Panorama Pet Hospital now offers DNA health screening for your dog. With greater than 99% accuracy, our new DNA tests screen for more than 230 genetic health conditions and unlocks breed ancestry, which can inform health care.

With just one cheek swab, your veterinarian can learn actionable insights and create a personalized care plan for your dog. Together, we can be proactive and improve your dog's health! Contact us at (818) 786-4300 to take the next step in providing for your dog's wellness and schedule a DNA test.

Chronic Pain in Pets

Image of a dog in a wheelchair.

It's hard to see your pet in pain day after day, particularly if your formerly energetic friend has now become lethargic and withdrawn due to a health condition or disease. Unfortunately, pets suffer from chronic pain just like people do. Learning about types of chronic pain and treatments can help you keep your pet more comfortable.

Causes of Chronic Pain

Although chronic pain most often affects older pets, it can occur at any age. A variety of conditions and diseases can cause chronic pain, including:

  • Arthritis, particularly if your pet has entered its senior years
  • Cancer
  • Degenerative spinal diseases
  • Hip dysplasia
  • Inflammatory joint disease, such as Lyme disease and rheumatoid arthritis

How Your Pet's Veterinarian Can Help

If you notice a change in your pet's behavior or condition, a visit to the veterinarian is a good idea. Your pet's doctor will perform a complete examination and may recommend one or more tests, such as X-rays or blood tests, to determine the source of your furry friend's pain. Based on the results of the examination and tests, the veterinarian will recommend a course of treatment, which may include prescription medications, physical therapy or surgery. Several types of prescription medications can be helpful if your pet suffers from chronic pain, including:

  • Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications
  • Steroids
  • Opioids, including fentanyl and morphine
  • Chemotherapy drugs
  • Antidepressants (These drugs not only treat depression, but can also reduce pain)
  • Lidocaine and other local anesthetics
  • Gabapentin, a seizure medication that is also helpful in treating nerve pain

Although many of the same drugs that help you feel better can also help animals, do not give your pet any medication without checking with a veterinarian first. Some medications that are safe for humans are toxic when taken by animals.

How You Can Help

After diagnosing your pet, his or her veterinarian will recommend things you can do to make your pet more comfortable. These may include:

  • Helping your pet lose weight. Extra pounds can stress the joints and make the symptoms of arthritis, hip dysplasia or other joint conditions worse. Your pet's veterinarian can provide suggestions about feeding amounts and special foods that can make losing weight easier.
  • Making exercise a priority. Exercise will not only help your pet lose weight but can also reduce pain caused by arthritis. Low-impact exercises, such as walking and swimming, are best. Exercise strengthens the joints and the muscles that help support the joints.
  • Adding a massage to your pet's daily schedule. Massage is very effective in easing joint stiffness and improving range of motion.
  • Focusing on comfort. It can be difficult for pets suffering from joint problems, cancer or other painful conditions to jump or walk. Make their lives easier by accommodating their disabilities. If your pet normally sleeps with you but can longer jump on the bed, buy or build steps or a ramp to allow him or her to continue to spend time with you. Pet beds provide a comfortable resting place during the day or night and help your pet avoid cold floors, which can make joint pain worse. If your cat has a joint disease, it may be difficult to reach the litter box in time. Place a litter box on every level of your home to avoid accidents.

Are you worried that your pet may be in pain? Call us today to schedule an appointment for your furry friend.

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Monday:

9:00 am-12:00 pm

3:00 pm-5:30 pm

Tuesday:

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3:00 pm-6:30 pm

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3:00 pm-6:30 pm

Thursday:

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Friday:

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3:00 pm-6:30 pm

Saturday:

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Testimonials

Read What Our Clients Say

  • "I have nothing but good things to say about Panorama Pet Hospitals Dr. and staff. Took my dog in for a dental exam and Dr. Suman addressed the problem immediately. Dr. Suman and the veterinary assistant were so gentle with my dog and made him feel very comfortable. I ended up booking a deep cleaning and I could not have been happier. Dr. Suman took great care of my dog and got his teeth cleaned. All I can say is if you want a trust worthy doctor and a kind staff head over to Panorama Pet Hospital you wont regret it! Thank you again Dr. Suman and staff!"
    Tanya D.
  • "I was contemplating coming here due to the distance. Since I was extremely unhappy with our previous vet. I took the hour's drive. Needless to say, was one of the best decisions I made in my dog's life. Our initial visit was let me just say first impressions go a long way. Dr. Prabhakar showed great concern immediately about my dog Molly's condition. I have worked closely with doctors throughout my career and I have a good intuition on whether a doctor genuinely cares about their patients and Dr. Prabhakar does. A lot of Doctors just prescribe medication. Without determining the underlying problem. When I leave all my questions and concerns are answered. The staff there are so nice and friendly. Tammy is the best! No matter how busy she is she takes the time to stop and listen to me and answers my questions. Definitely worth the drive. I wouldn't go anywhere else."
    Sabrina M.
  • "Came across Doctor Suman after looking for a vet to perform surgery on my kitty leg ! I went to 5 different
    opinions until I found this Doctor! He explained everything in detail and told me exactly how the work would be
    done, I felt so comfortable! He did a fantastic job! Thank You Doctor Suman and Staff! My dog needed the same
    surgery and Doctor Suman was there again performing his magic! He truly cares and has love for every animal
    that comes through his door! The entire staff is full of love and caring hearts!"
    Susie M.
  • "I love this vet so much. Dr. Suman is so smart and kind. Everyone here is very accommodating and whenever
    I've come in stressed and worried for my pet, they are so comforting. It is always a quick and easy experience
    and one of the less expensive vets. Thank you for all your help!"
    Amber F.
  • "This wonderful office squeezed an appt in for my cat's urinary tract infection. They were kind and considerate,
    and accepted Care Credit. Since I lost my teaching job during Covid, the doctor was very compassionate and
    affordable. Thank you, Dr. Prabhakar!"
    Elizabeth F.
  • "Dr. Suman really cares for his patients. Personally even does follow ups and calls to check on how his patients
    are. He respects the pet parents and understands that life us difficult- he presents the real scenario and issue and what needs to happen but also presents options on how to go about the situation if needed."
    Cris Q.
  • "Dr. Suman is the best Veterinarian. I brought my dog in extremely ill suffering from ITP. He was able to place her
    on the right medication to control her illness. The way he demonstrated care, nurture, compassion and
    responded quickly was the best care my fur baby could have received. Thank you Dr. Suman and the whole."
    Erika G.
  • "I've been bringing my cats to dr. Suman for many years now. I find him to be caring and a great vet. They've
    got a wonderful new addition to the team in Dr. Gupta. She is helping me with my cat Joey who has dental
    issues. I feel very confident with her. The ladies in the front office are very nice too."
    Susan M.