News

When Slowing Down Isnt Just Getting Older: Your Dog May Be Living with Arthritis or Back Pain

Douglas Stramel, DVM, CVPP, CVMA — Thu, 21 May 2026 10:36:30 Z

Many pet owners assume that slowing down is simply part of getting older. We hear things like, Hes getting gray, so he doesnt want to play anymore, or She just isnt as active as she used to be.

But in many cases, that change isnt age itselfits pain.

Dogs are incredibly good at hiding discomfort. Many continue wagging their tails and acting happy while quietly living with arthritis, joint disease, neck pain, or back pain.

The challenge is that pain in dogs often looks different than people expect.

Common signs to watch for include:

Difficulty getting up after lying down
Reluctance to jump into the car or onto furniture
Slower on stairs or avoiding them entirely
Limping or stiffness, especially after rest
Hesitating before walks
Sleeping more than usual
Lagging behind on walks
Sitting crooked or changing positions frequently
Slipping on hardwood floors
Muscle loss in the back legs
Trembling, yelping, or sensitivity when touched
Personality changes or irritability
Not wanting to play like they used to

Back pain may be even more subtle. Dogs can lower their head, arch their back, avoid turning certain directions, refuse to jump, or simply seem different without an obvious limp.

One of the most common things we hear from owners is:

"I had no idea my dog was hurting."

Then treatment begins and suddenly owners say:

"He acts like a puppy again."
"She's carrying toys around the house."
"He's greeting us at the door again."

Pets showing signs of arthritis, back pain, or mobility changes can benefit from evaluation by a veterinarian with advanced training in pain management, such as a Certified Veterinary Pain Practitioner (CVPP), who specializes in recognizing and treating pain that often goes unnoticed. Because every pet and every condition is different, treatment is often customized and may include:

Pain Management
Targeted medications and multimodal approaches designed to reduce pain while improving comfort and daily function.

Physical Rehabilitation Therapy
Exercises, stretching, strengthening, and movement-based therapies designed to rebuild muscle, improve mobility, and support healing.

Underwater Treadmill Therapy
Water buoyancy decreases pressure on painful joints while allowing pets to safely exercise, strengthen muscles, and improve endurance.

Acupuncture
Small needles stimulate nerves and natural pain-relieving pathways within the body and may help reduce pain and inflammation.

Laser Therapy
Therapeutic laser uses light energy to stimulate cells, increase circulation, decrease inflammation, and help reduce pain while supporting tissue healing.

Shockwave Therapy
Focused acoustic waves help stimulate healing and blood flow in injured tissues and can be beneficial for chronic arthritis, tendon injuries, and musculoskeletal pain.

Regenerative Medicine
Treatments such as platelet-rich plasma (PRP) and other biologic therapies use the body's own healing components to support repair and reduce inflammation.

Ozone Therapy
Medical ozone therapy may be used as part of a treatment plan to support oxygen utilization, circulation, and tissue health while helping reduce inflammation.

Individualized Mobility and Home Plans
Simple adjustments at homeincluding exercise changes, flooring recommendations, weight management, and mobility supportcan make a tremendous difference.

Our goal is not simply to mask pain. Our goal is to improve comfort, restore function, and improve quality of life.

Many owners discover that what they thought was normal aging was actually chronic discomfort their pet had simply learned to live with.

Pain isn't just aging.

If your pet hurts, we can help.

Advanced Care Veterinary Services
Carrollton, Texas
972-394-6422
stoppetpain.com

Advanced Shockwave Therapy Offers New Hope for Pets in Pain

Douglas Stramel, DVM, CVPP, CVMA — Thu, 30 Apr 2026 09:39:58 Z

Advanced Shockwave Therapy Offers New Hope for Pets in Pain

Pet owners are increasingly seeking alternatives to long-term medications and invasive procedures when their dogs and cats develop chronic pain. From arthritis to soft tissue injuries, one technology gaining traction in veterinary medicine is shockwave therapya non-surgical treatment designed to both relieve pain and stimulate healing.

At specialized practices like Advanced Care Veterinary Services, two forms of focused shockwave therapy are now being used: the VersaTron Shockwave and the PiezoWave 2. While both deliver acoustic energy into tissue, they differ in how that energy is generated and appliedallowing veterinarians to tailor treatment to specific conditions.

