Canine Arthritis Matters

Dr. Hannah Capon
  • 5.0 (4)
  • Pets & Animals
  • Updated Weekly

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. 3d ago

    Episode 99 - Pain Management; Are We Doing Enough with Prof Rodrigo Mencalha

    In this fascinating episode, Hannah Capon is joined by Professor Rodrigo Mencalha, one of Brazil's leading experts in veterinary chronic pain management. Together they explore why osteoarthritis pain is far more complex than simply "wear and tear" and discuss how understanding different pain phenotypes can transform the way we treat dogs with chronic pain. Rodrigo explains why pain management should always be evidence-based, combining scientific research, clinical experience and the goals of each caregiver. He challenges the overuse of medications such as gabapentin, highlights the importance of recognising pain early, and explains why many dogs require an individualised, multimodal treatment plan rather than a one-size-fits-all approach. The conversation also covers pain assessment tools, central sensitisation, regenerative therapies, rehabilitation and the vital role caregivers play in monitoring their dog's progress. This episode is packed with practical insights that will change the way you think about osteoarthritis and chronic pain in dogs. References Visit Professor Rodrigo’s Learning Platform here Follow Prof. Rodrigo on Instagram and LinkedIn 5 Key Take-Home Points Chronic pain is complex—every dog needs an individualised treatment plan. Early diagnosis and intervention can significantly improve long-term outcomes. Osteoarthritis pain isn't just in the joints; the nervous system plays a major role. Regular pain assessments help guide better treatment decisions. Managing chronic pain successfully requires a multimodal approach, combining medication, rehabilitation, weight management and caregiver education. Guest Bio: Professor Rodrigo Mencalha is a veterinarian specialising in anaesthesiology, pain medicine and veterinary neurology, with a clinical focus on chronic pain management and musculoskeletal health. Based in Brazil, he holds a Master's and PhD in neuroscience and pain management in dogs and cats and has dedicated the past 15 years to advancing veterinary pain medicine. Rodrigo is the author of leading textbooks on chronic pain, coordinates postgraduate programmes in chronic musculoskeletal pain, regenerative medicine and rehabilitation, and founded the Veterinary Medicine Without Pain Project, which has trained thousands of veterinarians across Latin America and Europe. An internationally respected speaker and educator, Rodrigo is passionate about improving the recognition, assessment and treatment of chronic pain to enhance the quality of life of dogs and cats. 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 out 100th episode with Dr Alex Avery!

  2. Aug 11

    Episode 98 - The Perfect Pain Medication with Matt Gurney

    This weeks episode features a replay from a 2022 discussion between Dr Hannah Capon and veterinary pain specialist Dr Matt Gurney. Together they explore what the "perfect" arthritis medication would look like—and whether one actually exists. They explain why chronic pain is far more complex than most people realise, highlighting how pain travels through the body and why no single medication can target every stage of the pain pathway. Instead, they discuss the importance of a multimodal approach, combining appropriate medication with weight management, physiotherapy, exercise modification and regular monitoring. The conversation also tackles common owner concerns around long-term medication, safety, side effects and the evidence behind licensed arthritis treatments. Hannah and Matt explain how veterinary drugs are tested, monitored and chosen, while emphasising that early intervention is key to preventing pain from becoming harder to control. This episode provides practical, evidence-based advice to help owners feel more confident when making decisions about managing their dog's arthritis. References Visit Zero Pain Philosophy, the leading veterinary education site for acute and chronic pain in dogs and cats. Matt is currently the Veterinary Lad at Pawra, an expert canine wellness clinic in Chiswick, London 5 Key Take-Home Points No single medication treats every aspect of arthritis pain—multimodal management works best. Early diagnosis and treatment can make arthritis easier to manage long term. Medication is only one part of treatment alongside weight control, physiotherapy and exercise management. Licensed arthritis medications undergo rigorous testing and ongoing safety monitoring. The best treatment plan is the one that is effective, safe and practical for both the dog and owner. Guest bio: Dr Matt Gurney is a European and RCVS Recognised Specialist in Veterinary Anaesthesia and Analgesia, with a particular passion for chronic pain management. Matt is also a co-founder of Zero Pain Philosophy, an educational platform dedicated to improving pain recognition and management within the veterinary profession. A respected international speaker, educator and researcher, he is committed to advancing evidence-based pain management and empowering both veterinary professionals and pet owners with practical, compassionate advice to help animals live happier, more comfortable lives. Matt is currently the Veterinary Lead at Pawra, a brand new canine wellness clinic based in London. 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 second instalment in the August theme of “Pain Medications”.

