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.