Canine Arthritis Matters

• Episode 51 - From Humans to Animals - A Rehab Journey - Vincent Hoogstad

  In this thought-provoking episode of Canine Arthritis Matters, Hannah Capon sits down with Vincent Hoogstad, a physiotherapist turned animal rehabilitation practitioner and educator. Together, they explore the complexities of pain: how animals and humans perceive it differently, the cultural drivers that shape our response to it, and why pain behavior is not always a reliable indicator of suffering.The conversation dives into evolutionary perspectives, the distinction between emotions and feelings, and how caregivers’ expectations often complicate decision-making in veterinary practice. Vincent shares stories from his clinical work and his broader studies in ethology, primatology, and conservation, alongside reflections from his book Monkey Business.Listeners are invited to challenge assumptions about pain, embrace observation over assumption, and reflect on how empathy and environment shape the way we interpret suffering in both humans and animals.Guest Bio:Vincent Hoogstad began his career as a human physiotherapist in Rotterdam before shifting his focus to animal rehabilitation and behavioral ecology. He has trained extensively in physical rehab (University of Tennessee), primatology, wildlife conservation, and the One Health perspective. Based in Crete, he runs a small rehabilitation business while lecturing internationally.Vincent is also the author of Monkey Business, a book exploring empathy, sociality, and the interconnectedness of humans and animals. He is passionate about bridging science, philosophy, and practice to better understand pain and behavior across species.Key Takeaways1. Pain is always real, but pain behavior is heavily influenced by environment and context.2. Animals often hide pain, especially prey species, which makes observation skills critical.3. Human cultural expectations strongly influence how caregivers interpret and respond to their pet’s pain.4. Observation is often more reliable than owner reports when assessing discomfort.5. Education, empathy, and environmental modification are as powerful as medication in managing chronic pain.Relevant Links:Monkey Business (Vincent Hoogstad’s book): https://www.amazon.co.uk/Monkey-Business-Empathy-Animals-People/dp/1916238549/Join the CAM Member ZoneAccess tools, guides, and exclusive education to help you better understand and manage arthritis in dogs. From lifestyle modification resources to validated pain questionnaires, the Member Zone equips you with everything you need to improve your dog’s quality of life.Join here: https://www.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-ltdHave questions send them to: [email protected] tuned to learn how early detection can make a significant difference in managing OA in younger dogs.

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• Episode 50 - Rehab in Everyday Practice - Early Identification of Canine Pain - João Alves

  In this episode of Canine Arthritis Matters, Hannah Capon speaks with João Alves MRCVS, a veterinary surgeon with a special interest in chronic pain and osteoarthritis. Together they discuss why spotting pain early is vital, how misinterpreting behaviour can delay care, and why arthritis should be considered long before obvious lameness develops.João shares practical advice for general practitioners on integrating chronic pain assessment into everyday consults, from history-taking to subtle movement observation. He and Hannah also explore the importance of teamwork with owners, how simple validated tools can improve accuracy, and why communication and empathy are often as powerful as prescriptions in managing canine OA.Guest Bio:João Alves MRCVS is a veterinary surgeon based in the UK with a strong focus on chronic pain management and welfare. He has built his clinical practice around improving outcomes for dogs living with osteoarthritis and other long-term pain conditions, ensuring that both vets and owners have the knowledge and tools to intervene earlier. João is passionate about bridging the gap between research and everyday practice, making pain management more accessible and effective for all.Key Takeaways: 1. Chronic pain is often under-recognised. Behavioural changes such as reluctance to jump, subtle stiffness, or reduced play may be early red flags.2. Owners are key partners. Teaching them to recognise and record changes helps provide better evidence for diagnosis and management.3. Validated assessment tools reduce subjectivity and help track progress more reliably than owner memory alone.4. Pain management should begin early—waiting for overt lameness means lost time and welfare compromise.5. Empathy, continuity, and communication are central. Building trust leads to more accurate reporting and better adherence to management plans.Relevant Links:Join the CAM Member ZoneAccess webinars, guides, case studies, and a supportive community of professionals and pet owners working to improve canine arthritis care.Join here: https://www.caninearthritis.co.uk/member-zone/Use the Suspicion of Chronic Pain FormHelp identify dogs that may be living with hidden pain. This validated form supports early recognition and structured conversations with owners.Download here: https://caninearthritis.co.uk/suspicion-of-chronic-pain/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-ltdHave questions send them to: [email protected] tuned to learn how early detection can make a significant difference in managing OA in younger dogs.

