Did you know that in the wild, if an animal gets injured, it has little choice but to live with the pain.  Wild animals often hide signs of pain in order to look less weak to other animals. These inherent behaviours are why it can sometimes be very difficult to recognise pain in our pets.

A pet in pain may play run and play in the moment because the adrenaline released masks pain, but may then sleep for long hours afterwards and struggle to rise from their beds.

Veterinary research has identified various signs to look out for that may indicate your pet is in pain:

• Change in mood.  Some pets will become quiet or grumpy.
• Reduced ability to cock their leg or to squat when urinating or defecating
• Reduced willingness to play and exercise.
• After exercising:  Crying or whining, difficulty moving or appearing more tired.
• You may notice your pet struggling, or showing reluctance, to go up or down stairs or getting in or out of the car.
• Limping  – Any form of lameness is very likely linked to pain.
• Struggling to get up after a long rest, or appearing stiff at first.
• Guarding or defensive behaviour when touched in certain painful areas.

If your pet demonstrates any of these signs, we now offer Veterinary Physiotherapy appointments at Blackwater Vets to reduce their discomfort. Please get in touch with our friendly team to discuss how we could help.