Did you know that September is Pet Pain Awareness Month? 

 will be highlighting it this month through interviews, articles, social media posts, and podcasts such as this one, advancements in pain management, leaders within the field, and new treatments available, such as Galliprant (grapiprant tablets). 

To kick off the month, our host Adam Christman, DVM, MBA, welcomed special guest Elise Kelly, DVM, to chat all things pain management in veterinary medicine. Throughout the episode, the duo discusses canine osteoarthritis (OA) and highlights multimodal approaches to manage OA, the importance of consistent and long-term pain management, plus more on Galliprant (grapiprant tablets) and its safety profile. 

Below is a partial transcript, edited lightly for clarity.

Let's kind of start first by talking about some of the important signs of OA pain in dogs, and are they consistent in all dogs with OA?

 That's a great question. No, they're not consistent in all dogs with OA. And we know from an owner perspective, oftentimes they're going to tell us that their dogs may be kind of lagging behind on walks or hesitant to go up and down stairs, jump in bed, jump up in their vehicles, maybe not enjoy their favorite activities like they used to. One thing that I think a lot of times pet owners and vets alike don't think about is sleep. Sometimes dogs when they're very restless at night or they can't lay down and get comfortable, that can be a sign of pain and osteoarthritis as well, but it can present differently in all different types of dogs and as veterinarians, when we're doing our physical exam, of course, we're looking for things like changes in range of motion, crepitus in the joint, swelling, inflammation, any pain when we manipulate that joint. 

But again, every dog is a little bit different, and I think it's important to understand also here that we tend to think about osteoarthritis as an old age dog disease, and it's really not. It's really a young dog disease. And I don't know about you, Adam, but [the] youngest dog I ever diagnosed with osteoarthritis was a 9-month-old Boston Terrier who had awful hip dysplasia, and so it's really a developmental disease for these dogs, and sadly, most of them aren't diagnosed until they're between 8 and 13. 

So, one of my pleas for veterinarians today is to be really vigilant about asking these questions to pet owners to look for these specific changes we talked about at home earlier on, even maybe starting at 2 or 3 years of age. So if we can catch osteoarthritis earlier and start treating earlier, it's just going to be better long-term quality of life for that pet and the pet parent.

Galliprant controls pain and inflammation associated with osteoarthritis in dogs.

For use in dogs only. Keep this and all medications out of reach of children and pets to prevent accidental ingestion or overdose. Galliprant is a non-COX inhibiting NSAID. As a class, NSAIDs may be associated with gastrointestinal, kidney and liver side effects. Evaluation for pre-existing conditions and regular monitoring are recommended. Do not use in dogs that have a hypersensitivity to grapiprant. Concomitant use of Galliprant with other NSAIDs or corticosteroids should be avoided. Concurrent use with other anti-inflammatory drugs or protein-bound drugs has not been studied. The safe use of Galliprant has not been evaluated in dogs younger than 9 months of age and less than 8 lbs (3.6 kg), dogs used for breeding, pregnant or lactating dogs, or dogs with cardiac disease. Owners should be advised to observe for signs of potential drug toxicity. Adverse reactions may include vomiting, diarrhea, decreased appetite, watery or bloody stools, and decreases in serum albumin and total protein.

Podcasts

Explore advancements in pain management for dogs during Animal Pain Awareness Month

Advances in diagnosing and managing osteoarthritis in dogs

Gilvetmab: A Novel Immunotherapy in the Fight Against Cancer

: Craig A. Clifford, DVM, MS, DACVIM (Oncology) 

Veterinary oncology has seen significant advancements in immunotherapy, offering novel treatment approaches for companion animals diagnosed with cancer. Immunotherapy aims to harness the body’s immune system to recognize and attack cancerous cells, reducing reliance on traditional treatments such as chemotherapy and radiation therapy. This lecture discusses the novel class of agents called “checkpoint inhibitors,” focusing on the first in veterinary medicine, gilvetmab.

