Laura Stebbins
If you own a pet that suffers from painful problems like arthritis or hip dysphasia you know how heartbreaking it can be. But now there are clinics available that can help your pet to live more comfortably. 7's Dylan Dreyer has more in "Protecting your Pet."
Three-year-old Caleb loves to play fetch with his owner, but running hasn't always been easy for Caleb. The golden retriever suffers from elbow dysphasia, a common joint problem in large dogs.
Beth Factor, owns dog with elbow dysphasia
"To watch him struggle is really hard for me, and for him. He's three and I want him to be able to run and jump and swim like a normal three year old dog, and he had trouble with that."
So Caleb's owner brought him to the MSPCA Angell Animal Medical Center's new pain medicine service, designed to help animals like Caleb live more active and comfortable lives.
Dr. Lisa Moses, MSPCA Angell Animal Medical Center, pain medicine service
"Any companion pet that has an issue with pain."
Dr. Lisa Moses tailors a unique regiment to each pet using traditional medications combined with unconventional treatments like acupuncture and laser therapy.
Dr. Lisa Moses, MSPCA Angell Animal Medical Center, pain medicine service
"You get much better results when you combine different kinds of therapies at once. Lasers in this way work to decrease inflammation and help with pain in muscles and in joints."
Dr. Moses helps owners decide if physical therapy or water therapy could benefit their pet, and refers owners to hospitals outside of Angell for those services. She also recommends at-home exercises, especially for pets with arthritis.
Dr. Lisa Moses, MSPCA Angell Animal Medical Center, pain medicine service
"One of the easiest and most effective exercises I recommend is having them sit and stand. Do that five or ten times in a row using cookies as treats."
For Caleb's owner, it's a routine that's given her dog back.
Beth Factor, owns dog with elbow dysphasia
"It's made all the difference in the world; absolutely all the difference in the world. I'm really impressed and I think he is too. I know he feels better."
(Copyright (c) 2008 Sunbeam Television Corp. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.)
