Canine Arthritis Matters

• Episode 36 - Building a Career in Vet Nursing: Passion, Flexibility, and Opportunity - Donna Wills

  In celebration of Veterinary Nurse Awareness Month (VNAM), Hannah Capon is joined by Donna Wills, a registered veterinary nurse with over 20 years of experience. Donna shares her inspiring journey, highlighting the flexibility, passion, and diversity that veterinary nursing offers. She discusses her path from general practice to rehabilitation and physiotherapy, emphasizing how nurses can carve out unique career paths within the veterinary field. Donna also talks about the importance of perseverance, self-belief, and the power of saying “yes” to new opportunities, even when it feels challenging.Brief BioDonna Wills is a registered veterinary nurse with over two decades of experience in various veterinary roles. She is passionate about rehabilitation and physiotherapy, running her own physiotherapy clinics across multiple practices. Donna is also known for her work in emergency and critical care, as well as her commitment to empowering other veterinary professionals to explore diverse career paths within the field.Key TakeawaysVet nursing offers incredible flexibility and growth – Donna’s career journey shows how diverse and adaptable a career in veterinary nursing can be, with opportunities ranging from clinic work to rehabilitation.Passion drives long-term fulfillment – Donna’s love for animals and rehabilitation has kept her motivated and happy in her career for over 20 years.Never underestimate the power of saying yes – Taking chances, even when they’re intimidating, can lead to unexpected growth and new career paths.Vet nurses have the power to create change – Donna emphasizes that even in corporate structures, vet nurses can mold their roles to better suit their passions and improve patient care.Vet Nurse Awareness Month is a time to celebrate and empower – Donna’s story exemplifies how vet nurses are not only caregivers but innovators in the field.Relevant LinksCheck out our free downloads - https://caninearthritis.co.uk/how-cam-can-help/downloads/Be part of the CAM Memberzone - https://caninearthritis.co.uk/get-involved/become-a-cam-member/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 33 - Medications and Your Pet: Addressing Concerns and Making Informed Choices- Zoe Belshaw

  In this thoughtful and informative episode, Hannah Capon speaks with Dr. Zoe Belshaw about the findings from Zoe’s PhD research, which explored how vets and dog owners make decisions regarding the management of osteoarthritis. They discuss the challenges in early identification and treatment of arthritis, the emotional burden on caregivers, and the complexity of navigating treatment choices. Zoe shares strategies to make vet consultations more productive, reassures owners about the safe use of anti-inflammatories, and introduces the BRAN framework (Benefits, Risks, Alternatives, doing Nothing) as a tool to guide more confident, informed decisions.(Published December 2020 – https://youtu.be/fDnN4IIM_30)Bio:Dr. Zoe Belshaw is a veterinary surgeon, European and RCVS Recognised Specialist in small animal internal medicine, and researcher with a focus on geriatric care and osteoarthritis. A Cambridge graduate, Zoe has worked in a wide range of settings, from general practice to university hospitals and veterinary charities. Her PhD from the Centre for Evidence-based Veterinary Medicine at the University of Nottingham focused on the shared decision-making process between vets and owners caring for arthritic dogs. She is an active clinical practitioner, researcher, educator, and editor in the veterinary field.Key Takeaways:Arthritis is often underdiagnosed – early symptoms are subtle and can be overlooked, delaying treatment.Vet consultations can be more effective – preparation and clear communication help owners get more from appointments.Anti-inflammatories are valuable tools – when used wisely, they can greatly improve a dog’s comfort and mobility.Caregiver emotions are valid – confusion, anxiety, and anticipatory grief are normal and deserve compassion.Use the BRAN method – when making care decisions, consider the benefits, risks, alternatives, and consequences of doing nothing.Relevant LinksExplore CAM’s free tools and resources to better understand and manage your dog’s arthritis — from pain trackers to home adaptations, everything you need is at https://caninearthritis.co.uk/how-cam-can-help/tools/.Join the CAM Member Zone for exclusive content, practical support, and expert guidance on managing chronic pain in dogs — become a part of the community at https://caninearthritis.co.uk/owner-member-zone/.Don’t miss the Chronic Pain Symposium 2025 — connect with experts and gain the latest insights in pain management. Reserve your spot now at https://www.camonlineshop.com/chronic-pain-symposium-2025/.Join Holly’s Army, CAM’s dedicated Facebook support group for dog owners managing arthritis. Connect with others, share experiences, and get guidance at https://www.facebook.com/groups/2161091580843717.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 35 - Celebrating Vet Nurses - The Power of Teamwork in Chronic Pain Management - Evie Tummon

