Pain Management
We offer a multimodal approach to pain management for both acute & chronic pain.
Examples of acute pain include traumatic pain, postoperative pain, orthopedic pain (limping), painful infected ears, abscesses, pancreatitis, gall bladder disease, kidney infections, bladder stones, etc. Examples of chronic pain include neck pain, back pain, and osteoarthritis.
Pain Management
Pain management is crucial for pets to ensure their overall well-being and quality of life.
Pets, like humans, can experience acute or chronic pain due to various conditions such as injuries, surgeries, or chronic illnesses like arthritis. Uncontrolled pain can lead to decreased mobility, loss of appetite, behavioral changes, and reduced engagement in daily activities. By effectively managing pain, pets experience relief, improved comfort, and enhanced mobility.
Pain management also promotes faster recovery from surgeries or injuries, reduces stress, and supports the human-animal bond. It is essential to prioritize pain management to ensure the best possible health and happiness for pets.
As pet parents and members of the veterinary care team, witnessing our beloved furry family members in pain is disheartening. Thankfully, we offer several options to effectively manage your pet's pain, whether it stems from chronic conditions like osteoarthritis or sudden injuries caused by unexpected accidents.
Laser Therapy
Class 4 laser therapy is a non-invasive treatment that utilizes focused, high-powered laser light to target areas of pain and inflammation.
The therapy stimulates cellular activity which increases circulation, reduces swelling, and promotes tissue healing. The laser energy penetrates deep into tissues, reaching damaged cells and nerves. This can effectively alleviate pain associated with conditions such as arthritis, injuries, or post-surgical discomfort.
Multiple sessions may be required, but the therapy can significantly improve a pet's quality of life by reducing pain and enhancing mobility.
Laser treatment can be used in conjunction with or in place of medication to manage pain, inflammation, and wound healing.
Acupuncture
Acupuncture is an ancient Chinese medical technique involving the specific placement of needles to assist the body in healing itself.
Correct needle placement stimulates nerves, increases blood flow & releases hormones and endorphins, which are the body’s natural anti-inflammatory and pain relieving substances. Acupuncture can be integrated with conventional Western medicine to manage a variety of conditions. It can alleviate symptoms of chronic metabolic illness and is excellent for pain associated with degenerative joint disease or neurologic disorders. It can improve non-specific signs in cancer patients, including poor appetite, nausea & lethargy. Acupuncture may lessen anxiety in pets with behavioral concerns.
Below are other common treatment options for inflammatory, arthritic, joint and musculoskeletal conditions.
Librela™ (bedinvetmab) for Dogs
Librela™ is an injection, administered by our experienced staff and is recommended for monthly use.
Osteoarthritis (OA), or degenerative joint disease, affects approximately 40% of our canine friends. It is the number one source of chronic pain and can cause reduced mobility, lameness, stiffness, and muscle loss. We are very excited to now offer Librela™ as an innovative, safe, and effective method to address OA pain.
Librela™ is NOT for use in dogs younger than 1 year of age, or breeding/pregnant/lactating patients.
Solensia™ (frunevetmab) for Cats
Solensia™ is an injection, administered by our experienced staff and is recommended for monthly use.
Studies suggest that over 90% of cats over the age of 12 are suffering from OA, yet only 8-10% receive any treatment for this condition. 77% of cat owners reported improvement after three (3) monthly injections, but an increase in mobility can be seen after a single treatment. Side effects are minimal but may include tenderness or itching at the injection site and vomiting.
PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma) Injections
PRP is a form of regenerative medicine that is used to treat inflammatory conditions that affect ligaments, muscles, and tendons, such as osteoarthritis.
Injecting PRP at the site of inflammation promotes healing of the affected tissue and reduces inflammation. PRP is derived from the blood of the patient, and it contains a high concentration of platelets, growth factors, and other bioactive proteins that can aid in tissue regeneration and repair. The treatment can be performed as a standalone procedure or in conjunction with other therapies, such as physical rehabilitation, medication, or surgery.
Adequan Injections for Dogs
Adequan is believed to promote joint health, provide anti-inflammatory effects, stimulate tissue repair and may slow down the progression of joint degeneration.
Adequan injections are commonly used to manage osteoarthritis and degenerative joint disease in dogs. By minimizing inflammation, Adequan can contribute to improved joint mobility and comfort for dogs with osteoarthritis. Adequan injections are administered as a series of injections over a specific period, depending on the severity of the dog's condition. The injections can be given by our staff here at the hospital, or at home by the pet parent. Adequan is often used as part of a multimodal approach to managing osteoarthritis, which may also include pain medications, weight management, physical therapy, and other interventions.
Supplements such as Glucosamine and Omega Fish Fatty Acids
Supplements such as glucosamine and omega-3 fatty acids can provide various health benefits for pets, particularly in the context of joint health and overall well-being.
Glucosamine is a naturally occurring compound that plays a crucial role in maintaining healthy cartilage and joint function. It is commonly used in supplements to support joint health in pets, especially those with osteoarthritis or degenerative joint disease. Omega-3 fatty acids offer several advantages for pets as they reduce inflammation, support joint health, promote healthy skin and coat, and aid in brain and eye development. It's important to note that while glucosamine and omega-3 fatty acid supplements can be beneficial, their effectiveness may vary depending on the individual pet and their specific health condition.
Non-steroidal Anti-inflammatories
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are commonly used to manage pain and inflammation in pets
By reducing inflammation, they can help alleviate pain associated with conditions like osteoarthritis, post-surgical pain, or injuries. NSAIDs also have analgesic properties, meaning they directly reduce pain perception. By reducing inflammation and pain, NSAIDs can improve mobility in pets with conditions that affect their joints or musculoskeletal system. This can allow them to move more comfortably and engage in regular activities. Our veterinarians will carefully select the appropriate NSAID, dose, and treatment duration based on the individual pet's condition, size, age, and overall health. Regular monitoring and follow-up visits are crucial to assess the pet's response to the medication and adjust the treatment plan if needed.
Additionally, it's essential to never give human NSAIDs to pets, as many human medications, including NSAIDs, can be toxic and dangerous to animals. Only use NSAIDs prescribed specifically for your pet and follow the veterinarian's instructions closely to ensure the safe and effective use of these medications.