Services: 972-394-6422 or www.stoppetpain.com