Dogs Are Individuals

148: If your pup pants easily, prefers cool spots, or deals with dry, irritated coughing, this episode’s for you. Today I’m talking all about Lung Harmony for Warm Dogs, one of my favorite formulas for supporting serious lung conditions in dogs who tend to run hot. 

I’ll walk you through the ingredients one by one and explain how they work together to calm heat, restore moisture, and support strong, resilient lungs. 

→ Lung Tonic - Warm Dog

Sponsored By:

→ Pug & Hound Apothecary

Check Out Rita:

→ The Herbal Dog (Bo...

147: I just got back from Europe and I’m so excited to cover today’s topic: Lung Harmony. We’re in lung season right now, so it’s the perfect time to talk about keeping your dog’s respiratory system balanced and strong. In this episode, I walk you through my Lung Harmony formula ingredient by ingredient, and explain how herbs like echinacea, elecampane, maize buds, calendula, and gray alder buds work together to support your pup’s lungs.

Sponsored By: 

→ Pug & Hound Apothecary

Check Out Rita:

→ The Herbal Dog (Book)

→ Rita’s In...

146: I’m coming to you from England & we’re covering lung tonics for warm dogs. If your dog loves cool floors, overheats easily, or struggles with respiratory irritation, this one’s for you. I’ll walk you through a powerful herbal blend that helps soothe inflammation, improve oxygen flow, and restore balance to tired lungs and why it’s so essential for supporting warm dogs through fall and winter.

Sponsored By: 

→ Pug & Hound Apothecary

→ Earth Buddy 

Check Out Rita:

→ The Herbal Dog (Book)

→ Rita’s Instagram

→ Facebook Group

145: In this episode of Dogs Are Individuals, I cover the effects of spay and neuter on your dog’s hormones, nervous system, and overall health. I explain why removing reproductive organs isn’t just about preventing puppies, it can disrupt critical hormone loops, stress the adrenals, affect bones, joints, behavior, and even increase risk for certain cancers.

I share practical strategies for supporting your dog’s health, from delaying spay/neuter when possible, ovary-sparing and vasectomy options, to hormone replacement, glandulars, and herbal therapies that help restore balance. 

Sponsored By:

→ Green Juju

→ Real...

144: I’m coming to you from Ireland with a quick episode all about supporting your dog’s lungs during seasonal changes. As we head into cooler weather, our pups are more prone to respiratory stress, coughing, and slower recovery from inflammation. I break down my Lung Tonic formula with reishi, black currant buds, calendula, and ginger, plus share why these herbs are so powerful for boosting immunity, reducing inflammation, and helping dogs breathe easier. 

Topics Discussed: 

→ How can I support my dog’s lungs naturally?

→ What herbs are best for canine respiratory health?

→ When...

143: In this short, I share a recent experience with a client whose small dog had a frightening reaction after being exposed to a topical flea treatment meant for their cats. Thankfully, with the guidance of emergency vet Dr. Lynda Loudin, we were able to troubleshoot and figure out what was going on. This episode covers the risks of spot-on flea and tick products, how they impact dogs, cats, people, and the environment, and safer alternatives you can use at home.

Topics Covered: 

→ Are spot-on flea meds safe?

→ Can pets get sick from flea treat...

142: In this episode, I’m talking all about hormones and how we can support our dogs with glandulars. When dogs are spayed or neutered, their hormones drop off suddenly and that shift can affect everything from the adrenals and liver to bones, connective tissue, energy, and the immune system.

I break down what glandulars are, why I use things like ovary, uterus, liver, and bone marrow, and how they bring in proteins, enzymes, and nutrients that help the body find balance again. I also share the key vitamins and cofactors that matter most for hormone health, plus wh...

141: Today I’m covering a topic every dog guardian should understand: pain. Dogs are masters at hiding discomfort, so it’s crucial to learn the subtle signs,both physical and behavioral,that indicate your dog may be hurting. From stiffness, limping, and changes in posture, to shifts in mood, sleep, appetite, and even breathing, I cover the key ways to recognize pain in your furry companion.

