Canine Arthritis Matters

Dr. Hannah Capon

Welcome to Canine Arthritis Matters, your go-to resource for canine health and wellbeing. Hosted by Dr. Hannah Capon, our podcast provides valuable insights and practical advice on managing canine arthritis, mobility issues, and chronic pain. Our goal is to educate and support dog owners in early identification, proactive management, and comprehensive care practices, ensuring dogs lead long, comfortable, and happy lives. Join us on this journey to improve the quality of life for your furry friend. Have questions send them to: info@caninearthritis.co.uk https://caninearthritis.co.uk/

  1. 2 days ago

    Episode 91 - CBD What Do We Know with Dr Conny Mosely

    This week, we’re joined by Dr Conny Moseley, veterinary pain specialist and cannabinoid medicine expert, to explore the role of CBD in managing chronic pain and osteoarthritis in dogs. We discuss the science behind CBD, how it differs from traditional pain medications, what the current evidence tells us, and the practical challenges vets and caregivers face when choosing and using CBD products. A balanced, evidence-based conversation packed with insights on chronic pain management, canine osteoarthritis, and where CBD may fit into modern veterinary practice. Referenced links: Canadian Association of Veterinary Cannabinoid Medicine Does oral cannabidoil oil in adjust to pain medications help reduce pain & improve locomotion in dogs with osteoarthritis? Guest bio Dr. Conny Mosley is a board-certified anesthesiologist and currently the Veterinary Consultant for Pain & Internal Medicine for Elanco Canada. Conny has held faculty positions at North Carolina State University, Oregon State University and Ontario Veterinary College and has been an anesthesiologist in a private specialty practice, where she also ran an Integrative Veterinary Pain Clinic. She continues to consult on pain cases. Conny is certified in acupuncture, served on the WSAVA Global Pain Council and is the founding director of the Canadian Association of Veterinary Cannabinoid Medicine. Conny is a passionate advocate for ethical and practical veterinary care and pain management. Her contributions to the field include publications, lectures, and a deep commitment to both teaching and learning. Learn more about CAM CAM website - CAM Education Centre - The Pain Vet Chronic Pain Symposium - CAM Shop - CAM Podcast Socials for Professionals: Facebook pro - LinkedIn - Instagram Socials for Caregivers: Facebook - Instagram - Holly's Army Have questions send them to: podcast@caninearthritis.co.uk Join us next week for the final instalment in the “Diet & Nutrition” series!

    1hr 18min
  2. 16 June

    Episode 90 - Nutrition for Dogs musculoskeletal disease with Isuru Gajanayake

    Internal medicine and nutrition specialist, Isuru Gajanayake, joins CAM’s Esme Howells to discuss the nutritional needs of dogs with osteoarthritis and other musculoskeletal diseases. All dogs need a balanced diet and their requirements differ depending on their age but also on their medical issues and body score. Isuru talks us through protein and energy requirements at different life stages and provides guidance on how to choose the right food from the huge range available. Guest bio Isuru Gajanayake is an American, European and RCVS specialist in small animal internal medicine, and an American specialist in small animal nutrition. He works at Willows Veterinary Centre and Referral Service in Solihull, seeing referral cases in both internal medicine and clinical nutrition https://willows.uk.net/ Referenced links WSAVA Nutritional Guidelines https://wsava.org/global-guidelines/global-nutrition-guidelines/ WSAVA Nutritional Toolkit https://wsava.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/WSAVA-Global-Nutrition-Toolkit-English.pdf Learn more about CAM CAM website - CAM Education Centre - The Pain Vet Chronic Pain Symposium - CAM Shop - CAM Podcast Socials for Professionals: Facebook pro - LinkedIn - Instagram Socials for Caregivers: Facebook - Instagram - Holly's Army Have questions send them to: podcast@caninearthritis.co.uk Stay tuned to learn more about nutrition with Dr Conny Mosely next week!

