Along with taking care of pets in the clinic, I also spend a lot of time working on research. Research helps us learn what really works, what doesn’t, and how we can take better care of animals with pain, injuries, and movement problems.
What is my research about?
My published research focuses on how dogs move, how we measure pain and muscle changes, and how different treatments affect recovery. Some of the main areas I’ve worked on include:
- Measuring muscle and body condition in dogs
This helps veterinarians track muscle loss or muscle gain over time, especially in dogs with injuries, arthritis, or after surgery. - Objective ways to evaluate movement and function
I’m interested in tools that go beyond “just looking” at how a dog walks, so we can be more accurate and consistent when assessing lameness and recovery. - Rehabilitation and sports medicine treatments
My work looks at therapies used to help dogs and cats heal, move better, and return to activity safely. - Clinical research that applies to real pets
Many of these studies are designed to answer everyday questions veterinarians and pet owners have about pain, mobility, and recovery.
The common goal across all this work is simple: help animals feel better and move better using good science.
I don’t do this alone
One of the best parts of research is collaboration. I’m very lucky to work with amazing colleagues from different specialties, including:
- Sports medicine and rehabilitation
- Orthopedic surgery
- Neurology
- Imaging and biomechanics
- Academic and private practice veterinarians
These projects are team efforts. Every paper represents many people sharing ideas, asking tough questions, and working together to improve care for dogs.
Looking ahead
There are many ongoing and future projects still in progress, and I’m excited about where this work is heading. Research is always evolving, and I believe that combining clinical experience, collaboration, and evidence-based medicine is the best way to move our field forward.
Thank you to all my co-authors, collaborators, and mentors, and thank you for taking the time to learn more about the work behind the care.
To see my list of research topics, please follow my Google Scholar account:
drbrunke 