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• Episode 49 - Rehab Support - Telehealth for Canine OA - Dr. James Hunt and Evie Tummon

  This episode of Canine Arthritis Matters takes a practical look at how telehealth can strengthen osteoarthritis care in the UK (and beyond). Host Hannah Capon is joined by registered veterinary nurse Evie Tumon and senior anaesthetist/pain specialist Dr. James Hunt to unpack what remote guidance adds: time to listen, continuity, calmer conversations outside the “white coat” setting, and a clearer framework for weight, lifestyle, and analgesia decisions that owners can take back to their primary vet. The team discuss variability in current OA care, why “no recipes” means we must monitor and adapt, and how validated tools (like the Canine Brief Pain Inventory) help align owner perception with a dog’s day-to-day function. They also share how the CAM teleguidance service supports overloaded practices by offering owners structured coaching, while reinforcing that in-person exams and prescribing stay with the primary vet. Guest Bios:Evie Tummon, RVNEvie is a registered veterinary nurse working in clinical practice and on CAM’s tele-platform, where she hosts discovery calls and leads nurse calls. Her focus is demystifying choices for overwhelmed caregivers and breaking change into doable steps that fit each home and dog. Dr. James HuntJames is a senior anaesthetist at a multidisciplinary referral hospital, runs Pet Pain Relief (a clinic dedicated to pain management), and is a specialist in ethics and welfare with a PhD focused on chronic pain/OA. In CAM’s tele service he helps owners and vets build robust, basics-first plans—weight, lifestyle, analgesia—and use validated tracking so everyone can see what’s working. Key Takeaways:1. Telehealth complements, it doesn’t replace. Remote sessions remove time pressure, reduce the “frozen in the consult room” effect, and let clinicians tailor plans to the caregiver’s reality—then loop back to the primary vet for exams and prescribing. 2. Framework over “fix.” OA management isn’t a one-step recipe; start with weight, daily life changes, and clear priorities, then add/adjust analgesia and adjuncts based on response. 3. Measure what matters. Pair an owner’s unique pain indicators with a validated tool like the Canine Brief Pain Inventory to track severity, interference with activities, and quality of life over time. Expect scores to spark useful conversations, not just produce a “number.” 4. Lower the stress to raise the care. For reactive or anxious dogs, remote guidance can be a lifeline; it builds caregiver confidence and plans for low-stress vet visits (timing, ramps, car setups) before the next in-person appointment. 5. Plan for flares and continuity. Set expectations that flare-ups happen, agree an analgesic “flare plan” in advance, and keep the same clinician(s) involved so owners feel heard and supported across visits. Relevant Links:Get Support Through TeleguidanceWhether you’re feeling overwhelmed with options or just want a clear, step-by-step plan for your dog’s osteoarthritis care, our teleguidance team is here to help. You’ll receive personalised advice you can take straight back to your own vet—without leaving home.Find out more: https://caninearthritisteleguidance.co.ukChronic Pain Symposium On-DemandMissed the live event? Watch all lectures anytime through the Education Centre and level up your OA toolkit.Access now: https://www.cameducation.co.uk/Join the CAM Member ZoneGet ongoing support, templates, webinars, and Q&As to manage canine OA more confidently.Join here: https://www.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-ltdHave questions send them to: [email protected] tuned to learn how early detection can make a significant difference in managing OA in younger dogs.

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• Episode 48 - Applying the Biopsychosocial Model in Veterinary Care - Ben Cormack