    49 min
  3. 9 June

    Episode 89 - Omega 3 fatty acids with Charley Gray

    Omega 3 fatty acids are one of the few supplements that have some evidence of benefit for osteoarthritis. Nicki Bell talks to Charley Gray about omega 3s, how they work and why they are useful in the management of canine arthritis. Charley explains the different omega 3s and why it is currently EPA and DHA that we are particularly interested in for dogs. Their role in the anti-inflammatory pathway is explained with diagrams and analogies. There are different sources of omega 3s – plants, fish and algae and their pros and cons are described alongside guidance on what might be the best option for dogs. Charley also discusses dosing of omega 3s and how to work out how much your dog needs for their weight. It can be difficult to give a therapeutic dose without giving your dog too much fat in its diet or exceeding safe limits for Vitamins A and D. The session ends with a comparison of omega 3 levels in different joint supplements and other options for providing adequate levels in your dog’s diet.Charley is a vet with a special interest in nutrition. She works as a small animal vet and as a nutritionist helping to audit and formulate diets. She works with owners who want to prepare a home-cooked diet for their pets to make sure the diet is well-balanced and complete. Veterinary Nutrition & Formulation Services: https://www.companion-nutrition.co.uk/ 5 Key Take Homes Omega-3s are one of the few supplements with evidence for canine osteoarthritis EPA and DHA are the most important omega-3s for dogsOmega-3s help by influencing inflammatory pathwaysNot all omega-3 sources are equally usefulCorrect dosing is crucial and can be challenging Learn more about CAM:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CAMarthritisInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/canine_arthritisYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/c/CanineArthritisManagementLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/canine-arthritis-management-ltd Have questions, send them to: podcast@caninearthritis.co.uk

    1hr 23min
  4. 2 June

    Episode 88 - Nutrition, supplements, treatment plans and rehabilitation - Matt Brunke

    In the US, two out of three dogs are obese. This exacerbates the difficulties vets face when trying to manage pain and rehabilitate arthritic dogs. Matt Brunke and Hannah Capon discuss nutrition and supplements and point out that fat doesn’t just increase loading on joints, it secretes inflammatory mediators that make arthritis worse. They then go on to discuss an imaginary case study – an overweight dog with elbow problems – and Matt outlines what he would do to reach a diagnosis and the different options for treatment, from stem cells and platelet rich plasma to the more usual pharmaceutical interventions. With all options, the aim is to get the dog as free from pain as possible so that it can complete a rehab programme aimed at restoring function. Guest Bio: Matt Brunke DVM, DACVSMR, CCRP, CVPP, CVA is a diplomate of the American College of Veterinary Sports Medicine and Rehabilitation and practises rehabilitation, acupuncture and pain management in Maryland, US. 5 Key takeaways: Obesity worsens arthritisExtra fat increases joint stress and inflammation. Pain relief comes firstDogs need pain control before rehab can work. Diet mattersGood nutrition and supplements can support joint health. Treatment should be multimodalCombining meds, rehab, weight loss, and therapies works best. Focus on quality of lifeThe goal is better movement, comfort, and daily function. Learn more about CAM:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CAMarthritisInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/canine_arthritisYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/c/CanineArthritisManagementLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/canine-arthritis-management-ltd Have questions send them to: podcast@caninearthritis.co.uk

