Vet Candy – Veterinary Lifestyle, News & Learning

She’s opened a brewery. She’s worked in HR. She co-founded CodaPet, helping families with compassionate in-home euthanasia. But can Dr. Bethany Hsia survive the ultimate challenge—trivia questions about turkey sneezes, cancer-fighting cats, and flu-proof seals? In this month’s episode of Brain Smarts with Vet Candy, hosts Caitlin and Clay Palmer put Dr. Hsia to the test in the only veterinary podcast where the science is real, the answers are ridiculous, and the scorekeeping is questionable at best. From dramatic boy cats with weak hearts to a lightning round written entirely in limericks, Dr. Hsia proves she can handle just about anything. (Though let’s be honest—running a nationwide company might actually be easier.) Presented by PRN Pharmacal, makers of Felycin (sirolimus delayed-release tablets). 🎧 Listen now and find out if Bethany makes it out officially “Brain Smart”… or just slightly traumatized.

On Vet Candy News, a groundbreaking new study has revealed the extent of animal use in veterinary education across the U.S. and Canada. Researchers reviewed 120 animal use protocols from 26 public vet schools and found widespread reliance on cadavers and terminal teaching exercises—despite ethical guidelines urging alternatives. Key findings: nearly all schools used horses, cows, or small ruminants; poultry were used in the highest numbers, mainly for euthanasia training; and dogs, cats, and rodents were also included. While donation programs supply many cadavers, sourcing remains inconsistent and sometimes vague. Most protocols admitted alternatives exist but argued they weren’t equal for teaching. Alarmingly, some schools gave no consideration to alternatives at all—despite guidelines discouraging euthanasia for training purposes. The authors say this is likely an undercount, since cadavers used in anatomy and pathology aren’t always tracked. Overall, the study highlights a gap between ethical standards and actual practices, urging vet schools to embrace proven alternatives like simulators and clinical cases to train future veterinarians with both skill and compassion. #veterinarynews #veterinary #vetmed #vetschool.

In March 2025, the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) Council on Education (COE) quietly rolled back a major accreditation requirement: veterinary schools are no longer required to report on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI). In a letter sent to veterinary school deans, the COE said it will “not require programs to report on, or comply with, current aspects of the Standards of Accreditation that relate to DEI…in a manner that conflicts with applicable law or other institutional directives.” In effect, what was once mandatory is now optional. The council emphasized that schools may still pursue and share DEI initiatives, but critics warn that removing accountability has serious consequences for the profession: Loss of Transparency: Without required reporting, schools may sideline DEI work, making it difficult to measure progress. Student & Faculty Impact: Data on recruitment, retention, and support of underrepresented groups could disappear, allowing disparities to persist unnoticed. Equity Setbacks: Mandatory reporting has been one of the few tools to push the overwhelmingly white profession toward change. Making it optional risks slowing that momentum. Veterinary medicine already faces deep representation gaps. According to AVMA data, as of 2021 the profession was 91.9% white, with Black veterinarians making up less than 1%. Without structured reporting, inequities may remain invisible—robbing underrepresented students and faculty of the support they need. The COE frames the change as protecting institutions from legal conflicts, but many veterinarians, students, and educators see it as a step backward. During the public comment period, dozens urged the council to preserve DEI reporting. Their concerns went unanswered. For those who believe accountability is essential, action is still possible: contact AVMA representatives, engage with the House of Delegates, and advocate within veterinary schools. Without continued pressure, the profession risks losing one of its few mechanisms for tracking—and tackling—its diversity problem. #veterinary #veterinarymedicine #animalhealth #deireporting #AVMA #AVMACOE #veterinaryschool

On today's Vet Candy News under 5, we hear updates on H5N1. The detection of H5N1 in a Texas dairy herd and the unresolved source of the California child’s infection highlight the evolving challenges posed by avian influenza. Collaboration between animal and human health sectors—guided by a One Health framework—is essential to mitigate risks. Vigilance, biosecurity, and continued research are key to safeguarding both animal and human health. #veterinarymedicine #vetmed #veterinarynew