Moving Beyond Pain Management

Traditional approaches to veterinary painparticularly for conditions like hip dysplasia, arthritis, and spinal discomfortoften rely heavily on medications. While these can be effective, they typically address symptoms rather than the underlying tissue dysfunction.

Shockwave therapy works differently. It delivers high-energy sound waves into affected areas, triggering a biological response that promotes repair. These effects include increased blood flow, stimulation of cellular activity, and reduction of chronic inflammation. Over time, this can lead to improved tissue quality and sustained pain relief.

Applications Across Common Conditions

Shockwave therapy is now being used in a wide range of musculoskeletal conditions in both dogs and cats.

In cases of back pain and lumbosacral disease, the treatment helps reduce inflammation around nerve roots and relax tight supporting muscles, improving mobility and comfort. For pets with hip dysplasia or degenerative joint disease, shockwave therapy can enhance circulation within the joint and support cartilage health, often leading to reduced stiffness and improved function.

Elbow arthritisparticularly common in large breed dogscan also respond well, as targeted energy reaches deep joint structures that are otherwise difficult to treat conservatively.

Soft tissue injuries represent another major area of benefit. Iliopsoas strains, a frequent issue in active or athletic dogs, can be slow to heal due to limited blood supply. Shockwave therapy accelerates muscle repair and helps minimize scar tissue formation. Similarly, chronic shoulder injuries such as supraspinatus tendinopathies often improve as the treatment stimulates tendon regeneration and reduces long-standing inflammation.

Why Two Technologies Matter

Not all shockwave therapy is the same, and having access to both electrohydraulic and piezoelectric systems allow for a more precise approach.

The electrohydraulic system, delivered through the VersaTron unit, produces high-energy waves capable of penetrating deeper tissues. This makes it particularly useful for larger joints, spinal conditions, and more advanced or chronic disease. Because of its intensity, a small population of pets will need light sedation to ensure patient comfort.

In contrast, the piezoelectric system used in the PiezoWave 2 generates highly focused energy with exceptional precision. This allows veterinarians to target smaller structures such as tendons and ligaments with minimal discomfort, often without the need for sedation. It is especially well-suited for localized soft tissue injuries.

What Pet Owners Can Expect

Shockwave treatments are typically brief, often lasting 3 to 5 minutes. Most pets require a series of 3 5 sessions depending on the severity and chronicity of the condition. Many owners report noticeable improvement after the first or second treatment, particularly in mobility and overall comfort.

Importantly, shockwave therapy is rarely used in isolation. It is often integrated into a broader rehabilitation plan that may include physical therapy, laser therapy, or regenerative medicine techniques such as platelet-rich plasma.

A Shift Toward Healing

As veterinary medicine continues to evolve, there is a growing emphasis on therapies that do more than temporarily suppress pain. Shockwave therapy represents a shift toward treatments that actively promote healing at the tissue level.

For pets suffering from chronic orthopedic or soft tissue conditions, this approach offers a promising optionone that can reduce reliance on medication, delay or avoid surgery in some cases, and ultimately improve quality of life.

Regenerative Medicine -- Helping your pet live without drugs.

Douglas Stramel, DVM, CVPP, CVMA — Fri, 20 Mar 2026 11:07:12 Z

Helping Your Animal Heal: A Simple Guide to PRP and Pro-Stride

When our pets or horses get hurt, we want to help them feel better as fast as possible. In the past, doctors usually gave animals pills to hide the pain. Today, there is a new and exciting way to help called regenerative medicine.

Regenerative medicine is like giving your animal a "fix-it" button. Instead of just hiding the pain, it uses the animals own blood to help the body actually repair itself. Two of the most popular ways to do this are called PRP and Pro-Stride. While they both come from blood, they work in different ways. This guide will help you understand how they work and which one might be right for your furry friend.

What is Regenerative Medicine?

Think about when you get a small cut on your finger. You don't usually need a doctor to sew it up; your body just knows how to fix it. That is your bodys natural "repair crew" at work.

Regenerative medicine takes that repair crew and makes it much stronger. Veterinarians take a little bit of blood from the animal, put it in a special machine to find the best "healing parts," and then put those parts right where the animal is hurting. Because the medicine comes from the animals own body, it is very safe. There is almost no chance of the animal having a bad reaction to it.