    1hr 20min
  5. 26 May

    Episode 87 - A physiotherapeutic approach to managing arthritis - Carrie Smith

    Carrie Smith joins Hannah Capon to discuss physiotherapy approaches for managing arthritis in dogs through two case studies. Sidney developed allodynia after multiple surgeries, causing normal touch to feel painful due to chronic pain and central sensitisation. His case highlights how painful dogs are often mislabelled as “difficult” and how therapies like kinesio-taping can help. The second case follows Emily, a 15-year-old malamute whose arthritis suddenly worsened despite good management. With extra rest, support, and time, Emily recovered well, demonstrating the importance of adapting care during flare-ups. Carrie also shares an acupuncture case, reflecting her continued passion for rehabilitation therapy. 5 Key Takeaways: Pain is not always obvious Arthritis pain can alter the nervous system, making normal touch feel painful. Behaviour can indicate pain is present “Difficult” behaviour in dogs may actually be a sign of hidden pain. Treatment should be individualised Effective arthritis care needs a tailored, multimodal approach. Flare up are part of the arthritis journey Arthritic dogs often experience flare-ups that require extra support and rest. Patience matters Patience, compassion, and creative therapies can improve quality of life. Guest Bio: Carrie Smith graduated from the University of Western Ontario in 1985 with a Bachelor of Science in Physical Therapy. She holds a certificate GUNN IMS (dry needling), a certificate in Acupuncture from the Acupuncture Foundation of Canada Institute and a certificate in sports physiotherapy. Carrie was the team physiotherapist for the Canadian Women’s National Hockey Team 1996-1998 including the 1998 Olympic Winter Games in Nagano, Japan and team physiotherapist for the Canadian Men’s National Rugby Team 2007-2012, including the 2011 Rugby World Cup in New Zealand. Since 2018 Carrie has been the physiotherapist for the Canadian WAO Team (World Agility Open) and she is the owner of Kemptville Physiotherapy Centre and Kemptville Canine Centre. Learn more about CAM:Facebook: Canine Arthritis ManagementInstagram: Canine Arthritis Management (@canine_arthritis) • Instagram profileYoutube: Canine Arthritis ManagementLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/canine-arthritis-management-ltd Have questions send them to: info@caninearthritis.co.uk

    1hr 3min
  6. 19 May

    Episode 86 - Exercising young dogs - Steph Ellis

    This weeks Facebook Live is with Nicki Bell who is joined by Steph Ellis. Steph is a veterinary nurse turned physiotherapist, shares practical guidance on exercising young dogs and managing arthritis. She questions rigid rules like the “five minutes per month” guideline and instead focuses on tailored conditioning, core stability, and recognising fatigue. The conversation underlines how movement, rest, and early training to settle shape long-term joint health. Steph Ellis is a qualified veterinary nurse and veterinary physiotherapist with over 10 years of experience. She holds a postgraduate diploma and is a member of the National Association of Veterinary Physiotherapists. She has worked for seven years as a self-employed physio with Four Feet Physio, alongside part-time work at a Veterinary Osteoarthritis Alliance affiliated practice. Much of her work focuses on arthritic patients and owner education. Steph also has personal experience managing a young, active dog with multiple orthopaedic conditions, including elbow injury, carpal deformities, and hip dysplasia. Rethink the 5-minute ruleExercise needs to be tailored to the individual dog, not a fixed formula. Focus on conditioningStrength and core stability are more important than just increasing activity. Clarify lead exerciseOn-lead work should be controlled and purposeful, not just slow walking. Spot fatigue earlySmall changes in movement or behaviour often signal the need to stop. Teach proper restDogs need to learn how to settle, as rest is key for recovery and joint health. Relevant links Support your dog’s joints before issues arise. Download the ramps booklet in the memberzone and learn how to reduce strain in everyday life. https://caninearthritis.co.uk/member-zone/ Learn more about CAM:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CAMarthritisInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/canine_arthritisYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/c/CanineArthritisManagementLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/canine-arthritis-management-ltd Have questions send them to: info@caninearthritis.co.uk Stay tuned to learn how early detection can make a significant difference in managing OA in younger dogs. Guest BioKey takeaways

