Being an animal lover, the last thing we want to think is about our pet being hurt or feeling uncomfortable and going without notice. It can sometimes be difficult to determine when the pet is in pain, but you don’t have to worry, as we are here to help. This month participate in Animal Pain Awareness.
ANIMAL PAIN AWARENESS
September is celebrated as Animal Pain Awareness Month, and during this month thousands of veterinarians around the world raise awareness about animal pain, the signs the pet parents must look for, and how we can manage the pet’s pain.
Unfortunately, animals can’t speak and tell when they are hurt, how badly they are hurt, or if they are not feeling well. Many animals have adapted through evolution to be masters in hiding the pain in order to avoid the attention of their predators. It is important for pet parents when they are spending time with their pets to look for any changes in their behavior, routines, or health that may indicate something asymmetrical. Early detection helps to allow for early intervention and treatment that can help our pets for fast recovery.
SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS
Acute pain and serious injuries can be easy to recognize in animals as the vocalizations, limping, and even open wounds will catch the attention of pet parents. However, there are some other ways of knowing if the pet is not feeling well. Here are some common signs:
- Anxiety
- Changes in bathroom habits
- Decrease in appetite and hydration
- Heavy panting
- Growling or increased aggression in dogs
- Difficulty standing after resting
- Excessive sleeping
- Hiding or refusing to come when being called
- Hissing or spitting at cats
- Hunching in cats
- Lack of agility
- Lethargy
- Loss of interest in playing and curiosity
- Shifts in routine, especially in a favorite area of rest
- Reduced activity
- Reluctance to run or jump
- Shaking or Trembling
- Sudden weight loss
- Whimpering
Many times, this pain can be dismissed as the early signs of age or the pet becoming older, we all pet parents must remember that age is not an illness and should not be painful. If the pet is showing the above-mentioned signs, immediately contact your vet. It is also important to note that these signs must be compared with your pet’s normal behavior and personality. For example, excessive sleeping can be harder to spot in cats than in some breeds of dogs.
MANAGING THE PET’S PAIN
If you notice your pet showing one or more of the signs, we strongly recommend you for contacting your vet. Even if you consider these changes to be minor, the vet will be able to determine through a comprehensive examination and will find if any ailment or condition is affecting the pet’s health.
Nowadays there are many treatments option available to help treat and relieve the pain in animals including medication, physical therapy, acupuncture, supplements, laser therapy, and sometimes even massage. During the pet diagnosis, the vet will discuss the possible treatment options for the pet care and help you choose which is the right one.
For more information call us today and book an appointment.
