Speaking of Pets – Details, episodes & analysis

Join us for an inspiring episode featuring Michael Bugary, head of the Pet Pals program at University Hospitals of Cleveland, along with his faithful companion, Lingo. Michael, a former baseball player for the Boston Red Sox and University of California, Berkeley, faced a life-altering journey that led him to discover the profound power of the human-animal bond after enduring a career-ending injury and battling brain cancer. In this heartfelt conversation, Michael shares touching stories about how Lingo, an ex-military dog, has brought joy and comfort to countless young patients at Rainbow Babies Children's Hospital. You'll hear about the incredible impact their visits have on children facing serious health challenges and how Lingo helps transform fear into friendship. We'll also delve into the mission of Pet Pals, exploring how both dogs and their handlers must qualify to participate in this remarkable program. Tune in to discover how Lingo's gentle presence has not only aided patients but also helped Michael find healing and purpose in his own life. Don't miss this uplifting episode filled with tales of resilience, love, and the magic of pets! https://www.dliflc.edu/spc-lingo-retires-from-dliflc-embarks-on-new-mission/ https://www.uhhospitals.org/rainbow/patients-and-visitors/visitor-services/pet-therapy-services Support our sponsor for this episode Blue Buffalo by visiting bluebuffalo.com. BLUE Natural Veterinary Diet formulas offer the natural alternative in nutritional therapy. At Blue Buffalo, we have an in-house Research & Development (R&D) team with over 300 years’ experience in well-pet and veterinary therapeutic diets, over 600 scientific publications, and over 50 U.S. patents. At Blue Buffalo, we have an in-house Research & Development (R&D) team with over 300 years’ experience in well-pet and veterinary therapeutic diets, over 600 scientific publications, and over 50 U.S. patents. All footage is owned by SLA Video Productions.

In this episode of our podcast, Alice and Janet dive into a critical topic every pet owner should be aware of—pet poisoning. Alice poses a thought-provoking scenario to Janet: What if you came home to find your medication vial on the floor, empty, with your golden retriever, Libby, staring back at you? The conversation quickly unfolds into a discussion about the potential dangers lurking in our homes for our furry friends.

Joining them is Dr. Renee Schmid, the director and senior veterinary toxicologist at Pet Poison Helpline. With her expertise, Dr. Schmid sheds light on the various household items, plants, and foods that can be toxic to pets. From common medications and foods like chocolate and xylitol to unexpected dangers like certain plants and mushrooms, this episode is packed with essential information for all pet owners.

Listeners will learn about the importance of knowing what to keep on hand in case of an emergency, how to respond if a poisoning incident occurs, and the vital role of the Pet Poison Helpline. Dr. Schmid shares insights on how they assist pet owners and veterinarians alike in navigating toxic ingestion cases.

This is a must-listen episode for anyone with pets, as it equips you with the knowledge to protect your beloved companions. Tune in to hear the practical advice and valuable resources that can help keep your pets safe. If you’ve ever had questions about pet poisoning or want to know what to do in an emergency, this episode is for you!

https://www.petpoisonhelpline.com/

Support our sponsor for this episode Blue Buffalo by visiting bluebuffalo.com. BLUE Natural Veterinary Diet formulas offer the natural alternative in nutritional therapy. At Blue Buffalo, we have an in-house Research & Development (R&D) team with over 300 years’ experience in well-pet and veterinary therapeutic diets, over 600 scientific publications, and over 50 U.S. patents. At Blue Buffalo, we have an in-house Research & Development (R&D) team with over 300 years’ experience in well-pet and veterinary therapeutic diets, over 600 scientific publications, and over 50 U.S. patents.

All footage is owned by SLA Video Productions.

In this episode, we're thrilled to welcome SPEAKING OF PETS own, Dr. Alice Novotny Jeromin, a veterinary expert who will provide essential insights on pet medications. If you've ever wondered about the safety of over-the-counter drugs for your pets or sought clarity on pet-specific medications, this is the episode for you. Dr. Alice addresses a range of topics, from the dangers of giving ibuprofen or Tylenol to pets, to the proper use of FDA-approved nonsteroidal drugs. We also dive into common pet issues like limping, vomiting, and allergies, and the best practices for treating them.

Dr. Alice will answer listener-submitted questions, offering valuable advice on what you should and shouldn't do when it comes to medicating your pets. Learn why pets aren't just small humans and why certain medications can be deadly to them. With engaging stories and expert recommendations, this episode is a must-listen for every pet owner who wants to ensure the health and safety of their furry friends. Tune in for practical tips and life-saving information!

