Canine Arthritis Matters

• Episode 32 - Top tips for preparing your dog for vets visitis - Tamsin Durston

  In this episode, Tamsin Durston joins Hannah Capon to share expert insights on how to prepare dogs for veterinary visits in ways that reduce stress and improve welfare. Drawing from her background in veterinary nursing, behaviour, and dog training, Tamsin explains why vet visits can be so challenging for dogs and how owners can help ease that anxiety. She offers practical advice on desensitisation, positive reinforcement, and improving communication between pet owners and veterinary teams. The episode also explores how veterinary practices can make their environments more behaviour-friendly, ultimately supporting better outcomes for everyone involved.(Published April 2024 – https://www.youtube.com/live/raKr3HHPstE)Brief BioTamsin Durston is a Registered Veterinary Nurse, Clinical Animal Behaviourist, and accredited Dog Training Instructor with over 25 years of experience. She has worked for organisations like Blue Cross and currently serves as the Veterinary Engagement Manager at Dogs Trust. In this role, she leads welfare-driven initiatives that embed canine behavioural principles into everyday veterinary practice. Tamsin is also an advocate for mental and emotional well-being in the veterinary field and the author of the book Emotional Well-being for the Animal Welfare Professional.Key TakeawaysPreparation starts at home – Building a positive association with travel, handling, and being examined can greatly reduce vet visit stress.Small changes make big differences – Implementing low-stress handling techniques, using calming aids, or even adjusting appointment timing can significantly improve the dog’s emotional experience.Understanding fear responses is essential – Recognizing signs of fear and stress in dogs helps owners and veterinary teams intervene early and prevent escalation.Collaborative care leads to better outcomes – Shared responsibility between owners and vet teams to prepare and support dogs through their appointments.Emotional safety matters for everyone – A calmer, better-prepared dog benefits not only the animal, but also reduces stress for caregivers and vet staff, creating a safer and more effective care environment.Relevant LinksDogs Trust for Veterinary Professionals: https://www.dogstrust.org.uk/how-we-help/professionals/vet-Tamsin Durston’s book – Emotional Well-being for the Animal Welfare Professional: https://a.co/d/1BVAafxChronic Pain Symposium 2025: https://www.camonlineshop.com/chronic-pain-symposium-2025/Learn more about CAM: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CAMarthritisInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/canine_arthritisYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/c/CanineArthritisManagementLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/canine-arthritis-management-ltdHave questions send them to: [email protected] tuned to learn how early detection can make a significant difference in managing OA in younger dogs.

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• Episode 31 - Communication and Decision Making When Caring for a Dog With Arthritis - Andrew Hale

  In this insightful episode, Hannah Capon is joined by canine behaviourist Andrew Hale to explore how effective communication can transform the management of canine osteoarthritis. It’s not just about pain relief or physical care—how owners and veterinary professionals talk to each other plays a vital role in decision-making and treatment outcomes. Together, they break down the SPIKES framework (Set up, Perception, Invitation, Knowledge, Emotion, Summary/Strategy) to help dog owners and professionals improve two-way communication, navigate complex choices, and collaborate better for the welfare of dogs living with chronic pain.(Published December 2021 – https://youtube.com/live/WXwW4LsKwKM)Brief Bio:Andrew Hale (BSc, ISCP.Dip.Canine.Prac) is the owner and lead behaviourist at Train Positive. With a background in psychology and a deep passion for animal welfare, he is a Certified Animal and Canine Behaviourist and a key voice in promoting dog-centred, empathetic approaches. He supports Animals in Distress, is a Behaviour Consultant for Pet Remedy and the British Isles Grooming Association, and runs the popular Dog Centred Care group on Facebook. Andrew is also a respected international speaker in the canine behaviour and training community.Key Takeaways:Communication is part of treatment – Managing arthritis isn’t just physical; good communication with your vet team is vital for success.SPIKES is a useful model – The six-step SPIKES acronym helps structure clearer and more compassionate conversations between owners and professionals.Emotion plays a big role – Acknowledging the emotional journey of caregivers helps reduce stress and improve decision-making.Preparation empowers owners – Anticipating difficult decisions and having tools to navigate them makes owners more confident and involved.Collaborative care is key – Creating space for both vet and owner perspectives improves trust and ultimately benefits the dog’s wellbeing.Relevant Links:• Chronic Pain Symposium 2025: https://www.camonlineshop.com/chronic-pain-symposium-2025/• One-to-one arthritis support: https://caninearthritisteleguidance.co.ukLearn more about CAM: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CAMarthritisInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/canine_arthritisYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/c/CanineArthritisManagementLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/canine-arthritis-management-ltdHave questions send them to: [email protected] tuned to learn how early detection can make a significant difference in managing OA in younger dogs.

