Editor’s Note–January 2024

Anyone who knows me, or has had a nonwork conversation with me, knows that I’m passionate about my dogs, a goofy German Shepherd mix and his rather haughty German Shepherd companion. So, remembering one of my editorial board member’s comments about the profession’s increasing interest in veterinary O&P, I was naturally drawn to include this specialty when I contemplated doing an issue focused on special populations—those patients who share unique needs beyond requiring an orthotic or prosthetic device. Of course, since most of our readers are focused on human patients, this issue also includes features about special considerations for women and patients with diabetes.

There’s an old showbiz adage, “never work with animals or children,” which is as much about the fact that they’ll invariably steal the show as how difficult they are to work with. But, anyone who’s ever tried to bandage either one, let alone cast them for a brace or prosthesis, knows that there’s another meaning to that phrase—embracing animal O&P care is no small undertaking. “Serving the Voiceless: Expanding O&P Care for Animals” explores the joys, challenges, and financial considerations of adding this specialty to your repertoire.