Where do you stand out from the rest of the pain management pack?
At Wheatland Animal Hospital, we perform a complete physical exam, often including x-rays, to come to a proper diagnosis. As sensible as this may seem, many dog owners incorrectly presume their animals are arthritic, so it is imperative to diagnose the actual problem. From here, we offer a full array of treatment plans, including joint building therapy, rehabilitation therapy, stem cell and PRP, proven supplements, and medications if necessary.
Does Wheatland have in-house pain management?
We perform everything at Wheatland, from diagnosis to treatments. Dr. Chris Dupuis is certified in animal rehabilitation therapy through the University of Tennessee as well as Technician Stephanie through the Vet Tech Institute in Pittsburgh. We also perform stem cell and PRP treatments in house, all in one day.
What are some signs and symptoms of pain in my dog?
This is a complicated question, however some obvious signs are limping and reluctance to get up in the morning or after exercise. Some more subtle signs include defensiveness or reclusive behavior.
How will my veterinarian determine whether my dog is in pain?
Through a full physical exam, plus x-rays, we determine the source of the problem and the magnitude of the pain level.
What are the options for pain relief for my pet?
This entirely depends on the condition and the location of the problem, however some treatments include joint builders, rehab therapy, stem cell and PRP, joint supplements, and pain medications.
What are the benefits of stem cell treatments?
Stem cell treatments offer the benefit of using the body’s intrinsic capacity to heal itself in a natural way. When stem cells are concentrated in a joint, they have properties that reduce inflammation (and therefore pain) and also heal damage.
Why choose Wheatland Animal Hospital for stem cell therapy?
Wheatland’s doctors have extensive orthopedic skills and Dr. Dupuis is certified in rehabilitation, so we select the dogs with honesty and professional knowledge. We also partner with Ardent; providers in the highest quality of stem cell equipment and cryostorage, for our stem cell procedures.
Do stem cells have other effects on the body?
The specifics are being researched, and the answer depends on how effective the stem cells are at navigating to a certain location, but stem cells have tremendous opportunity to heal tissue. There are other promising applications that are being studied as we speak.
How do stem cells repair the body?
This is a complicated question. Stem cells have molecules whose duty it is to heal tissue. Think of a simple skin cut. These molecules help to form a clot, to build up the healthy tissue beneath the skin, and to close up the wound. The same type of process happens in a joint where stem cells are concentrated with the therapy.
What conditions can you treat my pet for with stem cells?
At present, we only treat osteoarthritis with stem cells. Although other areas are promising, we need more research before beginning these applications.
What is the difference between treating medically and using stem cells for arthritis?
Stem cells are a medical treatment. However the difference between stem cells and medicine is that stem cells come from the animal’s own body. Therefore they are very safe and side effects are not expected.
How are stem cells stored?
We concentrate and process the stem cells on site immediately after harvesting. Therefore no storage is needed for the initial treatment. However, many animals benefit from repeat treatments years down the road. Therefore, Ardent has a properly regulated cryostorage facility in Lexington, KY. We ship the cells on ice to Lexington to be stored for the life of the animal.
Is PRP the same as stem cells?
It is not. PRP is an acronym for platelet-rich plasma. We draw blood, and concentrate and process to finish with PRP. Although it is a different product, its goals are very similar. All stem cell treatments are performed in concert with PRP. So the options are PRP, or stem cells and PRP. Stem cells seem to have a longer lasting benefit, but every animal is different. The specifics are discussed with the owners to determine the best therapy.