All Creatures, All Questions

Do abnormal X-rays always mean pain, and does an animal that isn’t limping necessarily feel comfortable?

In this myth-busting episode of All Creatures, All Questions, Dr. Kevin Haussler challenges eight common beliefs about animal pain, movement and rehabilitation, drawing on examples from horses and dogs.

He explores why imaging findings don’t always match symptoms, how apparent stubbornness can signal discomfort or fear, and why rest alone may not resolve musculoskeletal injuries. He also re-examines claims that massage removes toxins, chiropractic treatment puts bones back into place, perfect symmetry equals soundness, and declining comfort is simply an unavoidable part of ageing.

A practical, thought-provoking discussion about looking beyond assumptions, recognizing subtle signs of pain and taking a whole-animal approach to care, for veterinarians, rehabilitation professionals, students and anyone interested in animal musculoskeletal health.

Learn more at https://vetcompendium.org

How often is back pain recognized in dogs, and what influences whether veterinarians identify it?

In the premiere episode of All Creatures, All Questions, Dr. Kevin Haussler speaks with canine sports-medicine specialist Dr. David Lane (Points East West Veterinary Services) about the challenges of detecting back pain and axial dysfunction in canine patients.

Drawing on their clinical experience and newly published collaborative research, they explore how professional training and examination techniques can influence the recognition of back pain, the signs clinicians may encounter, including lameness and reduced performance, and why standardized assessment methods and further objective research are needed.

A practical, thought-provoking conversation for veterinarians, rehabilitation professionals, students and anyone interested in canine musculoskeletal health.

Learn more at https://vetcompendium.org

Link to open-access article:

Factors affecting veterinary perception of the prevalence of back pain and dysfunction in dogs and horses

Frontiers in Veterinary Science, 2026

This podcast is intended for educational purposes and does not replace individual veterinary assessment or advice.