New RVC study on managing canine epilepsy
The study found that clearer expectations about treatment outcomes help to improve the vet-owner relationship.
A new study from researchers at the Royal Veterinary College (RVC) has identified several key factors that can impact the relationship between the owners of dogs with idiopathic epilepsy and their veterinary surgeons.
These factors are not only likely to influence owner satisfaction with the care their dog is receiving, but they also increase adherence to care instructions.
One key finding was the importance of providing owners with clear expectations from the first consultation about the condition. In general, owners had little previous experience or knowledge of canine epilepsy, and wanted more precise information on what to expect about disease progression and the effectiveness of treatment.
Other important factors identified as having a positive impact were repeated consultations with the same veterinary surgeon, good communication skills, up-to-date knowledge of epilepsy, and openness to owners contributing to discussions about treatment plans.
The findings, published in Vet Record, were based on face-to-face interviews with 21 owners of dogs with epilepsy.
As well as finding more about how to improve the relationship between owners and veterinary surgeons, the study also revealed that owners with a pre-existing negative view of veterinary professionals were more likely to conduct their own research into treatment and be influenced by misinformation online.
More than 60,000 dogs in the UK have canine epilepsy, making it the most common chronic neurological disease in dogs.
Dr Rowena Packer, primary supervisor on the study, said: “Epilepsy is a challenging condition to manage for dog owners and veterinary surgeons alike. Owners’ emotions often run high due to the trauma of witnessing their beloved dog’s seizure, and the ongoing stresses of caregiving for their dog. In tandem, vets can feel frustrated at not always being able to reduce seizures as much as they’d hope. Combined, the capacity for disappointment and conflict is high.
“Forging strong, trusting partnerships of care between owners and vets is key to maintaining wellbeing for all three members of the ‘treatment triangle’ – affected dogs, owners and vets. The first step towards this is striving for mutual understanding; the results of our novel study offers vets practical ways to achieve this.”
Two independent vets have launched a podcast to help owners strengthen their bond with pets. Dr Maggie Roberts and Dr Vanessa Howie, who have worked in both veterinary practice and major charities, are keen to use their experience to enable people to give pets a better life.
