Pain management and pain control is very important in pets. Animals have developed an innate ability to hide their pain as a survival mechanism. As a result, your dog, cat, or pocket pet may be experiencing pain, but may not be showing it. There are many subtle signs that suggest your pet is experiencing pain at home. Some of these signs are often attributed to age, but they are actually due to pain. For instance, your pet may seem to have decreased energy, decreased desire to play, or have changes in bowel or bladder habits. More obvious signs of pain include being slow to stand from sitting or laying down, difficulty with stairs or activity, or crying and whimpering when the painful area is touched.
The veterinarians and registered veterinary technicians at Martensville Veterinary Hospital have taken advanced education on identifying and managing pain. We are experts in reading the signs of acute and chronic pain. Veterinarians assess your pet’s pain based on what you are seeing at home, as well as through a complete physical exam. They will explore potential sources of pain, including injury, arthritis, and other causes. Using our assessment, we will make a well-rounded pain management plan to help relieve and control your pet’s pain. Pain management may involve lifestyle changes, natural and supportive therapies, further diagnostics, medications, and/or rehabilitation.
When addressing a pet’s pain, it is important to know that pets do not respond to medications in the same way as humans. As a result, human pain medications can pose a grave health risks to your pet. We strongly recommend you do not give your pet any human medications without consultation with the veterinarians at Martensville Veterinary Hospital.