Pain management

Chronic Pain Management

As our pets get older, they commonly develop conditions that cause them pain on a daily basis. Sometimes the signs of pain are subtle and are not easily recognized such as in pets with early arthritis or dental disease. The prevention and treatment of pain when it occurs is an important part of providing your pet with a good quality of life.

Dental Disease

• Over 80% of pets over 2 years have dental disease
• Often the signs of dental disease are subtle, and the animals are still eating normally.
• Usually problems become evident upon physical exam.
• Treatment is straightforward via a dental prophylaxis and special attention, as needed, to compromised teeth.
• Prevention can be achieved with home care and up to annual prophylaxis to keep the tartar from being able to cause problems.
• After treatment often very noticeable, positive change in pets’ behavior.

Arthritis

• Changes in behavior and activity at home often indicate arthritis is present.
  • Difficulty in rising/lying down/sitting down, difficulty in climbing stairs, behavioral changes, tiring easily, lagging behind on walks, stiffness, or even limping are signs of arthritis.
  • Although these signs are common, they do indicate the presence of a problem and are not actually “normal” aging changes
• A physical exam and sometimes x-rays help to confirm and localize the presence of arthritis.
• Treatment is varied and often can greatly enhance your pets’ quality of life.
  • Weight management is extremely important.
  • Joint supplements such as glucosamine/chondroitin sulfate (Cosequin®), and glycosaminoglycans (Adequan®).
  • Anti-inflammatory medications (Rimadyl®, Deramaxx®, Metacam®) and sometimes additional pain medications.
  • For certain conditions surgery can be considered.

If you feel your pet may be suffering from some kind of chronic pain, please feel free to ask our staff about what best can be done to provide him/her with the comfort he/she deserves.