Maricamp Animal Hospital offers dogs and cats regenerative medicine to live pain-free lives.
A healthy, happy pet. That’s what we want for our fur babies. Just like their humans, though, our furry counterparts can and do experience a variety of degenerative conditions, which lead to inflammation, pain and a reduced quality of life.
Maricamp Animal Hospital is one of just nine veterinarian offices in the state to offer Medivet Biologics therapies.
“Stem cell therapy and platelet rich plasma can benefit both dogs and cats that are experiencing degenerative diseases and pain,” says Dr. Katherine O’Brien.
How do you know if your pet is suffering with a degenerative issue? He or she may whimper in pain, have difficulty rising from a resting position, experience reduced mobility, be stiff, limp or not be interested in regular activities. And although dogs exhibit symptoms more readily than cats, cats are not immune to degenerative disease. They just don’t express pain the same way.
“We are trying to maximize a pet’s time on Earth and improve their quality of life so they are pain free,” says Dr. O’Brien. “These therapies may be used for conditions like arthritis, hip dysplasia, degenerative joint disease, torn ligaments, ligament disease, patella luxation and more.”
Dr. O’Brien explains that stem cell and platelet therapy are drug-free, all natural, and won’t harm your animal. Stem cells can be taken from your dog or cat while they are under anesthesia for a spay, neuter or dental procedure and stored to be used when your pet gets older and needs therapy.
Platelet rich plasma (PRP) is a highly concentrated solution of platelets that contains anti-inflammatory properties. For common conditions, such as osteoarthritis, relief can come from the animal’s own biology rather than medication or surgery. Doctors can direct the PRP into the joints to provide relief for six to eight months.
While PRP offers anti-inflammatory properties, stem cell therapy helps by regenerating tissue. The “unprogrammed cells” turn into whatever is needed in the body, addressing the source of disease.
“The goal,” Dr. O’Brien says, “is to use both modalities together by using direct injection and IV therapy to treat the degenerative disease.” By taking this approach, the animal can experience positive results for one to two years. She adds that educating clients is important. “We speak and advocate for all animals to end pain and suffering.”
From house calls and laser therapy to acupuncture and boarding, the happy team at Maricamp Animal Hospital offers the services you need to keep your pet happy and healthy.
Maricamp Animal Hospital › 4485 SE 53rd Avenue, Ocala › (352) 624-0300 › www.maricampanimalhospital.com
