Dr. Hannah Capon and Dr. Chelsea Dawson discuss how to manage arthritis in dogs using a multimodal approach. They stress the importance of individualized care that combines medications, lifestyle changes, and physical therapies. The emotional challenge of feeling guilty for not doing enough is addressed, with a focus on recognizing what’s realistically achievable. They also highlight the need to observe behavioral changes and focus on the dog’s happiness. Owners are advised to avoid comparing themselves to others and maintain open communication with their vets. (Published September 2021 - https://youtube.com/live/ER5rnYDDi_o)

P.s. - And it looks like we have a surprise guest! Luna, Hannahs dog, has joined the conversation—clearly, she has some paws-itively important thoughts to share.

Biography

Dr. Chelsea Dawson is a veterinarian specializing in chronic pain management and holistic veterinary medicine. After moving from Canada to the UK to attend the University of Glasgow Veterinary School, she began focusing on chronic pain and integrated therapies like acupuncture and herbal medicine. She currently runs her own referral service for pain assessments in Yorkshire and East Lancashire.

Key Takeaways

1. Multimodal approach: Effective arthritis management requires multiple interventions (e.g., medication, lifestyle changes, supplements), which should be tailored to the dog and owner’s circumstances.
2. Biopsychosocial care: Consider the physical, emotional, and social well-being of the dog when developing a pain management plan.
3. Behavioral markers: Watch for behavior changes that signal pain or discomfort, as these are often better indicators than physical symptoms.
4. Manage guilt: Owners often feel they aren’t doing enough, but it’s essential to focus on what’s realistically possible and be confident in the care being provided.
5. Avoid comparisons: Social media can create pressure to do more than what’s feasible. Focus on your dog’s specific needs rather than comparing with others.

Relevant Links

CAM Courses - https://www.cameducation.co.uk

The Chronic Pain Symposium 2025 by CAM offers a comprehensive exploration of chronic pain management in animals, featuring expert speakers, innovative treatments, and the latest research advancements. - https://www.camonlineshop.com/chronic-pain-symposium-2025/

Learn more about CAM:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CAMarthritis
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/canine_arthritis
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/c/CanineArthritisManagement
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/canine-arthritis-management-ltd
Learn more about CARE: https://caninearthritis.org
Have questions send them to: info@caninearthritis.co.uk
Stay tuned to learn how early detection can make a significant difference in managing OA in younger dogs.

In this episode, Dr. Hannah Capon and Dr. Kristin Kirkby Shaw discuss common barriers in providing optimal care for dogs with osteoarthritis. They explore topics such as public misconceptions, caregiver denial, and the emotional burden on veterinary professionals. They address the challenge of convincing owners that “slowing down” often indicates pain, the role of physical exams versus diagnostics, and the importance of self-care for vet staff. Practical strategies and communication tips are shared for navigating these challenges effectively.

1. Key Takeaways:

   1. Challenge of “Just Getting Old” Mindset: Many caregivers misattribute changes in their dog’s mobility to aging, not realizing these may be signs of pain.
   2. Importance of Early Education: Screening for orthopedic issues (like hip dysplasia) early can prepare owners for age-related conditions.
   3. Role of Physical Exams and Diagnostics: Hands-on exams often reveal more than imaging and can avoid unnecessary expenses for owners.
   4. Empowering Vet Staff: Utilizing veterinary technicians and educational resources (like checklists) helps manage caregiver expectations and spreads educational outreach.
   5. Veterinary Burnout and Self-Care: Chronic disease management can be emotionally taxing, making self-care essential for veterinarians.

Relevant Links:

• CAM education platform: Learn more from our courses - https://cameducation.co.uk

• Join our CAM Member Zone for resources on OA, emotional support and more informations - also watch more FB lives! (only 35£ per year) - https://caninearthritis.co.uk/oa-support

Learn more about CAM:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CAMarthritis
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/canine_arthritis
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/c/CanineArthritisManagement
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/canine-arthritis-management-ltd

Learn more about CARE:
https://caninearthritis.org

Have questions send them to: info@caninearthritis.co.uk

Stay tuned to learn how early detection can make a significant difference in managing OA in younger dogs.

