Juliana DeWillems, owner of JW Dog Training and overall dog training guru, joins us to talk about all things behavior. Our host asks the silly questions on our mind so you don't have to!

Holley Truitt joins us to chat about how to best prepare your pet for the vet (before the visit, during the visit, and after the visit!)

They have been a veterinary technician in Austin for eight years and have a special interest in behavior and training. They are advocates of husbandry and veterinary care for all pets, including those who are fearful, anxious, and stressed. 

Dr. Michelle Greenfield from Aquadocs joins us to chat about aquatic pet health. We discuss what exactly an aquatic veterinarian does, how to best take care of your pet fish, and things to consider before becoming a fish parent.

Shawn Wilkie, the CEO of Talkatoo and the co-host of the Veterinary Innovation Podcast, joins us to talk about (not surprisingly) innovation in the veterinary industry!

Shawn says:

“Talkatoo - we are a dictation company for medical professionals, so if you spend a lot of time doing medical records you’ll love our software.”

“We wanted to reimagine the way voice recognition worked for people in the animal health industry.”

“We want to just let the industry grow and mature through the dissemination of information.”

“I think artificial intelligence is going to play a big role in every different sector and every different industry, but it’s already starting to weasel its way into veterinary medicine.”

“If we adopt the right technology, it can save animals’ lives.”

Dr. RuthAnn Lobos from Merrick Pet Care joins us to talk about how physical rehabilitation is evolving and necessary for all of our pets, regardless of the state of their health.

Dr. RuthAnn says:

“It’s [physical rehabilitation for pets] an area of veterinary medicine that has been growing over the last ten years.”

“It [physical rehabilitation] can be used in all phases of life from puppyhood all the way through seniors."

Rachel Herman, the founder and executive director of Pets Are Wonderful Support (also known as PAWS NY), joins us to talk about how the organization seeks to help NYC’s most vulnerable residents remain with their pets by delivering critical programs and services through a community of partners and volunteers. 

Rachel says:

“We really try to provide a well-rounded, comprehensive approach to eliminating the barriers that our clients are facing in providing day-to-day care for their animal companions.”

“Our goal as an organization is to make sure that those critical and important relationships can be maintained for as long as possible.”

“My definition of pet health and wellness is making sure that that animal can be at home with the person that loves them in a safe and healthy environment.”

“For me, it’s all about making sure that the humans have everything they need to make sure that their pets can be loved in the comfort of their home.”

Dan Schachner, the referee of the Puppy Bowl (the dog equivalent of the Super Bowl), joins us to discuss their mission to raise awareness of pet adoption and showcase the vital work of shelters and rescues, with an 100% adoption rate.

Dan says:

“It’s my job to keep order and to basically be their spokesperson because these dogs don’t have a voice.”

“According to experts, visual identification is only right about 25% of the time when trying to ID a dog.”

“I think that pet health is essential because now pets are more a part of our family than ever before.”

“We help them, but they help us probably more than we help them.”
 

Dr. Ashley Assémat joins us to discuss the changes that the Covid-19 pandemic has brought upon the veterinary industry and what the future has in store for pet parents and vets alike.

Dr. Ashley says:

“I love a good [pet parent] note - it helps us stay on track and ensure we address all of your concerns. That’s probably my number one tip.”

“Be open and up front with us - let us know what your pet does [behaviorally].”

Dr. Vernard Hodges, one-half of the Critter Fixer Veterinary Hospital in Georgia, joins us to talk about how he is the star of his hospital’s very own TV show on Nat Geo Wild.

Dr. Vernard says:

“What makes us unique is it’s like a family. What you get is the energy, the laughs, the smiles.”

“If you got this pet, I don’t care what it is, we’ll treat it. If you got a camel, bring it. If you got a spider, bring it. If you got a mole…”

“Technology, and those things, are helping medicine become better.”

Daniella from Mella Pet Care is joined by Jessica Schleder, the CEO and founder of Adoptimize, an animal shelter technology that automates great pet photos to increase adoptions.

Jessica says:

“Adoptimize - an animal shelter technology that automates great pet photos to increase adoption rates.”

“A world shifting towards virtual interactions is aiming to change the way we actually adopt our pets.”

“We’re pioneering a new type of paid ad pet adoption listing that matches the right type of available pet with people in the channels they’re already on.”

