At Antigua Veterinary Practice, we understand the importance of ensuring the comfort and well-being of your pets, particularly when they are experiencing acute or chronic pain. Our experienced St. Augustine veterinary team is here to provide tailored solutions alongside an in-house pharmacy dedicated to meeting the unique needs that enhance the quality of life for your pets.
Veterinary Pain Management in St. Augustine, FL
Veterinary pain management is the practice of identifying and treating pain in animals. It involves various techniques and medications to alleviate pain and improve the animal’s overall comfort.
Acute Pain vs Chronic Pain in Pets
Acute pain is typically short-term and is often caused by an injury or illness. It can be intense and sudden and is usually a sign that something is wrong.
Chronic pain is ongoing and can last for weeks, months, or even years. It is often associated with conditions such as arthritis or cancer. While acute pain can be treated and resolved, chronic pain requires long-term management.
Acute Pain Symptoms in Pets
It can be difficult to determine if your pet is experiencing acute pain, as they may not always show obvious signs. However, some common symptoms include:
- Limping
- Whining or crying
- Decreased appetite
- Changes in behavior
If you notice any of these symptoms, it is important to schedule an appointment with us for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.
Acute Pain Management Treatment for Pets in St. Augustine, FL
- Medications: We have access to a variety of safe and effective medications specifically formulated to alleviate acute pain in pets.
- Local Anesthetics: In certain cases, local anesthetics may be used to block pain signals in specific areas of the body. This targeted approach can provide rapid pain relief while minimizing the need for systemic medications.
Chronic Pain Symptoms in Pets
Chronic pain can be more challenging to identify, as it may not always be obvious. Some common symptoms include:
- Difficulty moving
- Changes in appetite
- Lethargy
- Irritability
If you notice any of these symptoms in your pet, it is important to consult with our veterinary team to determine the cause and develop a pain management plan.
Chronic Pain Management Treatment for Pets in St. Augustine, FL
- Medications: We provide access to a variety of medications specifically formulated to alleviate pain and improve your pet’s quality of life.
- Supplements: In addition to traditional medications, we can recommend supplements such as glucosamine and chondroitin, which can help enhance joint health and reduce pain, particularly in pets suffering from conditions like arthritis.
- Solensia a monthly injection administered at our office that can help control osteoarthritis pain in cats.
- Librela a monthly injection administered at our office that can help control osteoarthritis pain in cats.
Arthritis in Senior Pets
As our pets age, their joints start to wear down and become less flexible. This can lead to the development of arthritis, which can cause pain and discomfort for our furry friends. Senior pets may also be more prone to developing arthritis due to their decreased activity levels and slower metabolism.
Symptoms of Arthritis in Senior Pets
- Difficulty getting up or lying down
- Stiffness or limping
- Reluctance to jump or climb stairs
- Decreased activity levels
- Changes in behavior, such as irritability or aggression
- Licking or chewing at joints
If you notice any of these symptoms in your senior pet, it is important to consult with our veterinary team for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.
Managing Arthritis in Senior Pets
While there is no cure for arthritis, there are steps you can take to help manage the condition and improve your pet’s quality of life. These include:
- Providing a comfortable and supportive bed for your pet to rest on
- Keeping your pet at a healthy weight to reduce stress on their joints
- Incorporating low-impact exercise into their daily routine, such as short walks or swimming
- Adding supplements, such as glucosamine and chondroitin, to their diet to support joint health
- Using non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) as prescribed by your veterinarian to help manage pain and inflammation
- Administer monthly injections, Solensia (for cats) or Librela (for dogs), to help control osteoarthritis pain.
- Adequan is an injectable drug clinically proven to slow cartilage breakdown and support the repair process. This helps keep the cartilage in the joints healthy and intact, so the bones in the joint cannot touch each other. Adequan is administered twice a week for 4 weeks, for a total of 8 injections.
Veterinary In-House Pharmacy in St. Augustine, FL
Antigua Veterinary Practice takes pride in offering a comprehensive range of products to cater to all your pet’s needs. From essential medications to heartworm and flea preventatives, vitamins, and shampoos, our complete inventory ensures that your furry companion receives the care they deserve.
Additionally, we provide a diverse selection of precisely balanced nutritional foods designed to support pets at every stage of life. Whether your pet requires specialized medication or simply needs a nutritious diet, we’re here to provide the products and guidance necessary for their optimal health and well-being.
Find a Pain Relief and Arthritis Vet Near St. Augustine, FL
Finding a pain relief and arthritis vet near you in St. Augustine, FL easy with our online direct booking feature. Both new and existing clients seeking pet pain management care may schedule an appointment at our St. Augustine, FL vet clinic.