In this inspiring VNAM special, CAM’s Hannah Capon speaks with Emily Ashdown, a veterinary nurse whose impressive career path has spanned clinic work, physiotherapy, hydrotherapy, global education, and industry leadership. They discuss the evolving role of veterinary nurses in managing osteoarthritis (OA), how to build sustainable arthritis services in clinic, and the importance of caregiver communication. Emily shares practical advice from her multifaceted experience, including time-saving tips, how to manage client expectations, and ways to bring meaningful change to OA care. Their honest conversation also touches on sensitive topics like euthanasia and caregiver guilt, showing how deep empathy and good communication can reshape veterinary practice.

Brief Bio

Emily Ashdown is a Registered Veterinary Nurse, qualified animal physiotherapist, and industry educator. With over 13 years of experience, she has worked in mixed and charity practice, out-of-hours care, rehabilitation, and laser therapy. She now works globally in veterinary education, delivering training and clinical support, particularly around laser therapy. Emily also runs an academy for veterinary laser education and is currently pursuing a business degree, teaching qualifications, and assessor certification.

Key Takeaways

1. Reframe arthritis clinics into arthritis care teams. Successful OA support should span weight, rehab, bloodwork, and medication follow-ups—led by coordinated, passionate vet nurses.
2. Understand what quality of life means to each pet. Success begins by identifying what matters most to each animal and caregiver, then building a plan toward that goal.
3. Laser therapy needs precision. Devices must be used with correct dosing and anatomical understanding. Caregivers deserve maximum benefit from the time and money they invest.
4. Regular, proactive check-ins matter. Even short follow-up calls or WhatsApp messages can boost owner confidence, reveal pain progression early, and increase long-term clinic loyalty.
5. Don’t delay hard conversations. Talking about euthanasia earlier with caregivers reduces stress, guilt, and rushed decisions. Advanced planning—even payment—can be empowering.

Relevant Links

Holly’s Army Facebook Support Group - https://www.facebook.com/groups/2161091580843717

Good Day / Bad Day Diary - A helpful tool for tracking your dog’s daily wellbeing to assist in managing arthritis. https://caninearthritis.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2022/04/CAM-good-day-bad-day-v1.pdf

“It’s My Home Too” Tool - A home assessment checklist to help identify hazards or stressors in the dog’s living space.
View via CAM Tools: https://caninearthritis.co.uk/how-cam-can-help/tools/

Accessible to CAM Member Zone subscribers
• Vet Nurse Flip Chart
• Prescription Pad
• Kennel Cards
• Acute Flare Kit (Professional and Owner Versions)

Access these tools by joining the CAM Member Zone: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.