About the course

This course provides a comprehensive approach to diagnosing mobility impairment in dogs, focusing on early identification of primary joint disorders that lead to secondary osteoarthritis (OA) and associated maladaptive pain. Participants will explore differential diagnoses for impaired mobility, including concurrent musculoskeletal conditions that may affect a dog's quality of life. Veterinarians will learn screening and examination techniques, including orthopedic and neurologic exams with low-stress handling, as well as high-quality radiographic practices. The course aims to equip veterinarians with the confidence and skills to diagnose conditions like cranial cruciate ligament disease, hip dysplasia, and osteochondrosis, and make informed decisions regarding additional diagnostics and advanced imaging.

Dr. Kristin Kirkby Shaw

Dr. Kristin Kirkby Shaw is a small animal surgeon and rehabilitation specialist dedicated to improving arthritis management in dogs by bridging these disciplines. She earned her DVM, MS, and PhD at the University of Florida, where she also completed her surgical residency and later served as a clinical instructor. After nearly a decade in specialty practice in Seattle, she spent three years at Zoetis as an osteoarthritis specialist, educating veterinary professionals nationwide. In 2019, she launched CARE to provide unbiased, evidence-based resources for veterinarians and dog owners. A respected speaker and author, Dr. Shaw has received multiple awards for her contributions to veterinary rehabilitation. Inspired by her own dogs, Bella, Bailey, and Beans, whose struggles with pain and mobility shaped her approach to care, Dr. Shaw remains dedicated to advancing veterinary education. Today, she shares her life with her husband, Aaron, and their two dogs, Arrow and Eddie.

Curriculum

5 Chapters · 21 Lessons

  1. 1

    Module 1: Your crystal ball: Understanding how the causes of OA can offer clues to diagnosis

    1. (Included in full purchase)

      Module 1: Your crystal ball: Understanding the causes of OA can offer clues to diagnosis

    2. (Included in full purchase)

      OA Module 1

    3. (Included in full purchase)

      Quiz Module 1

  2. 2

    Module 2: Sometimes OA is not the answer: differential diagnoses for chronic pain and mobility disorders

    1. (Included in full purchase)

      Module 2: Sometimes OA is not the answer: differential diagnosis for chronic pain and mobility disorders

    2. (Included in full purchase)

      OA Module 2

    3. (Included in full purchase)

      Quiz Module 2

  3. 3

    Module 3: Diagnosis starts with an index of suspicion: How to screen for joint disease

    1. (Included in full purchase)

      Module 3: Diagnosis starts with an index of suspicion: How to screen for joint disease.

    2. (Included in full purchase)

      Is My Dog In Pain Quiz

    3. (Included in full purchase)

      Vet OA Screening Questions

    4. (Included in full purchase)

      OA Module 3

    5. (Included in full purchase)

      Quiz Module 3

  4. 4

    Module 4: The low-stress, comprehensive musculoskeletal exam

    1. (Included in full purchase)

      Module 4: Part 1: The low stress, comprehensive musculoskeletal exam

    2. (Included in full purchase)

      Module 4: Part 2: The low-stress comprehensive musculoskeletal exam

    3. (Included in full purchase)

      Canine and Feline Professional Orthopedic Exam Form

    4. (Included in full purchase)

      OA Module 4.1

    5. (Included in full purchase)

      OA Module 4.2

    6. (Included in full purchase)

      Quiz Module 4

  5. 5

    Module 5: Diagnostic imaging and additional diagnostic techniques for joint disease

    1. (Included in full purchase)

      Module 5: Diagnostic imaging and additional diagnostic techniques for joint disease

    2. (Included in full purchase)

      Radiograph Positioning for Orthopedics

    3. (Included in full purchase)

      OA Module 5

    4. (Included in full purchase)

      Quiz Module 5

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