  In this special episode for Veterinary Nurse Awareness Month (VNAM), CAM’s founder Hannah Capon is joined by Registered Veterinary Nurse Evie Tummon to highlight the vital role vet nurses play in supporting dogs with chronic pain. Evie shares her journey into veterinary nursing, her deep interest in geriatric care, and her practical experience running pain clinics and weight consultations. The discussion showcases the essential, proactive, and compassionate role vet nurses play in managing long-term conditions like osteoarthritis and emphasizes why VNAM is a time to celebrate their impact on both animals and owners.Brief: Evie Tummon is a Registered Veterinary Nurse with over 10 years of experience in practice. She has a special interest in chronic pain management, senior pet care, and helping clients navigate the emotional side of long-term health conditions. As part of CAM’s team, she supports educational content and runs nurse-led clinics that empower owners and build trust in the veterinary-client relationship.Key Takeaways: 1. Vet nurses are frontline allies in pain care – they offer hands-on support, consistent follow-up, and trusted communication for owners managing arthritis.2. Weight management is a nurse-led success story – gradual, supported weight loss significantly reduces joint strain and improves quality of life.3. Senior clinics provide proactive care – they create time and space for owners to reflect on subtle changes and take early action.4. The vet-nurse-client triad builds better outcomes – each role supports the others, leading to a more complete and compassionate treatment approach.5. VNAM highlights the unsung heroes – vet nurses like Evie bring continuity, care, and emotional intelligence to every stage of a dog’s arthritis journey.Relevant Links: CAM Online Shop – https://www.camonlineshop.comFree DOWNLOADS - https://caninearthritis.co.uk/how-cam-can-help/downloads/Find out more about our courses - https://www.cameducation.co.ukLearn 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 34 - Pain and Aggression - Michael Shikashio

  Michael Shikashio joins CAM’s Hannah Capon to explore the link between aggressive behaviours in dogs and underlying pain. Michael, who has focused on aggression-related behaviour problems for the past ten years, shares his wisdom and clinical experience. He explains that a significant proportion of his caseload involves dogs experiencing undiagnosed pain and that he often collaborates with vets and rehabilitation specialists to address both the physical source of pain and the resulting behavioural responses. This conversation highlights the importance of a team approach in tackling behavioural changes linked to chronic discomfort.(Published February 2021 – https://youtube.com/live/g6CUnfYAJ1c)Brief BioMichael Shikashio, CDBC, is a leading expert in canine aggression, founder of the Aggression in Dogs Master Course, and an internationally sought-after speaker and educator. Certified by the International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants, he has taught thousands of trainers and behaviour consultants across more than 25 countries. Michael is a regular keynote speaker at major conferences and the host of the popular podcast The Bitey End of the Dog, further advancing the understanding of aggression management worldwide.Key TakeawaysPain is a major driver of aggression – Many cases of aggression stem from undiagnosed or unmanaged physical discomfort.Behaviour is often a communication tool – Aggressive behaviours are a dog’s way of expressing distress or avoiding further pain.Collaboration is key – Behaviourists working alongside vets and rehabilitation specialists create better outcomes for dogs showing aggression.Observation over interpretation – Owners and professionals must describe what they see rather than label the dog’s behaviour.Behaviour modification must be compassionate – Helping a dog manage pain and adapt their response requires patience, empathy, and tailored strategies.Relevant LinksAggressive Dog – Michael Shikashio’s site – https://aggressivedog.com/Canine Arthritis Teleguidance – https://caninearthritisteleguidance.co.uk/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 32 - Top tips for preparing your dog for vets visitis - Tamsin Durston

  In this episode, Tamsin Durston joins Hannah Capon to share expert insights on how to prepare dogs for veterinary visits in ways that reduce stress and improve welfare. Drawing from her background in veterinary nursing, behaviour, and dog training, Tamsin explains why vet visits can be so challenging for dogs and how owners can help ease that anxiety. She offers practical advice on desensitisation, positive reinforcement, and improving communication between pet owners and veterinary teams. The episode also explores how veterinary practices can make their environments more behaviour-friendly, ultimately supporting better outcomes for everyone involved.(Published April 2024 – https://www.youtube.com/live/raKr3HHPstE)Brief BioTamsin Durston is a Registered Veterinary Nurse, Clinical Animal Behaviourist, and accredited Dog Training Instructor with over 25 years of experience. She has worked for organisations like Blue Cross and currently serves as the Veterinary Engagement Manager at Dogs Trust. In this role, she leads welfare-driven initiatives that embed canine behavioural principles into everyday veterinary practice. Tamsin is also an advocate for mental and emotional well-being in the veterinary field and the author of the book Emotional Well-being for the Animal Welfare Professional.Key TakeawaysPreparation starts at home – Building a positive association with travel, handling, and being examined can greatly reduce vet visit stress.Small changes make big differences – Implementing low-stress handling techniques, using calming aids, or even adjusting appointment timing can significantly improve the dog’s emotional experience.Understanding fear responses is essential – Recognizing signs of fear and stress in dogs helps owners and veterinary teams intervene early and prevent escalation.Collaborative care leads to better outcomes – Shared responsibility between owners and vet teams to prepare and support dogs through their appointments.Emotional safety matters for everyone – A calmer, better-prepared dog benefits not only the animal, but also reduces stress for caregivers and vet staff, creating a safer and more effective care environment.Relevant LinksDogs Trust for Veterinary Professionals: https://www.dogstrust.org.uk/how-we-help/professionals/vet-Tamsin Durston’s book – Emotional Well-being for the Animal Welfare Professional: https://a.co/d/1BVAafxChronic Pain Symposium 2025: https://www.camonlineshop.com/chronic-pain-symposium-2025/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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