Listen to Vet Candy News to keep up with the latest vet med trends and research. A new study from the University of Nottingham shows that in the U.K., no commercially available dog foods—plant-based, meat-based, or veterinary—fully meet all adult dog nutritional guidelines. Published in PLOS One on September 3, 2025, researchers analyzed 31 dry dog foods labeled “complete,” including 19 meat-based, 6 plant-based, and 6 veterinary diets designed for dogs with kidney concerns. While dogs are omnivores capable of thriving on a variety of diets, the study revealed gaps across all types of dog foods. All products met vitamin D requirements, but compliance dropped significantly for amino acids (17/31), minerals (5/31), and B-vitamins (4/31). Plant-based diets were particularly prone to deficiencies in iodine and B-vitamins, but supplementation can help cover these gaps. Veterinary diets, despite being specially formulated for renal support, often lacked essential amino acids. Lead researcher Rebecca Brociek emphasized: “Dogs don’t need meat—they need the right nutrients. Our study shows that plant-based diets can be viable with supplementation, but every type of dog food has nutritional gaps that veterinarians and owners should be aware of.” These findings underscore the importance of evaluating nutrient intake, especially for dogs on plant-based or therapeutic diets, and may guide veterinarians in recommending supplements or dietary adjustments.

Summer just got a whole lot hotter—because the latest issue of Vet Candy Magazine is officially live! Brought to you by PRN Pharmacal, this month’s edition is bursting with energy, real talk, and the kind of inspiration that makes you want to high-five the nearest vet mom you know. Gracing our cover is none other than Dr. Elān Armstrong, the unstoppable Connecticut veterinarian who juggles a thriving career, co-hosts our brand-new talk show Pop with Dr. Shannon Gregoire, and somehow still finds time to raise four (yes, four!) amazing kids. She's smart, she's fierce, and she’s redefining what it means to be a modern vet—and we are so here for it. Listen to the deepdive and stay up to date!

Brought to you by PRN Pharmacal, maker of Reconcile for separation anxiety in dogs. Check out reconcile.com for more! In this wildly entertaining episode of All Creatures, fictional Connecticut veterinarians Dr. Greathouse (Caitlin Palmer) and Dr. Smalls (Clay Palmer) trade clinic life for the rodeo scene at the Goshen Stampede Fair—only to find themselves wrapped in a cryptid mystery that’s more science than superstition. What starts as a fun weekend filled with bull riding and deep-fried Oreos quickly turns into a veterinary whodunit when prize cattle are found dead—bloodless, woundless, and raising serious Chupacabra alarm bells. But with the help of real veterinary pathologists and parasitologists (yes, tick experts!), the duo uncovers a shocking culprit: the self-cloning, bloodsucking Asian longhorned tick. As rumors swirl and cows vanish, our vet heroes team up with fan-favorites like Dr. Aleksandra Żuraw, Dr. Martha Smith-Blackmore, and Dr. Risa Pesapane, while shady roadside hustler Joaquin stirs up Chupacabra hype to sell his fried "Chupacabra Balls." Just when things couldn’t get weirder, a runaway cow, a wrecked Airstream, and a secret rodeo star (we see you, Quisha!) bring the episode to a hilarious, action-packed climax. 💡 Fangs on the Farm is everything you love about All Creatures—mystery, myth-busting, real vet science, and unforgettable characters—all wrapped up in deep-fried chaos. Catch the episode now! Rated: 🐮🐛🍗 5/5 Chupacabra Balls #veterinary #vetmed #mystery #comedypodcast #funny

Ready to get your brain buzzing and your sides hurting? On the newest episode of Vet Candy’s hit game show, Brain Smarts, your favorite vet pro comedians Clay and Caitlin Palmer, are joined by none other than Ashli Selke — the unstoppable force shaking up veterinary medicine. She’s not just a veterinary technician powerhouse. Ashli is a legal strategist rewriting the rules, a former NAVTA President, a board member, and the ultimate champion for rising leaders. She’s not just breaking glass ceilings — she’s tearing down the whole roof so the right people can rise. Expect spicy hot takes, jaw-dropping insider stories, and laughs you won’t find anywhere else. Brought to you by PRN Pharmacal, maker of Reconcile for separation anxiety in dogs. Learn more at reconcile.com!

