Animal Pain Awareness Month: Understanding Options for Your Pet

September marks Animal Pain Awareness Month, a reminder that our pets experience pain much like we do—whether from arthritis, injury, or chronic illness. The difference is that they can’t tell us when they hurt, so it’s up to us to recognize the signs. 

Signs Your Pet May Be in Pain 

Pets often communicate discomfort through changes in behavior or activity: 

• Reluctance to jump, climb stairs, or play 
• Decreased appetite or restless sleep 
• Licking or chewing at a painful area 
• Sudden irritability or withdrawal 
• Slowing down on walks 

Even subtle changes can be significant. If you notice these behaviors, talk with your veterinarian. 

Modern Approaches to Pet Pain Relief 

We have so many great treatments to make your pet more comfortable!  Supplements such as Movoflex, Adequan, and Flexadin are commonly recommended by our vets and carried in our clinics.  Prescription treatments such as Carprofen, Gabapentin, Ketamine, and Librela/Solensia are excellent therapies your vet may discuss and recommend. 

Veterinary medicine has options beyond traditional medications, offering therapies that support healing and comfort. 

• Laser Therapy: Uses light energy to reduce inflammation, improve circulation, and accelerate natural healing. Pets with arthritis, post-surgical discomfort, or soft-tissue injuries often benefit. 
• Pet Acupuncture: Stimulates the body’s own pain-relieving mechanisms through gentle needle placement. It is especially helpful for chronic conditions, musculoskeletal pain, and neurological issues. 
• Assisi Loops and Loungers: Pulse electromagnetic field therapy that can decrease pain and inflammation in your own home. 
• Therapy: Omaha Vets Group has multiple rehabilitation options where, like humans may see a physical therapist, your pet can receive exercise and stretch therapies that improve mobility. 

Why Early Intervention Matters for Your Pet's Pain

Pain not only limits mobility but also impacts your pet’s emotional health. Addressing pain early can restore quality of life, allowing pets to stay active, engaged, and comfortable. 

If you’ve noticed changes in your pet’s daily habits, contact our team at (402) 334-5975. Together, we’ll explore the right solutions to keep your pet thriving.