PRP: The "Construction Crew"

PRP stands for Platelet-Rich Plasma. To understand PRP, you have to know about platelets. Platelets are tiny cells in the blood. Most people know them because they help stop bleeding if you get a scrape. But platelets are also like tiny lunchboxes full of tools called "growth factors."

How PRP Works

When an animal has a torn muscle or a hurt leg, the vet takes some blood and spins it very fast in a machine called a centrifuge. This machine separates the platelets from the rest of the blood. The vet ends up with a thick liquid that has way more platelets than normal blood.

When this liquid is injected into a hurt area, the platelets "pop open" and release their growth factors. These growth factors act like a construction crew. They:

Call for help: They send signals to other healing cells to come to the injury.
Build new parts: They help the body make new blood vessels and skin.
Fix the damage: They help repair tendons and ligaments (the "strings" that hold bones and muscles together).

When to use PRP

PRP is best for new injuries. If a horse tears a tendon while running or a dog hurts a biceps tendon or gets a bad cut that won't heal, PRP provides the "building blocks" needed to fix the problem.

Pro-Stride APS: The "Firefighter and Builder"

Pro-Stride APS is like a more advanced version of PRP. While PRP is a great builder, Pro-Stride is a firefighter AND a builder.

What makes it different?

Inside an animals joint (like a knee or an ankle), there can be a lot of "fire." Doctors call this fire inflammation. Inflammation is what makes a joint red, swollen, and very painful. In animals with arthritis (old, stiff joints), the body produces a "bad" protein that acts like a tiny hammer, constantly hitting and breaking down the joint.

Pro-Stride is specially made to stop those "hammers." It has a special protein called IRAP. You can think of IRAP as a shield. It blocks the bad proteins from hitting the joint.

How Pro-Stride Works

Just like PRP, the vet takes the animal's blood and spins it. But they use a special process that finds even more "good" proteins. When Pro-Stride is injected into a joint, it does two things:

It puts out the fire: It stops the swelling and pain immediately by using the "shield" proteins.
It cleans up: It neutralizes the bad stuff that is trying to eat away at the animal's cartilage (the smooth cushion in the joints).

When to use Pro-Stride

Pro-Stride is the best choice for arthritis and long-term joint pain. If your dog is having a hard time getting up the stairs because of old age, or if a horse has a swollen knee that stays "hot" and painful, Pro-Stride is usually the better choice.

How the Veterinarian Does It

The Blood Draw: The vet takes a small amount of blood from the animal.
The Spin: The blood goes into the centrifuge machine. It separates into layers.
The Injection: The vet puts the healing liquid exactly where the animal is hurting.
The Rest: The animal usually needs to take it easy for a few days.

Comparing the Two: Which one is better?

Feature	PRP	Pro-Stride
Main Job	Building and Repairing	Fighting Fire and Protecting
Best For	Tendons and Wounds	Arthritis and Stiff Joints

Is it safe?

Since the liquid is made from the animals own blood, it is incredibly safe. Most common side effects are mild swelling that goes away quickly.

The Success Stories

Research shows that 8 out of 10 dogs with joint pain felt better after these treatments. Many horses stay pain-free for a whole year after just one treatment!

Conclusion

Regenerative medicine like PRP and Pro-Stride gives us a way to help our animals heal using the power already inside their own bodies. Ask your veterinarian if your animal needs a "construction crew" (PRP) or a "firefighter shield" (Pro-Stride).

Advanced Care Veterinary Services

972-394-6422

www.stoppetpain.com

https://www.facebook.com/AdvancedCareVeterinaryServices

https://www.instagram.com/advancedcarevet/

Arthritis Pain Medication - Free FDA Study

Douglas Stramel, DVM, CVPP, CVMA — Fri, 13 Mar 2026 13:21:08 Z

Hey North Texas dog parents!

Is your dog slowing down, limping a little, or just not jumping on the couch like they used to?

Good news were enrolling right now for the Wishbone Study, an FDA-approved clinical trial focused on finding the most effective dosage for a dog arthritis pain relief medication.

This isnt a will it be safe? study the FDA already confirmed safety. Were simply helping figure out the sweet spot that gives dogs the best relief.