Topics Discussed:

→ How can I tell if my dog is in pain?

→ What are the subtle signs of chronic pain in dogs?

→ Which acupressure points help relie...

140: Today we’re giving kibble a little love. I know, I know, kibble doesn’t usually get the spotlight, but not everyone can go full-on raw or home-cooked every single meal. And that’s okay! So instead of stressing about perfection, I’m breaking down how to turn that bowl of dry crunchies into something way more nourishing.

Topics Discussed: 

→ How can I make my dog’s kibble healthier?

→ What fresh foods are safe to add to kibble?

→ Do herbs help improve my dog’s digestion?

→ Why does hydration matter for dogs on ki...

139: In today’s short I’m covering an important topic: AI and herbal medicine. I talk about why you need to be careful relying on AI for formulations, how it can easily get herbs and their energetics completely wrong, and why true herbal knowledge can’t be scraped from the internet. I even share some funny AI experiments that went hilariously off track. 

Topics Discussed: 

→ Can AI safely be used for herbal medicine formulations?

→ Why does AI get herbal energetics wrong?

→ What are the risks of using internet data for herbal remedies?

138: In this episode I’m covering Discoid Lupus in dogs, a tricky autoimmune condition that affects the skin, especially the face, nose, lips, and ears. I break down what it looks like, which breeds are more susceptible, and both conventional and holistic ways to support your pup. From herbal remedies like turmeric and medicinal mushrooms, to phytoembryonic therapies like mountain pine and walnut, I share practical steps to ease discomfort and support immune health.

Sponsored By:

→ Earth Buddy 

→ Green Juju

→ Real Mushrooms 

→ Dr Ruth Roberts 

→ Goodness Gracious 

→ AniCell...

137: In this episode, I’m covering how far dog nutrition has come since I started feeding my first Rottweiler decades ago. I talk about the huge shift from almost no options to the amazing variety of fresh, raw, minimally processed, and ethically sourced foods we have now. But more than that, I get real about why supporting each other, no matter where you are on your feeding journey, is what truly matters. Whether you feed raw, cooked, kibble, or a mix, your dog deserves kindness, respect, and better choices.

Sponsored By:

→ Earth Buddy 

→ Green J...

136: In this short episode I’m covering one of my favorite herbs for female dogs, spayed or unspayed, raspberry leaf! I’ll walk you through how it works as a uterine tonic, how it can help with irregular heat cycles, false pregnancies, hormone balance, and even emotional shifts some dogs experience during their cycles.

Topics Discussed:

→ Can raspberry leaf help regulate my dog’s heat cycle?

→ Is raspberry leaf safe for spayed dogs?

→ How do I give raspberry leaf to my dog?

→ What are the benefits of raspberry leaf for female dog...

135: Today’s episode is all about copper storage disease: what it is, why it’s becoming more common, and how to support your dog naturally if it shows up. I talk about the difference between natural and synthetic copper, why certain breeds are more at risk, and how commercial dog food might be doing more harm than good.

I’m also sharing my favorite herbs, supplements, and phyto-embryonic therapies to gently support the liver, stimulate bile flow, and help the body move that copper out. We’ll talk bitters, binders, nervous system support, lymph flow, and all the holi...

134: Coming to you from sunny Folly Beach, I’m covering one of my favorite healing tools: earthing. Yep, it’s exactly what it sounds like...getting those bare feet (and paws) on the ground to reconnect with the natural electrical charge of the Earth. In this episode, I share why grounding is way more than a wellness trend and how it helps reduce inflammation, balance hormones, improve sleep, and support your dog’s entire body system.

Sponsored By: 

→ Pug & Hound Apothecary

Check Out Rita:

→ SIGN UP FOR MY NEW BOOK

→ Rita’s...

133: We’re coming to you from the thick, damp air of Williamsburg, Virginia, where I’m reflecting on how far I’ve come in handling the heat and how our dogs can, too. I talk a bit about what “damp” means in both human and animal bodies, why mold might be a hidden culprit, and why it’s worth looking into testing if your dog seems off.

I’m also sharing some remedies for dogs with endocrine issues or PLRs. I walk you through adrenal-supportive herbs like licorice root, ashwagandha, rhodiola, and holy basil, plus supportive mushrooms like turkey ta...

132: In this short episode I’m covering NERS Syndrome, also known as Lector Syndrome. I explain what it is, the symptoms to watch for, and why this theory of endocrine-immune imbalance matters when it comes to your dog’s long-term health.

From chronic allergies and thyroid issues to anxiety and immune dysfunction, NERS might be part of the picture. Whether or not your vet recognizes it, I believe it’s important to consider the role of the nervous system and cortisol regulation in your dog’s overall wellness. Next time, I’ll share herbal support strategies for dogs with...

131: On this episode of Dogs Are Individuals, I’m unpacking the complex world of leaky gut in dogs. From energetic patterns like dampness and heat to key causes like antibiotics, stress, and candida overgrowth, we’ll talk about how this condition affects digestion, allergies, immune health, and even behavior. Learn how to recognize the signs, understand the role of the lymphatic system and digestive enzymes, and explore natural recovery protocols using herbs, probiotics, and supportive testing. Whether you're just starting your dog’s healing journey or looking for deeper insights, this episode is important for any dog owner. 

Topic...

130: This week I’m coming to you from the road—literally—while on my Herbal Dog Tour! In this episode, I dig into a question I was asked on tour: Can our dogs intuitively choose their energetics like wild animals do? I unpack why our dogs aren’t wolves, how seasonal eating plays into health, and why commercial diets make energetics more important than ever. 

Topics Discussed:

→ Can dogs choose their own food based on energetics?

→ What’s the difference between wild wolves' diets and domestic dogs’ diets?

→ Why are food energetics importan...

129: In this episode, we’re getting real about those “oh no” vet moments—the kind that leave you sweaty, stressed, and maybe yelling at your dog’s doctor (oops). Emergency vet Dr. Lynda Loudon joins us to chat about how to be a more prepared, less panicked pet parent and how to navigate difficult conversations with your vet. 

Topics Discussed: 

→ What should I ask my vet before a procedure?

→ How do I prepare for an unexpected vet visit?

→ Why is communication with your vet so important?

→ What mistakes do pet paren...

128: In this episode, I’m jumping right into seasonal allergies — and why they might not be all about the pollen. I never thought I’d be taken down by allergies, but here I am, sounding like a frog underwater. I’m sharing what I’ve learned from my own experience and how it relates to your dog’s health. Seasonal allergy symptoms are often a reflection of what’s going on inside the body, especially the liver and lymphatic systems. I dive into how histamine is processed, why liver function matters, and how to support your dog’s internal terrain naturall...

127: This week, I’m digging into Addison’s disease in dogs—what it is, how it shows up, and why it’s so often missed. It’s one of those conditions that can mimic a bunch of other issues, which makes getting the right diagnosis a real challenge.

I’ll break down what’s actually happening with your dog’s adrenal glands, how vets typically test for it, and what treatment looks like. If you’ve got a dog that’s been acting off—low energy, vomiting, or just not quite themselves—this episode’s for you.

Topics Discussed: <...

126: In this short episode, I go on a much-needed rant about something that truly made my stomach turn: Milk-Bone has teamed up with Jif peanut butter to create a new dog treat—and it's just as bad as it sounds. I break down the disturbing ingredients in both products, from glyphosate-laced wheat and trans fats to sugar, molasses, and mystery meats. These kinds of humanized, ultra-processed treats are not only unnecessary—they’re harmful.

