Dogs Are Individuals

181: Wildfire smoke can be hard on both you and your dog. In this episode, I share simple ways to reduce smoke exposure, how to recognize when your dog may need extra support, and the herbs I reach for most during wildfire season, including mullein, plantain, marshmallow root, licorice, and New England aster. As always, it's about supporting the individual in front of you with herbs that soothe, nourish, and work with the body.

Topics Discussed:

→ Wildfire Smoke & Dogs

→ Smoke Inhalation Remedies

→ Herbs for Lung Support

→ Mullein & Plantain Benefits<...

180: Comfrey is one of herbalism's most beloved plants but it's also one of the most misunderstood. While it's known for supporting the healing of bones, ligaments, tendons, and skin, it deserves a healthy dose of respect. In this episode, I share how I use comfrey in my practice, why it's one of my favorite herbs for external healing, and why I'm much more cautious when it comes to internal use. We'll talk about the compounds that make comfrey controversial, when it may be appropriate to use, and the safer alternatives I often reach for instead. As always, it's about...

179: Many dog owners worry about whether their dog's body is too acidic or too alkaline…but is that actually the right question?

In this episode, I explain how pH works throughout your dog's body, why healthy dogs naturally have different pH levels in different organs, and why trying to "alkalize" your dog may do more harm than good. You'll learn how blood pH differs from urine pH, what urine testing can actually reveal, and why looking at the whole dog is more important than focusing on a single number.

Topics Discussed:
→ What does pH actu...

178: Mullein is one of my favorite herbs for supporting irritated dog ears naturally. In this episode, I share why mullein flower oil has been used for generations to calm inflammation, ease discomfort, and support the ear's natural healing process. You'll learn how ear health connects to the rest of the body, why recurring ear issues often point to deeper imbalances, and how to safely harvest and make your own mullein-infused oil at home.

Topics Discussed:

→ Mullein Oil for Dog Ear Health

→ Natural Remedies for Ear Inflammation

→ The Connection Between Ear Health & the Ly...

177: In this episode, I'm diving into frequency medicine and why I believe it's an often-overlooked part of healing. I talk about hertz, resonance, and the energetic signatures of plants, trees, mushrooms, animals, and even the Earth itself. We explore how frequency shows up in herbal medicine, flower essences, and nature, and why spending time outdoors can have such a profound effect on both us and our dogs. I also share some of my favorite examples of frequency-based healing, including rose, lavender, oak, grounding, and the Schumann Resonance. If you've ever been curious about the energetic side of herbalism, this...

176: I recently got a chance to review the clinical research behind Green Juju's Soil Probiotics, and honestly, the results blew my mind.

In this short episode, I'm breaking down the findings from a study conducted with Innovative Pet Lab and discussing what they could mean for your dog's gut health, immune function, skin, digestion, and overall well-being. 

Topics Discussed: 

→ Do soil probiotics help dogs with digestive issues?

→ Can soil probiotics improve a dog's immune system?

→ How do soil probiotics affect the canine microbiome?

→ Can probiotics help reduce inflammati...

175: In this one, I'm walking through what pancreatitis actually is, the difference between acute and chronic, what causes it (hint: I don't blame high-fat diets), and how to recognize it in your dog. I also share my full herbal protocol with dosing for phytoembryonic therapies and glycerin extracts. Plus a quick note on the GastroElm supplement I love for recovery and chronic cases. And yes, there's a 5'7" poison hemlock plant living in my hedgerow now. She's staying.

Sponsored By: 

→ Green Juju

→ Real Mushrooms 

Check Out Rita:

→...

174: Have you ever found yourself replaying all the things you wish you had known before your dog passed away? Today I'm talking about grief, regret, and those imaginary timelines we create after losing a beloved dog. I share a few stories about my own dogs, the lessons they taught me, and why I believe our dogs never want us carrying guilt after they're gone. 

Topics Discussed: 

→ How do I cope with pet loss guilt?

→ Why do I feel guilty after my dog dies?

→ How does grief change over time?

→ W...