Everything at ZERO cost to you:

Full exam

Free bloodwork

Free X-rays (if needed)

The trial last 30 days, just 4 in-clinic visits + 2 quick phone check-ins

A few important notes (well screen everyone carefully):

No pregnant or breeding females

No cancer, autoimmune disease, or neurologic/spinal issues

No major surgery in the last 30 days or cruciate surgery in the last 3 months

No pain meds in last 7 days, steroids in last 14 days, or Librela in last 60 days.

Share with a friend that might benefit and share with your friends.

We only have a HANDFUL of spots left!

If your dog might qualify and you're in the DFW area -

Call 972-394-6422 TODAY and ask about the Wishbone Study - this is a limited availability study - so don't wait to call!

Canine Arthritis FDA study -- No Cost to Enroll

Douglas Stramel, DVM, CVPP, CVMA — Tue, 30 Dec 2025 13:48:53 Z

We are seeking dogs with arthritis to participate in an FDA-approved clinical study.

Study benefits at no cost to you include:

Comprehensive physical examination

Blood work

Study medication

X-rays (if needed)

Important study details:

* This is not a safety trial. The product has already been deemed safe by the FDA.

* The purpose of the study is to determine the most effective dosage.

* Participation lasts up to 30 days.

*During the study period, participants must attend four in-clinic visits and complete two brief phone interviews.

Exclusion criteria include:

--Pregnant or breeding females

--Autoimmune disease

--Cancer

--Spinal or neurologic conditions

--Major surgery within the past 30 days

--Cruciate ligament surgery within the past 3 months

--Joint instability

--Use of pain medications within the last 7 days prior to enrollment

--Librela use within the last 60 days

If you are interested in enrolling your dog, please contact our office at 972-394-6422 and ask about the Wishbone Study.

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Douglas Stramel, DVM, CVPP, CVMA — Fri, 03 Oct 2025 09:36:23 Z

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When it can be used

Lumbosacral Degenerative Stenosis (LSDS) is a degenerative disease that may consist of one or more of the following abnormalities:

Lumbosacral spondylosis

Endplate sclerosis

Disc protrusion or herniation

Hypertrophy of the interarcuate ligament

Facet joint hypertrophy

Disc space collapse

Vertebral body misalignments (sacrum ventrally subluxated)

These changes can pinch nerves at the base of the spine and cause pain, weakness, reluctance to jump or climb, and sometimes even incontinence.

Spinal injections place medication directly at the problem area to reduce inflammation and pain.

In one study of 38 dogs, about 79% improved with treatment and 53% were considered cured.

Its another tool for pain in our toolbox.

www.stoppetpain.com

972-394-6422

A Natural Solution for Canine Joint Pain

Douglas Stramel, DVM, CVPP, CVMA — Thu, 04 Sep 2025 10:29:17 Z

Pro-Stride® APS: A Natural Solution for Canine Joint Pain

Arthritis and joint disease are among the most common causes of pain and reduced mobility in dogs. Watching a pet struggle with stiffness, lameness, or loss of activity is heartbreaking for owners and challenging for veterinarians seeking long-term solutions.

Pro-Stride® APS (Autologous Protein Solution) offers an advanced, regenerative option that is both science-driven and dog-friendly: a one-day treatment that uses the dogs own blood to reduce inflammation, relieve pain, and support joint health.

What Is Pro-Stride® APS?

Pro-Stride® APS is a form of orthobiologic therapy meaning it harnesses the bodys own cells and proteins to heal.

A small sample of blood is drawn from the dog.
In about 2030 minutes, the blood is processed in-clinic to concentrate anti-inflammatory proteins, growth factors, platelets, and white blood cells.
This concentrated solution is injected back into the affected joint the same day.

Because the treatment is autologous (made from the dogs own blood), its natural, safe, and avoids the risks of foreign proteins or drug side effects.

How It Works (for the science-minded)

APS combines the benefits of platelet-rich plasma (PRP) and IRAP therapies:

Blocks inflammation: Key proteins like IL-1 receptor antagonist and TNF receptor antagonists reduce the damaging effects of IL-1 and TNF- in the joint.
Supports repair: Platelets release growth factors that encourage cartilage protection, angiogenesis, and tissue healing.
Balanced response: White blood cells contribute additional anti-inflammatory and regulatory proteins.