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• Episode 30 - Integrative Veterinary Medicine: Pain Management and Rehabilitation - Dr. Katrin Jahn

  Dr. Katrin Jahn joins Hannah Capon to discuss the role of integrative veterinary medicine in managing chronic pain and improving animal welfare. They explore how a combination of conventional veterinary approaches and complementary therapies can enhance treatment outcomes, particularly for osteoarthritis and chronic pain conditions. The conversation covers the importance of multimodal pain management, rehabilitation techniques, and the evolving role of veterinary professionals in holistic care. Dr. Jahn emphasizes the need for evidence-based alternative therapies and how veterinary teams can work together to create the best outcomes for patients.Brief Bio:Dr. Katrin Jahn is a highly experienced veterinarian with a specialization in pain management, rehabilitation, and integrative veterinary medicine. She is passionate about combining conventional veterinary science with holistic therapies such as acupuncture, physiotherapy, and laser therapy to improve patient outcomes. With years of clinical experience and ongoing research contributions, she is dedicated to advancing veterinary care through education, innovation, and compassionate treatment.Key Takeaways:Multimodal Pain Management is Essential – Effective treatment for chronic conditions like osteoarthritis requires a combination of medications, rehabilitation therapies, and lifestyle adjustments.Integrative Medicine Bridges the Gap – Combining traditional veterinary treatments with evidence-based complementary therapies can enhance patient care and quality of life.Rehabilitation Plays a Vital Role – Physiotherapy, hydrotherapy, and targeted exercises are crucial for maintaining mobility and managing chronic pain.Veterinary Teams Must Adapt – The future of veterinary medicine involves greater collaboration between vets, nurses, and rehabilitation specialists.Education and Awareness are Key – Helping pet owners understand chronic pain and treatment options leads to better long-term management and improved animal welfare.Relevant Links:Get expert support for managing canine arthritis at caninearthritisteleguidance.co.uk. Don't miss the Chronic Pain Symposium 2025—reserve your spot now at camonlineshop.com.Learn more about CAM:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CAMarthritisInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/canine_arthritisYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/c/CanineArthritisManagementLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/canine-arthritis-management-ltdHave questions send them to: [email protected] tuned to learn how early detection can make a significant difference in managing OA in younger dogs.

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• Episode 29 - Myths and Questions - Duncan Lascelles

