Get Well

It was long believed that animals don’t “feel pain”. Animals are genetically wired to hide pain making it hard to detect. Thankfully as veterinary medicine has progressed we understand pain pathways and have various treatment options.

Our Neighborhood Vet team is trained to recognize pain and discomfort. We use pain assessment during each visit to make your pet more comfortable.

Pain

  • Types

    It is important to realize there are different types of pain in order to recognize what our pets may be feeling. Think about your own experiences with pain to relate to your pets.

    Acute or Sudden: This type of pain is predictable and would have an expected response to the type of injury. The pain may be sharp, sudden, burning, pulsing, or aching. Examples: burns, cut, being hit

    Chronic or long lasting: This type of pain is lasting longer than expected and may be related to a progressive cause. The pain may be dulled, throbbing, aching, or pulsing. Examples: arthritis, inflammatory bowel disease, dental disease

    Neuropathic: This pain relates to the nerve endings and spinal cord. The pain can feel like tingling, pins & needles, sharp shock like impulses, or burning. Examples: back injury, slipped disk, amputation

    Cancer: Cancer attacks the whole body system and can feel as acute, chronic, or nerve pain. Pain management needs to be considered in any pet that has been diagnosed with cancer.

  • Symptoms

    Animals are genetically wired to hide pain and signs may be subtle or do not appear until the pain is severe. Thankfully, the human-animal bond is stronger than ever. People’s connection to their pets is allowing owners to catch subtle signs of pain and illness earlier.

    Symptoms of pain are related to the type of pain and cause of pain. General symptoms are:

    -Hiding

    -Lethargy

    -Panting in Dogs

    -Not eating or change in eating

    -Vocalization

    -Raised third eyelids

    -Limping or weakness

    -Pacing

    -Change in stance

    -Aggression

    -Licking or chewing

  • Treatment

    There is not one test or treatment for pain. After a history and physical exam assessment, our veterinarian can advise a treatment plan.

    Testing can include, blood count, blood chemistry, electrolyte measurement, specific organ blood tests, urinalysis, and parasite screening. Referral for imaging may be needed for chronic or severe pain.

    Treatment can include injectable or oral pain medications or supplements. There are specific medications used in veterinary medicine based on the type of pain. Environmental improvements and physical therapy can help the body heal as well.

    Please never give your pet human pain medications such as Aspirin, Tylenol, or Ibuprofen. These medications can be deadly. If you think your pet is painful, let our team help.

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