Rachel Sheppard joins us to talk about senior dog care and shout out the unique traits of her two fur-babies: Newfoundlands and Corgis.

Rachel says:

“They’re [senior dogs] so well trained - there’s not a whole lot you have to do.”

“They love routine, so they’re amazing for people who work a lot.”

“I can’t recommend senior dogs enough if you’re adopting.”

“Keeping up with your vet visits is super huge and just knowing your dog.”

Debbie Boone, a veterinary consultant with 23 years of experience as a certified veterinary practice manager, joins us to talk about how she believes our Mella thermometer will positively impact vet workspaces.

Debbie says:

“When we make the pet happy, we make the client happy.”

“Anything that we can do to make the experience more comfortable for the pet actually makes it more comfortable for the client.”

“Mella has provided us a tool. We can take these temperatures without having to do anything that’s negative.”

“This [Mella Axillary Thermometer], to me, is such a game-changer.”

Tom Van Winkle, the executive director of the Hinsdale Humane Society, joins us to discuss his shelter, that is dedicated to transforming the way animal shelters operate.

Tom says:

“What really makes us unique is how we view ourselves in the whole animal welfare dynamic - we look at ourselves as part of a bigger organism.”

“We want our shelter to be a destination spot, whether you’re looking to adopt or not.”

“We’re trying to become part of the community, we’re trying to give back, and we’re trying to welcome the community in to see what we have to offer.”

“A normal family can, on a normal means of income, still actually take better care of their pet.”

Dr. Holly Ganz from Animal Biome joins us to chat about an impressive new study that looks into fecal transplants and bacteria related to gut health. It's groundbreaking research when it comes to the cat microbiome. Cat lovers, listen to this episode to hear about all the amazing research going on in the cat world.

Dr. Ross Bernstein joins us to debunk common myths about pet health.

Dr. Ross says:

“Preventative medicine is always something that’s really important.”

“Dental care is very important for our pets, just like you and I.”

“Keep your eye out on signs that they might be sick, such as vomiting, decreased appetite, lethargy, diarrhea, and some other things.”

“A lot of aggression can come from the way that the dog was raised, their environment, if they were neglected or abused as a puppy, the way that they were growing up, and it can be trained out of them.”

Eliza Burr, the founder of Preferred Pet Partners, joins us to discuss her team that provides stress-free care for pets at home when their parents are away.

Eliza says:

“Preferred Pet Partners is a small team of dedicated pet care specialists, and we do in client's home pet-sitting and dog-walking.”

“We really do consider ourselves partners with our clients in their pet’s health. We work very closely with them to figure out what’s normal for their pet and what’s not.”

Emily T Gail, the founder of Say Nice Things About Detroit, joins us to talk about her movement which spreads positivity about the city, and now, is invested in her journey towards understanding pet health.

Emily says:

“I didn’t ever think about how much we can take upon ourselves as pet parents.”

“There can be more kindness in pet care.”

“You’re [Mella Pet Care] leading all of us pet owners into being more caring about our pets.”

Lisa Wirth, a behavioral health social worker (and the proud parent of Bruder the Happy Hound!) joins us to discuss how pets have a wonderfully beneficial impact on our mental health.

Lisa says:

“They [pets] can provide that extra companionship – someone to just be there and to be around.”

“Animals are great because they force us to have to take care of something. It forces us to do some caring, which hopefully transitions to us taking care of ourselves.”

“I’m a behavioral health social worker, and I have seen the great benefits that having a pet can have for many of the patients that I’ve worked with over the years.”

“I think it’s really important to keep in mind if you’re going to get a pet that it fits in with your lifestyle.”

Dr. Mira Tabet, the proud owner of the Dr. Paw Veterinary Clinic in Lebanon, joins us to discuss the responsibilities and commitments of being a new pet parent.

Dr. Mira says:

“The most important thing that I would ask people just before getting any pet is if they can actually commit. Commitment, financial commitment, and patience.”

“I think that there are so many dogs and cats that need homes, so I’m always advocating for them and adoption.”

“I have so many clients of mine that adore saving senior dogs, especially those that have been abandoned because the look of gratitude that you get from a senior dog is priceless.”

“We do our best, but it’s not always easy. We have found pretty amazing homes for lots of dogs and cats.”

Tennille Teague, the founder of JUST FRED, joins us to talk about an emerging dog accessories brand from Brooklyn that sits (+ stays) in the intersection of freedom and alternative self-expression.

Tennille says:

“We are a cruelty-free pet accessories brand that really focuses on helping the underdogs.”

“Our focus is on inclusion and community - almost like a rebellious creative spirit that we’re trying to harness.”

“There is this really special way that we live with our dogs these days, and it’s evolving more and more, that Just Fred encompasses.”

Doug Keeling from Bad to the Bone Pet Care joins us to talk about all things pet sitting. We chat about specialty pet care, how to bring Fear Free to your home and your clients, how you can turn your passion for pets into a business (and how it doesn't have to be an overnight success!), and all things pet care in between.

Lori Chamberland of the Fear Free family joins us to chat about stress in our pets. we discuss how important it is to be attentive and respond to signs of anxiety in your pets before their behavior escalates. 

What a summer! If your summer is going anything like mine is (we’re talking muggy weather, bad air quality, lots of travel, and most importantly, ticks!), we're getting rescued! Dr. Kathryn Duncan and Dr. Laura Greene join us to talk about how to prepare for the dog days of summer. Wishing everyone a happy July and a happy muggy time for our pets.

Tabitha Kucera joins us to talk about pain management in your pets. We discuss the sheer number of dogs and cats who have osteoarthritis, how to tell if your fur baby is in pain, and most importantly, how to treat and prevent this! 

Welcome to episode 100 of this podcast and of course, welcome Dr. Adam Christman, the best guest to bring us into our rebrand! We chat about the vet school journey, how social media has impacted veterinarians as well as pet parents, and everything in between. Dr. Christman brings us a raw, real look into the vet client world. 

Danielle McMillian from Hello Pretty Petsitting joins us to talk about professional pet sitting and what that looks like for you, your pet, and your sitter. We chat about safety tips, FAQs, and everything to know before giving the leash to another caretaker.  

Natalie Ball from Bark Balls joins us to talk about the inspiration behind this up-cycled tennis ball company, how Natalie is helping environmental and community initiatives, and of course, how this can help your furry friend!

Gone are the days of choosing the closest veterinarian! Dr. Bonnie Bragdon joins us to talk about finding the right veterinarian for your pet, why vet care is so expensive, what you can do to alleviate some of those costs and what future predictions are saying about vet care. 

Ruth Hegarty from Creature Good Dog Training joins us to talk about what it means to have a reactive dog, how to change behavior, and how to support the frazzled pet parents who are working around the clock to help their pets. 

Lynn from Paul's Custom Pet Food joins us to talk about the tear jerker but inspiring story that led her and Paul to seek veterinary-backed clean food for pets. If you want to learn about the importance of real food, listen to Lynn’s discussion today. 

Aneeta Boor Boor from Animal Ortho Care joins us to talk about all the wonderful work the company is doing to support the care of animals joints, limbs, and bones. If you want to learn about how bracing goes beyond prosthetics, and how Animal Ortho Care gets personal and customizable, listen to Aneeta’s discussion 

Mikkel Becker from the Fear Free family (literally) joins us to talk about tips on how to reduce stress for your pets. Listen to Mikkel’s tips on home life, outside life, and the dreaded topic of taking your pet to the vet. Her dad founded the Fear Free movement so you can bet she knows everything about how to give your pet their best life. 

Tori Mistick from Wear Wag Repeat joins us to talk about how she turned her passion for pets into a career - and how you can too! Listen to Tori’s tips about following your dreams in the pet industry, learn about the good, the bad, the ugly, and the furry, and most importantly, hear her distilled insights from Wear Wag Repeat. 

Aly DelaCoeur from Wag Enabled joins us to talk about being the best pet parent for YOUR pet. Regardless of affordability and accessibility, you can make your pets happy mentally, physically and psychologically! Listen to Aly's discussion on how to make sure you don't compare yourself to other pet parents.

Chris Roy joins us to talk about Doobert Forward, an e-commerce store that donates 5% to your animal shelter of choice when you buy your pet needs online. If you want to dive into the pay-it-forward model and why Doobert Forward is better than Chewy or Petco, listen to Chris’ discussion about the new e-commerce platform.

