Pain Management in Pets

Pain management is of paramount importance in the well being of your pet. Whether it be a surgical procedure or symptoms of arthritis, it is only ethical that we should provide excellent pain management. Thankfully, the days of accepting – or even promoting pains as a way to keep patients quiet during a recovery period, is fast becoming a thing of the past.Providing appropriate pain management is a responsibility that all veterinarians share. It is not only morally and ethically the right thing to do, but also speeds up recovery times and minimizes complications. Through a combination of epidurals, local and regional and intra-articular blocks, narcotics, NSAIDS and laser therapy, we have placed a strong emphasis on pain management. Rest assured that when you bring your pet to us, you are placing them in very caring hands.A pet experiencing pain can be managed in many different ways to get them feeling comfortable as quickly as possible:

• Laser therapy

• Cartrophen injections

• Pain medications

Cartrophen Injections

Chondroprotectants: (Injectable, regulated and tested by the FDA, Health Canada, such as Cartrophen, Adequan) have been clinically proven to:

• increase joint productions (lubrication in the joint)

• stimulate production of new cartilage

• decrease joint inflammation

• decrease pain

These treatments are considered to be extremely effective, easy to administer (given under the skin, typically between the shoulder blades on a weekly basis for up to four weeks and then topped up with one injection every 2 to 3 months), and very safe. No recognized negative side effects beyond allergic reactions which are considered extremely rare, have been noted.Cartrophen is an effective treatment for post surgical arthritis.

Pet Pain Management for Quicker Recovery and Longer Life Expectancy

If your pets pain or discomfort is properly addressed it will improve their recovery process, whether from illness, surgery or injury, drastically improving their quality of life.It is important that you recognize when your cat or dog is suffering:

• Limping

• Difficulty or reluctant waking, jumping, and climbing stairs

• Crying or vocalizing

• Restlessness or irritability

• Inability to sleep or rest comfortably

• Soiling outside the litter box

• Seeking solitude or extra attention

• Licking or chewing at the painful area

By recognizing when your pet needs pain management and getting a vet on the job, you are not only offering your pet increased comfort, but also a healthier life for an extended period of time. Give your pet relief from pain and suffering that can be avoided. Call Upper Canada Animal Hospital and talk to us about pain management for your pet.