07/10/2022
Do you know how to spot the signs of subtle pain in dogs?
It’s so important for us to take the time to check in with our canine companions regularly for signs of pain, especially in our senior dogs.
Most dogs actually hide their pain until it gets so bad that they start showing obvious physical signs. By that point they have been suffering silently and that chronic pain causes a number of additional physiologic issues.
Pain can also cause changes in behavior. Many dogs that are labeled “reactive” have underlying pain that, once addressed, decreases reactivity and increases cooperation in reinforcement based training.
Next time your senior dog is slow to get up or makes a “humph” sound when they flop down (instead of a controlled laying down), consider that those are signs of pain, and know there are ways to help them not suffer in silence.
Is your dog randomly licking one area of their body more frequently than usual…maybe even to where the hair gets stained or the skin gets red? That is another subtle sign of pain (physical OR emotional).
Is your younger dog who knows many behaviors well all the sudden being reluctant to do certain behaviors like sit and down or not as interested in their normal energetic activities? Pups and younger dogs can absolutely suffering in silence also, so watch for subtle signs, record them, and check in with your primary care veterinarian and possibly then be referred to a veterinary rehabilitation therapist.
If you aren’t sure if your dog is suffering, please email us:
[email protected] and one of our volunteer veterinarians will reach out to help!
Nobody should suffer in silence. 80% of dogs over 8 years old have arthritis, which is a major cause of elective euthanasia.
