In this thoughtful and informative episode, Hannah Capon speaks with Dr. Zoe Belshaw about the findings from Zoe’s PhD research, which explored how vets and dog owners make decisions regarding the management of osteoarthritis. They discuss the challenges in early identification and treatment of arthritis, the emotional burden on caregivers, and the complexity of navigating treatment choices. Zoe shares strategies to make vet consultations more productive, reassures owners about the safe use of anti-inflammatories, and introduces the BRAN framework (Benefits, Risks, Alternatives, doing Nothing) as a tool to guide more confident, informed decisions.
(Published December 2020 – https://youtu.be/fDnN4IIM_30)

Bio:

Dr. Zoe Belshaw is a veterinary surgeon, European and RCVS Recognised Specialist in small animal internal medicine, and researcher with a focus on geriatric care and osteoarthritis. A Cambridge graduate, Zoe has worked in a wide range of settings, from general practice to university hospitals and veterinary charities. Her PhD from the Centre for Evidence-based Veterinary Medicine at the University of Nottingham focused on the shared decision-making process between vets and owners caring for arthritic dogs. She is an active clinical practitioner, researcher, educator, and editor in the veterinary field.

Key Takeaways:

1. Arthritis is often underdiagnosed – early symptoms are subtle and can be overlooked, delaying treatment.
2. Vet consultations can be more effective – preparation and clear communication help owners get more from appointments.
3. Anti-inflammatories are valuable tools – when used wisely, they can greatly improve a dog’s comfort and mobility.
4. Caregiver emotions are valid – confusion, anxiety, and anticipatory grief are normal and deserve compassion.
5. Use the BRAN method – when making care decisions, consider the benefits, risks, alternatives, and consequences of doing nothing.

Relevant Links

1. Explore CAM’s free tools and resources to better understand and manage your dog’s arthritis — from pain trackers to home adaptations, everything you need is at https://caninearthritis.co.uk/how-cam-can-help/tools/.
2. Join the CAM Member Zone for exclusive content, practical support, and expert guidance on managing chronic pain in dogs — become a part of the community at https://caninearthritis.co.uk/owner-member-zone/.
3. Don’t miss the Chronic Pain Symposium 2025 — connect with experts and gain the latest insights in pain management. Reserve your spot now at https://www.camonlineshop.com/chronic-pain-symposium-2025/.
4. Join Holly’s Army, CAM’s dedicated Facebook support group for dog owners managing arthritis. Connect with others, share experiences, and get guidance at https://www.facebook.com/groups/2161091580843717.

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
Have questions send them to: [email protected]
Stay tuned to learn how early detection can make a significant difference in managing OA in younger dogs.

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 Bio

Tamsin 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 Takeaways

1. Preparation starts at home – Building a positive association with travel, handling, and being examined can greatly reduce vet visit stress.
2. 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.
3. Understanding fear responses is essential – Recognizing signs of fear and stress in dogs helps owners and veterinary teams intervene early and prevent escalation.
4. Collaborative care leads to better outcomes – Shared responsibility between owners and vet teams to prepare and support dogs through their appointments.
5. 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 Links

Dogs 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/1BVAafx
Chronic Pain Symposium 2025: 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

Have questions send them to: [email protected]

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

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:

1. Communication is part of treatment – Managing arthritis isn’t just physical; good communication with your vet team is vital for success.
2. SPIKES is a useful model – The six-step SPIKES acronym helps structure clearer and more compassionate conversations between owners and professionals.
3. Emotion plays a big role – Acknowledging the emotional journey of caregivers helps reduce stress and improve decision-making.
4. Preparation empowers owners – Anticipating difficult decisions and having tools to navigate them makes owners more confident and involved.
5. 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.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

Have questions send them to: [email protected]

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

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:

1. Multimodal Pain Management is Essential – Effective treatment for chronic conditions like osteoarthritis requires a combination of medications, rehabilitation therapies, and lifestyle adjustments.
2. Integrative Medicine Bridges the Gap – Combining traditional veterinary treatments with evidence-based complementary therapies can enhance patient care and quality of life.
3. Rehabilitation Plays a Vital Role – Physiotherapy, hydrotherapy, and targeted exercises are crucial for maintaining mobility and managing chronic pain.
4. Veterinary Teams Must Adapt – The future of veterinary medicine involves greater collaboration between vets, nurses, and rehabilitation specialists.
5. 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/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

