Dr. Robin Downing wrote this wonderful article regarding pain in our companion animals. Her article ties into the research she did for her Master's thesis. 

The article talks about the different aspects in the philosophy of pain as we address our patients- the four main considerations she points out as being 1) Respect for autonomy (the right of an individual for choice, and in vet med this is regarding the owner who is making medical decisions for their pet)  2) Nonmaleficence (do no harm)  3) Beneficence (taking positive action- "consider all the ways in which the pain may be anticipated, prevented and (when it cannot be prevented) treated. " and 4) Justice (presenting an action plan that provides the best option for pain). 

Take a moment to read it in its entirety. Thinking about how and why we approach pain in the ways that we do can help us to make and present the best options for pain control we can for our patients! 

"Why borrowing four principles of human clinical bioethics will enhance the lives of our veterinary patients."

Continue reading from morrisanimalfoundation.org.