  Professor Duncan Lascelles joins Hannah Capon to dispel common myths surrounding canine arthritis. They discuss misconceptions such as arthritis only affecting older dogs, the idea that pain comes from bone-on-bone rubbing, and the belief that painful joints must be rested. Duncan explains why using a single drug, supplement, or therapy is not enough and why early intervention with supplements alone is insufficient to prevent disease progression. He also introduces a promising new biological intervention—a monoclonal antibody directed at nerve growth factor—that could soon improve arthritis treatment. The episode ends on a positive note, with Duncan sharing his optimistic view of the future of arthritis management.(Published November 2020 - https://youtu.be/M_adx3azXT0)Brief BioProfessor Duncan Lascelles is a leading expert in small animal surgery and pain management at North Carolina State University. His research program, Translational Research in Pain (TRiP), focuses on measuring pain associated with spontaneous disease in animals and understanding its neurobiology. His work has significantly improved pain control in companion animals and contributed to analgesic development in human medicine. He is also the director of the Comparative Pain Research and Education Centre (CPREC) and co-founder of AniV8, a company dedicated to developing innovative methods of measuring pain.Key TakeawaysArthritis is not just a disease of old dogs – younger dogs can also develop arthritis due to genetics, injury, or early joint issues.Pain does not come from bone-on-bone rubbing – arthritis pain is caused by inflammation and changes in the nervous system.Resting painful joints is not always beneficial – controlled movement and physiotherapy can help maintain joint function.One drug or supplement is not the solution – arthritis requires a multimodal approach, combining medications, therapies, and lifestyle changes.New treatments are emerging – monoclonal antibodies targeting nerve growth factor could revolutionize pain management in arthritic dogs.Relevant linksCHRONIC PAIN SYMPOSIUM - Don’t miss out - https://www.camonlineshop.com/chronic-pain-symposium-2025/Join Holly‘s Army and get support for your arthritis journey: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/8AcWZohTyJh9ykgD/?mibextid=K35XfPHave a look at our FREE DOWNLOADS and find documents like the BAD DAY/GOOD DAY DIARY - https://caninearthritis.co.uk/how-cam-can-help/downloads/and also check out our ACUTE FLARE KITS that are for free in our Member Zone (available at only £35 per year) and other helpful tools - https://caninearthritis.co.uk/how-cam-can-help/tools/Learn more about CAM: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CAMarthritisInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/canine_arthritisYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/c/CanineArthritisManagementLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/canine-arthritis-management-ltdHave questions send them to: [email protected] tuned to learn how early detection can make a significant difference in managing OA in younger dogs.

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• Episode 28 - Rethinking Chronic Pain Management in Veterinary Practice - Kirsty Cavill

  Hannah Capon speaks with registered veterinary nurse Kirsty Cavill about the evolving approach to chronic pain management in dogs. They discuss the importance of team collaboration, how the traditional veterinary model may not be suited for long-term pain cases, and the growing role of vet nurses in chronic disease management. Kirsty shares insights from her work in canine rehabilitation, community care, and telehealth, emphasizing how practices can improve chronic pain care by rethinking consultation structures, better utilizing vet nurses, and creating more supportive environments for caregivers and pets. They also touch on public perception of osteoarthritis (OA) and how education and awareness are shaping the future of treatment.Brief Bio:Kirsty Cavill is a registered veterinary nurse (RVN) with over 30 years of experience in rehabilitation, chronic pain management, and community-based care. She runs Paws Canine Myotherapy, a rehabilitation business helping dogs with mobility issues. Kirsty is also Director of Veterinary Services at The Vet Connection, a remote telehealth provider, and volunteers with StreetVet and the Veterinary Osteoarthritis Alliance (VOA). Passionate about advancing the role of veterinary nurses in chronic disease management, she is also a speaker and educator in the field.Key TakeawaysChronic pain management requires a different approach – Unlike acute cases, long-term pain conditions need ongoing support, tailored plans, and a collaborative team effort.Vet nurses are key players in chronic disease care – Nurses can take on greater roles in managing OA cases, helping to reduce vet workload and improve patient outcomes.The standard 15-minute consultation is not enough – Chronic pain care needs a shift toward longer consultations, follow-ups, and remote check-ins to better support caregivers.Client education and engagement are essential – Owners need clear guidance on managing their dog’s condition, with trusted vet-led information rather than misinformation online.The veterinary industry must adapt – The future of chronic disease care may include dedicated pain management clinics, specialized spaces in practices, and expanded telehealth services.Relevant links:CHRONIC PAIN SYMPOSIUM - Don’t miss out - https://www.camonlineshop.com/chronic-pain-symposium-2025/Kirsty’s Website - http://pawsmyotherapycare.co.ukLearn more about CAM: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CAMarthritisInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/canine_arthritisYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/c/CanineArthritisManagementLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/canine-arthritis-management-ltdHave questions send them to: [email protected] tuned to learn how early detection can make a significant difference in managing OA in younger dogs.

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