Bristol Vet Specialists opens chronic pain clinic in the South West
Murell uses validated clinical metrology instruments (owner questionnaires) to measure the severity of pain, especially during initial appointments
Bristol Vet Specialists (formerly known as Highcroft Veterinary Specialists) is providing a new chronic pain clinic for cats and dogs in the South West of England who may need specialist treatment.
BVS stated that chronic pain, particularly pain caused by osteoarthritis, is extremely common in cats and dogs.
Even young dogs (less than four years of age) commonly show radiographic and clinical signs of osteoarthritis and this prevalence of osteoarthritis is likely to increase in the ageing population.
It is recommended to screen cats older than seven years of age for signs of osteoarthritis because of its frequency in this age group.
Other causes of chronic pain in cats and dogs include some types of cancer, dental and ear diseases, spinal disease and specific syndromes such as feline hyperaesthesia syndrome.
Cats and dogs coming to the BVS clinic will receive the “highest” level of care with a specialist assessment by one of its trained veterinary anaesthetists and pain specialist, Jo Murrell.
Murell also works closely with the orthopaedic and neurology services to ensure that a global and holistic approach to chronic pain conditions is adopted.
This will identify signs of chronic pain, assess the severity, and also evaluate the impact of the condition on the animal’s quality of life.
Murell uses validated clinical metrology instruments (owner questionnaires) to measure the severity of pain, especially during initial appointments.
BVS has “one of the largest” and “most advanced” anaesthesia and analgesia departments in a private hospital for small animals in the South West of England.
Should a condition be detected, Murell and her team will be able to offer pharmacotherapy (drug treatments), intra-articular and epidural injections and acupuncture treatments.
Murell also works closely with physiotherapists and hydrotherapy services so that these treatments can be used as adjunctive therapy where appropriate.
Murrell said: “Many cats and dogs will experience chronic pain. These cases need to be thoroughly investigated to ensure that the cause of pain is properly identified and treatment quickly provided. We are very pleased to be able to open our new chronic pain clinic for cat and dog owners in the South West today to provide this essential service.”
