Tripawds Three Legged Dog & Cat Forum Archives

Hi Raphaela,

Yes that does sound like phantom pain , unfortunately. Sometimes it happens when pain management isn't as aggressive as it can be, right before and right after amputation.

Right now he seems to be getting good pain meds, but based on what you're describing he could need some alternative / replacement therapies to alleviate the nerve pain. Managing pain takes a multi-modal approach, meaning pain meds along with physio therapy methods like massage, acupuncture, etc. 

So, you may want to ask your vet about using other types of medication instead. You can ask about Amantadine, perhaps using it instead of the paracematol which may not be doing anything at this point. Also, a muscle relaxer like Methocarbomol may also help. Both work on different pain receptors that may target his phantom pains better than paracematol.

The best thing to do at this point is to talk to your vet about rebalancing the pain meds. Then have Bärli evaluated by a canine physio therapist. I can help you find one if you'd like, just private message me with your address. Or you can check out the directories in the Tripawds Foundation post about our Rehab Reimbursement program. If you see a practitioner with the "CCRT" or "CCRP" credentials the foundation may reimburse you for the cost of your first rehab visit so please take advantage of it.

For more about phantom pain see:

Dr. Downing Explains Phantom Leg Pain in Pets