This week on Vet Candy's Brain Smarts, Clay and Caitlin Palmer welcome a vet who’s got the medical chops and the hot glue gun to prove it—Dr. Hannah Jordan! She treats exotic animals by day, crafts earrings by night, and channels her inner Steve Irwin 24/7. Join us as we dive into vet med trivia that’ll make you laugh, cringe, and question everything you know about parrots with potty mouths. Dr. Jordan shares how she balances saving lives with sparkle, why empathy is her superpower, and what happens when a hedgehog needs therapy. It’s brains, jokes, animal facts you didn’t ask for—and yes, emotional support bearded dragons. Brought to you by PRN Pharmacal, makers of Reconcile® for dogs. 🐶 Learn more at reconcile.com. 🐍🦜🎨🦔 Don’t miss this wildly educational episode—it’s like vet school, but funny and zero tuition. #veterinarymedicine #vetmed #funny #comedypodcast

Brought to you by PRN Pharmacal, makers of KBroVet CA-1. Learn more at Kbrovet.com 🎉 Get Ready for Another Wild Round of Brain Smarts! 🎉 Welcome to Brain Smarts by Vet Candy – the veterinary game show where knowledge collides with comedy, and the competition is fiercer than a cat at the vet! 🐱💡 Hosted by the hilarious Clay & Caitlin Palmer, this fast-paced showdown puts veterinary pros to the ultimate test with brain-busting trivia, current events, and unexpected twists. This episode features the incredible Dr. Christina Kaye, a feline-loving, adventure-seeking veterinarian who’s as passionate about ophthalmology as she is about conquering Tough Mudders! 🏆🐍 With experience in emergency medicine, multiple specialty internships, and a dedication to making vet visits stress-free for cats, Dr. Kaye is bringing her smarts (and maybe some of her homemade desserts? 🍰) to the Brain Smarts stage. Will she rise to the challenge and claim the Brain Smarts Champion title? Or will the trivia questions leave her scratching her head like a puzzled housecat? Tune in to find out—because in this game, the only thing certain is fun, facts, and fierce competition!

Think neurology is intimidating? Think again! This isn’t your average textbook—it’s a vibrant, high-yield crash course designed by top veterinary neurologists (including the brilliant Dr. Gaemia Tracy!) to make neuro clear, engaging, and even fun! Why You’ll Love It: ✅ Demystifies complex neuro concepts—no jargon, just straightforward, digestible knowledge ✅ Packed with clinical pearls from leading experts—learn how the pros diagnose & treat ✅ Real-world case examples—because nothing beats seeing neuro in action ✅ Quick-reference charts & diagrams—perfect for fast review before exams or tough cases ✅ Survival tips for neuro emergencies—because seizures don’t wait for a slow brain! Whether you’re a student, tech, or practicing vet, this book is your secret weapon for mastering neurology without the headache. (Well, maybe just a little one… but we’ll fix that too! 😉) ✨ Ready to become a neuro rockstar? Get your copy today on Kindle and myvetcandy.com/books

In this must-listen episode of Vet Candy, Dr. Abi Maynard, Dr. Dazjah Samuels, and Dr. Shannon Gregoire reveal the 5 biggest mistakes new veterinary school grads make and how to steer clear of them. Whether you’re just graduating or a seasoned vet looking to avoid common pitfalls, this episode is packed with expert advice on managing burnout, dealing with imposter syndrome, handling client expectations, and much more. Tune in to learn how to thrive in your first years post-grad and set yourself up for success in the competitive world of veterinary medicine. Don’t miss the tips that will change your career trajectory! Brought to you by Hometown Vet Partners, learn more about how you can become a partner vet at hometownvetpartners.com/vetcandy