The result is a joint environment that shifts away from breakdown and toward healing.

Benefits for Dogs

Natural & drug-free No steroids, no synthetic chemicals.
One-visit procedure Collection, processing, and injection done in a single appointment.
Long-lasting relief Many dogs improve for 612 months after just one injection.
Better mobility & comfort Dogs often walk, climb, and play more easily.
Safe for seniors & athletes alike Useful for both older arthritic dogs and active working or sporting dogs.

Clinical Indications

Veterinarians commonly recommend APS for:

Osteoarthritis especially mild to moderate cases.
Post-surgical support cruciate repairs, elbow dysplasia, and other orthopedic procedures.
Working and sporting dogs agility, hunting, and service dogs that need long-term joint health.
Dogs that cannot tolerate NSAIDs or steroids renal/GI risks, metabolic disease, or prior side effects.

What Owners Can Expect

The procedure: Mild sedation will be used.
Recovery: Light activity for a few days; gradual return to normal routines.
Results: Many owners report noticeable improvement within weeks, with benefits lasting months to a year.
Follow-up: APS works best as part of a multimodal plan weight management, physical rehab, and controlled exercise maximize results.

The Bottom Line

For pet owners, Pro-Stride® APS offers hope: a natural, one-day treatment that can give dogs back their mobility and joy.
For veterinarians, APS is a proven orthobiologic tool grounded in solid science, supported by clinical experience, and tailored to modern multimodal pain management.

Pro-Stride® APS brings together the best of both worlds: cutting-edge veterinary medicine and compassionate care for our canine companions.

If you are interested in seeing if Pro-Stride can help your pet, call Advanced Care Veterinary Services @ 972-394-6422. Since September is Animal Pain Awareness Month, print out this article and bring it with you for $75 off the initial examination fee. Good through September 30, 2025.

Shockwave Therapy in Veterinary Medicine: Helping Pets and Horses Heal.

Douglas Stramel, DVM, CVPP, CVMA — Thu, 28 Aug 2025 12:11:45 Z

Shockwave Therapy in Veterinary Medicine: Helping Pets and Horses Heal

Introduction

When our animals are hurt or in pain, we often look for the fastest and safest way to get them back to comfort. One treatment that has become increasingly popular in veterinary medicine is shockwave therapy. Although the name may sound a bit intimidating, this treatment is safe, non-invasive, and can be highly effective for many orthopedic and soft tissue problems. It has been widely used in human medicine for years especially in sports medicine and is now making a big difference for dogs, cats, and horses.

What Is Shockwave Therapy?

Shockwave therapy uses high-energy sound waves (not electrical shocks) to stimulate healing inside the body. A special machine sends these waves into the injured tissue. As the waves pass through, they trigger biological changes that:

Increase blood flow
Reduce inflammation and pain
Encourage the body to repair bone, tendon, ligament, or joint tissue
Help break up scar tissue and stimulate new cell growth

In simple terms, shockwave wakes up the bodys natural healing systems and speeds up recovery.

Conditions It Can Help With

In Horses

Shockwave is especially popular in equine sports medicine. It can be used for:

Tendon and ligament injuries (suspensory desmitis, bowed tendons)
Joint arthritis
Back and sacroiliac pain
Navicular disease
Kissing spine
Delayed healing of bone injuries or stress fractures

Because it can reach deep tissues without surgery, its often used to get performance horses back into training and competition more safely.

In Dogs (and Cats)

Small animals can also benefit, particularly for:

Hip and elbow arthritis
Knee injuries (CCL tears, post-surgery recovery)
Chronic back pain
Slow-healing fractures or bone injuries
Wounds and skin ulcers (in some cases)

In older dogs with arthritis, shockwave may help reduce stiffness, improve mobility, and cut down on the need for high doses of pain medication.

What Does a Treatment Look Like?

Non-invasive: No cutting or surgery is involved.
Sedation: Most animals are lightly sedated to keep them calm and comfortable, since the sound waves can be startling.
Application: A hand-held probe is placed against the skin over the injured area. Treatments usually take 1020 minutes.
Schedule: Often given every 23 weeks, for a total of 24 sessions depending on the condition.

