Dog walking up ramp into vehicle.

Pain Management

Accepting New Patients
Flexible Payment Options
Weekend Hours

Pain Management for Pets

Whether your beloved pet is showing signs of arthritis as they age, or recovering from an injury or illness, you don’t have to go through it alone. At our hospital, we partner with you to provide veterinary pain management for pets, because every pet deserves to feel their best.

Pets don’t always show pain the way we expect. Many dogs and cats instinctively hide their discomfort until it becomes severe. That’s why it’s important to know the subtle signs that something might be wrong.

Know The Signs

Common Symptoms of Pain in Pets

If you’ve noticed any of the following signs, it’s time to schedule a pain evaluation with our veterinary team:

  • Limping or favoring a limb 
  • Stiffness or difficulty moving 
  • Avoiding play, running, or jumping 
  • Sudden changes in behavior—grouchiness, depression, or withdrawal 
  • Crying, whining, or whimpering 
  • Loss of appetite 
  • Pawing at the eyes, ears, or mouth 
  • Excessive licking, scratching, or biting at a specific area 
  • Vocalizing or flinching when touched or picked up 
  • Bathroom accidents in the house 
  • Hiding more than usual (especially in cats) 

We’ll perform a complete physical exam and work closely with you to develop a personalized pain management plan.

A cat snuggles in a blanket.

Tailored Pain Relief Plans for Your Pet

Depending on your pet’s condition, age, and overall health, we may recommend a combination of the following pain management options: 

Lifestyle Changes

For pets with chronic pain, especially arthritis, small adjustments at home can make a big difference: 

  • Non-slip rugs or mats to prevent falls on slick floors 
  • Pet stairs or ramps for easier access to furniture or the car 
  • Orthopedic beds or cushions to support sore joints 
  • Healthy weight loss to reduce joint stress 
Supplements

Joint-supporting supplements such as glucosamine, chondroitin, and omega-3 fatty acids can help reduce inflammation and improve mobility. We’ll help you choose high-quality products that are right for your pet.

Pain Medications

Veterinary-prescribed medications can greatly improve your pet’s quality of life, especially when chronic pain is involved. We’ll discuss the safest options, using the lowest effective doses, to keep your pet happy, active, and comfortable.

Important: Never give your pet human pain medications without veterinary guidance—many are toxic to animals. We have safe, pet-specific options available.

Laser Therapy for Pets

Laser therapy is a cutting-edge, non-invasive treatment for dogs and cats that uses light energy to reduce pain and inflammation and accelerate healing. It’s a great option for pets suffering from arthritis, injuries, surgical wounds, or chronic conditions.

How Does Laser Therapy Work?

Using a handheld device, our trained veterinary team applies gentle, non-invasive pain relief through therapeutic laser light directed at the affected area. The light penetrates deep into tissues, stimulating cellular regeneration and improving blood circulation, helping your pet feel better faster.

What are the Benefits of Laser Therapy? 

The benefits of laser therapy are:

  • Reduced inflammation and swelling 
  • Pain relief without medication 
  • Faster healing after surgery or injury 
  • Improved mobility and range of motion 
  • No sedation or downtime needed 
  • Many pets enjoy their sessions—some even relax or fall asleep! Treatments are quick (usually under 10 minutes), and we often recommend a series of sessions for the best results. Laser therapy can be used on its own or in combination with other pain management treatments. 
Acupuncture for Pets

Veterinary acupuncture is a time-tested, holistic therapy that can be incredibly effective for managing pain, inflammation, and stress in pets. This technique involves inserting ultra-thin, sterile needles into specific points on your pet’s body to stimulate natural healing processes. 

What is Acupuncture Used for?

It’s commonly used for conditions such as: 

  • Arthritis and joint pain 
  • Neurological disorders (e.g., nerve injury, spinal issues) 
  • Post-surgical recovery 
  • Gastrointestinal problems 
  • Chronic pain and inflammation 

Acupuncture works by encouraging the body to release endorphins (natural painkillers) and improve circulation. Most pets tolerate it very well, even those who are shy or nervous. In fact, many dogs and cats become very calm during treatment, and some even fall asleep!

What are the Benefits of Acupuncture? 

The benefits of acupuncture include:

  • No drugs or harsh side effects. 
  • Can complement other treatments or medications. 
  • Suitable for both chronic and acute conditions. 
  • Enhances overall wellness and balance. 

We tailor every acupuncture session to your pet’s individual needs and comfort level, with careful monitoring throughout.

Hydrotherapy for Pets

Hydrotherapy is a fantastic option for pets who need to build strength, recover from injury, or manage chronic joint issues like arthritis—all while minimizing stress on their bodies. It typically involves walking or swimming in warm water, often using a specially designed underwater treadmill or therapeutic pool.

The buoyancy of water reduces pressure on joints while still providing resistance, allowing your pet to move more freely and safely.

How Does Hydrotherapy Work?

Hydrotherapy is a low-impact exercise that builds strength and eases joint pain. It is ideal for pets who: 

  • Are recovering from surgery or injury.
  • Suffer from arthritis or hip/elbow dysplasia.
  • Need to improve fitness or mobility.
  • Are overweight and need gentle exercise. 
  • Have neurological or musculoskeletal conditions. 

Sessions are supervised by trained professionals who work with your pet at their own pace, ensuring a positive and comfortable experience.

What are the Benefits of Hydrotherapy?

The benefits of hydrotherapy are:

  • Improved muscle tone and strength 
  • Enhanced joint flexibility 
  • Reduced pain and stiffness 
  • Better coordination and balance 
  • Safe cardiovascular exercise

Ready to Help Your Pet Feel Better?

Pain doesn’t have to be a part of your pet’s daily life. Contact our hospital today to learn more about our pain management services. We’ll work together to create a treatment plan that’s just right for your pet’s unique needs, so they can get back to doing what they love.

FAQs

How Do I Know if My Pet Is in Pain?

Signs your pet may be in pain include changes in behavior like hiding or aggression, limping, decreased appetite, restlessness, vocalizing more than usual, or changes in grooming habits.

What Types of Conditions Cause Pain in Pets?

Conditions that commonly cause pain in pets include arthritis, injuries, dental disease, infections, cancer, and certain chronic illnesses.

What’s the Difference Between Chronic & Acute Pain?

Acute pain is sudden and usually short-term, often caused by injury or surgery, while chronic pain is long-lasting and ongoing, often linked to conditions like arthritis or nerve damage.

Will My Pet Need Frequent Visits for Pain Management?

Depending on your pet’s condition, frequent visits may be needed to monitor and adjust pain management plans to keep them comfortable and improve their quality of life.

We Offer Flexible Payment Options

We believe every pet deserves top-notch care—and that cost shouldn’t stand in the way. That’s why we offer flexible payment options to help you plan and pay for your pet’s care with confidence. Click the button below to learn more about how we handle payments and pet insurance at our hospital.

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