Your Pet & Acute Pain
Acute pain is the result of traumatic, surgical or infectious events. This pain may not be life-long, but it can cause severe discomfort and loss of mobility.
We all know how uncomfortable these conditions can be. Imagine then how your dog or cat feels in similar situations.
 
 
 

 The following chart illustrates some common conditions related to acute pain:
 

        Conditions   Causes Prevention Treatment
Skin Conditions Infections
                                             insect/animal bites,
                                             allergies.		  Flea spray, check for
                                                    allergies.
                                                     Dogs-and- diets.
                                                            Ointments & creams,
                                                            prevent scratching.

                                      Lacerations
                                      /Blisters		 Accidents,
                                             animal bites,
                                             scratching,
                                             physical
                                             strain.		 Avoid busy streets,
                                                     limit exercise,
                                                     supervise "outside” time.		  Don’t splint,
                                                            may require change in
                                                            exercise.

                                      Broken
                                      Bones/
                                      Dislocation		 Car accidents,
                                             falls, fights, etc.		 Avoid busy streets,
                                                     limit exercise,
                                                     supervise “outside” time.		 Don’t splint,
                                                            may require change in 
                                                            exercise. Visit vet immediately.
    Recovery Surgery,
                                             illness.		  Follow veterinary
                                                     advice, watch for changes.
                                                            Keep pet in warm area,
                                                            closely monitor.

  If your pet’s condition does not improve during treatment, visit your veterinarian to develop a different plan.
 

 Emergency Situations

 In the event of an emergency such as a broken bone or snakebite, you should take your pet into the veterinarian as soon as possible. Be prepared for your pet to undergo surgery if necessary and realize that you will soon have a recovering animal to care for. Ask your veterinarian about post-surgery care techniques.

Once your injured pet returns home from the hospital, try to make him as comfortable as possible.