Benefits of Shockwave Therapy

Drug-free pain relief helpful for animals that cannot tolerate certain medications.
Faster healing especially for stubborn tendon or ligament injuries.
Non-invasive no surgery or long recovery times.
Improved mobility many owners notice their pets moving more freely within days to weeks.
Versatile can be used for bones, joints, tendons, ligaments, and even certain wounds.

Is It Safe?

When performed by a trained veterinarian, shockwave therapy is considered very safe. The main risks are mild soreness at the treatment site or temporary swelling. Because sedation is often used, your vet will make sure your pet or horse is healthy enough for that beforehand.

Importantly, shockwave is not allowed in some equine competitions within a certain time frame before showing, since it can temporarily reduce pain. Your veterinarian will know the specific rules for your discipline.

Limitations to Keep in Mind

Not a magic bullet best results come when its part of a complete treatment plan (rest, controlled exercise, rehab, medications when needed).
Some conditions need multiple sessions before real improvement is seen.
Works better on certain tissues (tendons, ligaments, bone) than on others.
Cost may be higher than traditional treatments, though often less than surgery.

Conclusion

Shockwave therapy is one of the most promising tools in veterinary medicine today for managing pain and speeding healing. For horses with sports injuries or dogs with arthritis and joint pain, it offers a safe, effective, and non-invasive option.

If your pet or horse is struggling with chronic pain or a slow-healing injury, ask your veterinarian whether shockwave therapy could be the right choice. It may just be the spark their body needs to start healing again.

September is Animal Pain Awareness Month

Douglas Stramel, DVM, CVPP, CVMA — Fri, 22 Aug 2025 08:21:37 Z

When Pets Hurt: Shining a Light on Animal Pain

Every September, the International Veterinary Academy of Pain Management (IVAPM) leads a powerful initiative: Animal Pain Awareness Month. This campaign runs alongside human medicines Pain Awareness Month with one vital messageanimals feel pain, too, and it's time we get better at recognizing it.

More than 45 million household pets suffer from acute or chronic pain. But unlike humans, they cant tell us where it hurts. Instead, they rely on subtle shifts in behaviormany of which go unnoticed until the pain becomes severe. From arthritic joints and back injuries to dental disease and internal conditions, undiagnosed pain can quietly impact a pets mobility, appetite, and quality of life.

Pain is often hidden; its a survival instinct. Thats why regular pain assessmentsat least once a yearshould be part of every veterinary exam.

Recognizing the Signs

The IVAPM outlines common behaviors that may indicate a pet is experiencing pain:

Reduced activity or reluctance to exercise
Difficulty with stairs or standing up after rest
Decreased playfulness or avoidance of jumping
Changes in appetite or interest in food
Over-grooming or licking a specific area, or a lack of grooming (especially in cats)
Accidents or difficulty using the litter box
Faster breathing, especially at rest
Altered routines, including sleep or hiding behavior

Even small changes in a pets habits can signal a deeper issue. What may seem like a pet just getting older could actually be untreated pain.

Proactive Pain Management

Fortunately, veterinary medicine has evolved to offer a wide spectrum of effective pain treatments. Alongside traditional medications, many practices now offer non-pharmacologic therapies such as:

Acupuncture
Laser therapy
Pulsed electromagnetic field therapy (PEMF)
Ozone therapy
Shockwave therapy
Regenerative Medicine / Joint Injections
Physical rehabilitation and exercise plans

Combined with proper nutrition and low-impact daily activity, these integrative therapies can significantly improve a pets comfort and longevityoften with fewer side effects than medications alone.

Take Action

If your pet seems off, dont write it off as age or personality. Schedule a thorough veterinary exam that includes a pain assessment. Catching discomfort early leads to better outcomes, happier pets, and more peace of mind for pet parents.

The IVAPM continues to lead the charge in education and advocacy around animal pain. Their goal is simple: empower veterinary professionals and pet owners to prevent, recognize, and treat painbefore it steals your pets joy. Please visit www.ivapm.org for more information.