If you’ve ever wondered why I’m so passionate about reading labels and advocating for real, whole food for dogs, this episode will expla...

125: In this episode, we’re diving deep into what happens after your dog gets bit by a tick — because that moment matters. I answer a listener's question about my After formula and break down how each ingredient helps support your dog’s body post-bite — from the cellular level all the way to the emotional layer. We’re talking olive bud, sweet chestnut, teasel, mushrooms, and more — all working together to modulate the immune response, reduce inflammation, and help your dog come back into balance. If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed trying to figure out what to do after your dog gets a bit...

In this episode of Dogs Are Individuals, we are going to talk about Cushing’s by request. I’m going to share my dog’s journey to help you recognize signs like panting, skin changes, and increased appetite. We’ll also explore diagnostic tools and treatment options, including holistic support. If your dog’s health feels like a mystery, this one’s for you. Topics Discussed: What are the early signs of Cushing’s disease in dogs? How is Cushing’s disease diagnosed in dogs? What treatment options are available for dogs with Cushing’s disease? Can holistic care help manage Cushin...

123: In this episode, I’m covering a fascinating topic: the glymphatic pathway. Think of it as your (and your dog’s!) brain detox system—kind of like the lymphatic system, but for the brain. We’ll explore how it works, why it matters for cognitive clarity and emotional regulation, and what you can do to support it naturally, especially in your dog.

I’ll also share updates from my book tour and some thoughts on dog dementia. We’ll touch on essential oils, phytoembryonic therapy, and lifestyle practices that help keep this system flowing.

If you're curio...

122: In today’s episode, we are going to talk about preparing the gut for probiotics. A lot of people don’t realize that we have to prepare and strengthen the gut before it’s ready for probiotics, which I talk about a lot in my new book The Herbal Dog. 

Strengthening the glycocalyx and IGA builds a resistant gut barrier before introducing probiotics. This is especially true in sensitive or immune compromised individuals. Strengthening these allows for commensal bacteria, which is good bacteria, can actually stick to the gut wall. 

Tune in to lear...

121: In this episode, I explore natural ways to support your dog’s health after spay or neuter surgery. We’ll discuss how herbs like ashwagandha and rhodiola can help balance hormones and keep your pup healthy and happy. I’ll also highlight how herbs can complement veterinary care, not replace it. Whether your dog’s surgery was recent or some time ago, I’ll share practical tips for aiding their recovery and promoting long-term well-being. Tune in to learn how natural remedies can support your dog’s health and keep them feeling great.

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120: In this episode, we're diving into often-overlooked aspects of canine care that can significantly impact your dog's health and well-being. We'll discuss why it's worth rethinking conventional practices like spaying and neutering, along with natural approaches to heartworm prevention, antibiotic recovery, and building a healthy microbiome. I'll also share effective, environmentally friendly alternatives to conventional flea and tick medications — plus insights on reducing pharmaceutical reliance for long-term health.

Topics Discussed:

...

119: Today’s episode explores how plant medicine and raw food nutrition can boost your pet's health. We’ll break down High Pressure Pasteurization (HPP), what it means for your dog’s diet, and how it keeps food safe while maintaining key nutrients.

Throughout this episode, I’ll share my own experiences with HPP-treated and traditional raw food diets, along with insights from my book tour. Tune in to learn how HPP works, what nutrients it affects, and why variety is so important in your pet’s meals.

Topics Discussed:

118: In this episode, I’m answering a listener question from Caroline about moringa. This trendy herb is often called a superfood, but is it the right fit for your dog? As a canine herbalist, I’m breaking down what you need to know before adding moringa to your dog’s routine. Tune in for the full scoop!

Topics discussed:

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117: In this episode, I’m diving into the importance of filtered water for both pets and humans. Whether you're at home or traveling, contaminants like chlorine, fluoride, and heavy metals can have a major impact on our health. Filtering your water helps reduce exposure to toxins, supporting a stronger immune system and overall well-being. It’s especially important for pets, as they can be more sensitive to the chemicals in unfiltered water. I’ll also share some practical tips for keeping your water clean on the road, so you and your pets can stay hydrated and healthy wherever you go.