Have questions send them to: [email protected]

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

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)

Medication availability varies around the globe, and medications recently launched will routinely have changes made to their prescribing guidelines. For this reason it is imperative that you chat to your veterinarian about the options available to you and your dog, as well as asking for comprehensive advice regarding latest developments. Pain management is very specific to the individual. What works for one may not be appropriate for another!

Brief Bio

Professor 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 Takeaways

1. Arthritis is not just a disease of old dogs – younger dogs can also develop arthritis due to genetics, injury, or early joint issues.
2. Pain does not come from bone-on-bone rubbing – arthritis pain is caused by inflammation and changes in the nervous system.
3. Resting painful joints is not always beneficial – controlled movement and physiotherapy can help maintain joint function.
4. One drug or supplement is not the solution – arthritis requires a multimodal approach, combining medications, therapies, and lifestyle changes.
5. New treatments are emerging – monoclonal antibodies targeting nerve growth factor could revolutionize pain management in arthritic dogs.

Relevant links

CHRONIC 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=K35XfP

Have 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/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

Have questions send them to: [email protected]

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

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 Takeaways

1. Chronic pain management requires a different approach – Unlike acute cases, long-term pain conditions need ongoing support, tailored plans, and a collaborative team effort.
2. 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.
3. 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.
4. 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.
5. 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.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

Have questions send them to: [email protected]

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

Dr. Amber Batson joins Hannah Capon to discuss the connection between pain and fear in dogs and how these two factors are deeply linked. They explore how chronic pain can lead to anxiety and behavioral changes, often misunderstood by owners as stubbornness or aggression. Amber highlights the importance of recognizing these signs early and implementing a multimodal approach that includes veterinary care, behavioral support, and pain management. The conversation also touches on how stress affects a dog’s ability to recover and how caregivers can use science-based techniques to create a calmer, more pain-free environment.
(published July 2023 - https://www.youtube.com/live/SPo0kHk4zQs)

Bio

Dr. Amber Batson graduated from the Royal Veterinary College in 1999 and quickly developed a passion for animal behavior. She has pursued extensive qualifications in canine, feline, and equine behavior and welfare and now focuses on educating professionals and pet owners. Amber’s mission is to bridge the gap between scientific research and practical applications, helping people better understand animal behavior and recognize early signs of pain. In addition to her education work, she continues to practice as a veterinary behaviorist and clinician.

Key Takeaways

1. Pain and fear are interconnected – chronic pain can cause anxiety and behavioral issues, often misinterpreted as disobedience or aggression.
2. Recognizing subtle pain signs is crucial – changes in posture, hesitation in movement, and withdrawal from social interactions may indicate pain.
3. Stress can worsen pain – anxiety increases pain perception, making stress management an important part of treatment.
4. A multimodal approach works best – combining veterinary care, behavioral therapy, and environmental adjustments leads to better outcomes.
5. Education empowers caregivers – understanding the link between behavior and pain helps owners provide better long-term care.

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

Have questions send them to: [email protected]

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

Hannah Capon is joined by Dr. Sara Jackson to discuss contextual care in veterinary medicine and its role in managing chronic pain and osteoarthritis (OA) in dogs. They explore how communication, leadership, and emotional intelligence impact both caregivers and veterinary professionals. Sara shares her journey in the veterinary field, from overcoming self-doubt to becoming a leader in vet education, culture, and well-being. The conversation highlights barriers to effective care, such as team dynamics, caregiver fears, and the need for self-reflection. They also discuss how vets can better manage challenging conversations, support pet owners, and build a healthier workplace culture.

Brief Bio: Dr. Sara Jackson

Dr. Sara Jackson is a veterinary surgeon with a background in emergency and critical care (ECC), leadership training, and vet well-being advocacy. After earning a PhD in canine behavior and air-scenting, she pursued veterinary medicine at Cambridge and later became an advocate for compassionate leadership and contextualized care in veterinary practice. Sara works with VetLed, BVA Great Vet Workplaces, and VetLife while continuing to educate and mentor professionals on creating supportive, empathetic work environments.

