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Freedom Collars Web-Vet Column

Welcome to our regular web-vet column by Scottish vet Chris Burch BVMS & MRCVS.

We dedicate this column to pet owners and the animals in their care. Our aim is to help you share experience and knowledge in caring for your pet. Alongside the information that Chris provides on pet health topics, we would like your comments and suggestions so that our site becomes a valued source of pet information.

Please remember the first port of call for any pet problem is your own local vet. They will know your pet's medical history and can assess them first hand. This page provides general information only.

Chris, who qualified as a veterinary surgeon in Edinburgh in 1988, practices in Scotland and has experience with all types of animals, small, large and equine. His wife, Alex, is also on call as an animal physiotherapist. Chris holds a long standing interest in alternative therapies. He told FREEDOM COLLARS:

"I first became interested in alternative therapies when I worked with a vet who had a homeopathic bent in a practice in Lancashire. My interest has grown over the years after seeing the benefits of various types of alternative treatments where others have not succeeded, been inappropriate, or caused unsatisfactory side effects.

"In this context, I have also advised the use of copper collars in dogs, with some very pleasing results.

"Having said that, pet owners should remember while copper can offer an excellent degree of relief from the pain of arthritis, it does not have a 100% success. Just as with people, some pets respond well, and others not at all. Also, while arthritis is a significant cause of joint pain, it is not the only cause - we may cover this in a later article.

"This is why it is so important to consult your own vet to get a confirmation of the diagnosis."

Topics:

• What is pet arthritis?
• Factors involved in the development of pet arthritis.
• Pet arthritis - the differentials
• Traditional treatments for pet arthritis