116: In this episode, I dive into the Kibble Hierarchy—what separates a quality kibble from the bottom-of-the-barrel options. I break down ingredient labels, key red flags to watch for (like rendered meals and non-descript meats), and how to make better choices for your dog’s health.

This episode is especially for those who can’t feed raw or home-cooked meals exclusively. I also share some of my top kibble recommendations and tips for evaluating dog food brands.

Topics Discussed:

In this episode of Dogs Are Individuals, I’m sharing how to boost your dog’s immune system with natural remedies—no need to panic about things like bird flu! I talk about the power of mushrooms, why they’re safe for dogs of all ages, and how to protect your pets with herbs like Agarikon, Andrographis, and elderberry.  I’ll also give you an update on my book tour (so excited!) and remind you to focus on self-care and staying calm, especially when stress is high.  

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In this episode, I’m talking about a topic that’s really important but often overlooked—sugar and its negative effects on dogs. I explain why sugar weakens the immune system, causes inflammation, and contributes to chronic diseases like cancer. I also share my own experiences with sugar and how I’ve learned to manage it, both for myself and for my dogs. If you’re feeding your dog anything with added sugars, you might want to rethink it.

Key points in this episode:

In this episode, I’m sharing something that’s near and dear to my heart: how to find reliable herbal information for your dogs. We’ve all been there—googling herbs for pets and getting overwhelmed by conflicting advice. I’ll explain why you should be cautious about the info you find online, especially when it comes to herbs like chamomile, peppermint, and garlic.

I’ll walk you through the importance of knowing which herbs are safe, how to find trustworthy sources (hint: herbalists!), and why it’s so crucial to pay attention to things like dosage and extraction...

In this episode, I’m talking about cognition and how we can support our dogs' brain health through herbs and nutrition. I’ll walk you through some of my favorite herbs like Ginkgo Biloba, Gotu Kola, Bacopa, and Lion's Mane, and how they can help with memory, circulation, and reducing oxidative stress. I also share some brain-boosting superfoods, like Omega-3s, coconut oil, and blueberries, that are fantastic for your dog’s mental sharpness. Plus, I’ll talk about the power of mushrooms like Reishi, Cordyceps, and Turkey Tail to support overall cognitive function. If you want to keep your dog...

In this episode, I'm chatting about kidney health as we roll into "kidney season" (yep, that’s a thing) from December 21st to March 21st, and I’m sharing some nuggets from my book The Herbal Dog. I’ll explain how kidney issues can sneak up on us — like subtle signs of urinary changes or joint pain — before they show up on blood work, and how you can spot them early. I’ll also cover natural remedies for both hot and cold kidney imbalances, and share a little story about my cat Carl's recent urinary blockage (cue stress and chaos). Tune...

In this episode, I’m answering a listener's question about gallbladder sludge in dogs—something I’ve been seeing more of lately. Irene wrote in about her Chihuahua's condition and asked for advice, so I dive into what gallbladder sludge is, how it affects digestion, and what you can do to support your dog’s liver and gallbladder health. I also share some of my favorite herbal remedies for thinning bile and improving liver function, like dandelion root, milk thistle, and turmeric. If your dog is struggling with digestive issues or gallbladder concerns, this episode is full of helpful insights...

In this episode, we tackle the *controversial* topic of feeding frozen food to your dog. I discuss why consistently feeding very cold or frozen food may not be the best choice for your dog’s digestive health, including how it can put extra strain on the liver, pancreas, and other vital organs. Learn about the impact of frozen food on nutrient absorption, digestive enzymes, and overall wellness, and why warming food to room temperature might be a better option for your furry friend. Tune in for practical insights and tips on supporting your dog's gut health!

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