How do you know if your dog is living with arthritis? The truth is, many dogs show signs of arthritis long before they're diagnosed. What we often dismiss as "slowing down with age" can actually be subtle signs of chronic pain—changes in behaviour, movement, sleep, or the way they engage with the world around them. In this episode, I'm joined by Dr Hannah Capon, veterinary surgeon and founder of Canine Arthritis Management (CAM), to explore how we can better recognise arthritis in dogs, support dogs living with chronic pain, and help them continue to live full, meaningful lives. Together, we discuss the early signs of arthritis in dogs, why arthritis isn't simply an "old dog" disease, the importance of maintaining a healthy body condition, and why there is no single supplement, medication, or therapy that can manage arthritis on its own. Instead, Hannah shares why the best arthritis care is always multi-modal - bringing together veterinary medicine, rehabilitation, nutrition, movement, environmental adaptations, and compassionate day-to-day support. But this conversation goes far beyond canine arthritis. We talk about caregiver fatigue, grief, kindness, and why supporting ourselves is an important part of supporting our dogs. This episode is a reminder that arthritis doesn't have to mean the end of adventure, connection, or joy. As Hannah says so beautifully: "Arthritis isn't the end of the road—it's a new direction." In this episode, you'll learn: 🐾 The early signs and symptoms of arthritis in dogs 🐾 How body condition, breeding, sport and previous injuries influence joint health 🐾 What a multi-modal arthritis management plan looks like 🐾 How movement and appropriate exercise support dogs with arthritis 🐾 Why protecting your own wellbeing is part of caring for a dog with chronic pain About Dr Hannah Capon Dr Hannah Capon is a veterinary surgeon and the founder of Canine Arthritis Management (CAM), an award-winning organisation dedicated to improving the lives of dogs living with arthritis through education, evidence-based resources, and practical support for both veterinary professionals and dog guardians. Content note This episode includes a brief discussion about the impact of chronic pain on mental health, including a mention of suicide. If this episode resonated with you, I'd love to hear your reflections. Share it with someone navigating an arthritis diagnosis, leave a review wherever you listen to podcasts, or come and continue the conversation with me on Instagram. Because living well isn't about avoiding life's challenges. It's about learning how to walk through them - together. Connect with Hannah and her team Canine Arthritis Management (CAM): https://caninearthritis.co.uk/ Instagram https://instagram.com/canine_arthritis FREE RESOURCE Download my free Nourishment Starter Kit where you'll find practical guidance to help you evaluate your dog's diet and supplements, identify potential gaps, and focus on what truly matters without falling into overwhelm. https://mysticdogmama.com JOIN THE NOURISHED PACK If you're looking for a supportive community of thoughtful dog guardians who want to nourish their dogs with greater confidence, curiosity, and intention, I'd love to welcome you into The Nourished Pack. It's my free Facebook community where we continue conversations like this one, explore canine nutrition and holistic health, and support one another in navigating the often overwhelming world of conscious dog care. Join here: https://facebook.com/groups/thenourishedpack Check out our sponsor, Aspirationery’s shadow work journals and workbooks: https://instagram.com/aspirationery Connect with me on Instagram @mysticdogmama or visit mysticdogmama.com. Disclaimer: The information provided is for educational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose or treat any disease, or replace medical guidance. Please speak with your veterinarian.
