When your beloved dog experiences chronic pain, it can significantly affect their quality of life. Here, our Southern Wisconsin veterinarians explore chronic pain in dogs, including the signs and ways to manage your pet's discomfort.
Chronic Pain in Dogs
We always intend to love and care for our canine companions as if they were members of our own human family, and while we are capable of doing a pretty good job at it, there are some conditions that we simply cannot prevent. One of these conditions is chronic pain, which not only causes your dog to experience discomfort but also has the potential to significantly diminish their quality of life.
Causes of Chronic Pain in Dogs
Osteoarthritis is the most common cause of chronic pain in dogs, affecting approximately forty percent of all dogs. Several factors can contribute to osteoarthritis, including hereditary and other congenital factors. This condition can affect dogs of any age or breed type.
The Different Types of Chronic Pain
Chronic pain in dogs can manifest in various ways, including arthritis, hip dysplasia, intervertebral disc disease, and degenerative joint disease. Arthritis is one of the most common types of chronic pain in dogs, causing stiffness, limping, and difficulty getting up or lying down. Hip dysplasia is a hereditary condition where the hip joint doesn't fit properly into the socket, leading to pain and discomfort.
Intervertebral disc disease occurs when the cushioning discs between the vertebrae in the spine degenerate or herniate, causing pain and mobility issues. Degenerative joint disease, also known as osteoarthritis, is a progressive condition that causes inflammation and deterioration of the joints over time. These different types of chronic pain can significantly impact a dog's quality of life and require proper management and treatment from a veterinarian.
Signs of Chronic Pain in Dogs
Chronic pain in dogs can manifest in various ways, including changes in behavior such as increased aggression, decreased activity levels, or reluctance to be touched or handled. Physical symptoms may include limping, stiffness, difficulty standing or lying down, and vocalizing when moving.
Other signs of chronic pain in dogs include changes in appetite, weight loss, restlessness, and excessive grooming or licking of a specific area. If you suspect your dog is experiencing chronic pain, consult with a veterinarian so they can provide a proper diagnosis and treatment plan to improve your pet's quality of life.
Diagnosing Chronic Pain in Dogs
If you are concerned that your canine companion may be experiencing chronic pain, you should make a note of any signs and symptoms that you observe and bring them in for a comprehensive examination so that you can rule out any other potential causes.
Your vet may utilize the following pain assessment methods to diagnose your dog's condition:
- Physical examination
- Physiologic biomarkers
- Objective measurements of gait (e.g., force plate) or activity and movement (e.g., accelerometer)
- Owner assessment of activities of daily living (ADL)
- Multifactorial clinical measurement instruments.
How to Help a Dog With Chronic Pain
First, it's important to consult with a veterinarian to determine the underlying cause of the chronic pain and discuss treatment options. This may include medications, physical therapy, laser therapy, or other alternative therapies tailored to your dog's needs.
Additionally, providing a comfortable and supportive environment for your dog is crucial; consider investing in an orthopedic bed, using ramps instead of stairs, and avoiding activities that exacerbate their pain. Regular exercise can also help maintain muscle strength and flexibility, but adjust the intensity and duration based on your dog's comfort level.
Laser Therapy Treatment for Chronic Pain in Dogs
Veterinary laser therapy is a fairly new method of treatment for symptoms related to various disorders. It is most commonly used to help manage pain, inflammation, and wound healing for your pet.
Laser therapy employs light waves of a particular wavelength to change the physiology of the tissues being treated. During treatment, the light emitted by these lasers assists in stimulating the cells present within the tissues, allowing for more rapid regeneration of the cells.
Because of the wavelength of the laser being used, the tissue that can be affected will be determined. As lower wavelength lasers become more common, the most commonly used emit near-infrared light. Low-wavelength lasers are utilized to treat areas close to and involving the skin. In contrast, higher-wavelength lasers can concentrate on the repair of deep tissue.
Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. For an accurate diagnosis of your pet's condition, please make an appointment with your vet.