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Support our sponsor for this episode Blue Buffalo by visiting bluebuffalo.com. BLUE Natural Veterinary Diet formulas offer the natural alternative in nutritional therapy. At Blue Buffalo, we have an in-house Research & Development (R&D) team with over 300 years’ experience in well-pet and veterinary therapeutic diets, over 600 scientific publications, and over 50 U.S. patents. At Blue Buffalo, we have an in-house Research & Development (R&D) team with over 300 years’ experience in well-pet and veterinary therapeutic diets, over 600 scientific publications, and over 50 U.S. patents.

All footage owned by SLA Video Productions

In this episode, Janet and Alice dive into the world of integrative veterinary medicine with Dr. Neal Sivula, a renowned specialist in the field. With a DVM from Ohio State and a Ph.D. in veterinary medicine and epidemiology from the University of Minnesota, Dr. Sivula brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the table. He founded Dancing Paws Veterinary Clinic in 2001, driven by a passion for holistic health. Certified in acupuncture, animal chiropractic, veterinary food therapy, and Chinese herbalism, Dr. Sivula has received numerous awards, including the Animal Chiropractic Hall of Fame induction and a Lifetime Achievement Award from the American Academy of Veterinary Acupuncture.

Join us as we explore the world of integrative veterinary medicine. Dr. Sivula discusses his approach to holistic health, working as part of a pet’s healthcare team rather than an alternative to traditional medicine. We delve into common ailments in pets, the benefits of holistic therapies, and the challenges and rewards of treating high-performance animals like police dogs.

The Novotny sisters also share their unique upbringing in natural hygiene and holistic health, and how it shaped their perspectives on veterinary care. Plus, we hear touching stories of pet rescues and the impact of integrative therapies on animals' lives.

Tune in for an enlightening conversation on the evolving landscape of veterinary medicine and how integrative approaches are making a difference in the lives of pets and their owners.

https://dancingpawsawc.com/our-doctor/

Support our sponsor for this episode Blue Buffalo by visiting bluebuffalo.com. BLUE Natural Veterinary Diet formulas offer the natural alternative in nutritional therapy. At Blue Buffalo, we have an in-house Research & Development (R&D) team with over 300 years’ experience in well-pet and veterinary therapeutic diets, over 600 scientific publications, and over 50 U.S. patents. At Blue Buffalo, we have an in-house Research & Development (R&D) team with over 300 years’ experience in well-pet and veterinary therapeutic diets, over 600 scientific publications, and over 50 U.S. patents.

All footage owned by SLA Video Productions

In this episode of "Speaking of Pets," Janet and Alice welcome Dr. Jim Rummel, a distinguished veterinarian from Pittsburgh. Known as the modern-day James Herriot (though he's too modest to agree), Dr. Rummel brings a wealth of experience and fascinating stories from his career. A Penn State and University of Pennsylvania alum, he started at Cambro Veterinary Hospital in 1979 and later helped build a new hospital with seven veterinarians. A past president of the Pennsylvania Veterinary Medical Association and a former Veterinarian of the Year, Dr. Rummel is also known for his community involvement and a pet health series on pet grieving.

Tune in to this lively episode of “Speaking of Pets” to hear Dr. Jim Rummel, a distinguished veterinarian from Pittsburgh. Known as the modern-day James Herriot (though he's too modest to agree), Dr. Rummel brings a wealth of experience and fascinating stories from his career. A Penn State and University of Pennsylvania alum, he started at Cambro Veterinary Hospital in 1979 and later helped build a new hospital with seven veterinarians. A past president of the Pennsylvania Veterinary Medical Association and a former Veterinarian of the Year, Dr. Rummel is also known for his community involvement and a pet health series on pet grieving.