173: I’ve noticed so many dog parents getting overwhelmed trying to choose the “right” herbal product for their dogs…tinctures, glycerites, powders, chews… what’s actually best? In this short episode, I break down the differences between some of the most common herbal formats, how they work in the body, and why delivery method matters just as much as the herb itself. I also share when I personally reach for powders versus glycerites versus chews, plus some practical examples using seasonal allergy support formulas. If you’ve ever wondered why one herbal product works differently than another, this episode is for you.

172: What if your dog’s anxiety, itching, reactivity, or destructive behavior isn’t just behavioral… but a sign they’re not moving enough?

In this episode, I’m talking about the hidden effects of sedentary living on dogs and why movement is about so much more than exercise. From nervous system regulation and lymphatic flow to emotional health and behavior, I break down why modern indoor lifestyles may be disconnecting our dogs from what their bodies were designed to do.

Topics Discussed:
→ Why are dogs becoming sedentary?

→ Can lack of movement cause...

171: Today I’m breaking down the key differences between alfalfa and nettles for dogs, including how each herb supports recovery, allergies, joints, circulation, and overall vitality. I’ll explain why alfalfa is one of my favorite tonic herbs for depleted dogs, when nettles may work better for inflammation and allergies, and how herbal energetics can help you choose the right fit for your dog. 

Sponsored By: 

→ Pug & Hound Apothecary

Check Out Rita:

→ SIGN UP FOR MY NEW BOOK

→ Rita’s Instagram

→ Facebook Group

→ My Courses

→ My Website...

170: Ever find a lump on your dog and immediately panic?

In this episode, I’m breaking down sebaceous cysts, what they actually are, why they form, and what your dog’s body is trying to tell you. I walk you through the connection between the skin, liver, and lymphatic system, plus simple, effective ways to support your dog naturally. From warm compresses to herbal remedies and diet shifts, this is about addressing the root cause, not just the bump.

Topics Discussed:

→ What causes sebaceous cysts in dogs

→ Are dog cysts dangerous or harml...

169: Ear hematomas can appear suddenly, turning a normal dog ear into a swollen, fluid filled flap almost overnight. In this episode, I walk through what a hematoma actually is, why it happens, and how conventional treatment often focuses on drainage or surgery with mixed long term results.

Topics Discussed: 

→ What causes ear hematomas in dogs

→ Can dog hematomas heal naturally

→ How to treat dog ear hematoma

→ Why do dog ears swell suddenly

→ Do ear hematomas require surgery

Sponsored By: 

→ Pug & Hound Apothecary

Check Out Ri...

168: In this episode, I wrap up my lead series by walking through what a real herbal protocol for lead exposure in dogs actually looks like in practice. Instead of aggressive detox approaches, I focus on gentle drainage, proper binding support, and working with the body in a steady, structured way over time.

Sponsored By: 

→ Green Juju

→ Real Mushrooms 

Check Out Rita:

→ The Herbal Dog (Book)

→ Rita’s Instagram

→ Facebook Group

→ My Courses

→ My Website and Store

Produced By: Drake Peterson

167: In this episode, I break down how lead and other heavy metals quietly build up in your dog’s body, and what you can do about it using herbal medicine. I walk you through phytoembryonic therapies, including European alder, black poplar, grapevine, and more, and explain how they support detoxification, the liver, lymphatic system, and nervous system.

Topics Discussed:
→ How do you detox lead from a dog naturally?

→ What are symptoms of heavy metal toxicity in dogs?

→ Are herbal remedies safe for dog detox?

→ What is phytoembryonic therapy for pets?

→ Ho...

166: In this episode, I’m digging into one of the most misunderstood and fear-driven topics in the natural pet space, lead and heavy metals in herbs. I break down what actually matters when it comes to exposure, why sourcing and dosage are everything, and how to think about herbal safety without spiraling into fear.

Sponsored By: 

→ Green Juju

→ Real Mushrooms

Topics Discussed: 

→ Are herbs safe for dogs long term

→ Do dog supplements contain heavy metals

→ What herbs detox heavy metals safely

→ Are powdered herbs safe for d...

165: Are heavy metals hiding in your dog’s herbal supplements? In this short episode, I break down the truth about lead in herbs and why this issue is more about environmental exposure than contamination.

