5 Alternative Treatments Enhancing the Lives of Aging Pets
Early diagnosis and treatment can significantly enhance their well-being. Here are five groundbreaking alternative treatments that veterinarians are employing to care for aging pets:
Cold Laser Treatment for Pets
Cold laser therapy is an effective alternative treatment utilized by veterinarians, particularly for pets dealing with arthritis. This non-invasive procedure employs light to stimulate cells and augment blood circulation. It reduces pain signals, alleviates nerve sensitivity, and promotes the release of endorphins, natural pain relievers. The treatment hinges on the principle that light is absorbed by cells, leading to a process known as photo-biotherapy, which enhances protein synthesis and cell metabolism, ultimately improving cellular health and functionality. Remarkably, this therapy can be as brief as eight to 10 minutes for smaller pets and approximately 30 minutes for larger dogs with more extensive arthritic conditions. It's important to note that cold laser therapy is not suitable for animals with cancer, as it can inadvertently promote blood flow to cancer cells.
Medical Acupuncture for Pets
Medical acupuncture has emerged as an invaluable tool and is an alternative treatment for diminishing pain and inflammation in dogs by stimulating their internal energy to kick-start the healing process. Modern veterinary acupuncture employs various techniques, ranging from standard acupuncture needles to electric stimulation and lasers as sources of stimulation. This approach has proven highly effective in enhancing the mobility of pets afflicted by arthritis, enabling them to move and walk comfortably once again.
Anti-Anxiety Treatment for Pets
Anxiety is a prevalent behavioral issue diagnosed in dogs, with up to 40% of cases being referred to behavioral specialists. A medication known as trazodone has gained recognition for its effectiveness in treating anxiety in pets, particularly separation anxiety, senior anxiety, and post-surgical anxiety. Originally developed as a human antidepressant in Italy in 1966, veterinarians began prescribing it to anxious and phobic dogs in the mid-'90s. Its popularity has surged in recent years due to its benign effects on the liver and the flexibility of administration, either daily or as needed. Trazodone has a rapid onset of action, taking effect within an hour. To maximize its effectiveness, it should be administered to pets before the onset of anxiety, and it is frequently used in conjunction with fluoxetine, often referred to as doggy Prozac.
Radiosurgery for Pet Cancer
Sadly, cancer is the leading cause of death in dogs. In pet oncology, advancements have enabled more veterinarians to achieve successful outcomes by either eliminating cancer or significantly decelerating the growth of cancer cells. Radiosurgery, or stereotactic radiosurgery, is a precise method for targeting cancerous tissue with a concentrated radiation dose while minimizing exposure to surrounding healthy tissue. Though well-established in human medicine, this technique is relatively new in veterinary practice. Its precision reduces the number of radiation treatments required, resulting in fewer sessions marked by lower stress levels, decreased anesthesia use, and fewer side effects for your cherished pet.
Monoclonal Antibodies for Pet Cancer
Monoclonal antibodies are increasingly being employed by veterinary oncologists to combat pet cancer. These antibodies are meticulously designed to adhere to cancer cells and function by mimicking the body's natural antibodies produced as part of the immune system's response to threats. When used alongside traditional chemotherapy over a 12-week course of treatment, monoclonal antibodies expedite the treatment process and enhance its efficacy. While this represents a significant advancement in pet cancer treatment, it's crucial to understand that monoclonal antibodies do not necessarily provide a cure for cancer. Instead, they extend the pet's lifespan and maintain their quality of life. If you believe your pet may benefit from any innovative treatments, engage in a comprehensive discussion with your veterinarian, who is well-versed in your pet's medical history, to make an informed decision.
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