Survey highlights substantial need for canine osteoarthritis management protocol for veterinarians
SHIRLEY, N.Y., Dec. 7, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- A pivotal survey by the American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA), conducted in partnership with American Regent Animal Health and leading veterinary orthopedist Denis Marcellin-Little, DEDV, DACVS, DACVSMR, CCAT, has revealed a significant demand among participating veterinarians for a structured protocol to manage canine osteoarthritis, especially when it comes to early detection in younger dogs.
- An overwhelming 95% of veterinarians agree that a canine osteoarthritis protocol would be beneficial, signaling an urgent need for standardized care procedures.
- The survey, which garnered responses from nearly 800 veterinarians, also sheds light on practitioners' self-assessment of their own knowledge.
- With veterinarians estimating that 45% of their patients have osteoarthritis, 47% are predisposed to it, and 26% have early-onset disease, the survey highlights a critical window of opportunity for early intervention.
- In addition, veterinarians say 75% of their clients know only "a little bit" about canine osteoarthritis, presenting an opportunity for better education and resources that boost understanding of what dog owners need to know about osteoarthritis.