E107 - Multidisciplinary Conversations Along the Chronic Pain Journey with Findy & Elena

In this episode of Canine Arthritis Matters, Hannah is joined by animal behaviourist and neuroscience expert Daniel Shaw to explore canine cognitive dysfunction (CCD) and its relationship with chronic pain. They discuss how CCD is often underdiagnosed, why its early signs can be subtle, and how pain, sensory decline and anxiety can mimic or worsen cognitive symptoms. Daniel explains that while age-related brain changes cannot always be prevented, we can support healthy brain function through appropriate physical activity, cognitive and social enrichment, good nutrition and quality sleep. They also explore the importance of adapting activities to each dog's individual needs and recognising that chronic pain and CCD can coexist. The episode highlights the value of a holistic, multidisciplinary approach to helping older dogs maintain their wellbeing and quality of life. 5 Key Take-Home Points CCD is often underdiagnosed: Early signs can be subtle and easily mistaken for normal ageing.

In this episode, Hannah chats with Dr Tom Walsh about taking a more holistic, practical approach to canine health and osteoarthritis management. They explore his Corenza approach, built around five key pillars: exercise, environment, enrichment, nutrition and responsibility. Together, they discuss how these areas can help reduce overwhelm for caregivers while supporting dogs at every life stage, including those living with OA. From adapting exercise and improving flooring, to providing meaningful enrichment and navigating the often-confusing world of nutrition, the conversation focuses on seeing the whole dog rather than simply treating individual problems. Above all, they explore how we can help dogs live happier, healthier lives. Buy Dr Tom’s book on amazon “Good Dogs, Broken System: A Veterinarian’s Guide to Rebuilding Trust Through the Coerenza Approach”

This episode explores the emotional wellbeing of dogs, caregivers and veterinary teams, with Tamsin Durston sharing practical ways to create safer, more supportive veterinary experiences. Hannah and Tam discuss the impact of osteoarthritis and chronic disease on both dogs and their caregivers, including anxiety, guilt, grief and caregiver burden. They explore how simple environmental changes, empathetic communication and thoughtful appointment planning can reduce stress and improve psychological safety. The conversation also highlights trigger stacking in veterinary teams and the importance of taking small pauses to reset between patients. Above all, the episode encourages veterinary professionals to recognise caregivers as part of the patient journey, build their confidence and help transform guilt into pride. 5 Key Take-Home Points Psychological safety matters — for dogs, caregivers and veterinary teams.

In this episode, Hannah and Drew explore the changing face of canine osteoarthritis (OA), highlighting why early detection and proactive management are so important. They discuss how OA can develop at a surprisingly young age, often before obvious clinical or radiographic signs appear. Drew explains how objective gait and stance analysis can help identify subtle changes, establish baselines and monitor responses to treatment. The conversation covers multimodal and layered approaches to OA management, including weight management, exercise, lifestyle changes, physiotherapy and intra-articular therapies. Above all, they emphasise that OA management is a journey, requiring regular monitoring, individualised plans and a focus on improving comfort and quality of life. OA can start young — don’t assume it’s just a disease of old age.

Elbow dysplasia and developmental elbow disease are complex conditions that can have a significant impact on a dog’s long-term joint health. In this episode, Hannah is joined by veterinary surgeon and orthopaedic specialist Ben Garland to explore why elbows deserve greater attention in veterinary practice. They discuss recognising subtle signs, the importance of early diagnosis, and how developmental abnormalities can lead to osteoarthritis. The conversation explores conservative management, lifestyle modification, rehabilitation, intra-articular therapies and surgical options, highlighting that there is no single solution for every dog. Instead, effective management requires an individualised, whole-joint approach that considers the dog, their environment and their caregiver. 5 Key Take-Home Points Elbow disease is complex – there is no one-size-fits-all solution.