Episode 97 - Loving Life with a Disabled Dog with Jane White

Episode summary

In this heartfelt episode, Hannah Capon is joined by veterinary rehabilitation specialist Dr Jane White to discuss life with a disabled dog and the lessons she's learned through caring for her own Border Collie, Drift, following a devastating spinal cord injury. Jane shares how her personal experience transformed her perspective as a veterinary professional, highlighting the emotional challenges, practical adaptations and mindset shifts that come with caring for a mobility-impaired dog.

Together, they explore how many of these lessons apply equally to dogs living with arthritis—from adapting the home environment and maintaining quality of life to managing caregiver guilt and recognising that every dog’s journey is unique. The conversation also tackles difficult topics such as incontinence, rehabilitation, end-of-life decisions and the importance of building a trusted support team. Ultimately, this episode is a compassionate reminder that while life with a disabled or arthritic dog may look different, it can still be full of joy, purpose and meaningful moments.

Recourses

Visit Jane’s website and buy a copy of Loving Life With A Disabled Dog

Pepper’s Place - wheelchairs and support for disabled dogs

5 Key Take-Home Points

• Don’t focus on what your dog has lost - focus on what they can still enjoy

• Adapt your dogs environment to make daily life easier and safer

• If you have to take an activity away, replace it with something equally as rewarding

• Be kind to yourself - there’s no perfect way to care for a disabled dog

• Review, reassess and adapt regularly - small changes can make a big difference

Speaker bio

Dr Jane White is a veterinary surgeon with over 35 years of experience and a passion for rehabilitation, mobility and improving quality of life for dogs and cats. She holds advanced qualifications in feline medicine, behaviour, veterinary physiotherapy and canine rehabilitation, and has extensive experience in hydrotherapy and acupuncture. Jane is also a committee member of the British Veterinary Rehabilitation and Sports Medicine Association. Following a life-changing spinal injury suffered by her own Border Collie, Drift, she wrote Loving Life with a Disabled Dog, sharing practical advice and emotional support for caregivers. Jane is dedicated to helping owners navigate mobility challenges with confidence, compassion and hope.

Learn more about CAM

CAM website - CAM Education Centre - The Pain Vet

Chronic Pain Symposium - CAM Shop - CAM Podcast

Socials for Professionals:

Facebook pro - LinkedIn - Instagram

Socials for Caregivers:

Facebook - Instagram - Holly's Army

Have questions send them to: podcast@caninearthritis.co.uk