Along with Janet and Alice, Dr. Rummel delved into his remarkable career. From treating a clouded leopard with severe allergies at the Cleveland Zoo to caring for a lovable orangutan with a tragic end, Dr. Rummel shares his most memorable and heartwarming stories. He discusses the challenges and triumphs of veterinary practice, like performing groundbreaking surgeries and forming bonds with unique animals and their owners. Dr. Rummel shares captivating stories from his career, including delivering calves, working with wild animals, and the challenges and joys of veterinary practice. His anecdotes highlight the bond between vets and their patients and offer valuable pet care tips gleaned from over 30 years of experience. Tune in for an episode filled with heartwarming and humorous tales from a true country vet.

https://www.camboro.com/staff/dr-james-r-rummel

Support our sponsor for this episode Blue Buffalo by visiting bluebuffalo.com. BLUE Natural Veterinary Diet formulas offer the natural alternative in nutritional therapy. At Blue Buffalo, we have an in-house Research & Development (R&D) team with over 300 years’ experience in well-pet and veterinary therapeutic diets, over 600 scientific publications, and over 50 U.S. patents. At Blue Buffalo, we have an in-house Research & Development (R&D) team with over 300 years’ experience in well-pet and veterinary therapeutic diets, over 600 scientific publications, and over 50 U.S. patents.

All footage owned by SLA Video Productions

Did you know that tennis balls, rawhide chews, hard plastic toys and human toothpaste are all dangerous to your pet’s teeth? Learn how to know when your pet is in pain and what the safe habits for their teeth are!

Join us as Dr. Sharon Hoffman shares invaluable insights on pet oral health, the importance of dental care for pets, and practical tips for pet owners. Plus, we’ll discuss the fascinating intersection of her work in veterinary dentistry and photography, and her inspiring commitment to giving back to the community.

Tune in to learn from one of the best in the field and discover how you can contribute to your pet's dental health and overall well-being

Sharon highlights the importance of dental care, particularly for strong chewers, and warns against indestructible toys that can damage teeth. She emphasizes the need for pet owners to find alternative activities for their pets.

Sharon also addresses common issues like worn-down teeth from chewing on cages or rocks, recommending protective measures like metal crowns for canines before they break. She advises against using human toothpaste on pets due to fluoride content and promotes pet-specific dental products, including wipes as an alternative for those unwilling to brush.

Alice and Sharon discuss the importance of addressing dental issues early, the effectiveness of dental diets, and the rare but possible need for orthodontics in pets. Sharon explains the process of placing crowns and the use of specialized labs for creating them. She dispels myths about dry food cleaning teeth and emphasizes the importance of regular dental care to prevent periodontal disease.

The conversation covers essential dental hygiene practices for pets, highlighting the dangers of using human toothpaste on animals due to the fluoride content and the importance of making dental care a positive experience for pets. Dr. Hoffman also explains the rare "teeth and knees syndrome" and emphasizes the holistic connection between oral health and overall body health in pets.

Listeners will learn about the challenges of diagnosing dental issues in animals, the potential for finding unexpected conditions under anesthesia, and the necessity of regular dental check-ups. The episode also touches on the incredible work done for non-traditional pets like dolphins and whales, and the unique dental problems they face.

In addition to dental care, Dr. Hoffman and the hosts discuss pain management in pets, the impact of social media misinformation on pet care, and the importance of kindness and understanding in human interactions. Beyond her veterinary work, Dr. Hoffman is also a talented photographer at Coastal Fine Photo and volunteers as a photographer for the Street Dog Coalition in Jacksonville, Florida. Her unique initiative, the Make Me Smile program, donates a portion of the proceeds from her photography sales to provide free equipment and training to shelter vets and techs, ensuring adoptable dogs and cats leave shelters with healthy mouths.

Tune in to learn from one of the best in the field and discover how you can contribute to your pet's dental health and overall well-being.

Veterinary Oral Health Council - VOHC.org

https://afd.avdc.org/what-is-an-anesthesia-free-dental-cleaning/

Her photography website - coastalfinephoto.com

Support our sponsor for this episode Blue Buffalo by visiting bluebuffalo.com. BLUE Natural Veterinary Diet formulas offer the natural alternative in nutritional therapy. At Blue Buffalo, we have an in-house Research & Development (R&D) team with over 300 years’ experience in well-pet and veterinary therapeutic diets, over 600 scientific publications, and over 50 U.S. patents. At Blue Buffalo, we have an in-house Research & Development (R&D) team with over 300 years’ experience in well-pet and veterinary therapeutic diets, over 600 scientific publications, and over 50 U.S. patents.

