This episode explores the complex relationship between chronic pain, behaviour, movement and the human-animal bond. Hannah is joined by Dr Findy and Elena Wilson to discuss why chronic pain can be difficult to recognise, particularly when behavioural or mobility changes are misinterpreted as training issues, ageing or stubbornness. They explore the importance of understanding the emotional and social impact of pain, supporting caregivers through difficult diagnoses, and recognising that dogs are continually communicating with us. The conversation also highlights the value of true interdisciplinary collaboration, combining veterinary, behavioural and physiotherapy expertise to provide more holistic care. Ultimately, effective chronic pain management goes beyond medication, requiring individualised support, environmental adaptations, appropriate movement, emotional safety and a strong team around both the dog and caregiver.
5 Key Take Home Points
Guest bio
Dr Findy Let's Talk Paws Veterinary Behaviour
Elena ELEVATE Veterinary Physiotherapy
Dr Findy, a vet from Australia and Elena Wilse, a vet physio from the UK. Dr Findy graduated from the University of Sydney with first class honours then went on to complete a masters in clinical animal behaviour at the Uni of Edinburgh. She leads Let's Talk Paws Veterinary Behaviour Services and believes in supporting human-animal relationships by providing owners with an understanding of behaviour from an animals' perspective. She also works in shelter rehabilitation work with a special interest in post-adoption support. Findy is pursuing a PhD with the School of Psychology at the University of Sydney, where she is researching on how best to support caregivers in their emotional and relational journey of caring for a behaviourally challenged dog.
Elena has a first-class degree in human physiotherapy and a Master's with distinction in veterinary physiotherapy from the University of Liverpool. Elena is the founder of ELEVATE Veterinary Physiotherapy. She is a chartered physiotherapist and ACPAT-registered veterinary physiotherapist, with a particular interest in the relationship between chronic pain, movement and behaviour in dogs. Drawing on around ten years of experience in human physiotherapy, Elena takes a biopsychosocial approach to canine rehabilitation—considering not only how a dog moves, but how pain may affect their emotions, behaviour, relationships and everyday life.
ELEVATE Veterinary Physiotherapy supports dogs and their carers in the UK and internationally through:
Online Gait Analysis: Structured video analysis to identify and document subtle movement asymmetries and compensatory patterns to bridge the gap between pain and behaviour. The service includes a detailed written report, an online consultation with the carer and, with consent, communication of the findings and recommendations to the dog’s veterinary team.
Online Physiotherapy Memberships: Individualised, longer-term support
Pain–behaviour support: Physiotherapy input for dogs whose pain, movement and behavioural presentations may be interconnected
Professional education: Training and educational content for veterinary and animal-care professionals
Let’s Talk Paws offer a comprehensive service in supporting dogs and cats suffering from behaviour challenges. Consultations are conducted in the comfort of your home via Telehealth or in-person sessions.
Our service areas include Sydney, Central Coast, Newcastle and Hunter Surrounds.
Instagram: Let’s Talk Paws