In this episode, Karen Perry and Hannah Capon discuss surgical options for osteoarthritis in dogs, particularly for hip and elbow disease. Karen explains when surgery is necessary versus when conservative management (e.g., medication and rehab) is sufficient. They explore the complexities of elbow surgeries and the success rates of different interventions. The episode provides insight into the timing and risks of various surgeries, emphasizing the importance of a tailored approach to each dog’s needs. (published in March 2020 - https://youtu.be/0fY0unlShYM )

Biography:

• Karen Perry: Associate Professor in small animal orthopedics at Michigan State University with a special focus on managing degenerative joint diseases. She is an expert in surgical options for hip and elbow dysplasia, having trained and worked extensively in the UK and the US, contributing research and expertise in veterinary orthopedics.

Key Takeaways:

1. Hip dysplasia requires careful assessment: Surgery isn’t always necessary in young dogs. Medical management may help delay surgery until it’s clear that it’s needed.
2. Early surgical interventions: Procedures like juvenile pubic symphysiodesis (JPS) and triple pelvic osteotomy (TPO) must be performed very early (young puppies) with the goal of preventing hip arthritis in dogs with hip dysplasia; these procedures are infrequently performed, partly because dogs may not be showing clinical signs of pain despite having hip dysplasia.
3. Femoral head and neck excision (FHO): This procedure can provide relief, but requires intensive rehabilitation for optimal outcome.
4. Total hip replacement: Considered the gold standard for restoring normal joint function, but it’s expensive and comes with risks.
5. Elbow surgeries are more complex: Surgical success is often limited in elbow dysplasia cases, making conservative management the foundation of management in most cases.

Relevant Links: CAM education platform: Learn more from our courses - https://cameducation.co.uk

Learn more about CAM: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CAMarthritis
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/canine_arthritis
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/c/CanineArthritisManagement
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/canine-arthritis-management-ltd

Learn more about CARE: https://caninearthritis.org
READ MORE about HIP and ELBOW DYSPLASIA -
https://caninearthritis.org/article/dod-hip-dyplasia/
https://caninearthritis.org/article/dod-elbow-dysplasia/

Have questions send them to: info@caninearthritis.co.uk

Stay tuned to learn how early detection can make a significant difference in managing OA in younger dogs.

In this episode, Dr. Kristin Kirkby-Shaw and Dr. Hannah Capon discuss the importance of a multimodal approach in managing osteoarthritis (OA) in dogs. Kristin outlines her "care quad" framework, categorizing treatment into four areas: pain management, nutrition/weight management, lifestyle/environmental modification, and rehabilitation. Kristin and Hannah emphasize that a comprehensive treatment plan requires addressing multiple areas—beyond medication alone—to ensure the dog's well-being. They also discuss the emotional impact on owners and the importance of caregiver support.

Key Takehomes:

1. Multimodal Treatment: Osteoarthritis should not be treated with just one approach. Combining pain management, lifestyle adjustments, weight control, and exercise is key.
2. Weight Management is Crucial: Maintaining a healthy weight is the most effective way to slow down OA progression.
3. Caregiver Involvement: Owners' emotions and ability to manage care directly impact a dog's treatment plan and ultimately, the success of a given plan. The plan should be developed with the owner’s input to ensure the plan is appropriate for both the dog and pet parent.
4. Communication Between Vets and Therapists: Consistent cross-talk between medical professionals is essential for a cohesive treatment plan.
5. Monitoring Progress: Regular follow-ups and tracking improvements are necessary to adjust the multimodal plan as needed.

Relevant Links:

• Join our CAM Member Zone for resources on OA, emotional support and more informations (only 35£ per year) - https://caninearthritis.co.uk/oa-support
• More on Multimodal Treatment - https://caninearthritis.co.uk/multimodal-management

Learn more about CAM: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CAMarthritis
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/canine_arthritis
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/c/CanineArthritisManagement
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/canine-arthritis-management-ltd

Learn more about CARE: https://caninearthritis.org

Have questions send them to: info@caninearthritis.co.uk

Stay tuned to learn how early detection can make a significant difference in managing OA in younger dogs.

