Relieving Pain, Improving Quality of Life
Nobody wants to see an animal in pain, especially if they are a beloved member of our family. At Mission Road Animal Clinic, we fight to maintain the best quality of life possible for your pet which includes minimizing, if not eliminating, acute or chronic pain.
Arthritis Management
Does Your Pet Have Arthritis?
Symptoms
Lethargy Stiffness Limping
Difficulty getting up
Reluctance to jump, run, or play
Loss of muscle mass over limbs or spine Irritability or changes in behavior
Pain when touched
Difficulty posturing to urinate or defecate
Librela/Solensia: A monthly injection that is a monoclonal antibody which binds to anti-nerve growth factors that are the cause of pain associated with osteoarthritis.
NSAID Therapy: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are commonly used to control pain and inflammation.
Supplements: Joint supplements are used to reduce inflammation and support cartilage regeneration. (Phycox, Cosequin).
Cold Laser Therapy: Therapeutic lasers are a class 4 laser that stimulates electrons and activates cells to promote repair.
Chiropractic: The practice of spinal manipulation or manual therapies for animals.
Weight Loss/Management: Maintaining a healthy weight helps reduce the risk of joint related injuries.
Acute Pain Management
Unfortunately, when our animals aren’t feeling like themselves they can’t tell us what is bothering them. Acute pain is a sudden, often sharp, onset of an uncomfortable sensation anywhere in the body. Unlike chronic pain, acute pain can catch you and your pet off guard. You could see a change in their behavior when they start to experience any pain. Signs that they are uncomfortable may include:
Sudden lack of mobility
Increase in vocalization when moving or affected area is touched
Excessive licking or biting of affected area
Lethargy
Aggressive behavior
Shaking or trembling
Increase in grooming
Restlessness or pacing
If you notice any strange behavior or develop any concerns regarding your pet’s wellness or immediate safety, we urge you not to hesitate in contacting us right away. We take animal discomfort very seriously as being in pain can have various negative effects on your pet’s physical and mental health.
Chronic Pain Management
Unlike acute pain, once chronic pain shows up it tends to stick around. Think more of a consistent dull aching or ongoing discomfort that is always in the background. If your pet seems a little off and you notice them “settle in” to this new version of themselves, it could be an indication that they are suffering from a form of chronic pain. Signs and symptoms can include:
Your pet is less active or seems to be slowing down
Limping that does not resolve
Stiffness in movement or motion
Less willing to jump, climb stairs, run, or partake in other movements that require optimal joint and bone condition
While it can seem daunting, there are various ways we can treat both acute and chronic pain! Once we figure out the cause of discomfort, we will immediately begin forming a treatment plan, meaning your pet will feel better, sooner!
Laser Therapy
Cold Laser Therapy is a non-surgical, non-medicinal treatment performed in our office to help reduce pain, stimulate healing, and improve mobility. Cold Laser Therapy can be used for a variety of conditions including, but not limited to: arthritis, injury, incisional healing, gingivitis, wound care, and more. Treatment packages are available and tailored to your pets’ specific needs.