In this episode of 21 Questions with Vet Candy, we get up close and personal with Dr. Julia Miller, a Kentucky-based veterinary dermatologist who’s making waves in the world of animal skin care. From managing itchy pets to her favorite bluegrass pastime, Dr. Miller shares her journey into veterinary dermatology, her top tips for pet owners, and what it's really like treating skin, ears, and allergies all day. Tune in for expert insights, fun stories, and rapid-fire questions that reveal the dermatologist behind the dermatoscope. Whether you're a vet med student, practicing pro, or just obsessed with healthy pets, this episode is for you!

In this episode of The Cat Daddy Show, we’re diving into the April 2025 issue of Vet Candy Magazine with special guest Shannon Gervase, a Canadian veterinary business expert and future clinic owner. Shannon joins us to unpack the top stories in veterinary medicine, pet care, and practice management from this month’s magazine. From cutting-edge research on canine epilepsy and machine learning tools to leadership tips for veterinary professionals, budget-friendly clinic upgrades, and real talk on veterinary burnout, this episode is packed with value for vets, vet techs, students, and pet lovers. 🎧 You’ll learn about: The latest science on epilepsy in Belgian Shepherds 🧬 How to lead powerfully and negotiate with confidence in your vet career 💼 The truth behind pandemic puppy parenting 🐶 Practical design tips to elevate your clinic on a budget 💡 An inspiring look at Shannon’s journey to opening her own animal hospital 🚀 Whether you're building your career in veterinary medicine or just love keeping up with the industry, this episode offers expert insights, inspiration, and actionable takeaways. 🔍 Keywords: veterinary business, veterinary career tips, epilepsy in dogs, Belgian Shepherds, Shannon Gervase, Vet Candy April 2025, veterinary practice management, clinic design, pandemic puppies, veterinary burnout, machine learning in veterinary medicine, veterinary podcast

Brought to you by PRN Pharmacal, makers of KBroVet CA-1. Learn more at Kbrovet.com. This episode, we’re thrilled to welcome the one and only Dr. Thomas Vega – aka The Fashion Vet – a trailblazer in veterinary medicine with a flair for style and a passion for innovation! 💼🐾 From cutting-edge care to trendsetting threads, Dr. Vega brings his A-game to everything he does. Join your hilarious hosts, Clay & Caitlin Palmer, as they put Dr. Vega to the test in a high-energy battle of wits, trivia, and maybe even a surprise challenge or two! Will The Fashion Vet outsmart the competition and take home the Brain Smarts crown? Or will the questions leave him as stunned as a cat in a cucumber maze? 😹 Tune in for laughs, learning, and a fierce showdown you won’t want to miss—because when brains and style collide, anything can happen! 🔥

🎙️ 21 Questions with Vet Candy: Special Guest Amy Newfield, CVT, VTS (ECC) In this exciting episode of 21 Questions with Vet Candy, we welcome the one and only Amy Newfield, CVT, VTS (ECC)—a powerhouse in the veterinary technician world! Known for her expertise in emergency and critical care, Amy has dedicated her career to educating, inspiring, and empowering vet techs everywhere. Get ready as we put Amy in the hot seat with 21 fun, unexpected, and thought-provoking questions! From wild ER cases to her top tips for thriving in the veterinary field, Amy shares her experiences, insights, and a few behind-the-scenes stories from her incredible career. But can she keep up with the rapid-fire round? Tune in for laughter, wisdom, and a whole lot of vet tech real talk—because when Amy Newfield is on the mic, you know it’s going to be a good time! 🎧🐾

