The importance of pain management has been well documented over the years. Pain contributes to suffering and animals who are painful have prolonged healing times and a reduced quality of life. The doctors and staff and Lakewood Veterinary Center believe pain control is a vial aspect of caring for your pet.
Many animals do not show outward signs of pain because of the instinctual desire to show no signs of weakness. In the wild, weak animals would be preyed upon by predators. If owners notice their pet “slowing down” or “just getting old” they should be evaluated for pain to see if medication could help.
We believe in the multi-modal approach to pain control. Many drugs work synergistically, enhancing their pain control action when used together. Multi-modal pain control relies on various prescription medications along with supplements, nerve blocks and therapy (cold) laser to help control pain.
Common Signs of Pain:
| Stiffness | Hesitation to Move |
| Decreased Activity | Neck Weakness |
| Lagging behind on walks | Trembling |
| Difficulty standing up | Depressed Appetite |
| Pacing, Restlessness, Biting, | Running with “Bunny Hops” |
| Slow to Sit or Lay Down | Unusual Crying or Whining – or yelping when touched |
| Limping | Hiding |
| Avoidance of Stairs | Arched Back, Head Lowered or Tilted |
| Muscle Atrophy (loss) | Panting (Increase in respiration) |