Non-Surgical Management of Canine Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD): Treatment Stratigies

Douglas Stramel, DVM, CVPP, CVMA — Thu, 31 Jul 2025 14:11:54 Z

Non-Surgical Management of Canine Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD): Indications and Treatment Strategies

Abstract
Intervertebral disc disease (IVDD) is a common cause of spinal cord dysfunction in dogs. While surgical intervention remains the standard of care for many cases, non-surgical (conservative) management plays a critical role in treatment, especially for patients with mild neurologic deficits, surgical contraindications, economic concerns or as an adjunct to post-operative recovery. This article outlines the indications for conservative treatment, goals of therapy, and practical approaches to maximize outcomes in affected dogs.

Introduction
IVDD is characterized by degeneration and herniation of intervertebral discs, resulting in varying degrees of pain, paresis, or paralysis. Non-surgical managementalso referred to as conservative treatmentaims to optimize comfort, restore function, and prevent complications in dogs for whom surgery is not indicated or feasible. This review summarizes when to initiate conservative therapy and provides a comprehensive approach to its implementation.

Indications for Non-Surgical Treatment
Non-surgical management may be selected under the following circumstances:

Mild Clinical Signs: Dogs exhibiting only mild neurologic deficits (e.g., pain, mild ataxia) and retaining ambulatory function.
Contraindications to Surgery: When surgery is not feasible due to financial limitations, lack of surgical availability, anesthetic risk, or owner preference.
Trial Prior to Surgery: Owners may choose to attempt conservative management before considering surgical intervention.
Adjunct to Surgical Recovery: Following spinal surgery, dogs often require weeks to months for optimal neurologic recovery and may benefit from continued non-surgical therapies to regain mobility and function.

Goals of Conservative Management
The primary objectives are:

Maximizing patient comfort and pain control
Facilitating return to standing and ambulation
Supporting restoration of bladder and bowel control
Preventing secondary complications, such as skin sores, urinary infections, and behavioral disturbances

Core Components of Non-Surgical Management

Pain Management - pharmacologic
Pharmacologic pain control, guided by the veterinarian, is the cornerstone of conservative therapy. This may include steroids, NSAIDs, muscle relaxers and analgesics.

2.Pain Management non-pharmacologic

Ozone Therapy: reducing inflammation, improving oxygen delivery to tissues, and promoting tissue repair. It works by modulating oxidative stress, stimulating the immune system, and potentially shrinking the herniated disc.
Photo biomodulation also known as Laser Therapy reducing pain and inflammation, and promoting tissue healing and regeneration. It works by stimulating cellular activity and boosting ATP production, the energy source for cells, which is crucial for repair and regeneration.
Acupuncture: reducing pain, inflammation, and promoting nerve regeneration, ultimately improving mobility and quality of life. It works by stimulating specific acupuncture points on the body, which can trigger the release of endorphins, reduce inflammation, and improve blood flow to the affected area.
Pulsed Electromagnetic Field Therapy: The pain reduction, anti-inflammatory effects, and enhanced healing offered by PEMF therapy can significantly improve a dog's overall quality of life, mobility, and comfort when dealing with IVDD.

Activity Modification

Strict rest, particularly in the initial phase, to minimize exacerbation of injury
Avoidance of high-risk activities (e.g., running, jumping)
Controlled, supported ambulation (using hands or a hindquarter sling)
Brief, low-frequency exercise and toilet breaks to prevent fatigue
Prevention of compensatory behaviors, such as dragging, which may impede functional recovery

Nursing Care

Maintenance of hygiene, with frequent cleaning and turning for recumbent patients
Sling support for mobility and toileting when necessary
Assisted bladder expression if voluntary control is impaired
Provision of attentive, individualized care

Mental Stimulation

Structured daily routine to reduce stress and boredom
Engagement with toys, gentle games, or supervised outings in a stroller to promote psychological well-being

Nutritional Support

A balanced, high-quality diet tailored to the patients needs
Caloric management to prevent weight gain during periods of reduced activity

Discussion
Conservative management of IVDD demands a coordinated, multifaceted approach involving pain control, environmental modification, attentive nursing care, and owner education. The success of non-surgical treatment depends on early recognition, consistent implementation of management strategies, and ongoing assessment of neurologic function.

Conclusion
Non-surgical therapy remains an essential component of IVDD management, whether as primary treatment or in support of surgical recovery. Individualized care plans, diligent owner participation, and regular veterinary follow-up are key to optimizing patient outcomes.

