Episode 71 - Identifying Early Indicators of Arthritis: Why Observation Matters - Katrin Jahn

In this episode, Dr. Hannah Capon speaks with veterinary behaviour specialist Dr. Katrin Jahn about why arthritis is so often missed, how subtle behaviour and lifestyle changes can signal discomfort long before lameness appears, and how structured observation helps bridge the gap between caregivers, trainers and veterinary professionals. Together they explore the early indicators of chronic pain, the value of simple tools that guide objective reporting, and how better communication leads to earlier intervention and improved long-term welfare. This episode reinforces that arthritis is not just a mobility issue, but a whole-dog condition that requires careful observation, teamwork and timely action.

GUEST BIO

Dr. Katrin Jahn is a veterinary behaviour specialist and founder of Trinity Veterinary Behaviour, with extensive experience supporting complex behaviour and medical cases across multiple countries. Her work focuses on the intersection between emotional wellbeing and physical health, helping caregivers and professionals recognise when pain is influencing behaviour. Katrin is committed to promoting accessible tools, collaborative case management and improved welfare through better early identification of chronic pain.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Arthritis rarely starts with an obvious limp; behavioural and lifestyle changes are often the first clues

• Pain influences emotion, capability, mobility, and appearance – observing patterns over time is essential

• Trainers and caregivers play a crucial role in spotting early signs, and structured reporting improves accuracy

• Communication gaps between caregivers, trainers and vets often delay diagnosis

• Simple tools, used consistently, can guide earlier identification and therefore earlier intervention

• Chronic pain management requires shared responsibility across all professionals involved

• Prevention starts with knowing what to look for – observation is the foundation of early arthritis detection

RELEVANT LINKS

Suspicion of Chronic Pain Tool - [https://caninearthritis.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2022/04/Suspicion-of-Chronic-Pain-Observations-Form.pdf](https://caninearthritis.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2022/04/Suspicion-of-Chronic-Pain-Observations-Form.pdf "‌")

link to the tool in the memberzone - [https://caninearthritis.co.uk/member-zone/](https://caninearthritis.co.uk/member-zone/ "smartCard-inline")

Trinity Veterinary Behaviour – Professional Guides

https://www.trinityvetbehaviour.com

CAM Member Zone

https://caninearthritis.co.uk/memberzone

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: [e-mail]

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