  3. Aug 4

    Episode 97 - Loving Life with a Disabled Dog with Jane White

    Episode summary In this heartfelt episode, Hannah Capon is joined by veterinary rehabilitation specialist Dr Jane White to discuss life with a disabled dog and the lessons she's learned through caring for her own Border Collie, Drift, following a devastating spinal cord injury. Jane shares how her personal experience transformed her perspective as a veterinary professional, highlighting the emotional challenges, practical adaptations and mindset shifts that come with caring for a mobility-impaired dog. Together, they explore how many of these lessons apply equally to dogs living with arthritis—from adapting the home environment and maintaining quality of life to managing caregiver guilt and recognising that every dog’s journey is unique. The conversation also tackles difficult topics such as incontinence, rehabilitation, end-of-life decisions and the importance of building a trusted support team. Ultimately, this episode is a compassionate reminder that while life with a disabled or arthritic dog may look different, it can still be full of joy, purpose and meaningful moments. Recourses Visit Jane’s website and buy a copy of Loving Life With A Disabled Dog Pepper’s Place - wheelchairs and support for disabled dogs 5 Key Take-Home Points Don’t focus on what your dog has lost - focus on what they can still enjoy Adapt your dogs environment to make daily life easier and safer If you have to take an activity away, replace it with something equally as rewarding Be kind to yourself - there’s no perfect way to care for a disabled dog Review, reassess and adapt regularly - small changes can make a big difference Speaker bio Dr Jane White is a veterinary surgeon with over 35 years of experience and a passion for rehabilitation, mobility and improving quality of life for dogs and cats. She holds advanced qualifications in feline medicine, behaviour, veterinary physiotherapy and canine rehabilitation, and has extensive experience in hydrotherapy and acupuncture. Jane is also a committee member of the British Veterinary Rehabilitation and Sports Medicine Association. Following a life-changing spinal injury suffered by her own Border Collie, Drift, she wrote Loving Life with a Disabled Dog, sharing practical advice and emotional support for caregivers. Jane is dedicated to helping owners navigate mobility challenges with confidence, compassion and hope. 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

  4. Jul 28

    Episode 96 - McTimoney Chiropractic and its Use in Arthritic Dogs with Lucy Goodright

    In this episode, Hannah is joined by Lucy Goodright, an experienced McTimoney chiropractor and manual therapist, to explore the role of complementary therapies in supporting dogs with osteoarthritis. Together, they discuss how chiropractic care, physiotherapy, hydrotherapy and other manual therapies can fit within a truly multimodal approach to arthritis management. Rather than promoting any single treatment as a cure, the conversation focuses on collaboration, realistic expectations, and empowering caregivers to make informed decisions. They examine the current evidence for manual therapies, why research remains limited, and the importance of using appropriately qualified, regulated practitioners who work closely with veterinary teams. The episode also highlights the value of environmental adaptations, careful observation, compassionate communication and setting measurable goals when introducing any new intervention. Ultimately, Hannah and Lucy emphasise that every dog is an individual, successful arthritis management requires teamwork, and maintaining quality of life depends on combining evidence-based medicine with thoughtful, personalised care. References: Find Lucy online at AnimalSpine.com Visit the McTimony Animal Association here or Discover MAA Research Animal Health Proffesions' Register (AHPR) Visit RAMP - Register of Animal Musculoskeletal Practitioners PainScience.Com 5 Key Take-Home Points There is no one-size-fits-all solution—arthritis management should always be tailored to the individual dog. Choose qualified professionals who are appropriately trained, insured and willing to work alongside your veterinary team. Set realistic expectations and regularly review whether a treatment is genuinely helping. Small lifestyle changes matter, including home adaptations, weight management and environmental modifications. Communication and collaboration are key—the best outcomes come when caregivers, vets and therapists work together towards shared goals. 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 in August for “Pain Medications” month!

