On August 19th, Shawna Morrow successfully defended her MSc. thesis titled, Weight Management in Veterinary Practice: An Exploration of In-Practice Support, and the Experiences of Veterinary Professionals
Read on for more information about Shawna and her thesis!
Can you provide a summary of your thesis?
This thesis investigates the promotion of weight management in Ontario’s veterinary practices, and the successes and challenges encountered by veterinary professionals. A review of 50 practice websites revealed a lack of emphasis on promoting weight management services, with a larger focus on nutrition and bodyweight counselling over physical therapy. An online survey distributed to Ontario’s companion animal veterinarians and veterinary technicians showed that most respondents prioritized nutrition and weight assessments over physical therapy when managing canine weight. Respondents also agreed that successful implementation and fulfilment of canine weight management plans depend on effective communication, pet guardian compliance and their satisfaction, and regular follow-up. Additionally, exploratory analyses indicated that sufficient education in veterinary nutrition and physical therapy could positively influence respondents’ success rates. Exploratory analyses also indicated that employing more veterinarians and technicians could enhance the likelihood of veterinary practices promoting nutrition and bodyweight services and resources on their websites. These results highlight the need for greater emphasis on the promotion, provision, and education of weight management services, particularly the benefits of physical therapy. The hope of this research is to offer valuable insights that veterinary professionals can apply to weight management to improve upon their experience, the satisfaction of guardians, and the patient’s overall success.
Whats next for you?
Completing my master’s thesis has ignited my passion for research, particularly in pet weight care, and solidified my decision to stay with the OVC Pet Nutrition team and pursue a PhD this fall. My research will focus on canine weight management, specifically investigating whether a physical activity regime delivered through a social media platform, combined with caloric restriction, can positively influence weight loss in client-owned dogs. I am excited for this next journey and hope it leads to a career in the veterinary field, whether in academia, industry, or clinical practice. I am keeping my options open!
What sparked your interest in pet nutrition, and how has that passion evolved throughout your graduate studies?
I began my undergraduate degree in biomedical science with the aim of pursuing a career in human medicine. However, my love for animals soon shifted my focus to veterinary medicine. Through volunteering and working at veterinary clinics, I realized that managing pet weight is a significant challenge due to a lack of resources, education, and communication for both pet guardians and the veterinary team. Recognizing the importance of weight care for pet health, I became determined to make weight management more accessible. During my master’s studies, I saw the urgent need for effective weight care due to rising obesity rates in pets. My passion has now evolved to obtainable goals, as I have and hope to continue to contribute to research that raises awareness and provides valuable knowledge to the veterinary profession, helping them achieve successful weight care for their patients.
Furry Lab Assistants
My two cats have been my constant companions during my master’s journey, providing joy and much needed cuddle breaks. Honey, who is a family cat (but we all know she is really mine) often spent her days laying beside me while I worked, providing silent and much appreciated support. Her weight management journey is an ongoing process as I slowly try to convince my mom of the importance of scheduled over free feeding. Rocket, who my partner and I got as a kitten, has been my guinea pig for applying weight management techniques such as providing the appropriate amount and type of food and physical activity. He truly lives up to his name and is the most energetic cat I have ever met. He provides me with much needed study breaks by demanding playtime, and his favorite activities are going outside on his leash and playing fetch with his ball. These cats continue to inspire my passion for pet research!
Shawna with her cat Rocket.
Funding Statement: This research was supported by the Ontario Veterinary College who provided the student with an OVC MSc Entrance Award + GTs (Group 3). We thank you for your contributions.