Two of the leading animal health organizations in the country announced they are joining forces to help veterinarians and pet owner’s better identify and manage the subtle warning signs of pets suffering from pain. The American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA) and the Association of American Feline Practitioners (AAFP) PainManagement Guidelines for Dogs and Cats focuses on the veterinarian’s role in pain management and the important role pet owners play in alleviating their pet’s suffering.
Because animals naturally hide their pain to protect themselves from predators, pets may be suffering from an illness or injury even though they don’t show obvious signs. Advancements in veterinary science have recently decoded subtle telltale signs of animal distress.
Pet owners should contact their veterinarian if they observe:
- Abnormal chewing habits
- Drastic weight gain or loss
- Avoidance of affection or handling
- Decreased movement and exercise
- Excessively licking or biting itself
- Uncharacteristic “Accidents”
These signs can help uncover underlying medical issues and pain. AAHA reminds pet owners that regular wellness exams allow veterinarians to evaluate their pet’s general health and discover any health problems before they become serious illnesses. For the complete AAHA/AAFP Pain Management Guidelines for Dogs and Cats please log onto www.healthypet.com.
“Addressing contemporary approaches to manage pain gives us the ability to fulfill our veterinary duty to alleviate the suffering of animals,” explained Thomas A. Carpenter, DVM, AAHA President. “These new and helpful guidelines will give veterinarians and pet owners common ground to diagnose and manage pain that affects cats and dogs.”
About the American Animal Hospital Association:Established in 1933, the American Animal Hospital Association is the only organization that accredits veterinary practices throughout the U.S. and Canada for dedication to high standards of veterinary care. Approximately 3,000 AAHA-accredited practices pass regular reviews of AAHA’s stringent accreditation standards that cover patient care, client service and medical protocols. For pet care information or referral to an AAHA-accredited practice, visit www.healthypet.com.
About the American Association of Feline Practitioners:The American Association of Feline Practitioners (AAFP) aims to improve the health and well-being of cats by supporting high standards of practice, continuing education and scientific investigation. Additionally, the organization endeavors to do all things necessary to promote the interests, improve the public stature, and increase the knowledge of veterinarians in the field of feline medicine and surgery. For more information about the AAFP, log onto www.aafponline.org.