Canine Osteoarthritis: What’s New, What Works and What Is the Science

: Janice L. Huntingford, DVM, MS-TCVM, DACVSMR, CVPP, CVA 

This course covers the essential points of diagnosis and treatment of otitis. Both acute and chronic cases of otitis will be discussed. Emphasis will be placed on the PSPP classification system (primary causes, secondary causes, predisposing causes, and perpetuating factors).

Don’t Get Bitten! Veterinary Job Buzzwords, Benefits, and Watchouts!

Many of us have experienced the physical and mental toll that unrelenting stress, long hours, limiting contracts, crushing production models, and meager benefits can take on veterinarians and staff. Veterinary students or new vets may wonder, “How can I enjoy my chosen profession and avoid burning out?” Or you’ve been told these negatives just come with the territory of being a vet and are learning to live with them. Veterinarian stress, depression, compassion fatigue, and career burnout are things we take very seriously. We believe that doctors deserve greater choice, autonomy, and flexibility that enable them to lead happier and healthier lives.

Implementation and Interpretation of Canine Genetic Screening in General Practice

: Jenna Dockweiler, dvm, ms, dact, ccrt, cvat 

During this course, participants can expect to learn basic genetics terminology and concepts (such as penetrance, expression, and mode of inheritance). A brief overview of the various technologies utilized to determine genotype will be provided. Participants will then learn to apply these concepts through clinical case walkthroughs and how to communicate the benefits and results of canine genetic screening to their clients. Lastly, participants will learn how canine genetic screening can fit into various practices.

Getting to the Heart of the Problem: Current Trends and Recommendations on Canine Heartworm Disease

: Guilherme G. Verocai, DVM, PhD, MS, DACVM (Parasitology) 

Heartworm is the most important canine parasite in the United States. This presentation will review the parasite’s life cycle and infection-associated pathology. Trends in heartworm distribution will be examined. Recommendations for accurate diagnostics will be discussed. The role of owner adherence in heartworm prevention will be examined, considering the emergence of resistance to macrocyclic lactones. In addition, advice on best practices for treating infection will be provided.

Practical Corneal Ulcer Management for General Practitioners

Experts will review corneal anatomy and how that pertains to our understanding of ulcer management. This program will delve into the specifics of recognizing and treating corneal ulcers from superficial to deep in your practice in a digestible manner

NEW Canine Lymphoma Treatment—Never a One-Size-Fits-All

: Craig Clifford, DVM, MS, DACVIM (Oncology) 

This 1-hour virtual webinar will discuss how Laverdia CA-1 (verdinexor tabs) fits into treating dogs with lymphoma. We will discuss the mechanism of action, dosing, adverse events, and efficacy of this novel agent. Finally, we will discuss why Laverdia CA-1 should be utilized in the primary care setting.

Articles

Check out these continuing education opportunities now available

Flex Forecast: September/October 2025

PetSmart has a new executive vice president and chief commercial officer with more than 30 years of experience. Meanwhile, a veterinary-focused artificial intelligence (AI) company appointed a a new strategic advisor with experience in AI startups, CEO roles, and more. Moreover, recently, a pet care plan provider announced a new managing director for its United States division.

Continue reading to learn more about each of these individuals.

Sean Fitzgerald, managing director US, Premier Vet Alliance

Sean Fitzgerald, managing director US, Premier Vet Alliance. (Image courtesy of Premier Vet Alliance)

The pet care plan provider Premier Vet Alliance appointed Sean Fitzerald as its new managing director US. Fitzgerald has experience in sales leadership and coaching, strategic development, and account management. Previously, Fitzgerald has held roles with Zoetis, Elanco, and Vetsource.

"I am excited to join Premier Vet Alliance and look forward to working with the talented team to further strengthen our position in the US market. Together, we will continue to innovate and provide outstanding support to veterinary practices and pet owners. I am committed to leveraging my experience to drive growth and deliver exceptional value to the practices we serve,” said Fitzgerlad in a company release.