On this episode of 21 Questions with Vet Candy, we’re putting the spotlight on Dr. Danny Sacks, a veterinarian with a passion for animal health, lifelong learning, and the unexpected twists of veterinary medicine. Hosted by Vet Candy’s founder, Dr. Jill Lopez, this fast-paced podcast takes Dr. Sacks through a whirlwind of fun, thought-provoking, and downright hilarious questions. From his journey into veterinary medicine to the quirkiest cases he’s ever encountered, Dr. Sacks shares personal stories, career insights, and maybe even a few secrets about life behind the exam room door. But can he handle the rapid-fire round of Vet Candy’s signature 21 Questions? Tune in for laughs, wisdom, and a fresh perspective on the world of veterinary medicine—because with Dr. Danny Sacksin the hot seat, anything can happen!

This show is brought to you by PRN Pharmacal, makers of KBroVet CA-1. Learn more at KBroVet.com In this exciting episode, we dive into the March 2025 edition of Vet Candy Magazine, featuring the incredible Dr. Jen Remnes on the cover. Dr. Jen is a St. George University graduate, co-founder of Vetique Chicago, and one of our very own Vet Candy contributors. Her journey from being told she couldn’t succeed as a practice owner to building a luxury veterinary clinic on Chicago’s Gold Coast is nothing short of inspiring. But Dr. Jen isn’t just redefining pet care—she’s also an adrenaline junkie who climbs mountains, skydives, and finds balance in the thrill of extreme sports. Tune in as we explore her story of resilience, innovation, and dreaming big, and how she’s using her platform to inspire the next generation of veterinarians. Plus, we’ll highlight other stories from this month’s issue, including: Heroic efforts of veterinarians during the wildfires The vital role of federal veterinarians in safeguarding public health Wildlife medicine and how vets are stepping up to help animals in need Listen and learn!

🎙️ 21 Questions with Vet Candy: Dr. Melody Spills All! 🎉🐾 On this episode of 21 Questions with Vet Candy, we’re putting Dr. Melody in the hot seat as she takes on the ultimate 21 Question Challenge with our host, Dr. Jill Lopez! 🔥💬 From hilarious vet school memories to her biggest pet peeve in the clinic, Dr. Melody answers it all—no dodging, no filters, just pure fun (and maybe a little oversharing 😆). Will she reveal her weirdest animal encounter? Her dream vacation spot? The one thing she’d ban from every vet clinic forever? 👀🐶 Hit play and get ready to laugh, learn, and maybe even find out Dr. Melody’s guilty pleasures. This is 21 Questions, Vet Candy style—unfiltered, unexpected, and totally binge-worthy! 🎧🔥

Welcome to Brain Smarts, Vet Candy’s newest (and most gloriously unhinged) game show, where vet med knowledge collides with pure chaos! 🎉 If you’ve ever wondered what happens when highly intelligent veterinary professionals are forced to answer completely absurd animal-related questions… well, you’re about to find out. This week, we’ve summoned a very special guest—the Hermione Granger of vet med herself, Jennifer Serling! 🪄📚 If vet tech had a Hogwarts, she’d have the Sorting Hat screaming “Ravenclaw!” before it even touched her head. She’s got decades of experience, a brain packed with veterinary wisdom, and a deep love for large animals(seriously, she probably has a favorite cow). But here’s the real question: Will Jennifer’s encyclopedic knowledge and magical vet tech skills help her dominate our absolutely ridiculous trivia? Or will we finally ask a question so unhinged that even she is left speechless? (Spoiler: Probably not, but we’re gonna give it our best shot. 🫠) Expect wild vet facts, pop quizzes with zero educational value, and some deeply questionable animal-related hypotheticals (like, would a horse rather fight one hundred duck-sized horses or one horse-sized duck? 🤔). So grab your butterbeer, caffeine, or whatever fuels your vet med survival, and watch Jennifer absolutely school us all on this week’s Brain Smarts!