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 Zone
Access 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 Form
Help 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/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.