  5. Jul 21

    Episode 95 - Myofascial Therapy, Rehab & Whole-Dog Care with Michele Broadhurst

    In this episode, Dr Michele Broadhurst shares her integrative approach to managing osteoarthritis and chronic pain in dogs, drawing on her expertise in chiropractic, rehabilitation, dry needling, and myofascial therapy. She explains why successful treatment requires looking beyond the affected joint to consider the whole patient, including movement, inflammation, gut health, and lifestyle. Michele and Hannah discuss the importance of early intervention, collaborative multidisciplinary care, realistic home exercise programmes, and empowering owners to make simple but meaningful changes. Together, they highlight that while osteoarthritis cannot be cured, a proactive, multimodal approach can dramatically improve comfort, mobility, and quality of life. Guest Bio: Dr Broadhurst graduated from Chiropractic college in South Africa in 2003 and as a Certified Sports Chiropractor in 2004. Michele is also certified with the International Veterinary Chiropractic Association. Being the first certified animal chiropractor in South Africa Michele built a very successful large and small animal practice specializing in animal chiropractic, dry needling and rehabilitation.  Dr Broadhurst and her husband owned and ran a human chiropractic and multidisciplinary clinic for 15 years and she is now co-medical director of an integrative veterinary clinic in Dallas Texas. She is published in several medical journals and lectures both nationally and internationally on the subject of myofascial pain in animals. Referenced Links: Integrative Animal Solutions Rehab4Pets International Veterinary Chiropractic Association 5 Key Take Home Points: Osteoarthritis is a whole-body condition—successful management goes far beyond treating the affected joint. Small, consistent changes at home can make a bigger difference than complicated treatment plans. Movement is medicine—keeping dogs active in the right way helps maintain strength, confidence, and function. There is no one-size-fits-all approach; every dog needs an individualised management plan. The best outcomes come from teamwork between owners, vets, and rehabilitation professionals. 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 episode of the “Complementary Therapies” chapter!

  6. Jul 14

    Episode 94 - Bracing for Better Mobility: Exploring the role of Orthotics in the OA Management Plan with Lizzie Oselton & Wimba

    Can orthotic braces help dogs with osteoarthritis live more comfortably and stay active? In this episode, Hannah is joined by veterinary physiotherapist and hydrotherapist Lizzie Oselton to explore the growing role of canine orthotics in arthritis management. Lizzie explains how modern custom-made braces are designed to improve joint stability, support functional movement and reduce abnormal loading, rather than simply immobilising joints. Together, they discuss which dogs are most likely to benefit, how braces are fitted, common misconceptions, and why orthotics should always form part of a wider management plan alongside weight control, pain relief, physiotherapy and environmental adaptations. They also explore the current evidence, the importance of realistic expectations, and why personalised treatment is essential. Packed with practical advice for both veterinary professionals and dedicated caregivers, this episode offers an accessible introduction to an exciting area of rehabilitation medicine that aims to keep arthritic dogs moving safely for longer. Guest Bio: Lizzie Oselton, BSc (Hons) Equine Management, MSc Veterinary Physiotherapy,, is a veterinary physiotherapist based on the Cambridgeshire, Norfolk and Lincolnshire borders. She runs Meadowside Vet Physio, providing mobile veterinary physiotherapy for horses and dogs alongside a veterinary physiotherapy clinic within a small-animal veterinary practice in Wisbech.  Lizzie also holds a Level 4 Certificate in Canine Hydrotherapy. Her interest in canine orthotics developed through treating dogs with osteoarthritis, where maintaining movement is central to long-term management. She sees orthotic support as another tool to help appropriate patients remain active, comfortable and engaged in rehabilitation as part of a multimodal treatment approach. Referenced links: Visit Lizzie’s Facebook page here Meadowside Vet Physio Learn more about Wimba Download the Wimba free case consult app on GooglePlay or Apple Read Bernie’s detailed case study here 5 Key Take Home Points Orthotics support movement and joint stability—they don't cure arthritis or replace pain relief. The best outcomes come when braces are combined with physiotherapy, weight management and veterinary care. Every brace should be custom-fitted and prescribed for the individual dog. Protecting function is just as important as managing pain in dogs with osteoarthritis. Small changes at home and tailored exercise can make a big difference to long-term mobility and quality of life. 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 more on complimentary therapies!