I walk you through how plants absorb heavy metals, why roots like dandelion and turmeric carry higher risk, and how sourcing plays a huge role in safety. I also share what to look for in high quality herbal products, why organic doesn’t always mean safer, and how to support your dog’s natural detox pathways.

If you’ve felt alarmed by recen...

164: Today I’m covering a topic most of us try to avoid…mold. I’ll walk you through how mold affects both dogs and people, why some of us get sick while others don’t, and the key systems in the body that handle toxins like the liver, bile, and lymph. I also share my favorite herbal and nutritional remedies to support detoxification, energy, and immune function safely and effectively, plus tips for building a resilient body for yourself and your dog. Whether you’re managing environmental exposure or just curious about holistic health, this episode has practical advice and action...

163: Okay, now onto eyes - last episode we talked cataracts, today it’s glaucoma. These two get lumped together a lot, but they’re really different. Cataracts mess with the lens, glaucoma messes with pressure inside the eye, and both can cause vision problems if ignored. I explain why fluid movement, lymphatic drainage, liver health, and nutrition all play a role…not just for your dog, but honestly, it applies to us too.

Topics Discussed: 

→ What causes dog glaucoma

→ How to prevent cataracts

→ Best nutrients for eye health

→ How lymph impacts e...

162: Ever wonder what’s really going on beneath the surface when we talk about our dogs’ eye health? Today we’re hanging out in that space between science, intuition, and good old fashioned common sense, talking about cataracts from a whole dog ecosystem perspective. It’s not just about eyes, it’s about what’s happening inside, from diet and minerals to stress and seasonal living. No panic, just practical, grounded ideas you can actually think about applying in real life with your dog.

Sponsored By: 

→ Green Juju

→ Real Mushrooms 

Check Out Rita:

→...

161: In this short episode, I’m sharing practical ways to help your dog recover after a dental procedure without overcomplicating things. We’re looking at simple, natural support ideas that help your dog’s body handle stress, inflammation, and healing from the inside out. If you’ve ever wondered what to do after your dog gets dental work, this is a quick, easy listen with tips you can start thinking about right away.

Sponsored By: 

→ Pug & Hound Apothecary

Check Out Rita:

→ The Herbal Dog (Book)

→ Rita’s Instagram

→ Facebook Grou...

160: We’re continuing our deep look at dental health, but this time I’m taking you beyond plaque and tartar and into terrain, inflammation, mineral balance, and how chronic periodontal disease can quietly impact the heart valves.

Dental disease is never just about brushing. It’s about the ecosystem inside your dog, their minerals, their liver, their lymphatic flow, their stress levels, and their immune strength. Everything is connected. If you want to understand how oral inflammation trickles down into heart health and what that means for longevity, this episode is for you.

Sponsored By: 

→...

159: Today’s episode is all about dental cleanings. We’re talking systemic effects, liver, lymph, and kidney support, and how anesthesia can impact more than just the teeth. I’ll cover everything from detox support, hydration, gentle movement, antioxidants, to helping your dog’s organs process the stress of a procedure safely. Remember, a dental isn’t just about the teeth…it’s a systemic event, and supporting your dog makes all the difference in recovery.

→ Canine Dental and Mouthcare Course | 35% off with code MOUTH 

Sponsored By: 

→ Pug & Hound Apothecary

Check Out Rita:

→ T...

Since it is dental month, I wanted to sit down and chat about how oral health is not just about teeth or breath, it is about digestion, immunity, inflammation, lymph flow, behavior, and honestly your dog’s whole vibe.

We dig into how chewing and saliva support the nervous system, why oral bacteria can impact the heart, liver, joints, and gut, and how low grade dental issues can quietly show up as skin problems, ear trouble, or mood changes. I also share some herbal perspectives, lymphatic thoughts, and the little things you can watch for at home to...

157: In this short, I’m talking about ozonated ear drops and why they’ve become such a helpful part of my dogs’ ear care routine. With my own bulldogs being prone to chronic ear irritation and flare ups, I’ve been looking for gentle ways to support their ears before things get out of hand, and ozonated oils have been a real game changer.

