By Kasie Sakovitch, LVT – Patient Care Coordinator, BluePearl Pet Hospice
When pets are in pain, medication is often the first thing we think about. Pain medications can be helpful, but they are no longer the only option available. Today, veterinarians often use a combination of treatments to help pets feel more comfortable, move more easily, and maintain a good quality of life, especially those recovering from injury, surgery or living with chronic conditions.
These therapies are often recommended alongside medication rather than instead of it. For many pets, this combined approach can make a noticeable difference in day-to-day comfort and mobility.
Acupuncture
Veterinary acupuncture uses small needles placed in specific areas of the body. This modality acts on the nervous system to ease pain and make movement easier. It is commonly used for arthritis, back pain, muscle soreness, nerve-related conditions, and post-operative recovery. Most pets tolerate it very well, and many are relaxed enough to fall asleep during treatment.
Laser Therapy
Laser therapy uses light energy to target areas of inflammation or injury and supports the body’s natural healing process. Treatments are quick and noninvasive, which makes them a good option for pets that are sensitive to handling or nervous in clinic environments. Some pets improve quickly, but most benefit from a series of treatments over time.
Shockwave Therapy
Shockwave therapy uses focused sound waves to encourage the healing of injured tissues. Despite the name, it is a noninvasive procedure. It may be recommended for chronic joint pain, tendon injuries, or slow-healing fractures. Some pets show improvement after only a few sessions, depending on the condition.
Hydrotherapy
Hydrotherapy uses water to help pets exercise more comfortably, often through swimming or an underwater treadmill. Pets with mobility concerns are often able to move more easily with the support of the water’s buoyancy. This can help improve strength, flexibility, and endurance while placing less stress on sore joints and muscles. Warm water may also help ease stiffness and make movement more comfortable.
Massage and Myofascial Therapy
When pets are in pain, they often change how they move without anyone noticing at first. Over time, this can lead to muscle tightness and soreness in other areas of the body. Therapeutic massage helps relieve that tension, while myofascial therapy focuses on releasing restrictions in connective tissue.
Targeted Pulsed Electromagnetic Field Therapy (tPEMF)
Targeted pulsed electromagnetic field therapy (tPEMF) sends gentle electromagnetic pulses to a specific area to help calm inflammation and support healing. It does not require sedation and does not cause discomfort. It is commonly used for post-surgical recovery, chronic pain, and wound healing. Portable devices are available for use at home, which is especially helpful for pets who are most comfortable in their home setting.
These therapies can support a pet’s quality of life, whether they are recovering from injury, living with chronic pain, or needing extra help with comfort and mobility.
Not every clinic offers all these services, but many veterinary hospitals can provide referrals or information on rehabilitation and integrative care. If something seems like it may help your pet, it is worth discussing with your veterinarian to explore available options.