"We are thrilled to welcome Sean to the Premier Vet Alliance team," said Dominic Tonner, CEO of Premier Vet Alliance. "His deep understanding of the veterinary industry and his strategic vision will be instrumental in driving our growth. We’re confident Sean will help elevate our services and support, delivering exceptional value to our clients."

Jesica Duarte, MBA, executive vice president and chief commercial officer, PetSmart

Jesica Duarte, MBA, executive vice president and chief commercial officer, PetSmart. (Image courtesy of PetSmart)

Earlier this month, PetSmart announced Jesica Duarte, MBA, as its new executive vice president and chief commercial officer. In her new position, Duarte will lead merchandising, proprietary brands, merchandise planning & allocation, digital, and marketing organizations at the pet retailer.

"Jesica is a strategic and growth-minded leader, with an impressive career tenure working across successful retail brands" Ken Hicks, PetSmart president and CEO, said in an organizational release.

 "She has led teams through significant business and process transformations, while delivering strong business results and her expertise will be invaluable as we work to advance our long-range plan."

Duarte has more than 3 decades of experience in leadership and served as group vice president of national merchandising for the Albertsons Companies in her most recent role. She has also held positions at Walmart, Molson Coors Beverage Company, Beam Suntory, Estee Lauder and J.C. Penney. A native of Chile, Duarte has also served as chair of the Idaho Hispanic Chamber of Commerce.

Bryan Haardt, strategic advisor, ABC Intelligence

Bryan Haardt, strategic advisor, ABC Intelligence.

ABC Intelligence, a company specializing in artificial intelligence (AI)-driven data solutions and decision-support platforms for animal health, recently welcomed Bryan Haardt as its strategic advisor. In his new role, Haardt will work with the ABC Intelligence’s executive team on market strategy, go-to-market acceleration, and more.

Haardt has an extensive background in AI, software platforms, and Internet of Things. According to ABC Intelligence, he often serves as an advisor to AI startups and investment groups interested in transformative technology. Haardt has also been CEO of various digital health companies and held a leadership role at Boehringer Ingelheim. Haardt has also served as the chief technology officer for the Houston Technology Center and was a founding member of the Greater Houston Partnership’s Emerging Business Council.

“We’re thrilled to welcome Bryan to ABC Intelligence. His ability to scale complex technologies and align vision with execution is exactly what we need as we enter our next phase of growth,” Scott Woodrow, CEO of ABC Intelligence, said in a news release.

 “Bryan’s strategic insights and track record in AI commercialization make him an invaluable addition to our team.”

Premier Vet Alliance appoints Sean Fitzgerald as new managing director USA. News release. Premier Vet Alliance. July 24, 2025.

PetSmart appoints Jesica Duarte as executive vice president and chief commercial officer. News release. PetSmart. August 4, 2025. Accessed August 29, 2025. https://prnmedia.prnewswire.com/news-releases/petsmart-appoints-jesica-duarte-as-executive-vice-president-and-chief-commercial-officer-302520931.html

ABC Intelligence, Inc. appoints Bryan Haardt as strategic advisor. News release. August 4, 2025. 

New leadership moves, recognition, and achievement.

Paws and profits: PetSmart announces new executive vice president, and more

An Australian start-up developing a therapy to treat brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome (BOAS) received the Innovation Award during the closing of the 2025 KC Animal Health Corridor Summit in Kansas City, Missouri. The winning company, Snoretox, was 1 of 14 start-ups from 6 countries to pitch their products and services at the summit.

The recognition goes to “the most innovative presentation of this year’s summit,” Emily McVey, vice president of the KC Animal Health Corridor, said while presenting the award.

 The decision by the 6-member judges panel was unanimous, according to Snoretox.

Photo: Kristen Coppock Crossley, MA/dvm360

BOAS affects bulldogs, pugs, and other short-snouted breeds.