  7. Jul 7

    Episode 93 - Different Opinions, Same Dog: Navigating Team Conflict in Arthritis Care with Jess Woolrich, VetLed

    Communication is one of the most important tools in successful OA management. In this episode of Canine Arthritis Matters, Hannah is joined by registered veterinary nurse and veterinary education specialist Jessica Woolrich from VetLed to explore how better communication can strengthen relationships between caregivers, veterinary professionals and allied teams. Together, they discuss why communication is about far more than simply sharing information. From listening and building trust to navigating difficult conversations, Jess shares practical tips for creating genuine partnerships that improve long-term care for dogs living with chronic pain. Using real-life scenarios from practice, the conversation explores what happens when caregivers leave consultations feeling overwhelmed, why second conversations matter, and how curiosity can help overcome barriers to understanding. Whether you're a caregiver or a veterinary professional, this episode offers simple, practical insights into communicating with confidence and compassion to achieve the best outcomes for dogs with osteoarthritis. Visit the VetLed website: Vetled Or contact Jess on jess@vetled.co.uk 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 complementary therapies series!

  8. Jun 30

    Episode 92 - Nutraceuticals and joint care: Regulation, Reality, and Responsible Use with Lianne O'Boyle RVN

    In the last episode of the “Diet & Nutrition” series, we are joined by Lianne O'Boyle, Head of Clinical at Nutravet. We discuss the vital role veterinary nurses play in osteoarthritis management, the growing use of laser therapy in practice, and whether veterinary education adequately prepares clinicians for managing chronic conditions such as OA. Lianne also shares insights from her transition into the supplement industry, offering a balanced perspective on evidence, regulation, client expectations, and the role of ingredients such as omega-3 fatty acids and boswellia in joint health support. Packed with practical advice for both veterinary professionals and pet caregivers, this episode explores how a collaborative, multimodal approach can help improve the lives of dogs and cats living with osteoarthritis. NutraVet Guest Bio Lianne O’Boyle is a Registered Veterinary Nurse with over 20 years of experience across clinical practice, teaching, leadership and business. Early in her career, she discovered a passion for developing others, moving into training and education to support the next generation of veterinary nurses. She later stepped into entrepreneurship, running her own successful veterinary sector business for a decade, before transitioning into senior leadership roles within industry. Today, Lianne is Head of Clinical at a leading pet nutraceutical company, where she combines her clinical background with commercial strategy to drive innovation and animal health. With a career that spans practice, education, business ownership and industry leadership, Lianne is a passionate advocate for the role of veterinary nurses beyond traditional practice. She now shares her insights as a speaker, championing leadership, career growth and the expanding opportunities for nurses in the veterinary industry. 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 new series “Complimentary Therapies”

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5
out of 5
4 Ratings

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/

Information

  • Creator
    Dr. Hannah Capon
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2026
  • Episodes
    99
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © Dr. Hannah Capon
  • Show Website
    Canine Arthritis Matters

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