Jessica Williams, a pet-focused content strategist and blogging coach, joins us to talk about dachshund health. If you want to dive into dachshund-specific tips (even if you don’t have one!), listen to Jessica’s discussion about stereotypes, health concerns, and hiking tips! You'll learn so much about small dog breeds and all that they can accomplish. Read her blog here: https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/

Ameetess Dira from DOGTV joins us to talk about the unique streaming service for dogs, designed to alleviate stress and anxiety throughout the day. If you want to dive into the fascinating science behind the three channels, listen to Ameetess' discussion about the TV platform for pet parents and veterinarians.

Dr. Ira Gordon joins us to talk about the future of independent vet clinics. If you want to dive into ways to support the shrinking number of small, independent and veterinarian-owned clinics, listen to Dr. Gordon’s discussion on why saving them is important and how they can compete in an industry that is increasingly consolidating.

Dr. Patrick Mahaney joins us to talk about common infectious diseases in dogs and cats. If you want to dive into causes, vaccines, supplements, and most importantly, how pet parents can protect their pets, listen to Dr. Mahaney’s discussion about better understanding infectious diseases.

Dr. Melissa Bourgeois from Merck Animal Health joins us to talk about the exciting new launch of a monoclonal antibody gilvetmab that will allow veterinary oncologists to use the checkpoint inhibitor to recognize and fight cancer cells.

Amy Tokic joins us to talk about last-minute gift ideas for pet lovers and pets alike. If you’re scrambling to get those final presents, listen to Amy’s top selection. And you can trust her, since she’s the editor-in-chief of PetGuide.com! And remember, you don’t have to be extravagant as long as your pet is happy. Regardless, it’ll be a fantastic holiday season.

Christina Lopes from FidoCure joins us to talk precision medicine and how it is the future of curing animal cancer. If you want to dive into mapping the cancer journey from diagnosis to death and what YOU should do if your pet has cancer, listen to Christina's discussion about a shift towards preventative rather than reactive medicine. 

Gabriel Riesco from Pawmos joins us to talk about the crazy story of how he got into dog training and his unique philosophies. If you want to dive into the mental wellness aspect of training, funny stories, and interesting aspects of the industry, listen to Gabriel's discussion about the future of dog behavioral training. 

Courtney McWilliams joins us from MaryMac’s Doggie Retreat, New Orleans' first black-owned doggie daycare and spa boutique!

If you want to dive into the importance of personalized care for your pet (especially with separation anxiety) the experience of a dog in Courtney’s care, and her tips for other aspiring black business owners, listen to her discussion about starting this fantastic haven for dogs.

Dr. Sydney Pokard joins us to welcome Thanksgiving and the festive season by talking about holiday pet safety and the common risks associated with this time of year.

If you want to dive into the big risks of the season, including food, objects, and new stressors, listen to Dr. Pokard’s discussion about how to safely celebrate the holidays with your pets.

Josh Vaisman from Flourish Veterinary Consulting joins us to talk about meaningful ways that pet parents can show vets their gratitude, and vice versa, how veterinarians can show the best level of care for their clients.

If you want to dive into preparing for vet visits, understanding veterinary burnout, and paving the way for a great next visit, listen to Josh’s discussion about what goes on behind the scenes at veterinary clinics and how to make sure you help your vet thrive.

Ed Goluch - the Founder and CEO of  QSM Diagnostics - joins us as part of a sneak peek look into Mella Pet Care’s partnership with this medical device company.

To dive into the importance of being able to identify the correct bacteria strain for antibiotic treatment and how it affects veterinarians as well as pet parents, listen to Ed’s discussion about the future of the development of sensors for infection monitoring and its integration with Mella’s software platform to streamline workflow for users. 

Vail Weymann, the Co-Founder and CEO of Purrch, joins us to talk about a community of pet people navigating the ups and downs of parenthood together.

If you want to dive into the new best friend for modern-day pet parents, hear about connecting with fellow parents and industry experts, listen to Vail's discussion about a new app for personalized pet care.

Sebastian Gabor from Digitail joins us to talk about the digital transformation wave overtaking the veterinary industry.

If you want to dive into automatic appointments, streamlining telemedicine, and asynchronous chats listen to Sebastian’s discussion about enabling effective visits that allow vets to see more patients.