Throat surgery is currently a common treatment for the condition, according to Anthony Sasse, FRACP, a pulmonologist in rural Australia and member of the Snoretox team. "The price of surgery is $5000 USD. Efficacy, unfortunately, is only poor. Sixty percent [of patients] still have their respiratory function compromised,” he said during the pitch presentation.

The KC Animal Health Corridor bestowed the Innovation Award in recognition of the therapy’s promise as an alternative to surgery for dogs in need of help to breathe easier. Modeled after Botox therapy, Snoretox’s injectable treatment strengthens muscle tone using tetanus toxin to keep canine airways open.

“How does our drug work? It's injected into the geniohyoid [muscle], which is at the floor of the mouth, bilaterally. It consists of 2 components. Firstly, a decoy, which attracts, absorbs, and removes the local antibodies. Then tetanus toxin, in a tiny dose, causes increased neural tone. This acts to stabilize the anterior airway,” Sasse said.

According to Sasse, the developmental product has the potential to address a critical unmet need for the companion animal population. However, he noted that the product also offers a future pipeline of possibilities. The company believes the product can be effective in treating certain feline and canine conditions, a variety of equine muscle disorders, and other neuromuscular conditions across animal species. “This product has platform potential,” Sasse said.

According to Snoretox, opportunities are already opening up to the company as it continues to attract interest. “This award has supported this momentum and added value to our company,” the winning start-up wrote in a public statement.

Celebrating its 20th anniversary, the KC Animal Health Corridor region stretches from Manhattan, Kansas, to Columbia, Missouri. It has become home to more than 300 companies and is responsible for $4 billion in capital investment, 4500 new jobs, and 85 company relocations, according to the KC Animal Health Corridor. The 2025 summit brought together more than 600 industry leaders, investors, entrepreneurs, and students. Over the past 2 decades, more than 600 emerging companies have applied to present at the summit over the past 20 years. Collectively, participants have raised more than $500 million and have secured licensing, distribution, and acquisition deals.

McVey E. Presentation of Innovation Award. Presented at: KC Animal Health Corridor Summit; August 25-26, 2025; Kansas City, MO.

Snoretox, creator of therapy for brachycephalic dogs, wins 2025 Animal Health Summit Innovation Award. News release. KC Animal Health Corridor. August 27, 2025.

Snoretox wins the 2025 Innovation Award at the Animal Health Summit in Kansas City. News release. Snoretox. August 27, 2025. Accessed August 29, 2025. 

https://snoretox.com/snoretox-wins-the-2025-innovation-award-at-the-animal-health-summit-in-kansas-city/

Sasse A. Emerging Companies Presentations: Snoretox. Presented at: KC Animal Health Corridor Summit; August 25-26, 2025; Kansas City, MO.

Australian start-up Snoretox pitched the injectable therapy during the 2025 KC Animal Health Corridor Summit in Kansas City, Missouri.

BOAS treatment in development is recognized with Innovation Award

Carrier training and at-home prep tips to share with clients, from Ellen Carozza, LVT, VTS (CP-Feline)

Helping clients reduce feline stress during vet visits

, Ellen Carozza, LVT, VTS (CP-Feline), explains how client behaviors around carriers and transport can impact feline stress during veterinary visits. She also offers recommendations on carrier training and at-home preparation that veterinary teams can share with clients to make visits smoother.

Below is a partial transcript, lightly edited for improved clarity.

So pet owners can actually be contributing to their pet’s own stress. And I really feel like sometimes it starts with that phone call that [the] cat, for some reason, uses their sixth sense and says, ‘oh gosh, they’re making a call to the veterinarian about me, and this is going to go really poorly.’

