Preventing your pet's pain and suffering are of the utmost importance at The Pet Clinic of Urbana.  Many animals will instinctively hide their pain as a survival mechanism which in the past has led to incorrect assumptions about the ability of dogs and cats to feel pain. 

Pain management has become an important issue in veterinary medicine. The American Association of Animal Hospitals and The American Association of Feline Practicioners have recently released the AAHA/AAFP guidelines for pain management in dogs and cats.  These guidelines show that pain managment helps improve the recovery process, whether from illness, surgery or injury.  Because it reduces stress and increases a sense of well being, pain management may even help your pet live longer. 

Signs that your pet may be in pain include:

• Depression or Inactivity
• Slow to rise or collapsing when lying down
• Standing or sitting in unusual positions
• Trembling or Shaking
• Walking with a stiff gait
• Whining, howling, wimpering or constant meowing
• Constant licking or chewing at a particular body part
• Inappropriate elimination
• Unable to get comfortable and heavy panting
• Changes in behavior (aggression or submissiveness)