All footage owned by SLA Video Productions

Join us as we delve into the fascinating world of veterinary oncology with Dr. Rance Gamblin, a leading veterinary oncologist at Metropolitan Veterinary Hospital for 24 years. With a residency in oncology at The Ohio State University, Dr. Gamblin brings invaluable insights into the diagnosis, treatment, and emotional journey of pet cancer care. Discover how veterinary goals differ from human medicine, emphasizing quality of life. We’ll explore common cancers in pets like lymphoma, mast cell tumors, and osteosarcoma, and discuss innovative treatments, including the promising Yale vaccine study. Learn how pet owners can navigate the challenges of cancer treatment and ensure their beloved pets’ comfort and well-being. Don’t miss this enlightening conversation that highlights the compassionate side of veterinary medicine.

Dr. Gamblin shares his daily encounters with clients bringing in a plethora of supplements, some of which could interfere with medications, especially chemotherapy. He discusses the unexpected impact of certain supplements on cancer treatment, highlighting studies showing adverse effects of high-dose vitamin E in chemotherapy patients.

Dr. Gamblin and the hosts also explore the similarities between human and veterinary cancer treatments, emphasizing surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy. They address common questions about the side effects pets might experience, such as hair loss and skin darkening, and share personal anecdotes to illustrate the importance of thorough physical examinations, including often-overlooked areas like the oral and rectal regions.

The conversation also touches on the role of veterinary technicians in providing compassionate care, making chemotherapy sessions less daunting for pets. Tune in to gain valuable insights into the world of veterinary oncology, the significance of early detection, and the crucial role of cytology in diagnosing and managing cancer in pets.

Support our sponsor for this episode Blue Buffalo by visiting bluebuffalo.com. BLUE Natural Veterinary Diet formulas offer the natural alternative in nutritional therapy. At Blue Buffalo, we have an in-house Research & Development (R&D) team with over 300 years’ experience in well-pet and veterinary therapeutic diets, over 600 scientific publications, and over 50 U.S. patents. At Blue Buffalo, we have an in-house Research & Development (R&D) team with over 300 years’ experience in well-pet and veterinary therapeutic diets, over 600 scientific publications, and over 50 U.S. patents.

All footage owned by SLA Video Productions

In this episode, we welcome Dr. Liesl Bigge, a veterinarian and graduate of The Ohio State University, for an insightful discussion. Dr. Bigge, who co-owns Cleveland Associated Veterinary Specialists and serves as an internal medicine consultant, shares her expertise on various veterinary topics.

We begin by exploring **megaesophagus**, a condition where the esophagus remains abnormally enlarged and lacks the necessary peristaltic motion to move food into the stomach. Dr. Bigge explains the challenges of diagnosing and managing this frustrating condition, which often leads to aspiration pneumonia. She describes dietary adjustments and positional feeding techniques, such as using a Bailey chair, to help manage the disease.

Next, the conversation shifts to **idiopathic vestibular syndrome**, often seen in older dogs. This condition affects the balance system and manifests as dizziness, head tilting, and sometimes nystagmus. While its exact cause is unknown, supportive care and anti-nausea medications like meclizine can help manage the symptoms. Dr. Bigge contrasts central (brain-related) vestibular problems with peripheral issues, which typically resolve over time.

Dr. Bigge shares an impactful story about a terrier diagnosed with an abdominal mass, emphasizing the importance of timely medical intervention. Additionally, she recounts a case from her internship involving a dog with severe vestibular disease, highlighting the innovative feeding techniques used to manage the condition.

Lastly, Dr. Bigge discusses the crucial role of collaboration among pet owners, veterinarians, and veterinary specialists. She mentions support networks, such as Facebook groups for pet owners dealing with specific conditions like megaesophagus, which provide valuable resources and community support.

Key Points:

- **Megaesophagus**: A condition characterized by an enlarged esophagus that struggles to move food to the stomach. It requires careful management through dietary consistency and positional feeding.

- **Idiopathic Vestibular Syndrome**: A balance disorder in older dogs that usually improves with supportive care and time.

- **Diagnostic Techniques**: Importance of distinguishing symptoms and using video evidence for accurate diagnosis.

- **Treatment and Management**: Utilizing specialized feeding chairs for megaesophagus and anti-nausea medications for vestibular syndrome.

- **Collaborative Care**: The role of support networks and timely medical intervention in managing veterinary conditions.

Tune in to gain a deeper understanding of these challenging veterinary conditions and learn practical tips from Dr. Bigge's extensive experience.