However, we also know that at home, what happens is [clients] usually will stalk their cat and look for them because they go in, they get that cat carrier out that may not be left out all the time for that cat to use as a safe space, and it only comes out when you’re going to the vet or going in the car for some other trip and now that cat associates that specific cat carrier with a stressor. So now the cat is like, ‘Hang on a second. I don’t like this.’ And they start running around the house and going to hide. And then, of course, what does our client do? Runs around the house behind the cat. They might have to get on their hands and knees underneath the bed, drag their cat out, shove it in a cat carrier. Now that cat is really stressed, and now [the pet owner is] going to go throw [the cat] in a car, and it might be a hot car at that point in time. So now the cat is even stressed further.

Now the client is worried that they’re going to miss their appointment and they’re running late because they didn’t start earlier to actually get their cat acclimated to a cat carrier or the idea that 

. And then, you know, they [arrive to the clinic]. [The cat is] in a place that might be loud, especially if you’re in a mixed practice and you’re sharing an exam room or....a lobby that doesn’t have sound barriers, but only just a partition for visual. So, sight, sound, odor all contributes to all of this.

And then they’re going to go in a room and they’re going to get handled in a room by strange people, and then poked and prodded...

Videos

Carrier training and at-home prep tips to share with clients, from Ellen Carozza, LVT, VTS (CP-Feline).

The Reassessment Campaign on Veterinary Resuscitation (RECOVER) Initiative announced earlier this week that it has released its Newborn Resuscitation Guidelines. These guidelines aim to help veterinary teams support kittens and puppies immediately following their birth and are the first of its kind.

“These Guidelines are the product of years of exhaustive literature search, analysis, synthesis, and consensus, made possible through the collaboration of more than 60 veterinary professionals and subject matter experts,” explained Manuel Boller, DrMedVet, MTR, DACVECC, research co-chair of RECOVER, in the organizational release.

Александр Лебедько/stock.adobe.com

According to the RECOVER Initiative, there have been no evidence-based guidelines or a clear consensus on what the best practice is to support newborn puppies and kittens as they make the transition from intra-to-extra uterine life.

Through these guidelines, that gap is being addressed through a structured, scientifically-informed recommendations for that first hour following birth, which is the period when neonatal patients are the most vulnerable.

Training new leaders with CPR instructor certification course

“There is evidence that more than 10% of puppies born after difficult labor, or simply even born by Cesarean section, do not survive the first 24 hours after birth,” Jamie Burkitt, DVM, DACVECC, guidelines co-Chair of RECOVER, said.

 “With these Guidelines, we aim to provide veterinary teams with evidence- and consensus-based practices with the goal of optimally supporting newborn puppies or kittens during this fragile period.”

The guidelines focus on a range of supportive measures that emphasize immediate and gentle intervention, such as airway clearing, assisted ventilation, and tactile stimulation to help these newborns establish effective breathing patterns.

 If a patient is a more severe case, such as those who are not breathing or have no detectable heartbeat, these guidelines will offer a clear set of directions on more advanced measures that can be taken, such as starting chest compressions as well as administering life-saving drugs alongside artificial respiration.

The new guidelines will also provide a newborn resuscitation algorithm as well as a drug dosing chat to serve as cognitive aids for rescues trying to navigate in real-time clinical decisions during neonatal emergencies in their clinic.

“Resuscitation of newborn puppies and kittens varies in many aspects from CPR in adult dogs or cats,” Boller concluded.

 “During normal birth, mothers provide vital care such as stimulating breathing and clearing airways. But in cases where this doesn’t occur—or during Cesarean births—the responsibility falls to veterinary professionals. Our Guidelines are designed to help those teams step in quickly and effectively.”

The RECOVER Newborn Resuscitation Guidelines are available in an open-access issue of Wiley’s 

Journal of Veterinary Emergency and Critical Care 

The RECOVER Initiative Releases Newborn Resuscitation Guidelines for Puppies and Kittens. News release. The Reassessment Campaign on Veterinary Resuscitation Initiative. August 25, 2025. Accessed August 29, 2025. 

https://recoverinitiative.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Newborn-Resuscitation-Guidelines-Press-Release.pdf

The guidelines will help veterinary teams support puppies and kittens immediately after birth. 