Soothing the “Ouch!”: A guide to pain in pets and innovative ways to manage it
Our pets are known for being stoic. Cats, dogs, and other animals cannot express their pain in words. However, there are clear signs of discomfort. Animals often show their pain, sometimes in subtle ways. Cornelius Pet Hospital has the expertise and capabilities to identify the nature and source of that pain. Our veterinarians, Drs. Brandon Heikes and Elise LaFevre offer various pain relief options beyond conventional pain management. We do everything for our patients and the pet parents who care for them. We are fortunate to have Dr. LaFevre certified in veterinary acupuncture. This is just one example of how we continuously strive to innovate and provide the best services and care for the beloved four-legged members of your household.
What are some signs that my pet may be experiencing hidden pain?
We recognize that no one knows your pet better than you do. So, if you notice that your dog or cat no longer seems as able or willing to engage in play or other activities that they once loved, that can be a red flag. Other potential red flags include changes in eating habits, an altered gait, restlessness that may manifest as pacing or repetitive movements, unexplained vocalizations that are outside of the “norm” for your pet, over-grooming or licking of specific areas (or, conversely, a lack of grooming that can result in a noticeably duller coat); and changes in their personality or behaviors. For instance, a formerly docile cat may become irritable. Or, the “life of the party” may no longer welcome visitors or want to engage with other pet friends or people.
What are some common sources of pain?
Think of all of the conditions that can cause you pain. Likewise, seemingly innumerable illnesses, diseases, injuries, trauma, and other factors can cause pain in our pets. Some of the most common include dental disease, arthritis, ear infections, urinary tract infections, and other degenerative conditions that are often associated with advancing age. Your pet might have injured their paw without your knowledge. Such injuries can become bigger problems when not dealt with promptly because pets tend to scratch and lick at wounded areas. This can produce a potentially serious infection that is secondary to the original problem.
How do you treat pain?
We are an integrative practice. Our team applies all sorts of clinically proven therapies and approaches to ease your pet’s pain and restore their function, health, and quality of life. We prescribe conventional pain medications along with offering alternative approaches. Acupuncture represents one of those approaches. It is applicable at every stage of a patient’s life, from injuries that may occur in puppyhood to painful diseases that may arise with aging, as well as palliative care. We also use a sophisticated laser system to decrease inflammation and pain and improve wound and tissue healing.
How does acupuncture for pets work?
This time-tested Chinese practice involves the gentle application of ultra-thin and sterile needles to precise points of the body. This process triggers the release of chemicals in muscles, spinal cord, and brain tissue. As these chemicals are released, the perception of pain is altered, and other chemical mediators may be released that affect organ function and stimulate healing.
And how do you use lasers for pain relief?
Lasers have been used for decades in various medical applications, from sports medicine to dentistry. When specific wavelengths are applied to targeted tissues, the energy from the laser can work wonders on the healing process, muscle relaxation, inflammation, and the pain experience. Cornelius Pet Hospital may recommend laser-assisted therapies for pets with chronic pain due to arthritis, following surgical procedures, or as the result of tendon, ligament, and other traumatic injuries. It is particularly appropriate for those pets with conditions that preclude them from taking certain medications or older pets with diminished organ function. If you sense that something is “off” with your pets or they are simply overdue for a wellness visit, contact our team in Ventura, CA, at (805) 793-1708. We are here to put those worries behind you with trusted care and prompt and appropriate pain relief measures as needed.