  In this episode of Canine Arthritis Matters, Hannah Capon speaks with Ben Cormack, an international educator and musculoskeletal therapist with over 20 years of experience, about the relevance of the biopsychosocial (BPS) model in veterinary care.Ben explains the history and philosophy behind the BPS model, why it should be seen as a framework rather than a fixed treatment method, and how it can enhance communication, trust, and treatment outcomes. Together, they explore the parallels between human and veterinary medicine, highlighting how lifestyle, environment, psychology, and social factors can influence recovery as much as the physical diagnosis itself.They also discuss the pitfalls of over-relying on polypharmacy, the importance of prognosis over diagnosis, and why taking time to truly listen to clients and patients can be transformative. Ben shares personal stories, including how he applied these principles to his own dog, Teddy, and how small environmental or emotional adjustments can make a big difference in an animal’s comfort and quality of life.Guest Bio:Ben Cormack is a musculoskeletal therapist, international presenter, writer, and educator with a patient-centred approach to rehabilitation. He owns Core Kinetic and co-owns The Better Clinician Project, offering evidence-based education to health professionals. Ben specialises in movement and exercise-based rehab, integrating the biopsychosocial framework into his work. He lectures globally, contributes to academic publications, and still works clinically to stay connected to real-world patient needs.Key Takeaways:The biopsychosocial model is a philosophy of care, not a fixed checklist, and should enhance rather than replace biomedical precision.Listening to the patient (or client) is fundamental—understanding context and personal circumstances often guides better treatment decisions.The source of pain is not always the cause; genetics, environment, behaviour, and emotional factors often play major roles.Over-reliance on medications can overlook lifestyle and environmental changes that may have a bigger long-term impact.Veterinary care can benefit from adopting strategies from human healthcare, such as focusing on prognosis, social factors, and patient-centred communication.Relevant Links:Core Kinetic: https://www.core-kinetic.com/The Better Clinician Project: https://www.betterclinicianproject.com/Chronic Pain Symposium On-DemandMissed the live event? You can still access every lecture from the Chronic Pain Symposium through our Education Centre. Learn from leading experts in pain management and rehabilitation at your own pace.Access now: https://www.cameducation.co.uk/⸻Join the CAM Member ZoneGet ongoing support, resources, and exclusive content designed to help you manage canine arthritis more effectively. The CAM Member Zone offers webinars, guides, Q&As, and a community of like-minded professionals and pet owners.Join here: https://www.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-ltdHave questions send them to: [email protected] tuned to learn how early detection can make a significant difference in managing OA in younger dogs.

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• Episode 47 - Rehab for Arthritic Dogs - Practical Approaches - Dr. Laurie McCauley

  In this episode of Canine Arthritis Matters, host Hannah Capon speaks with Dr. Laurie McCauley, a leading voice in veterinary rehabilitation. Together, they explore how movement, touch, and integrative therapies can transform the lives of dogs living with osteoarthritis.Dr. McCauley shares practical strategies for at-home care, discusses the power of isometric exercises, and explains how tools like lasers and tuning forks can play a supportive role in reducing pain and improving mobility. The conversation also highlights common missteps by both caregivers and clinicians and emphasizes low-cost, high-impact interventions that anyone can implement.Whether you’re a vet, physio, or pet parent, this episode offers grounded advice and inspiration for helping dogs move and feel better—no matter their age or condition.Guest BioDr. Laurie McCauley has dedicated her career to keeping pets happy, healthy, and mobile. A graduate of Colorado State University’s School of Veterinary Medicine, she spent six years in general practice before pioneering the field of veterinary rehabilitation. She designed the first underwater treadmill for dogs and opened one of the first dedicated rehab clinics.Board-certified in canine sports medicine and rehabilitation, Dr. McCauley is also certified in acupuncture and chiropractic therapy. She served on the faculty of the Canine Rehabilitation Institute for 14 years, lectures internationally, and contributes to leading veterinary journals and textbooks.She currently runs Red Tail Rehab, a mobile rehab clinic based in North Carolina, and is the founder of Optimum Pet Vitality—an online education platform offering courses for both professionals and pet parents.Courses include laser therapy, myofascial work, and her widely popular tuning fork therapy program. Her mission is to teach people how to help their pets live longer, stronger lives through hands-on care, education, and empowerment.Key Takeaways1. Use isometric exercisesRhythmic stabilization and three-legged stands are low-risk exercises that build strength safely. They are especially valuable for geriatric or fragile dogs and can be done at home with minimal equipment.2. Touch is therapyGentle, intentional touch can reduce cortisol, improve circulation, and support pain relief. It’s not just emotional—it’s physiological. Don’t underestimate the power of your hands.3. Walk your dog dailyEven dogs with arthritis benefit from daily walks. Movement maintains joint health and stamina. Frequency, not distance, is what matters.4. Exercise must be tailoredActivities like ball play can be risky if done without thought. Understanding the dog’s physical condition is critical to choosing appropriate, safe exercises.5. Therapies like PEMF and tuning forks work—but require knowledgeModalities such as lasers, tuning forks, and PEMF devices can reduce pain and support healing—but they’re most effective (and safest) when used by someone trained.Relevant Links: • Optimum Pet Vitality online learning hub: https://www.optimumpetvitality.com/ • Tuning Fork Therapy Course: https://courses.optimumpetvitality.com/tuning-into-your-dog This episode is supported by Accord Animal Health, makers of PerNic® Cox—a palatable joint support paste for dogs, formulated with cold-pressed Green Lipped Mussel oil. It’s delivered in an easy-to-use syringe for precise dosing, ideal for dogs with osteoarthritis.Learn more about PerNic® Cox and the full range of natural supplements at:https://accord-animalhealth.comLearn 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-ltdHave questions send them to: [email protected] tuned to learn how early detection can make a significant difference in managing OA in younger dogs.

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