I walk you through what ozone actually is, how ozonated ear drops work, and why the ears are such a delicate ecosystem. I also share how ear issues can connect back to the kidneys...

156: In this episode, I talk about the difference between being holistic and being rigid, and why fear of “doing the wrong thing” can sometimes delay the help our dogs truly need. I share personal reflections from my own cancer experience and how it shaped my view of integrative care for animals. We explore why getting a diagnosis is not giving up, and how veterinary medicine can act as a bridge to deeper holistic healing. I address the mistrust many guardians feel toward conventional care, and how to advocate for your dog without abandoning your values. This episode is about flex...

155: In this episode, I’m answering a listener's question about dental health for dogs and sharing why the mouth is never just about teeth. I talk through a popular dental formula from an herbal perspective and explain how ingredients meant for oral health can also support detox, the gut, and overall balance in the body.

This is a casual, solo episode with me connecting the dots between plaque, inflammation, and whole dog wellness, plus a few important cautions to keep in mind. If you like learning the why behind products and want a more holistic way to th...

154: In this short holiday episode, I’m chatting about antibiotics and my own love, frustration relationship with them. They can absolutely save lives, but when we don’t rebuild the microbiome afterward, our dogs can deal with gut issues, skin problems, anxiety, allergies, and other symptoms months or even years later. I talk about when I personally choose to use antibiotics, what I look for afterward, and why repairing the gut is such a big deal for long term health. 

Sponsored By: 

→ Pug & Hound Apothecary

Show Links:
→  Meliora Laundry Detergent 

Check Out Ri...

153: Winter is here, and our dogs need extra care! Today I’m covering herbal infusions to support your dog’s kidneys, digestion, and overall wellness during the colder months. From parsley and goldenrod to marshmallow root, nettles, and ginger, I explain how to prepare safe and effective infusions, dose them for different sizes, and observe your dog’s responses. I also share tips on probiotics, lymphatic health, seasonal healing, and journaling to track what works best for your dog. 

Topics Discussed: 

→ How can herbal infusions improve my dog’s winter health?

→ Which herbs support kidney...

152: In this holiday short, I’m digging into something most dog parents barely think about, all the stuff we put on our dogs and around them. Shampoos, sprays, cleaners, even the things on your floors, it all adds up, and your dog’s skin, liver, kidneys, and microbiome are doing way more work than you realize. I share a few stories, a few surprises, and why some products you think are harmless might actually be stirring up itchiness, inflammation, and behavior changes.

If you’ve ever wondered whether that shampoo or household cleaner matters for your dog’s health...

151: Ever wonder why your dog has those stubborn brown tear stains? Today I’m looking into what’s really going on behind the eyes. It’s not just cosmetic…tear stains can signal congestion in the liver, gut, and lymphatic system. I break down how the microbiome, liver, and lymph all play a role, and share what you can do to help restore natural detox pathways and calm inflammation.

Sponsored By:

→ Green Juju

→ Real Mushrooms 

Check Out Rita:

→ The Herbal Dog (Book)

→ Rita’s Instagram

→ Facebook Group

150: Today we’re talking about all things gallbladder: what it is, why it shows up, and the simple things that can influence healthy bile flow in dogs. I also answer a listener's question about supportive options and walk through the everyday factors that can play a role like diet, stress, thyroid function, gut balance, and hydration. 

Topics Discussed: 

→ What causes gallbladder sludge in dogs?

→ How can I support healthy bile flow naturally?

→ Can diet changes help my dog’s gallbladder?

→ What signs of bile stagnation should dog parents watch for?

→...

149: Today I’m covering all things reproductive health for dogs. I’m not getting too heavy on the science, promise, just some insights and little clarifications from my recent spay/neuter clinic, plus some behind-the-scenes stuff you might not have considered.

We also get to talk about the body as a whole system: how everything from the brain to the liver and even the adrenals are connected, whether we realize it or not. 

Sponsored By:

→ Green Juju

→ Real Mushrooms 

Check Out Rita:

→ The Herbal Dog (Book)

→ Rita’s I...

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...