References

Brisson BA. Intervertebral disc disease in dogs. Vet Clin North Am Small Anim Pract. 2010;40(5):829858.
Levine JM, et al. Prognosis for dogs with thoracolumbar myelopathy undergoing conservative treatment. J Am Vet Med Assoc. 2007;230(11):16741679.
Mann FA, et al. Conservative vs. surgical management of acute intervertebral disc herniation in dogs. Vet Surg. 2016;45(7):S46S54.
Jeffery ND, et al. Intervertebral disc degeneration in dogs: Treatment and prognosis. J Small Anim Pract. 2013;54(6):339347.

Ozone Therapy: A Natural Solution for Pain & Healing

Douglas Stramel, DVM, CVPP, CVMA — Fri, 07 Mar 2025 11:54:29 Z

Ozone Therapy: A Natural Solution for Pain & Healing

Ozone medical gas therapy is a powerful, non-invasive treatment used to reduce pain, promote healing, and enhance overall wellness. It has been successfully applied to conditions such as osteoarthritis, intervertebral disc disease, chronic wounds, ear infections, and even kidney disease.

Key Benefits of Ozone Therapy:

Reduces Pain & Inflammation Ozone stimulates oxygen flow to targeted areas, helping to reduce inflammation and relieve pain associated with joint and spinal conditions.

Boosts Immune Function Ozone therapy enhances white blood cell production, strengthening the bodys ability to fight infections and accelerate healing.

Antiviral & Antibacterial Properties Ozone destroys bacteria, fungi, and viruses on contact, making it highly effective for treating ear infections, wounds, and chronic infections.

Supports Kidney Function Studies show that ozone therapy can improve kidney function in patients with chronic kidney disease, reducing oxidative stress and enhancing circulation.

Promotes Faster Healing & Regeneration Ozone stimulates the body's natural healing mechanisms, increasing interferon and tumor necrosis factor production, which are essential for fighting infections and supporting tissue repair.

For over 100 years, ozone has been used to purify water, eliminate harmful pathogens, and promote health. Now, it offers a cutting-edge, drug-free solution for managing pain and improving overall well-being in veterinary medicine.

Interested in learning more? Contact us to see how ozone therapy can help your pet!

Managing Arthritis with LESS Oral Medications

Douglas Stramel, DVM, CVPP, CVMA — Fri, 03 Jan 2025 15:04:57 Z

Managing Osteoarthritis (OA) in Pets: Advanced Treatments for Enhanced Mobility

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a progressive, irreversible condition characterized by the deterioration of cartilage within the joints. This leads to inflammation, pain, stiffness, and swelling, ultimately resulting in permanent bone changes visible on x-rays. OA is a significant health concern, particularly in dogs, where it stands as the leading cause of chronic pain. It affects approximately 80% of dogs over the age of eight and up to 35% of dogs across all age groups. If left untreated, OA can severely impact a pet's quality of life, making effective management critical.

One of the most promising approaches to managing OA is intra-articular injection therapy. These treatments deliver medication directly into the affected joint, bypassing the liver and kidneys to reduce systemic side effects while providing targeted relief. Intra-articular injections not only address inflammation and pain but also offer cartilage protection and lubricationbenefits that oral medications like carprofen or meloxicam cannot achieve. Additionally, these therapies can slow disease progression and potentially reduce or eliminate the need for long-term oral medications.

Treatment selection depends on the stage of OA and the specific needs of the patient. Advanced options include:

Precise PRP (Platelet Rich Plasma), which releases growth factors and anti-inflammatory cytokines to reduce pain and promote tissue repair.

ArthramidVet, a polyacrylamide hydrogel, integrates into the synovial lining to create a cushion-like membrane that reduces friction and enhances joint function.

Noltrex Vet, a synthetic joint lubricant, adheres to damaged cartilage surfaces, providing essential protection while reducing friction and supporting overall joint health.

These therapies represent a significant advancement in veterinary medicine, offering hope for pets suffering from arthritis. If you are seeking innovative solutions to improve your pet's mobility and comfort, consider consulting a Certified Veterinary Pain Practitioner. You can locate a practitioner near you by visiting https://www.ivapm.org/find-an-ivapm-pain-practitioner

Take proactive steps today to ensure your pet enjoys a more comfortable and active life.