Pain Control

There are many situations throughout our pets life that can result in the need to administer medication to help manage pain. With so many options available it can be confusing, we get that. That's why your friends at Brook Farm Veterinary Center are here for you and your pet - we're always happy to help!

Conditions

At Brook Farm Veterinary Center we’ve modified our procedures, handling, and facilities to help your pet feel safe and comfortable. There are situations throughout our pets life that can result in the need to administer medication to help manage pain and with so many options available it can be confusing.

As with all medications and treatments individualized patient care is essential. The factors we must always consider are: severity of the pain, duration, cause, safety of the medication, route of administration and how well your pet will tolerate it. In addition we all know pets are complex to understand, and their reactions can vary it's not easy. That's why we're here to help!

It is our job and our goal to help you and your pet at every age and stage of life.

Pain Control Options to Consider

Nutritional supplements
Acupuncture
Narcotics
Hemp products
Laser Therapy
NSAIDS
Joint Lubricants
Other Pain Drugs
Alternative Therapies

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Nutritional Supplements

This supplement is for chronic joint pain that also helps to restore damaged cartilage and is a natural anti inflammatory. Although there are many similar supplements on the market for human joint pain , Dasuquin advanced is by far, the most effective in pets. It comes in the form of a treat, is given daily and is available for both cats and dogs! Contains: chondroitin, glucosamine, EPA, DHA and green tea extract.

CBD Oil

This is an oral supplement that is derived from the hemp plant. It is very safe, and there is no THC in it (which is the active ingredient in marijuana responsible for the psychoactive effect) Some pets prefer the CBD treats , but the oil seems to be the most effective for pain control. CBD oil and treats can also be used for seizure control and anxiety. Both the oil and treats are given as needed.

Adequan

Adequan is an owner administered injection. Adequan is given to cats or dogs to manage chronic joint pain. This a safe and effective pain medication. The course of adequan begins with a simple, painless injection given twice weekly for one month. The dose is then reduce to once a week, or even less. Adequan is easily administered from your own home.

Laser Therapy

We utilize our in-hospital laser to enhance healing and the reduce pain of surgical sites , wounds, injuries and arthritis pain. It is a very simple and painless procedure performed twice a week. The length of treatment depends on the affected area and the level of pain your pet is experiencing. Treatments are then reduced, over time to provide the most effective pain management for your pet. The laser therapy is performed at Brook Farm and you are welcome to stay with your pet during the treatment.

Acupuncture

Traditional acupuncture is performed with fine needles , and can be used to treat pain for 'slipped discs' in the back , arthritis , nerve paralysis and many other conditions. Most pet's tolerate it well, although cats often have a different opinion about exactly how long they want to sit still! The treatment frequency depends on response and severity of the pain, It is recommended initial treatments are performed once or twice a week.

Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs

These medications are commonly used for acute and chronic pain management in humans and pets . They are generally well tolerated, highly effective and safe for pets receiving the recommended doses . Brook Farm sends home surgical patients with an NSAID (Metacam/ Deramaxx/ Rimadyl.) For our older pets suffering with arthritis, they work quickly, can be given on occasion or routinely and there are few if any side effects (gastrointestinal issues are the most common side effects). We test your pet's renal and liver functions every six months to be certain your pet is tolerating them and that there are no ill effects internally .

NSAIDS CANNOT BE USED WITH CORTISONE OR OTHER NSAIDS.

Gabapentin

Gabapentin is a commonly used human and animal drug that is often used alongside other pain medications. It can safely be used with cortisone , NSAIDS and narcotics.

Codeine

This is a common narcotic used for pain in dogs. Often it is prescribed as Tylenol with Codeine. It is safe when used as directed. Narcotics are closely regulated in New York state. The first prescription is given for seven days, then each prescription there after can be for no more than 30 days each. After 5 prescriptions an examination with the Doctor is required by the law.

Tramadol

Tramadol is a controlled substance that is considered very safe and is often used with NSAIDS to help manage severe pain. The most common side effect with this oral medication is tiredness and that is dose dependent.

Dietary Plans

It is important to discuss your pets diet with us as there are multiple options to help your pet for pain associated with mobility issues. Maintaining a healthy weight is vital to your dogs overall health. Obesity aggravates pain far more than realize. Degenerative joint disease (DJD) refers to arthritis or osteoarthritis, which is the result of the gradual deterioration of the articular cartilage within one or more the joints. Obese dogs are more likely to develop DJD, as a direct result of the mechanical stress that excessive weight puts on the joints. Avoiding excess weight is a key factor for controlling pain in the joints.

Recommended foods for you to consider include:

Feline Only

Calorie Control Royal Canin

Canine Only

“Fat Dog” Natural Balance
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Pain Control For Cats

Cats, unfortunately have fewer pain control options than dogs. In Europe, some NSAIDS that work well, and can be used long term, are only approved for short term usage here. So we use Metacam, and an another NSAID called Onsior, but only for a few days. Long term pain control in cats is achieved by :