Just like people, dogs and cats can experience joint pain and arthritis as they age, or even earlier in life, due to an injury or genetics. If your pet is slowing down, struggling to get up, or doesn’t want to play like they used to, it could be a sign of joint discomfort. At East Hill Animal Hospital in Pensacola, FL, we specialize in helping pets feel better, move more easily, and live more comfortably.
We don’t just offer medical care. We also provide advanced, supportive therapies through our Canine Institute, located within our hospital. Whether your pet needs pain relief, rehabilitation, or help reaching a healthy weight, we have options that work.
Common Signs of Joint Pain in Pets
Joint issues can affect pets of all ages but are especially common in seniors, large-breed dogs, overweight pets, and those with previous injuries. Watch for these signs:
- Limping or favoring a leg
- Trouble standing up or lying down
- Difficulty climbing stairs or jumping
- Decreased activity or playfulness
- Stiffness, especially after rest
- Whining or sensitivity when touched
If you’ve noticed any of these symptoms, your pet may be dealing with arthritis or joint pain. The good news is that help is available—and earlier treatment often leads to better outcomes.
East Hill Animal Hospital Can Help
At East Hill Animal Hospital, we take a full-body approach to joint pain. Our experienced veterinary team will evaluate your pet’s condition, provide a diagnosis, and create a customized treatment plan designed to promote comfort, mobility, and long-term health.
Treatment options may include:
- Pain Medications: Safe, effective medications can reduce inflammation and help your pet feel more comfortable.
- Joint Supplements: Glucosamine, chondroitin, and omega-3 fatty acids are often used to protect and strengthen joints.
- Laser Therapy: Our therapy laser helps reduce pain, swelling, and stiffness in aching joints by promoting circulation and healing.
- Diagnostics: X-rays and CT scans can help us understand what’s going on inside your pet’s joints and guide treatment.
But our care doesn’t stop there. If your pet requires more than just medication, we have a special offering to meet your needs.
Specialized Care Through the Canine Institute
Inside East Hill Animal Hospital, you’ll find our Canine Institute, a dedicated space for rehabilitation, fitness, and advanced care for dogs dealing with joint issues, arthritis, or recovery after surgery.
Our services include:
1. Underwater Treadmill Therapy
The underwater treadmill is a gentle, low-impact way to help dogs build strength, improve mobility, and lose weight. The water’s buoyancy reduces stress on the joints while allowing pets to move more freely. It’s ideal for pets with arthritis, hip dysplasia, or recovering from orthopedic surgery.
2. Weight Waggers Program
Extra weight puts a lot of stress on a pet’s joints. That’s why we created Weight Waggers, a weight loss and fitness program designed to help pets slim down safely and effectively. Overweight pets often show significant improvement in mobility and energy levels after losing just a few pounds of weight.
3. Nutritional Counseling
Eating a proper diet can support joint health, maintain an ideal weight, and even help reduce inflammation. Our veterinary team offers personalized nutrition plans tailored to your pet’s specific needs, whether they require fewer calories or additional joint-supporting nutrients.
4. Rehabilitation Plans
We offer customized rehabilitation programs that include stretching, therapeutic exercises, massage, and additional therapies. These are especially helpful after injury or surgery or for managing long-term arthritis pain.
Your Partner in Lifelong Comfort
Arthritis and joint pain don’t have to limit your pet’s life. With the proper treatment and support, many pets return to playing, walking, and enjoying their favorite activities. Our goal is to keep tails wagging and purring going strong at every stage of life.
Whether you’re dealing with early signs of stiffness or a more advanced case of arthritis, East Hill Animal Hospital and our Canine Institute are here to help.
Schedule an Evaluation Today
If your pet is showing signs of joint pain, don’t wait. The sooner we can start treatment, the more we can do to help. Call East Hill Animal Hospital in Pensacola today at 850-437-9932 to schedule an exam or consultation with our rehabilitation team. We’re proud to be part of Pensacola Pets, offering total care for your pets under one roof.