The Family Pet Podcast

In this episode of the Family Pet Podcast, hosts Michael Shirley and Halie Cameron talk with board certified veterinary cardiologist Dr. Kiira Rodriguez. They discuss the circulatory system, the significance of heart murmurs and arrhythmias, and the genetic factors influencing heart disease in pets. Dr. Rodriguez explains diagnostic procedures like echocardiograms and the implications of congestive heart failure. The conversation emphasizes the importance of managing heart conditions in pets and reassures pet parents about the longevity and quality of life for pets with heart issues. 

Dr. Rodriguez web site: https://www.nashvillevetspecialists.com/specialties/cardiology

T...

6th Annual Walk My Dog Challenge🐾

🐕 Sign up and learn more at www.familypethealth.com/walkmydog

Episode Summary
Lace up your sneakers and leash up your pup—it’s time for the 6th Annual Walk My Dog Challenge! In this episode, we’re talking all about this month-long event that encourages pet parents to get outside, get active, and build a better bond with their canine companions. We cover how the challenge works, the benefits of daily walks (for both humans and pets!), and how to register to be part of the fun...

In this episode of the Family Pet Podcast, host Michael Shirley and veterinary professionals discuss the importance of maintaining a healthy weight for pets. They explore the common causes of pet obesity, the health risks associated with being overweight, and the steps pet owners can take to ensure their pets are at a healthy weight. The conversation also highlights Family Pet Health's structured weight loss program designed to help pets shed excess pounds safely and effectively, ultimately improving their quality of life.

An estimated 59% of cats and 54% of dogs in the United States are overweight or obese...

We are happy to have Dr. Adam Christman joins us again for this episode of The Family Pet Podcast! In this episode of the pod, host Stephen Shirley and Dr. Adam Christman discuss essential New Year's resolutions for pet owners. They emphasize the importance of spending quality time with pets, scheduling regular wellness visits, measuring food accurately to prevent obesity, and ensuring that microchip information is up to date. The conversation is filled with practical tips and engaging anecdotes, making it a valuable resource for pet parents looking to enhance their pets' health and happiness in the new year.

Find Dr. Forbes DVM on all the socials @drforbeez

Lighthouse Veterinary Allergy &  Dermatology website

Follow Dr Reeder on Instagram

Show Notes for This Week’s Episode: Tackling Pet Skin and Allergy Issues with Dr. Chris Reeder, DVM, DACVD

In this episode of The Family Pet Podcast, we sit down with Dr. Chris Reeder, DVM, DACVD, and owner of Lighthouse Veterinary Allergy and Dermatology, to dive into the world of veterinary dermatology. Did you know that skin and allergy issues are the top reasons pet parents take their furry companions to the vet? Even more alarming, they’re the second leading cause...

In this episode of the Family Pet Podcast, hosts Michael and Stephen welcome back Marie and Frank Barnas to discuss their documentary, 'The Cost of Caring.' The conversation explores the emotional challenges faced by veterinary professionals, including compassion fatigue, and the importance of understanding the realities of pet healthcare. The documentary aims to shed light on the struggles within the veterinary profession while also highlighting the passion and dedication of those who care for our pets. The episode also touches on the future of the documentary, its distribution plans, and how it can serve as an educational tool...

In this episode of the Family Pet Podcast, hosts Michael and Stephen Shirley speak with guest Dr. Craig Pryor about the importance of understanding parasites in pets, the role of the Companion Animal Parasite Council (CAPC), and the dynamic nature of parasites. They explore the evolution of pet care, the risks associated with internal parasites and heartworms, and the challenges of resistance in treatments. The conversation emphasizes the need for pet owners to take proactive measures to protect their pets and families from parasites, while also providing valuable resources for further information.

Companion Animal Parasite Council (CAPC...

In this episode of the Family Pet Podcast, hosts Michael and Stephen discuss the importance of being prepared for pet emergencies, especially during the holiday season when regular veterinary offices may be closed. They are joined by Dr. Matt Mink from VEG Murfreesboro, who shares insights into the differences between emergency veterinary care and general practice, including wait times, costs, and communication strategies. The conversation emphasizes the need for pet owners to trust their instincts when it comes to seeking emergency care and provides practical tips for navigating the experience.

Takeaways

The more you know...

We rescued this from the vaults of the Family Pet Podcast, and the topic is relevant as we navigate the winter holiday season. In this episode of the Family Pet Podcast, hosts Michael and Stephen discuss many food items that can poison your pet with Dr. Renee Schmid, a veterinary toxicologist. They explore various toxins that pets may encounter during the summer months, including common household items, outdoor hazards, and the importance of using pet-safe products. The conversation emphasizes the need for pet parents to be aware of potential dangers and provides practical advice for keeping pets safe during...

In this episode of the Family Pet Podcast, hosts Michael and Stephen discuss gut health with Dr. Alyssa Sullivant, an expert in veterinary internal medicine. The conversation covers the importance of gut health for pets, the role of the microbiome, and the processes of digestion and absorption. Dr. Sullivant explains the functions of different parts of the digestive tract, emphasizing the significance of the colon and the microbiome in maintaining overall health. The episode provides valuable insights for pet owners on how to support their pets' gastrointestinal health. In this conversation, Dr. Sullivant discusses the complexities of gastrointestinal health...

In this episode of the Family Pet Podcast, hosts Michael and Stephen discuss the aging process in pets with Dr. Christine Garrett. They explore the differences between senior and geriatric pets, the importance of regular wellness exams, and the common health issues that arise as pets age. The conversation also highlights the significance of cancer awareness in pets, introducing new diagnostic tests for early detection. The episode concludes with a fun fact about hedgehogs and a light-hearted discussion about Christmas ornaments.

The more you know about pet healthcare, the better pet parent you can be.
Senior...

Halloween, Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year's Eve all have one this in common - they can be deadly for your pet! In this episode, you will learn some tips to jeep your pet healthy and happy through the fall holiday season. 

In this episode of the Family Pet Podcast, the hosts discuss the various risks associated with Halloween for pets, including the dangers of candy ingestion and the anxiety pets may experience due to costumes and trick-or-treaters. Dr. Kerrie Robinson provides insights on how to keep pets safe during the holiday, including tips for managing their anxiety and ensuring they are secure. The episode concludes with fun Halloween facts and a reminder for pet owners to stay informed and proactive about their pets' health and safety during this festive time.

Takeaways
The biggest risk for pets during...

In this episode of the Family Pet Podcast, hosts Michael and Stephen Shirley and guest Aileen Cronin discuss how to prepare your home and your dog for the arrival of a new baby. Aileen , the owner of Baby Pack Leader, shares her expertise as a dog trainer and offers valuable tips for introducing dogs to babies. The conversation covers topics such as crate training, establishing boundaries, and teaching dogs the difference between their toys and the baby's toys. Aileen emphasizes the importance of starting early and being intentional about building a positive relationship between the dog and the baby.<...

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...

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 i...

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/
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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...

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

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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.

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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...

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...

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: