The Family Pet Podcast

In this episode of the Family Pet Podcast, the hosts interview Michael Leung, the co-founder and chief product developer of SleepyPod, a pet carrier and safety products manufacturer. They discuss the importance of pet safety during car travel and the innovative products SleepyPod has developed to keep pets secure. They also talk about the crash testing process and the need for standardized regulations for pet products in cars. Sleepypod Youtube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@sleepypod Center for Pet Safety Takeaways Pet safety during car travel is crucial to protect both the pet and the occupants of the car. SleepyPod offers a range of innovative products, including carriers and harnesses, that are designed to keep pets secure during car travel. The crash testing process is used to ensure that SleepyPod products meet safety standards and can withstand impact forces. There is a need for standardized regulations for pet products in cars to ensure consistent safety measures. pet safety, car travel, SleepyPod, pet carriers, harnesses, crash testing, standardized regulations, trivia

Register now for the 5th Annual Walk My Dog Challenge In this episode of the Family Pet Podcast, the hosts discuss the different life stages of dogs and the specific health concerns associated with each stage. They cover topics such as vaccinations, dental care, diet and exercise, and joint health. They emphasize the importance of regular veterinary check-ups and preventive care to ensure the overall health and well-being of dogs. Takeaways Dogs go through three main life stages: puppy, adult, and senior. Puppies require vaccinations, proper diet, socialization, and prevention of dietary indiscretions. Adult dogs need annual vaccinations, dental care, proper diet and exercise, and regular blood work. Senior dogs may experience joint and arthritis issues, so joint protectants and labradoras can help with pain management. Regular veterinary check-ups and preventive care are crucial for dogs at every life stage. Keywords dogs, life stages, health concerns, vaccinations, dental care, diet, exercise, joint health, preventive care, veterinary check-ups, sense of smell Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Wardrobe Change 06:00 Subcategories of Puppy Stage 13:12 Vaccinations for Puppies 22:37 Prevention and Vaccinations for Adult Dogs 27:55 Blood Work and Other Concerns for Senior Dogs

In this episode of the Family Pet Podcast, the hosts interview Amy Shojai, a certified animal behavior consultant, about aging in cats. They discuss the physical and behavioral changes that cats experience as they get older, such as muscle wasting, hearing loss, and picky eating. Amy provides tips on how to keep senior cats active and engaged, including using food puzzle toys, providing vertical spaces, and playing with them. She also emphasizes the importance of understanding a cat's love language and meeting their needs on their terms. https://shop.shojai.com/ https://shojai.com/ Keywords aging in cats, physical changes, behavioral changes, muscle wasting, hearing loss, picky eating, keeping cats active, food puzzle toys, vertical spaces, playing with cats, cat love language 00:00 Introduction and Credentials 00:57 The Influence of Dr. David Harris 02:12 Specialization in Aging Pets 05:06 Behavioral and Physical Changes in Aging Cats 09:22 Encouraging Exercise in Older Cats 14:00 Feeding and Nutrition for Aging Cats 20:32 Showing Love to Senior Cats 22:36 Feline Love Languages 26:54 Top Considerations for Owners of Aging Cats 27:31 Book Recommendation and Closing

In this episode of the Family Pet Podcast, the hosts discuss the different life stages of cats and the important aspects of their healthcare. They are joined by Kristal Stanfield, a licensed veterinary technician, who provides valuable insights. The primary themes covered in the conversation include the life stages of cats (kitten, adult, and senior), the importance of vaccines and prevention, the role of diet and exercise, dental care, and reproductive health. The hosts also touch on the topics of urinary tract issues, weight management, and joint health. The episode concludes with fun facts about fleas and ticks.

Register now for the annual Walk My Dog Challenge! The Family Pet Podcast discusses the fifth annual Walk My Dog Challenge, an event that encourages pet owners to walk their dogs and track their miles for a chance to win prizes. Originally, this was created for the dog-loving people of Murfreesboro, Tennessee, but now we have walkers registered from all over the world! The challenge is free to participate in and runs from April 29th to June 28th. The podcast hosts provide tips on equipment needed for walking dogs, such as harnesses and leashes, and emphasize the importance of proper training and manners during walks. They also mention the involvement of local businesses as sponsors and the opportunity for participants to win prizes from these sponsors. The episode concludes with a fun fact about greyhounds being able to run faster than horses in sprints. Check out Wag It Better Dog Training and Boutique owned by Heather Moore.

In this episode, Dr. Angela Briggs, a boarded veterinary dentist, discusses the importance of dental health for pets. She explains the role of a boarded veterinary dentist and the common conditions and treatments they encounter. Dr. Briggs also provides insights into root canals and fractured teeth, as well as the structure of a tooth. She emphasizes the importance of assessing dental health and the use of dental radiographs. Additionally, Dr. Briggs shares tips for preventing dental injuries and highlights common dental issues in cats. Check out Dr. Briggs at Your Pet Dentist

In this episode, Dr. Ben Bergstrom, a boarded veterinary ophthalmologist, discusses various aspects of veterinary ophthalmology. He explains the difference between ophthalmology and optometry, the basics of the eye across different species, and the most common species he treats. Dr. Bergstrom also highlights the importance of early detection in eye conditions and the benefits of cataract surgery. He shares a fun fact about dogs' night vision and emphasizes the role of preventive care in maintaining pets' eye health. Takeaways Check out Dr. Bergstrom and his practice, The Eye Vets located in Nashville, TN Read an article about Fear Free eye exams by host, Michael Shirley Check out The Family Pet Podcast YouTube channel. Chapters 00:00 Introduction 01:13 Introduction of Dr. Ben Bergstrom 02:12 Difference between Ophthalmology and Optometry 03:07 The Basics of the Eye Across Species 04:34 Becoming a Boarded Ophthalmologist 05:02 Choosing Ophthalmology as a Specialty 06:02 The Eye Across Different Species 07:50 Most Common Species Treated 08:29 Treating Wildlife 09:51 Reasons for Pets to Visit an Ophthalmologist 10:41 Breeds Predisposed to Eye Conditions 12:11 When to See an Ophthalmologist 13:11 Tests for Eye Conditions 17:35 Early Detection and Cost Benefit 20:34 Senior Pets and Eye Care 21:05 Importance of Early Detection 23:20 Importance of Vision and Cataract Surgery 25:28 Fun Fact: Dogs' Night Vision 29:03 Conclusion

Mikkel Becker, lead trainer at Fear Free Pets, joins the Family Pet Podcast to discuss fear, anxiety, and stress that pets experience during veterinary care. They cover the importance of protecting the emotional well-being of pets, the benefits of Fear Free certification for veterinary practices, and tips for preparing dogs and cats for vet visits. They also share fun facts about calming music and scents for pets. Overall, Fear Free veterinary care aims to reduce fear, anxiety, and stress in pets, creating a more positive and comfortable experience for both pets and their owners. Fear Free Happy Homes website Happy Paws Podcast Donate to Michael's St Baldrick's Foundation fundraising page! Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Podcast Format 03:01 Fear Free Pets and Emotional Well-being 06:19 Fear Free Certification and Common Themes 09:27 Why Pets Fear Visiting the Veterinarian 11:59 Fear Free Certified Veterinary Practice 15:15 Preparing a Dog for a Vet Visit 24:21 Benefits of Fear Free Veterinary Care 29:27 Fun Facts about Fear Free Veterinary Care

In this episode, Dr. Holly Brown from Antec Diagnostics continues the discussion about lab testing. The sensitivity and specificity of the CBC test are explained, highlighting its ability to detect abnormalities but not always provide specific information about the underlying disease process. The importance of further testing and interpreting lab results with veterinary professionals is emphasized. The role of the chemistry test in assessing organ function is discussed, along with the significance of heartworm testing and prevention. The episode concludes with a reminder for pet owners to prioritize annual blood work for their pets. Takeaways The CBC test is sensitive but not always specific, meaning it can detect abnormalities but may not provide specific information about the underlying disease process. Further testing, such as imaging or additional blood tests, may be necessary to determine the cause of abnormalities detected in the CBC. Interpreting lab results should be done in consultation with veterinary professionals to ensure accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment. The chemistry test assesses organ function and provides valuable information about a pet's overall health. Heartworm testing is crucial for early detection and prevention of heartworm disease, which can be deadly but is preventable. Annual blood work is essential for establishing baselines, monitoring health, and detecting potential issues early.

In this episode of the Family Pet Podcast, host Stephen and guest Dr. Holly Brown discuss the importance of lab work in pet healthcare. They cover topics such as the complete blood count (CBC), fecal testing, and urinalysis. They also explore the differences between in-house testing and reference labs. Dr. Brown emphasizes the value of baseline lab results and provides a fun fact about the origin of the word 'leukemia'. The episode concludes with a preview of Part 2, where they will delve deeper into specific aspects of lab testing. Takeaways Lab work is an essential part of pet healthcare and can provide valuable insights into a pet's overall health. The complete blood count (CBC) is a comprehensive test that examines red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets. Fecal testing helps detect gastrointestinal parasites and is crucial for both the pet's health and public health. Urinalysis provides valuable information about kidney function, hydration status, and various metabolic processes. Choosing between in-house testing and reference labs depends on factors such as urgency, convenience, and the range of available tests. Performing lab work at different stages of a pet's life can establish baselines and detect abnormalities early on. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Funny Skits 01:24 Introducing the Family Pet Podcast and Guest 03:23 Lab Work and Its Importance 06:19 Understanding the Complete Blood Count (CBC) 09:09 Fecal Testing and its Significance 13:01 The Urinalysis and its Role in Diagnosis 16:31 In-House Testing vs. Reference Labs 19:24 When to Perform Lab Work 23:45 The Value of Baseline Lab Results 24:30 Fun Fact: The Origin of the Word 'Leukemia' 26:14 Conclusion and Preview of Part 2

In this episode, Justin Wallen teaches us the basics of keeping bugs and spiders as pets! Check out his business Justin's Critters located in Lookout Mountain, Georgia.

In this episode of the Family Pet Podcast, Dr. Christine Garrett discusses chronic kidney disease in pets. The kidneys act as filters, removing waste and maintaining electrolyte balance in the body. Chronic kidney disease is characterized by irreversible loss of kidney function. Common signs and symptoms include increased thirst, frequent urination, vomiting, and weight loss. Diagnosis involves physical exams, blood work, urinalysis, and imaging. Prevention strategies include maintaining hydration and avoiding toxins. Treatment options include dietary changes, fluid therapy, and medication. The life expectancy and quality of life for pets with chronic kidney disease vary depending on the cause and treatment. Takeaways Chronic kidney disease in pets is characterized by irreversible loss of kidney function. Common signs and symptoms include increased thirst, frequent urination, vomiting, and weight loss. Diagnosis involves physical exams, blood work, urinalysis, and imaging. Prevention strategies include maintaining hydration and avoiding toxins. Treatment options include dietary changes, fluid therapy, and medication. The life expectancy and quality of life for pets with chronic kidney disease vary depending on the cause and treatment. Chapters 00:00 Introduction 01:00 Preventive Medicine and Chronic Kidney Disease 03:18 Function of the Kidneys 04:29 Electrolyte Balance and Kidney Function 06:05 Chronic Kidney Disease in Pets 08:30 Irreversible Loss of Kidney Function 09:26 Signs and Symptoms of Chronic Kidney Disease 11:10 Diagnosing Chronic Kidney Disease 12:31 Risk Factors for Chronic Kidney Disease 15:11 Chronic Kidney Disease in Dogs 17:40 Prevention of Chronic Kidney Disease 19:41 Treatment of Chronic Kidney Disease 23:02 Life Expectancy and Quality of Life 25:13 Closing Remarks

In this episode of the Family Pet Podcast, we talk to Dr. David Levine and Ashley Wheeler LVMT to discuss rehabilitation for pets. They explain the purpose of rehab, which includes reinforcing post-operative surgeries and maximizing function in cases of arthritis or neurological conditions. The guests also highlight the importance of assessment and individualized treatment plans. They discuss various rehab techniques such as underwater treadmills and balance tools. Additionally, they provide tips for preventing the need for rehab, including maintaining a healthy weight and incorporating regular exercise. The episode concludes with fun facts about otters and the evolution of ear sizes in animals. Takeaways Rehabilitation for pets aims to reinforce post-operative surgeries and maximize function in cases of arthritis or neurological conditions. Assessment is crucial in determining the progress of rehab and making necessary adjustments to the treatment plan. Various techniques, such as underwater treadmills and balance tools, are used in pet rehabilitation. Preventing the need for rehab can be achieved by maintaining a healthy weight and incorporating regular exercise. Fun facts: Otters hold hands when they sleep, and the size of an animal's ears can vary based on its habitat. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Personal Experiences 02:19 Rehabilitation for Pets 05:23 The Purpose of Rehab 07:04 Comparison to Human Occupational Therapy 08:20 Rehabilitation Techniques 10:00 Prescribing Rehab Exercises 13:00 Duration of Treatment 14:12 Homework for Pet Parents 15:24 Assessing Improvement 17:16 Canine vs. Feline Rehabilitation 20:20 Exercise for Cats 23:02 Advancements in Animal Physical Therapy 25:58 Preventing the Need for Rehab 28:12 The Importance of Activity 29:21 Fun Facts 31:51 Closing Remarks

Dr. Christiane Massicotte, a boarded veterinary neurologist with Veterinary Care and Specialty Group in Chattanooga, TN, joins the podcast to discuss various neurologic diseases in pets. She explains the role of a veterinary neurologist, which includes diagnosing and treating brain, spinal cord, nerve, and muscle diseases. One common condition she discusses is intervertebral disc disease (IVDD), which can cause herniated discs in pets. Dr. Massicotte emphasizes the importance of early intervention and proper diagnosis for successful treatment. She also highlights the signs that indicate a trip to the neurologist is necessary, such as seizures, abnormal behavior, and difficulty walking. Dr. Massicotte explains the treatment options available, including surgery, medication, and radiation therapy. She reassures pet parents that advancements in technology and treatment options have greatly improved outcomes for neurologic diseases. Dr. Massicotte concludes by providing hope and emphasizing the importance of improving the quality of life for pets with neurologic conditions. Takeaways A veterinary neurologist diagnoses and treats brain, spinal cord, nerve, and muscle diseases in pets. Intervertebral disc disease (IVDD) is a common condition that can cause herniated discs in pets. Signs that indicate a trip to the neurologist is necessary include seizures, abnormal behavior, and difficulty walking. Treatment options for neurologic diseases include surgery, medication, and radiation therapy. Advancements in technology and treatment options have greatly improved outcomes for pets with neurologic conditions. Chapters 00:00 Introduction 01:38 What does a veterinary neurologist do? 03:02 Herniated discs in pets 05:11 Understanding intervertebral disc disease 07:13 Signs that a trip to the neurologist is needed 10:23 Referrals to a neurologist 12:59 Treatment options for neurologic diseases 16:22 Advancements in technology and treatment options 18:30 Treatment options for seizures 20:37 Providing hope and improving quality of life 23:21 Fun fact: 25% of blood is in the brain 25:00 Closing remarks

In this episode of the Family Pet Podcast, Dr. Katelyn Marlowe discusses veterinary oncology and the similarities and differences between human and pet cancers. She explains the causes of cancer and the various ways it can be diagnosed in pets. Dr. Marlowe also explores the different treatment options available, including surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and targeted therapies. She emphasizes the importance of considering the pet's quality of life when making treatment decisions. The episode concludes with a fun fact about contagious cancers in dogs and Tasmanian devils. Takeaways Cancer in pets is similar to cancer in humans, with some types of cancer being more common in certain species. Diagnosing cancer in pets often involves physical examinations, blood work, imaging tests, and biopsies. Treatment options for cancer in pets include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and targeted therapies. The cost of cancer treatment for pets can vary depending on the type of cancer and the chosen treatment approach. It is important for pet owners to consider the pet's quality of life when making treatment decisions. Chapters 00:00 Introduction 02:24 Introduction to Veterinary Oncology 04:20 Comparison of Human and Pet Cancers 06:00 Common Cancers in Animals 07:09 Understanding Cancer and its Effects 08:44 Causes of Cancer 09:00 Diagnosing Cancer in Pets 13:10 Use of AI in Cancer Diagnosis 15:50 Treatment Options for Cancer 20:26 Quality of Life Considerations 22:16 Financial Considerations 25:08 Definitions: Benign, Malignant, Metastasis, Margins, Systemic, Remission 30:47 Importance of Informed Decision-Making 32:02 Fun Fact: Contagious Cancers 34:35 Conclusion

Summary In this episode of the Family Pet Podcast, hosts Michael and Stephen Shirley are joined by Dr. Sam Bilko, a board-certified veterinarian specializing in emergency and critical care. They discuss the training and preparation required for emergency and critical care veterinarians, as well as the body's response in traumatic situations. Dr. Bilko explains the difference between emergency and critical care and provides an example of how they work together in cases of toxin ingestion. They also discuss the considerations for scheduling exams and the impact of COVID-19 on emergency care. The episode concludes with a fun fact about copper toxicity in pennies. Takeaways Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction 01:20 Understanding Critical Care Veterinary Medicine 02:22 Training and Preparation for Emergency and Critical Care 03:36 The Body's Response in Traumatic Situations 04:22 Difference Between Emergency and Critical Care 05:14 Example: Emergency and Critical Care for Toxin Ingestion 06:55 Differences Between General Practice and Emergency Care 07:52 Urgent Care vs. Emergency Care 10:29 Considerations for Scheduling Exams 11:57 Impact of COVID-19 on Emergency Care 13:11 Showing Appreciation to Emergency Care Teams 14:00 What to Bring to the Veterinary ER 15:38 The Importance of Pet Insurance for Emergency Care 16:52 Advice for Pet Owners in Emergency Situations 17:30 The New Normal in Emergency Care 18:58 Fun Fact: Copper Toxicity in Pennies 20:30 Closing Remarks Got a question for Michael and Stephen? Run across something interesting you want to share with the show? Do you have a topic idea for a future episode? Send it to us at thefamilypetpodcast@gmail.com. Thank you for joining us on The Family Pet Podcast! Don't forget to subscribe, and if you found this episode helpful, share it with fellow pet enthusiasts. Wishing you and your pets a Happy New Year!

In this episode, the Michael and Stephen discuss the basics of reading a pet food label with guest Dr. Megan Sprinkle, the president of the American Academy of Veterinary Nutrition. They emphasize the importance of understanding pet food labels and making informed decisions about pet nutrition. The chapters cover topics such as the attraction to pet nutrition, the importance of a balanced diet, understanding calories on pet food labels, laws and regulations for pet food, and tips for choosing pet food. The episode concludes with a fun fact and information about Dr. Sprinkle's podcast, Vet Life Reimagined. Links The Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) Dr. Sprinkle's podcast Vet Life Reimagined Takeaways Chapters 00:00 Introduction 01:26 Starting the New Year 01:56 Getting into Pet Food 03:40 Guest Introduction 04:04 Guest's Attraction to Pet Nutrition 05:30 Understanding Food Labels 06:06 Importance of Reading Labels 07:04 Balanced Diet for Pets 08:49 Where to Start Reading Labels 10:58 Calories on Pet Food Labels 15:58 Nutritional Adequacy Statement 17:15 Laws and Regulations for Pet Food 20:26 Understanding Ingredients 24:46 Tips for Choosing Pet Food 29:04 Additional Resources 30:56 Fun Fact 33:36 Guest's Podcast 33:56 Conclusion

Summary In this episode, Michael and Stephen recap their top five episodes of the year as voted on by themselves. They also mention some honorable mentions and discuss the impact of their guests on the show. The top five episodes cover a range of topics including dog sports, diabetes in pets, pet dentistry, cat ownership, and new treatments for canine arthritis. The hosts express their gratitude to the listeners and encourage them to leave reviews and share the podcast with others. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and New Year's Greetings 01:28 Honorable Mentions: Episode 68 with Dr. Amy Pike 03:21 Honorable Mention: Episode 71 with Dr. David Dycus 05:45 Honorable Mention: Episode 83 with Dr. Christine Garrett 09:38 Number 5: Episode 50 with Ashton Bemis on Dog Sports 13:22 Number 4: Episode 49 with Dr. Sarah Wooten on Diabetes in Pets 17:10 Number 3: Episode 47 with Bonita Altier on Pet Dentistry 19:57 Number 2: Episode 57 with Pam Johnson Bennett - Five things every cat owner should know 23:19 Number 1: Episode 73 with Dr. Tamara Grubb on New Treatment for Canine Arthritis 29:46 Conclusion and Fun Fact Got a question for Michael and Stephen? Run across something interesting you want to share with the show? Do you have a topic idea for a future episode? Send it to us at thefamilypetpodcast@gmail.com. Thank you for joining us on The Family Pet Podcast! Don't forget to subscribe, and if you found this episode helpful, share it with fellow pet enthusiasts. Wishing you and your pets a Happy New Year!

Ep. 83 Preventive Medicine - BEFORE your pet is sick w/ Dr Christine Garrett In this episode, Dr. Christine Garrett discusses the importance of preventive care for pets. She defines preventive care as actions taken before a pet becomes sick, such as diagnosing diseases early or protecting pets from potential exposures. Dr. Garrett emphasizes that preventive care cannot prevent everything but can help detect and treat diseases early, leading to a longer and healthier life for pets. She recommends annual veterinary visits, regular diagnostic tests, and preventive medications to keep pets healthy. Dr. Garrett also highlights the significance of dental cleanings and provides a fun fact about Christmas tree worms. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Christmas Vacation 02:09 Defining Preventive Care 03:30 Importance of Preventive Care 04:39 Addressing Skepticism 05:55 Benefits of Early Detection 07:23 AVMA AHA Preventive Health Guidelines 08:30 Frequency of Veterinary Visits 09:18 Geographical Considerations 10:23 Recommended Diagnostic Tests 12:07 Pets Age Faster 13:21 Preventive Medications 14:14 At-Home Preventive Measures 17:10 AI Technology in Preventive Medicine 18:03 The Importance of Dental Cleanings 23:35 Fun Fact: Christmas Tree Worms 25:55 Closing Remarks Don't forget to subscribe, and if you found this episode insightful, share it with fellow pet enthusiasts. Wishing you and your pets a happy and healthy journey together! Got a question for Michael and Stephen? Run across something interesting you want to share with the show? Do you have a topic idea for a future episode? Send it to us at thefamilypetpodcast@gmail.com

Episode Title: Understanding Declawing: A Conversation with Dr. Nicole Moran Introduction: In this episode of The Family Pet Podcast, we embark on an essential conversation about the controversial practice of declawing cats. Our expert guest, Dr. Nicole Moran from The Feline Medical Center of Houston, sheds light on the considerations, alternatives, and the well-being of our feline companions. Key Points: Exploring Declawing:Learn More About Dr. Moran:The Feline Medical Center of HoustonVeterinary Hero Recognition:DVM360Research on Declawing:Journal of Feline Medicine and SurgeryRecommended Cat Toy:Yeowww! BananaGot a question for Michael and Stephen? Run across something interesting you want to share with the show? Do you have a topic idea for a future episode? Send it to us at thefamilypetpodcast@gmail.com. Conclusion: Join us in this crucial conversation with Dr. Nicole Moran as we navigate through the complexities of declawing. The provided links offer additional resources and insights. Thank you for tuning in to The Family Pet Podcast! Don't forget to subscribe, and if you found this episode insightful, share it with fellow pet enthusiasts. Wishing you and your pets a happy and healthy journey together!