Animal Pain Awareness Month

Categories:: Animal
Tags:: Pet Wildlife
Where:: United States
Date change rule:: Every September
Holiday emoji:: 🐾

Animal Pain Awareness Month champions the well-being of our beloved pets and other creatures throughout September. This vital observance educates owners and caregivers on recognizing, preventing, and managing pain in animals. Take action by learning the signs, consulting your vet, and supporting animal welfare organizations.

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Expected Animal Pain Awareness Month Deals

Animal Pain Awareness Month focuses on education and support, rather than commercial deals. Veterinary clinics and animal hospitals often offer discounted pain assessments or educational workshops. Organizations like the International Veterinary Academy of Pain Management (IVAPM) and the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) partner with pet supply brands such as Zoetis and Elanco to promote awareness campaigns and fund research into animal analgesia. Look for opportunities to donate to local shelters, participate in charity walks, or purchase products that contribute a portion of sales to animal pain research. We will update this page with confirmed live initiatives as September approaches.

Platform Guide for Animal Pain Awareness Month

Instagram

Tag @nationaltoday_ and use #AnimalPainAwareness. Share photos or videos of your pets, highlighting how you ensure their comfort and well-being.

Facebook

Mention National Today (facebook.com/nationaltoday) and use #AnimalPainAwarenessMonth. Post educational graphics or stories about managing pet pain, encouraging community discussion.

X/Twitter

Mention @NatlToday and use #AnimalPainAwareness. Share veterinary tips, infographics, or news articles about advancements in animal pain management.

Animal Pain Awareness Month Hero

Dr. Robin Downing

Dr. Robin Downing is a pioneer and leading voice in veterinary pain management and rehabilitation. As a certified veterinary pain practitioner and diplomate of the American Academy of Pain Management, she founded The Downing Center for Animal Pain Management. Her work has significantly advanced the understanding and treatment of chronic pain in companion animals, advocating for a multidisciplinary approach to improve their quality of life.

Animal Pain Awareness Month timeline

September 2015

Animal Pain Awareness Month Began

The first Animal Pain Awareness Month took place thanks to the International Veterinary Academy of Pain Management.

2001

IVAPM was formed

The International Veterinary Academy of Pain Management was established.

1761

Veterinary School

The first veterinarian school was established in France.

14,000 BC

Dogs domesticated in Europe

Humans first began domesticating dogs to be loving companions.

How Businesses Can Celebrate Animal Pain Awareness Month

Local veterinary clinics can host free pain assessment clinics or educational webinars for pet owners throughout September, offering tips on recognizing subtle signs of discomfort. Pet supply stores can highlight products designed for animal comfort, such as orthopedic beds or joint supplements, perhaps with a portion of sales benefiting an animal welfare charity. Groomers might offer gentle grooming techniques for older or arthritic pets. Social media campaigns sharing educational content and encouraging clients to share stories of their pets’ improved comfort can also raise awareness.

Animal Pain Awareness Month FAQs

When is Animal Pain Awareness Month?

Animal Pain Awareness Month 2026 runs throughout September, from Tuesday, September 1, to Wednesday, September 30. This observance is a crucial time to focus on the comfort and well-being of our animal companions.

How many animals experience pain?

While exact numbers are hard to quantify, studies suggest a significant percentage of companion animals experience chronic pain, particularly as they age. Conditions like arthritis affect an estimated 20% of adult dogs and up to 90% of cats over 12 years old, indicating millions of pets suffer from ongoing discomfort.

What are common signs of pain in animals?

Signs of pain in animals can be subtle and vary by species, but often include changes in behavior such as lethargy, aggression, reluctance to move, altered eating or sleeping patterns, and excessive licking of a particular area. Limping, vocalization, or hiding are more overt indicators.

Is animal pain management different from human pain management?

While the physiological mechanisms of pain are similar across species, animal pain management differs in assessment and communication. Animals cannot verbalize their pain, requiring veterinarians to rely on behavioral cues and physical examination. Treatment options, however, often include similar classes of medications and therapies.

How to Observe Animal Pain Awareness Month

Discuss on social media
Social media is an excellent way to communicate with friends, family, and even total strangers. Spread the word by giving it some attention.
Schedule a vet appointment
Has it been a while since you've brought your pet in for a check-up, or are you curious about a certain symptom? September is the perfect time. You may uncover some important information.
Adopt a pet
There are lots of animals living in shelters, just waiting for their forever homes. Ensure that a pet receives the loving, pain-free life they deserve by adopting a best buddy.

5 Steps To A Pain-free Pet

Keep an eye on behavior
Most often, behavioral changes are the most obvious sign that your pet may be in some sort of distress.
Use caution when your pet is in pain
Even the most loving animal can lash out when in pain, so make sure to use caution if you suspect something is up with your pet.
Pill popping isn't the only solution
While your pet may need some sort of medication, there are other avenues such as acupuncture, laser therapy, physical therapy, and weight management.
Your vet can always check for pain
As part of a routine visit, your vet will check for any indications of discomfort.
There are some easy ways to minimize pain
As a pet parent, it's your responsibility to keep an eye on your pets' dental hygiene and weight. Proper nutrition and exercise go a long way.

Why Animal Pain Awareness Month is Important

It reminds us look out for subtle changes in our pets' behavior
Unfortunately, they can't speak up to let us know when something is troubling them. That's why it's important to learn the signs.
Proper pain management now helps reduce risks later
It can save them from a serious illness or other irreversible issue.
It highlights the need for having a great veterinarian
It's important to establish a relationship with a veterinarian for annual check-ups. Should an issue arise, you'll know exactly whom to call.