Dr. Hannah Capon is joined by the esteemed Dr. Katrin Jahn to discuss the connection between behavioral issues and pain in pets. In this episode, Katrin shares her insights on how underlying pain can manifest as behavioral problems in animals, often going unnoticed by owners. She provides practical advice on how to recognize these signs and the importance of addressing both the physical and emotional well-being of pets. (May 2023 FULL VIDEO: You can find the full video in the Member Zone https://caninearthritis.co.uk/member-zone)

Guest info:

Dr. Katrin Jahn, a veterinary graduate from the University of Munich, is a leading expert in Veterinary Behaviour Medicine. She founded the German Veterinary Clinic in Abu Dhabi, the first ISFM Gold Standard Cat Friendly Clinic in the Middle East, and is currently completing a residency in Veterinary Behaviour Medicine. Katrin is passionate about both the physical and emotional well-being of animals and regularly shares her expertise on Dubai Eye radio.

Key Takehomes:

1. Pain often presents through behavior: Pet owners should look for subtle behavioral signs of pain, not just obvious physical signs.
2. Pain is frequently overlooked: Many veterinarians and pet owners don’t immediately recognize behavioral changes as signs of pain.
3. The suspicion of chronic pain document: This resource helps pet owners track subtle signs of chronic pain and bring them to their vet’s attention.
4. Early detection is crucial: Recognizing and managing pain early can lead to better outcomes for pets.
5. Dogs may continue to engage in play or exercise despite pain: Motivation to engage in activities often outweighs pain, which can mask the severity of a condition.
6. Holistic, multimodal approach: Pain management often requires a combination of medication, behavior therapy, and environmental adjustments including appropriate exercise.

Relevant links:

• Why Don’t You Listen? is a beautifully illustrated story book, teaching children how to recognise when dogs are in pain. It is a must read for all families that share their lives and homes with our four-legged friends. - https://www.camonlineshop.com/why-dont-you-listen-book/

• Find the SUSPICION OF CHRONIC PAIN OBSERVATIONS FORM, the CHRONIC PAIN INDICATOR CHART or the GOOD DAY / BAD DAY DIARY here by joining our Member Zone and find even more helpful tool, videos,… - https://caninearthritis.co.uk/get-involved/become-a-cam-member/

Learn more about CAM: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CAMarthritis
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/canine_arthritis
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/c/CanineArthritisManagement
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/canine-arthritis-management-ltd

Learn more about CARE: https://caninearthritis.org

Have questions send them to: info@caninearthritis.co.uk

Stay tuned to learn how early detection can make a significant difference in managing OA in younger dogs.

In this episode, Dr. Giliola Spettini, a veterinary diagnostic imaging specialist, discusses the integration of musculoskeletal ultrasound into veterinary practice. She emphasizes the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration, covering diagnostic tools such as radiography, CT, and MRI, and the role of ultrasound in diagnosing osteoarthritis and tendon issues. The episode underscores the value of continuous learning and the evolution of diagnostic technologies in veterinary medicine.

Guest Info:

Dr. Giliola Spettini is a veterinary diagnostic imaging specialist from Italy with a PhD in Diagnostic Imaging. She is involved in teaching musculoskeletal ultrasound worldwide and has authored several textbooks. She currently works as a consultant at Antech and teaches diagnostic imaging courses globally.

Key Takeaways:

1. Ultrasound in Musculoskeletal Diagnosis: It detects early signs of joint or tendon issues, especially in cases of osteoarthritis.

2. Interdisciplinary Approach: Collaboration between radiologists, orthopedic surgeons, and rehabilitation experts is crucial for better diagnostic outcomes.

3. CT and MRI Limitations: Although valuable, these modalities have limitations in specific joint or soft tissue diagnoses, making ultrasound essential in certain cases.

4. Diagnostic Pathways: Physical examination remains the first critical step before selecting the appropriate imaging method.

5. Continuous Learning: Advancements in diagnostic imaging require veterinarians to stay updated on the latest tools and approaches.

Relevant Links:

- Dr. Giliola Spettini Profile and Courses - https://www.esavs-asia.org/en/faculty-all/9-faculty/45-spattini-giliola-dr

Learn more about CAM:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CAMarthritis

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/canine_arthritis

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/c/CanineArthritisManagement

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/canine-arthritis-management-ltd

Learn more about CARE:

https://caninearthritis.org

Have questions send them to: info@caninearthritis.co.uk

Stay tuned to learn how early detection can make a significant difference in managing OA in younger dogs.