Veterinary Pain and Arthritis Management in Omaha
Veterinary pain management is the practice of anticipating, diagnosing, and treating pain in pets. It is a multi-modal approach that can include pharmaceuticals, physical therapy, and even alternative treatments. It's not just about alleviating pain but also about improving the quality of life for our animal companions.
Why is Pain Management Important to Address?
- Enhanced Animal Welfare: It ensures the well-being of the pets under our care, aligning with our veterinarian's oath to relieve animal suffering.
- Professional Responsibility: Our Omaha, NE, veterinarians have a professional obligation to alleviate pain and suffering in animals, as outlined by veterinary ethics and guidelines.
- Improved Patient Outcomes: Effective pain management leads to better treatment outcomes, faster recoveries, and overall improved quality of life for your pet.
- Prevention of Complications: Proper pain management helps prevent complications associated with untreated pain, such as decreased mobility, impaired healing, and behavioral changes.
- Maintaining Mental Health: Chronic pain can lead to anxiety or depression in your pet. Managing pain helps maintain their mental well-being.
Overall, offering veterinary pain management services is not only morally and ethically imperative but also ensures optimal patient care and adherence to professional standards and legal requirements.
Types of Pain in Pets - Acute Pain vs Chronic Pain
Understanding the distinction between acute and chronic pain is crucial for effective pain management.
- Acute pain is typically sudden and arises from an identifiable cause such as surgery, injury, or infection. It usually lasts for a short duration and resolves with healing.
- Chronic pain, on the other hand, is long-lasting and often results from conditions like arthritis or cancer. It can be challenging to manage and may require ongoing treatment.
Acute Pain Symptoms in Pets
Recognizing the signs of acute pain in pets is the first step toward providing relief. Symptoms may include:
- Vocalizing (whining, howling, or groaning)
- Limping or reluctance to move
- Changes in behavior or appetite
- Rapid breathing or panting
- Licking or biting at a particular area of the body
Acute Pain Treatment Options for Pets in Omaha
When a pet is in acute pain, prompt treatment can prevent it from becoming chronic. Here are some common approaches:
- Medications - Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), opioids, and local anesthetics are often prescribed to manage acute pain in pets. These medications must be used under veterinary supervision due to potential side effects and the risk of overdose.
- Surgery - In cases of injury or certain medical conditions, surgery may be necessary to address the underlying cause of pain.
- Complementary Therapies - Physical therapy can be a beneficial adjunct to traditional pain management strategies.
Chronic Pain Symptoms in Pets
Chronic pain can be more subtle and harder to detect. Symptoms often develop gradually and may include:
- Decreased activity or lethargy
- Difficulty standing up or lying down
- Stiff gait or limping that worsens over time
- Behavioral changes such as irritability or withdrawal
- Chronic licking, chewing, or grooming of specific areas
Chronic Pain Treatment Options for Pets in Omaha
Managing chronic pain in pets often requires a multifaceted approach, including:
- Long-term Medication - Pets with chronic pain may need ongoing medication. NSAIDs, gabapentin, and amantadine are examples of drugs that may be used long-term under veterinary guidance.
- Weight Management - Excess weight can exacerbate pain, particularly in cases of joint disease. A healthy diet and controlled exercise can be part of a pain management plan.
- Physical Rehabilitation - Physical therapy and therapeutic exercises can improve mobility and reduce discomfort.
- Integrative Therapies - Alternative therapies such as chiropractic care, laser therapy, acupuncture, and Joint supplements (approved first by our veterinarians) can complement traditional treatments.
- Solensia - Monthly injectable for cats suffering from osteoarthritis pain.
- Librela - Monthly injectable for dogs suffering from osteoarthritis pain.
Tips For Managing Pet Pain at Home
In addition to veterinary interventions, pet owners can take steps to manage their pet's pain at home:
- Create a Comfortable Environment - Provide a soft, supportive bed and minimize the need for your pet to use stairs or jump onto high surfaces.
- Moderate Exercise - Gentle exercise can help maintain muscle strength and flexibility but avoid overexertion which can worsen pain.
- Warmth and Massage - Applying warmth to sore areas and gentle massage can soothe discomfort and promote relaxation.
- Monitor and Communicate - Keep a close eye on your pet's behavior and symptoms, and maintain open communication with our Omaha, NE, veterinarians about any changes or concerns.
Find a Pain Relief and Arthritis Vet Near Omaha, NE
Finding a pain relief and arthritis vet near you in Omaha is easy with our online direct booking feature. Both new and existing clients seeking pet pain management care may schedule an appointment at our Omaha vet clinic.
