Our pets can feel pain as much as humans do, but sometimes we may not realize they are suffering. Strains, fractures, dental problems, stomach issues, disease, and a whole host of conditions can cause our canine companions pain.
Dogs can't just tell us if something is bothering them, and their wild animal instincts tell them to hide their pain so they won't be seen as a target by other predators. They can communicate that they are in pain, however, if you just know how to read the signs.
Signs a Dog Is in Pain
Signs that a dog is in pain can manifest in two ways: physical symptoms and behavioral changes.
Physical symptoms may include mobility issues or minor changes in the way your dog stands, sits, moves, or breathes. If you notice any of the following physical changes in dogs, it may be a signal that your dog is suffering from some type of pain:
- Panting or heavy breathing
- Keeping their head down or back arched
- Being unwilling to get up, walk, jump, climb stairs, etc.
- Limping or having difficulty walking
- Twitching or tight muscles
- Shaking or trembling
Behavioral symptoms affect the way your dog acts. If you notice your dog's behavior is unusual or out of character, there could be an underlying pain causing the change. Some behavioral signals that your dog is in pain include:
- Unusual anxiety, agitation, or restless behavior
- Not wanting to be touched or pet
- Excessive licking and/or scratching
- Whining, whimpering, or other uncharacteristic vocalizations
- Aggression, depression, or other changes in demeanor
- Refusal to eat and/or drink
How to Help a Dog That's in Pain
If you think your dog is suffering in pain, quick action can help alleviate the problem and bring your furry friend some relief. Here are some things you can do when you notice signs of pain:
- Put a pause on activities that seemingly cause your dog discomfort
- Start keeping notes to record your dog's symptoms and behaviors
- Contact a qualified vet immediately to examine your dog
If you're in the San Francisco Bay Area, the Animal Doctors are among only 15% of national veterinary practices who are AAHA-accredited. This accreditation means we meet the most rigorous standards of professionalism and patient care. For 40 years, the Animal Doctors have provided outstanding veterinary care combining state-of-the-art medical treatment with old-fashioned, caring values.
At our office, we offer in-depth diagnostic procedures and on-site laboratory testing to diagnose the source of your dog's problem. If warranted, we consult with or refer patients to specialists, such as cardiologists or orthopedic surgeons, and work with you and the specialists to give your dog the best possible well-rounded care. We will then discuss with you the best treatment options to help treat or eliminate the cause of your dog's pain and suffering. When necessary, we offer end-of-life hospice counseling and support to our patients and their owners.
If you suspect your dog is in pain, don't delay. Make an appointment so that we can help. Our vets service the San Francisco Peninsula, including Atherton, Cupertino, East Palo Alto, Los Altos, Los Altos Hills, Menlo Park, Mountain View, Palo Alto, Portola Valley, Redwood City, Stanford, and Woodside.
