Pain Management for Pets: Lenity’s Pain Clinic

May 3, 2024

As pet owners, witnessing your furry companions in pain is undeniably distressing. At Lenity, we recognize the significance of effective pain management in pets, whether their condition stems from aging, illness, injury, or surgery. This understanding led us to establish a dedicated Pain Clinic staffed with compassionate experts to address and alleviate pet discomfort. We firmly believe that every pet deserves to experience a life free from suffering.

Understanding Pet Pain

Pain in pets is often challenging to detect as they are masters at hiding their discomfort. However, understanding the signs and symptoms of pain is crucial in providing timely relief. Dogs, for example, may exhibit symptoms such as limping, decreased appetite, or changes in behavior when in pain. On the other hand, cats may become more reclusive, groom excessively, or refuse to use the litter box. By familiarizing yourself with these cues, you can take action early and prevent further suffering.

The severity and duration of pain can also vary, depending on the underlying cause. Acute pain is typically sudden and short-lived, while chronic pain persists for long periods. Identifying the type and source of pain is essential in determining the most effective treatment plan.

Common Causes of Pain in Pets

Pets can experience pain for various reasons, and understanding the common causes can help us address their needs more effectively.

  • Arthritis:A degenerative joint disease, arthritis is a prevalent cause of pain in older pets. The gradual deterioration of cartilage leads to stiffness, discomfort, and reduced mobility.
  • Injuries:Fractures, strains, or sprains can cause acute pain. It’s essential to seek immediate veterinary attention for these cases to prevent further complications.
  • Illnesses:Illnesses such as cancer or infections, can cause both acute and chronic pain. Identifying the underlying condition and providing appropriate pain management can significantly improve a pet’s quality of life.
  • Surgery:Certain surgical interventions and procedures can require weeks to months of dedicated recovery time, often followed by continuing rehabilitation to safely get the pet back to at or near-normal activity levels.

Surgeries That Often Require Rehabilitation & Pain Management for Pets

  • Elbow disease repair
  • Medial patella luxation (MPL) repair
  • Femoral head and neck excision (FHO, FHNE)
  • Hip dysplasia repair
  • Bone biopsy for diagnostic purposes
  • Surgery for a ruptured cranial cruciate ligament
  • Long bone fracture repair
  • Hemilaminectomy (intervertebral disc disease)

The Importance of Pain Management for Pets

A person wearing a mask examining a dog

Just like humans, pets deserve to live a life free from pain. Pain management is not only about providing comfort; it also plays a crucial role in the overall well-being of your furry friends. Untreated pain can lead to a decreased appetite, weight loss, and behavioral changes.

Moreover, pain can have a negative impact on the immune system, making pets more susceptible to infections and delaying the healing process. By prioritizing pain management, we can ensure that our pets remain happy, active, and engaged in their daily activities.

How Pain Management for Pets Works

Treating pain is a complex process, made even more complicated by the changes occurring within your pet. As they recover from illness or injury, they may require less pain management. They can also experience adverse side effects that can be both obvious and more subtle. Recovery involving physical therapy can be either helped or hindered with pain management, depending on the level of intervention.

Meet Our Expert Pain Clinic Team

At Lenity Vet Specialists Pain Clinic, we pride ourselves on providing top-notch care for your furry companions. Our pain clinic is led by a team of experienced doctors dedicated to alleviating discomfort and improving the quality of life for animals in need. Let us introduce you to our expert team:

Dr. Kimberly Carlson – Board-Certified Surgeon

 

Dr. Carlson is a pivotal member of our team, bringing unparalleled expertise in surgical techniques and procedures specific to veterinary medicine. Board certification signifies Dr. Carlson’s commitment to excellence and her dedication to providing the highest standard of surgical care for animals. From routine procedures to complex surgeries, Dr. Carlson’s advanced skills and knowledge ensure that your beloved pets are in capable hands at Lenity Veterinary Specialists’ Pain Clinic .

Dr. Kristine Siao – Board-Certified Anesthesiologist

 

Dr. Kristine Siao

Dr. Siao is another esteemed member of our team, specializing in pain management and anesthesia for animals. As a board-certified anesthesiologist, Dr. Siao possesses the expertise to ensure the safety, comfort, and well-being of your pets during medical procedures. Her training encompasses the administration of anesthesia and the meticulous monitoring of vital signs to keep animals asleep and pain-free throughout surgeries and treatments.

Both Dr. Carlson and Dr. Siao are experts at creating personalized pain management plans tailored to each animal’s unique needs. Utilizing a variety of techniques, including medications, nerve blocks, and local anesthetics, they minimize discomfort before, during, and after procedures. With their compassionate approach and unwavering dedication, you can trust that your pets will receive optimal pain relief and care throughout their treatment journey at Lenity Vet Specialists Pain Clinic.

Lenity’s Partnership with a Rehabilitation Center

dog walking over/through obstacles, Dog rehabilitation under human care

We partner with a rehabilitation center to provide pain relief options for cats and dogs recovering from surgery and to improve chronic injury, pain, immobility, and arthritis symptoms. We treat animals using a multimodal approach, working with the rehabilitation team to increase mobility and range of motion while helping animals live more comfortably through a personalized pain management plan. Our Bay Area pain clinic improves the lives of pets while they live with chronic conditions or recover from procedures that affect their quality of life.

Caring for Companions: Lenity’s Dedication to Pain Management for Pets

In conclusion, at Lenity Veterinary Specialists, we understand the profound impact that pain management has on the well-being of pets. Whether stemming from aging, illness, injury, or surgery, our dedicated team is committed to addressing and alleviating pet discomfort. We firmly believe that every pet deserves to live a life free from suffering. Through our expert care and personalized pain management plans, led by board-certified professionals like Dr. Kimberly Carlson and Dr. Siao, we strive to improve the quality of life for animals in need. Moreover, our partnership with a rehabilitation center allows us to offer comprehensive pain relief options, ensuring that pets receive the care and support they deserve as they recover and thrive. At Lenity, we are dedicated to making a difference in the lives of pets and their owners, providing compassionate care and support every step of the way. Contact us today!

Your Caring Team,

Lenity Vet Specialists + Emergency Care

(650)-513-6660