Key Takeaways

1. Contextual care is about adaptability – every case is unique, requiring an individualized approach based on the pet’s condition, caregiver situation, and veterinary team dynamics.
2. Veterinary leadership culture matters – supportive leadership helps professionals thrive, reducing stress and improving patient outcomes.
3. Communication is a clinical skill – non-verbal cues, tone, and engagement play a huge role in building trust with pet owners.
4. Reflection improves decision-making – taking time to assess past interactions helps professionals refine their approach to patient care.
5. Self-compassion is crucial – veterinary professionals need to recognize emotional fatigue, set boundaries, and seek support when needed.

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

Have questions send them to: [email protected]

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

Hannah Capon speaks with Professor Stuart Carmichael about the complexity of osteoarthritis (OA) in dogs and why it is more than just cartilage damage. They discuss how OA affects all structures around the joint and can lead to nervous system hypersensitivity, making pain perception more complicated. Stuart explains why x-ray changes don’t always reflect pain levels, why different joints require different treatment approaches, and how the disease progresses over time. (published February 2020 https://youtu.be/jmM-yqQ5sp4)

Brief Bio:

Professor Stuart Carmichael is an internationally recognized veterinary orthopaedic specialist with a strong focus on osteoarthritis treatment and research. He is the Professor of Veterinary Science at the University of Surrey and Co-founder of Aim-OASys Ltd, a company developing decision-making tools for OA treatment. Through Joint Adventures Ltd, he provides clinical consultancy and works to improve arthritis management strategies for veterinarians and pet owners.

Key Takeaways

1. Osteoarthritis is more than cartilage damage – it affects ligaments, muscles, and nerves, making pain management complex.
2. Pain doesn’t always match x-rays – the severity of joint changes on imaging does not necessarily indicate how much pain a dog is experiencing.
3. Different joints need different treatments – the approach to managing arthritis varies depending on the affected joint and stage of the disease.
4. The nervous system becomes hypersensitive – chronic OA pain can alter nerve function, making pain harder to control over time.
5. Early intervention is key – addressing arthritis sooner improves long-term outcomes and can help slow disease progression.

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

Have questions send them to: [email protected]

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

Hannah Capon and Rebecca Sartain discuss the importance of collaboration between veterinarians and canine professionals in detecting and managing chronic pain in dogs. Rebecca, a canine hydrotherapist and rehabilitation specialist, shares her experiences running a doggy daycare and how she notices early signs of musculoskeletal issues in dogs before their owners do. They emphasize the need for better communication between vets, dog walkers, groomers, and daycare staff to identify potential health concerns earlier. The conversation also highlights how owners sometimes struggle to accept a diagnosis and why building trust is key in encouraging proactive care.

Biography:

Rebecca Sartain is a certified canine hydrotherapist and rehabilitation specialist with nearly a decade of experience. She has worked in inpatient rehabilitation, hydrotherapy training, and advanced physiotherapy. Currently, she is expanding her work to include a doggy daycare center focused on spotting early mobility issues in dogs. Rebecca is also a key member of Holly’s Army, part of Canine Arthritis Management, and actively involved in educating pet professionals about chronic pain in dogs.

Key Takeaways

1. Canine professionals play a vital role – Dog walkers, groomers, and daycare providers often spot mobility issues before vets or owners do.
2. Owners may resist diagnoses – Many caregivers struggle to accept that their pet has a chronic condition, making trust and communication crucial.
3. Early detection is key – Subtle signs like posture changes, stiffness, or fatigue should be taken seriously to slow disease progression.
4. Video documentation helps vets – Using videos to capture movement issues provides clearer evidence when consulting with a veterinarian.
5. Interdisciplinary teamwork improves care – Collaboration between vets and canine professionals can lead to better early detection and long-term pain management.

Check out our upcoming Chronic Pain Symposium - 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

Have questions send them to: [email protected]

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