At Veterinary Healing Center, we have a special interest in the management of acute and chronic pain in our patients. Pain can be especially challenging to understand and quantify in animals. Many pets that are experiencing pain will not show obvious signs of discomfort. Instead, they may be slowing down, sleeping more, grooming less, or seem restless at night. Any of these behaviors may indicate that your pet is experiencing some level of pain.

Whether your pet has new injury, has recently undergone surgery, or has a chronic condition such as arthritis, we have many ways to help! Both Dr. Cahoon and Dr. McKerney have taken advanced continuing education courses in an effort to provide our patients with the most current and effective pain management strategies.

We pride ourselves in combining cutting-edge Western diagnostics and therapeutics with integrative options such as acupuncture, laser therapy, herbal therapy, food therapy, Platelet Rich Plasma infusion, and stem cell therapy.

There are many types of pain that companion animals experience, including:

• Acute pain (new injury, trauma)
• Surgical pain
• Soft tissue (strain or sprain)
• Ear Infections and skin allergies
• Dental disease and gingivitis
• Neuropathic (nerve)
• Degenerative joint disease and arthritis
• Neoplasia (cancer)

When your pet undergoes surgery at Veterinary Healing Center, they will receive individualized care and a surgical plan tailored to their specific needs. This begins with a physical exam, blood work, and surgical planning weeks (and sometimes months) prior to the scheduled procedure date. On the day of surgery, we will work to minimize your companion’s anxiety by providing an anesthetic protocol that is specifically designed for them. Minimizing discomfort before, during, and after the procedure in the recovery phase is of the utmost importance to us.

If you feel your four-legged friend may be experiencing some level of pain or discomfort, please call to schedule a professional evaluation. Our number one goal is to help your pet live his or her best life!