Dr. Lascelles is Professor in Small Animal Surgery and Pain Management at North Carolina State University. His research program (Translational Research in Pain [TRiP]) develops methods to measure pain associated with spontaneous disease in animals, and seeks to understand the underlying neurobiology. His work improves pain control in companion animals, and facilitates analgesic development in human medicine. 
He is director of the Comparative Pain Research and Education Centre (CPREC). He has authored over 200 peer reviewed research papers and reviews and 250 research abstracts, as well as over 30 book chapters. He is co-founder of AniV8, a company dedicated to developing innovative methods of measuring pain.

Duncan Lascelles discusses how diagnosing osteoarthritis (OA) later in life (from 8 years) makes it difficult to manage, suggesting that OA is a developmental disease starting in younger dogs. His research with Elanco on dogs aged 8 months to 4 years found that 41% had OA, and 24% of those exhibited mild or greater pain. This evidence suggests OA in young dogs is associated with pain and early management can alleviate long-term suffering. The COAST staging system for OA can help vets recognize and manage early signs. 

1. Early Onset of OA:

OA is prevalent in young dogs, with 41% of dogs aged 8 months to 4 years showing radiographic signs. Early detection and management can reduce pain later in life.

2. Proactive Veterinary Care:

Vets should look for early signs of OA and educate owners on the importance of early intervention to prevent severe symptoms as dogs age.

3. Positive Communication:

Frame the diagnosis positively to engage owners. Emphasize treatment options that can enhance the dog’s quality of life instead of focusing on the chronic nature of OA.

4. Comprehensive Management:

Use a multimodal approach with medication, lifestyle changes, and environmental modifications. Duncan’s “3+3 formula” suggests initial intensive care followed by a personalized, sustainable plan.

Links to Dr. Duncan Lascelles:

https://cvm.ncsu.edu/people/dxlascel/

https://youtube.com/live/N3NpulLOy9E

CAM Courses:

Is my dog in pain? Are you worried your dog may be in pain? Learn how to identify signs of pain and prepare for your dog’s vet consult: https://www.cameducation.co.uk/course/is-my-dog-in-pain

Young dog joint care: Learn how to protect your young dog’s joint health so they can have a long and active life! https://www.cameducation.co.uk/course/young-dog-joint-care

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