Important content note
This episode includes a brief mention of suicide.
Welcome to The Yappy Hour, powered by Yappily!
Arthritis is one of the most common yet misunderstood conditions affecting dogs, and it doesn’t just impact older dogs.
In this episode of The Yappy Hour, host Nathan Dunleavy speaks with Hannah Capon, founder of Canine Arthritis Management (CAM), to unpack what arthritis really is, how it affects your dog’s body and behaviour, and what you can do to support them.
From subtle early signs to the emotional impact of chronic pain, this conversation will change how you see your dog and how you care for them.
What You’ll Learn in This Episode:
✅ Why arthritis is not just an “old dog problem”
✅ The early signs of arthritis most dog guardians miss
✅ How pain affects behaviour, mood and reactivity
✅ Why dogs don’t “hide pain” and what’s really happening instead
✅ The link between weight, lifestyle and joint health
✅ Simple changes at home (including the “more rugs, less drugs” approach)
✅ Why a multimodal approach is key to managing arthritis
✅ The truth about ball throwing, exercise and joint strain
✅ How to advocate for your dog if something “just doesn’t feel right”
Key Takeaways:
- Arthritis can begin in puppyhood, not just old age
- Subtle behavioural changes are often pain signals
- Dogs don’t hide pain, they tolerate it
- Chronic pain affects emotions, behaviour and quality of life
- Weight management is one of the most powerful interventions
- Exercise is essential but must be adapted, not avoided
- Early action can transform your dog’s long-term well-being
Thanks for tuning in! Let’s celebrate the joy and challenges of dog parenting together, because we’re all here for the dogs.
Connect with Hannah
CAM Canine Arthritis Management Facebook page
Canine Arthritis Management website
Connect with Nathan and Yappily
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