Arthritis

Arthritis and Your Pet

Osteoarthritis is a very common problem in our pets.  It has been estimated that greater than 60% of pets over 4 years of age have some form of arthritis.  Early arthritis in our pets often manifests with no clinical signs and even veterinarians frequently miss early arthritis.  

What does this mean for your pet?  It means that you, as their caregiver, need to observe your pet very carefully and report any subtle changes to your veterinarian.  You should watch your pet for subtle signs of "slowing down."  The "slowing down" that you may assume is a normal part of aging, may actually be an early sign of pain and arthritis.  If your pet is having problems rising from a sitting or recumbent position, difficulty with stairs, or is more reluctant to go on walks, then your pet likely already has moderate arthritis.  

Today we have many options to improve your pet's arthritis and improve his/her quality of life.  Although arthritis cannot be cured, the progression can be slowed and your pet can live a very high quality of life with the right combination of medications and supplements.  Proper weight is also vital to the health of the arthritic patient.  Pets that are overweight progress through the stages of arthritis faster than lean pets.  Studies show that weight alone will result in a more serious form of arthritis.  Weight control is the single most important thing you can do for your pet's pain control.  

How do we treat arthritis in your pet?  We first start with medications that include non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS), Gabapentin, Amantadine, Tramadol, and occasionally opiates.  We also use PS-GAG which improves joint function over time by normalizing the synovial fluid.  In addition, we use fatty acids and high quality glucosamine products.  We offer a variety of treatment options including, but not limited to, cold laser, soft tissue mobilization, traction, joint compressions, neuro-muscular electrostimulation, and therapeutic exercise. Some of the conditions we treat are cranial cruciate ligament rupture, general lameness, aging pet osteoarthritis, luxating patellas, orthopedic conditions associated with overweight pets, traumatic injuries and  painful back conditions.  Studies show that a combination of therapies provides the most optimal outcomes in pets with arthritis.  

Don't forget to talk with us today about how we can help your pet live a better life.  Don't let your pet suffer needlessly because your pet cannot talk.  Give us a chance to show you how much better your pet can feel.  Talk with one of our staff members about how we can assist you.  And remember, Dr. Jordan is a certified animal rehabilitator and a member of the International Veterinary Academy of Pain Management.  We would love to help your pet start feeling better today!

Euthanasia

Euthanasia

"As life begins with love and awe, so should it end with compassion and grace"

Euthanasia is the process of giving an ethical and pain free death to a pet whose options for treatment have been exhausted.  Deciding to euthanize a pet is always an emotionally painful and tough decision to make.  You can find encouragement for recovery by joining support groups.  

The SPCA Pet Loss Support Group is available to help anybody grieving from the loss of a pet.  You can share and learn from others who are also grieving.      

phone number (919) 772-2326

website:

http://www.spcawake.org/site/PageServer?pagename=Humane_Ed_Pet_Loss_Support_Group

The Decision:

The Process:

Step One:  We start an IV (intravenous) and administer a sedative to make the pet comfortable and not anxious during the procedure.  During this time you and your loved ones are able to pet and talk to your pet until they fall asleep (usually 5-15 minutes).  

Step Two:  The second step is the actual euthanasia.  Once the pet is sedated, an injectable drug is given in the vein through the IV.  This medication suppresses the cerebral cortex (in the central nervous system) which is responsible for awareness.  The pet will become unconscious and then progress to anesthesia, which is the absence of pain, and then to stop the heart.  This is a peaceful process and is quick and painless for the pet.