A dog's ( <i>Canis familiaris</i> ) cooperative care journey following diagnosis with immune‐mediated polyarthritis

Abstract At 3 years 2 months of age, a female, neutered standard schnauzer was diagnosed with immune‐mediated polyarthritis; ongoing monthly blood sampling, initial monthly administration of bedinvetmab via subcutaneous injection, and ongoing daily physiotherapy were required as part of the patient's treatment protocol. Due to underlying anxiety, the patient struggled with any form of physical handling and the presence of novel objects at the veterinary practice. Demonstration of appeasement gestures, attempts to escape and an inability to accept food in the presence of a perceived threat were noted. Veterinary intervention was therefore extremely challenging. Repeated sedative administration was contraindicated due to the presence of gastro‐oesophageal reflux disease. This case report describes the process and success of implementing a cooperative care training programme to protect both physical and emotional patient welfare.