Pain Management
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, staff, and Lakewood Veterinary Center believe pain control is vital to 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 the 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.
Pain can be a sign that your pet is in trouble, especially if they’re not acting like themselves. If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s important to get help right away:
- They seem lethargic or depressed for no reason
- They don’t want to move around much or play with toys
- They aren’t eating as much as usual
- Difficulty standing up
- Pacing, restlessness, or biting
- Limping
- Avoidance of stairs
- Hesitation to move
- Neck weakness or trembling
- Unusual crying or yelping when touched
- They keep grooming themselves in one spot repeatedly
- Panting