Support our sponsor for this episode Blue Buffalo by visiting bluebuffalo.com. BLUE Natural Veterinary Diet formulas offer the natural alternative in nutritional therapy. At Blue Buffalo, we have an in-house Research & Development (R&D) team with over 300 years’ experience in well-pet and veterinary therapeutic diets, over 600 scientific publications, and over 50 U.S. patents. At Blue Buffalo, we have an in-house Research & Development (R&D) team with over 300 years’ experience in well-pet and veterinary therapeutic diets, over 600 scientific publications, and over 50 U.S. patents.

All footage owned by SLA Video Productions

Today, we have the pleasure of hosting Dr. Mark Daye, an esteemed orthopedic surgeon and our first international guest from Canada. Dr. Daye is a double-boarded specialist who has an impressive background, including vet school at the Western College of Veterinary Medicine at the University of Saskatchewan, and a residency at Auburn. He's currently practicing at Metropolitan Veterinary Specialties in Akron and Mayfield Heights.

Join us as we delve into Dr. Daye's expertise in cutting-edge orthopedic procedures and his commitment to pain management. Whether it's about diagnosing lameness, post-op care, or innovative treatments like the FHO procedure, Dr. Daye provides invaluable insights for pet owners. Plus, we'll discuss common issues like cruciate ligament injuries and how to recognize when your pet needs orthopedic care.

One common problem is cruciate ligament tears. Dr. Daye explains that unlike in humans, where ACL injuries are often due to high-impact sports or accidents, in dogs these tears usually occur spontaneously, often with minimal trauma. Despite the misconception, breeds like Labrador and Golden Retrievers aren't more predisposed; it's just that there are more of them around. For dogs, a sudden limp in a back leg usually signals an ACL tear, which Dr. Daye can often diagnose with a physical exam, although x-rays can reveal secondary changes.

It’s fascinating to hear about the evolution from cemented to cementless hip replacements and how these advancements have improved the longevity and outcomes of the procedures. Ensuring these implants last the lifetime of the dog, especially with the newer bony ingrowth methods, significantly reduces the need for revisions and enhances the quality of life for these pets.

https://www.metropolitanvet.com/staff/dr-r-mark-daye

Support our sponsor for this episode Blue Buffalo by visiting bluebuffalo.com. BLUE Natural Veterinary Diet formulas offer the natural alternative in nutritional therapy. At Blue Buffalo, we have an in-house Research & Development (R&D) team with over 300 years’ experience in well-pet and veterinary therapeutic diets, over 600 scientific publications, and over 50 U.S. patents. At Blue Buffalo, we have an in-house Research & Development (R&D) team with over 300 years’ experience in well-pet and veterinary therapeutic diets, over 600 scientific publications, and over 50 U.S. patents. All footage owned by SLA Video Productions

Don't miss this engaging conversation with a true pet whisperer and devoted librarian, Penny Novotny Bower.

Tune in to hear about:

- Penny's rescue stories, including the unforgettable Molly Cat and Buddy.

- The role of therapy dogs in a school setting.

- The comfort and healing found in children's literature.

- Practical advice for pet owners, including dealing with pet anxiety during storm

Are there any books out there for kids? Are there therapy dogs? Today, we dive into these questions with our special guest, Penny Novotny Bower, a librarian and animal lover who has rescued numerous pets. Penny, a graduate of Bowling Green State University with a Master's in Guidance Counseling from Montclair University and a Master of Library Science from the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, shares her inspiring stories.

In this episode, Penny recounts her experiences with therapy dogs, including the comforting presence they provided to her school community during a tragic event. She also discusses her beloved rescues, including Buddy, Molly Cat, and a host of others, highlighting her dedication to animal welfare. We'll hear touching stories about Penny's various rescues, her expertise as a librarian, and the impact of children's books like "The Boy, the Mole, the Fox and the Horse" by Charlie Mackesy and Cynthia Rylant's "Dog Heaven" and "Cat Heaven" in helping kids and adults cope with loss.

Support our sponsor for this episode Blue Buffalo by visiting bluebuffalo.com. BLUE Natural Veterinary Diet formulas offer the natural alternative in nutritional therapy. At Blue Buffalo, we have an in-house Research & Development (R&D) team with over 300 years’ experience in well-pet and veterinary therapeutic diets, over 600 scientific publications, and over 50 U.S. patents. At Blue Buffalo, we have an in-house Research & Development (R&D) team with over 300 years’ experience in well-pet and veterinary therapeutic diets, over 600 scientific publications, and over 50 U.S. patents.

All footage owned by SLA Video Productions