Quote: ana kozlowsky

... Connie, could you please describe what specifically do you ask about pain management?

In a nutshell, I'm for it.

We have had two threads here that I recall where the vet was against pain management, one with pano that was bad enough to have the dog whining, and I forget the other one (but someone else might remember). In both cases, the vet was worried about pain relief triggering increased movement and bigger pain.

We also had a thread where the vet, not in this country, just didn't "believe in" pain meds for dogs, but I think we can set that one aside for the most part.

Anyway, my pretty strong belief (aside from just wanting to help the dog to be as comfortable as I can) is that unrelenting pain is counterproductive and an actual hindrance to healing. I can restrict movement, as difficult as it might be, without the dog's pain to help me. I don't mean this sarcastically; the opposite POV was sincere and certainly not sadistic.

I don't want to use Rimadyl. I want to test and get baseline values before any long-term use of the other NSAIDs (like Deramaxx and Metacam) and to test periodically while on the protocol. I have no compunctions about using relatively strong pain meds like tramadol if needed.

Anyway, all that is wrapped up into my pain management POV.

Of course, it's an individual thing. It's just MHO.

Thank you very much, Connie. We are taking our 4 cats for the cleaning this month because of the special. I will use this opportunity to have a good conversation with our vet.

Hi there

Is there a video / podcast on how to clean your GSD's teeth? I'd like to get mine used to the experience as i've only had him for a week.

He's an 18 month old male.

I guess most people start them off with cleaning as puppies?

Thanks
Rob

I like the fingertip brush best, by far, but that's not unanimous.

http://www.peteducation.com/article.cfm?c=2+2089&aid=384

then

http://www.peteducation.com/media/players/video.cfm?videoid=15

Thanks Connie

You're amazing!

Rob