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 Bio

Tamsin 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 Takeaways

1. Preparation starts at home – Building a positive association with travel, handling, and being examined can greatly reduce vet visit stress.
2. 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.
3. Understanding fear responses is essential – Recognizing signs of fear and stress in dogs helps owners and veterinary teams intervene early and prevent escalation.
4. Collaborative care leads to better outcomes – Shared responsibility between owners and vet teams to prepare and support dogs through their appointments.
5. 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 Links

Dogs 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/1BVAafx
Chronic Pain Symposium 2025: https://www.camonlineshop.com/chronic-pain-symposium-2025/

Learn more about CAM:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CAMarthritis
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/canine_arthritis
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/c/CanineArthritisManagement
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/canine-arthritis-management-ltd

Have questions send them to: info@caninearthritis.co.uk

Stay tuned to learn how early detection can make a significant difference in managing OA in younger dogs.

In this insightful episode, Hannah Capon is joined by canine behaviourist Andrew Hale to explore how effective communication can transform the management of canine osteoarthritis. It’s not just about pain relief or physical care—how owners and veterinary professionals talk to each other plays a vital role in decision-making and treatment outcomes. Together, they break down the SPIKES framework (Set up, Perception, Invitation, Knowledge, Emotion, Summary/Strategy) to help dog owners and professionals improve two-way communication, navigate complex choices, and collaborate better for the welfare of dogs living with chronic pain.
(Published December 2021 – https://youtube.com/live/WXwW4LsKwKM)

Brief Bio:

Andrew Hale (BSc, ISCP.Dip.Canine.Prac) is the owner and lead behaviourist at Train Positive. With a background in psychology and a deep passion for animal welfare, he is a Certified Animal and Canine Behaviourist and a key voice in promoting dog-centred, empathetic approaches. He supports Animals in Distress, is a Behaviour Consultant for Pet Remedy and the British Isles Grooming Association, and runs the popular Dog Centred Care group on Facebook. Andrew is also a respected international speaker in the canine behaviour and training community.

Key Takeaways:

1. Communication is part of treatment – Managing arthritis isn’t just physical; good communication with your vet team is vital for success.
2. SPIKES is a useful model – The six-step SPIKES acronym helps structure clearer and more compassionate conversations between owners and professionals.
3. Emotion plays a big role – Acknowledging the emotional journey of caregivers helps reduce stress and improve decision-making.
4. Preparation empowers owners – Anticipating difficult decisions and having tools to navigate them makes owners more confident and involved.
5. Collaborative care is key – Creating space for both vet and owner perspectives improves trust and ultimately benefits the dog’s wellbeing.

Relevant Links:

• Chronic Pain Symposium 2025: https://www.camonlineshop.com/chronic-pain-symposium-2025/
• One-to-one arthritis support: https://caninearthritisteleguidance.co.uk

Learn more about CAM: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CAMarthritis
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/canine_arthritis
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/c/CanineArthritisManagement
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/canine-arthritis-management-ltd

Have questions send them to: info@caninearthritis.co.uk

Stay tuned to learn how early detection can make a significant difference in managing OA in younger dogs.

Dr. Katrin Jahn joins Hannah Capon to discuss the role of integrative veterinary medicine in managing chronic pain and improving animal welfare. They explore how a combination of conventional veterinary approaches and complementary therapies can enhance treatment outcomes, particularly for osteoarthritis and chronic pain conditions. The conversation covers the importance of multimodal pain management, rehabilitation techniques, and the evolving role of veterinary professionals in holistic care. Dr. Jahn emphasizes the need for evidence-based alternative therapies and how veterinary teams can work together to create the best outcomes for patients.

Brief Bio:

Dr. Katrin Jahn is a highly experienced veterinarian with a specialization in pain management, rehabilitation, and integrative veterinary medicine. She is passionate about combining conventional veterinary science with holistic therapies such as acupuncture, physiotherapy, and laser therapy to improve patient outcomes. With years of clinical experience and ongoing research contributions, she is dedicated to advancing veterinary care through education, innovation, and compassionate treatment.

Key Takeaways:

1. Multimodal Pain Management is Essential – Effective treatment for chronic conditions like osteoarthritis requires a combination of medications, rehabilitation therapies, and lifestyle adjustments.
2. Integrative Medicine Bridges the Gap – Combining traditional veterinary treatments with evidence-based complementary therapies can enhance patient care and quality of life.
3. Rehabilitation Plays a Vital Role – Physiotherapy, hydrotherapy, and targeted exercises are crucial for maintaining mobility and managing chronic pain.
4. Veterinary Teams Must Adapt – The future of veterinary medicine involves greater collaboration between vets, nurses, and rehabilitation specialists.
5. Education and Awareness are Key – Helping pet owners understand chronic pain and treatment options leads to better long-term management and improved animal welfare.

Relevant Links:

Get expert support for managing canine arthritis at caninearthritisteleguidance.co.uk.

Don't miss the Chronic Pain Symposium 2025—reserve your spot now at camonlineshop.com.

Learn more about CAM:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CAMarthritis
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/canine_arthritis
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/c/CanineArthritisManagement
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/canine-arthritis-management-ltd

Have questions send them to: info@caninearthritis.co.uk

Stay tuned to learn how early detection can make a significant difference in managing OA in younger dogs.