Not too long ago, veterinarians though pain served a purpose and was not to be treated in animals. They believed that pain was a natural way to keep an animal still and quiet so they could heal. However, today the thought is much different. Veterinarians now see that animal’s suffer much as humans do and that pain is not necessary as part of treatment for an illness or injury.
The New Idea about Pain
The AAHA/AAFP Pain Management Guidelines for Dogs and Cats is a guide to pan treatment in animals. These guidelines explain the importance of using pain management to help in the recovery process and help reduce stress on the animal and generally make the animal feel cared for and safe when recovering. As the guide explains, proper pain management is thought to help pets adjust better after an illness or injury and to even live longer.
Types of Pain
The important part of good pain management in pets is understanding that there are different types of pain. Pain can be acute, which means it is a sudden result in direct response to an illness or injury. It usually clears up once the condition is cured or healed.
Chronic pain is more severe and long lasting. It comes on slowly and develops over time. Chronic pain is usually related to age related disorders or certain illnesses, such as cancer. It can last for years and may never go away, especially without treatment. It may be difficult to detect because animals may learn to live with it since it is persistent.
Treating Pain
Once pain has been detected in your pet you need to find the source of the pain. Have your pet checked out by a veterinarian. The vet can run tests and do other checks to see what is causing the pain. The vet will also be able to set up a treatment plan.
Some of the things that may be suggested to treat the pain in your pet include:
– Massage. Massage works on a pet just as it does in a human. It causes the pet to relax, which can ease pain. It also serves a psychological purpose as it helps you bond with your pet and build up that trusting relationship with them.
– Medication. There are specific pet pain medications that may be used for your pet. There are not only pills, but easy to use liquids, patches and gels. Most types of medications need to be used for a short period of time and all medications should be used per the vet’s directions.
No matter what course of treatment you are given to treat your pet’s pain, you should always follow the vet’s orders. Pain treatment in a pet can be made difficult because it is often hard to tell if your pet is still in pain. You simply need to be observant and aware of your pet’s behavior so you can ensure that the pain management is effective.
When your pet is in pain it can be difficult. There is no need to feel helpless. You can seek help from your vet and take matters into your own hands by insisting a pain treatment plan. With all the options available, you should be able to find some way to ease your pet’s pain and make them feel comfortable once again.
This article was written by Kelly Marshall of Oh My Dog Supplies – the leading online dog supplies store featuring sturdy indoor pet gates.