    1hr 18min
  7. 12 May

    Episode 85 - Exercise - Danielle Anderson

    This episode of Canine Arthritis Matters focuses on the role of exercise in managing canine osteoarthritis. Core message: exercise is essential, but highly individual. It is not just about “going for a walk”, but about a structured, adaptive approach that considers the dog’s condition, environment, and behaviour. The conversation between Hannah Capon and Dr. Danielle Anderson expands exercise into a multidimensional tool: • physical rehabilitation • mental stimulation • emotional bonding They highlight that many dogs are either over-exercised or under-exercised due to lack of guidance, and that caregivers often struggle to balance routine, emotion, and medical reality. The episode reframes exercise as a tailored, monitored, and evolving component of a broader care strategy, not a fixed routine. Guest Bio Dr. Danielle Anderson is a Canadian veterinarian specialising in canine rehabilitation and pain management. She graduated from the Ontario Veterinary College in 2002 and later completed her certification in canine rehabilitation through the University of Tennessee. Driven by a need for better pain management solutions, she founded her own rehab facility (SAW Veterinary Rehab), where she focuses on improving mobility, function, and quality of life for dogs with conditions like osteoarthritis. Her work combines clinical expertise with hands-on therapy, exercise programming, and a strong emphasis on owner education. Key Takeaways 1. Exercise is always relevant, but never one-size-fits-all Every dog requires a tailored plan based on age, condition, and lifestyle. 2. “Exercise” is more than walking It includes transitions (standing up), balance work, hydrotherapy, mental stimulation, and targeted rehab exercises. 3. Too much exercise is just as harmful as too little Many dogs push through pain, which misleads owners into overdoing activity. 4. Monitoring is critical The proactive-reactive-reflective approach helps adapt exercise safely over time. 5. Caregiver behaviour is a major factor Emotional attachment, routines, and lack of guidance often drive poor exercise decisions. 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: info@caninearthritis.co.uk Stay tuned to learn how early detection can make a significant difference in managing OA in younger dogs.

    49 min
  8. 5 May

    Episode 84 - Canine Hoopers - Hayley Laches

    This May we are fousing on exercise, Hayley Laches joins Nicki Bell to introduce Canine Hoopers, a low-impact dog sport designed to be inclusive for all dogs and handlers. Unlike traditional agility, Hoopers removes jumping, sharp turns and high physical strain, making it especially suitable for older dogs, dogs with mobility issues or those in pain management programs. Dogs navigate a flowing course of hoops, tunnels, barrels and mats, either alongside their handler or at a distance. The focus is not speed or intensity, but movement, confidence and connection. Hoopers shows that exercise does not need to be high impact to be effective – it can be adapted, accessible and still deeply enriching. The key message for May: exercise should be possible for every dog – it just needs to be the right kind. Guest Bio Hayley Laches is the founder of Canine Hoopers UK (CHUK), established in 2017. She developed Hoopers as an inclusive, low-impact alternative to agility, allowing dogs of all ages and abilities to stay active. Through CHUK, she offers training, competitions and the Good Hoopers Awards, helping owners build stronger relationships with their dogs through accessible exercise. 5 Key Takeaways 1. Exercise is not one-size-fits-all Even dogs with limitations can stay active – the format just needs to be adapted. 2. Low impact does not mean low value Controlled movement without jumping or sharp turns still builds strength, coordination and wellbeing. 3. Confidence is as important as fitness Hoopers supports mental stimulation and reduces fear or frustration linked to movement. 4. Handler flexibility matters Owners can run with their dog or guide from a distance – making it accessible for humans too. 5. Consistency over intensity Regular, manageable movement is more beneficial than occasional high-intensity exercise. Relevant Links Canine Hoopers UK (CHUK) https://www.caninehoopersuk.co.uk/ CHUK Facebook https://www.facebook.com/caninehoopersuk Hayley Laches website http://tamingcanines.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: info@caninearthritis.co.uk Stay tuned to learn how early detection can make a significant difference in managing OA in younger dogs.

    1hr 16min

About

Welcome to Canine Arthritis Matters, your go-to resource for canine health and wellbeing. Hosted by Dr. Hannah Capon, our podcast provides valuable insights and practical advice on managing canine arthritis, mobility issues, and chronic pain. Our goal is to educate and support dog owners in early identification, proactive management, and comprehensive care practices, ensuring dogs lead long, comfortable, and happy lives. Join us on this journey to improve the quality of life for your furry friend. Have questions send them to: info@caninearthritis.co.uk https://caninearthritis.co.uk/

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