No pet should have to needlessly experience pain. There are a variety of pain medications available to give your pet some relief. In addition to prescription medications, our practice offers therapeutic laser treatments, acupuncture and referrals to physical therapy specialists.
Unfortunately, pet owners may have a difficult time determining if their canine or feline companion is experiencing discomfort. An integral part of managing pain is helping you, the pet owner, become aware of subtle changes in your pet’s behavior that might indicate he or she is experiencing discomfort, such as:
- Decrease in activity or mobility
- Difficulty rising
- Stiffness or limping
- Decreased appetite
- Resistance to being picked up or held
- Excessive licking at one area, such as a wrist joint
- Vocalizing (whining or moaning)
- Becoming quiet and withdrawn, hiding or sleeping in remote areas (especially cats)
- Inappropriate aggressive behavior or irritability
- Personality changes
- Increased respiratory rate, panting
- Restless, unable to get comfortable, fitful at night, frequently changing position
Acupuncture
Acupuncture is a form of Traditional Chinese Medicine that aims to restore the body’s energy balance. Acupuncture involves stimulating specific points on a dog or cat’s body using fine needles to promote healing and alleviate various conditions including pain, inflammation and nervous system issues which can have a calming effect.
Laser Therapy
Laser therapy is another adjunct or alternative therapy for pain management used at San Pablo Animal Hospital. Therapeutic lasers use light waves of certain wavelengths to help with tissue repair. Laser therapy helps with tissue repair by causing the following
- Endorphin release
- Vasodilation, which increases blood flow to bring in oxygen and cells involved in the healing process
- Muscle relaxation
- Decreased inflammation
- Faster healing and repair
The main clinical benefits of laser use in pets include decreased inflammation, decreased pain, and improved wound healing.