Adams, CindyPhillips, Alexandra2017-01-022017-01-0220172017Phillips, A. (2017). Exploring the Role of Communication in Companion Animal Obesity in the Veterinary Practice (Master's thesis, University of Calgary, Calgary, Canada). Retrieved from https://prism.ucalgary.ca. doi:10.11575/PRISM/26122http://hdl.handle.net/11023/3530Veterinarians are tasked with an important communication challenge when treating obese cats and dogs, as obesity among pets remains a prevalent health and welfare concern. Our objectives were to 1) foster further understanding of the owner and veterinary perspectives of the complex factors that influence obesity in dogs and cats; and 2) to contribute to the evidence surrounding the nature of obesity and diet discussions between veterinarians and cat owners. A review of diverse literatures suggested that a complex and multi-faceted set of influences complicate obesity management, and utility of communication between owners and veterinarians. A thematic analysis of an archive of video-recorded veterinarian-client-feline consultations revealed a lack of in-depth nutritional assessment by the veterinarian and communication misalignment between veterinarians and owners. Emergent themes included the use of humour and patient-directed speak to facilitate obesity conversations. Exploration and description of how veterinarians and owners of obese pets are communicating can inform veterinary education programming and continuing education opportunities.engUniversity of Calgary graduate students retain copyright ownership and moral rights for their thesis. You may use this material in any way that is permitted by the Copyright Act or through licensing that has been assigned to the document. For uses that are not allowable under copyright legislation or licensing, you are required to seek permission.EducationAnimal Culture and NutritionVeterinary ScienceEducationfelineObesitycommunicationveterinarythematicqualitativemaster thesis10.11575/PRISM/26122