Unleashed Curiosity Podcast about Dog and Cat Health by Vital Pet Life
Unleashed Curiosity by Vital Pet Life Podcast cracks the code on pet nutrition, wellness hacks & keeping your fur fam thriving! ✨ Join Donie Yamamoto, CEO and Founder and Dr. Amber Da Silva, DVM as they share practical advice, expert insights, and myth-busting truths to help you become a more confident, educated, and empowered pet parent. We’re here to dispel misinformation, break down pet ingredients, and highlight key pet wellness strategies backed by veterinary expertise. From Q & A with Dr. Amber to ingredient transparency, this podcast is your authority on today’s pet care. It’s time to get informed, inspired, and conf...
The Future of Pet Wellness: What We Saw at Global Pet Expo 2026
Donie Yamamoto and Dr. Amber Da Silva, DVM, back from Global Pet Expo 2026 with one major takeaway: pet wellness is evolving fast; from personalized nutrition and microbiome innovation to sustainability and ingredient transparency, today’s pet parents are increasingly conscientious about the ingredients in the treats and supplements they give their pets.
In this episode, they discuss the biggest trends shaping the future of pet longevity, why clean sourcing and recognizable ingredients matter, and Vital Pet Life’s exciting launch at the show of Only Salmon Oil for Dogs & Cats — the first pet supplement oil in...
Why Your Dog NEEDS to Sniff on Walks (It's Not What You Think)
Your dog isn't walking — they're reading.
Every fire hydrant, every blade of grass, every invisible trail left by a passing stranger — your dog is processing all of it through a nose that's up to 100,000x more powerful than yours. But most walks are designed entirely around human priorities: speed, distance, calories burned.
In this episode of Unleashed Curiosity by Vital Pet Life, veterinarian Dr. Amber Da Silva and founder Donie Yamamoto break down the fascinating science of canine olfaction and why sniffing isn't a bad habit — it's a...
60-Second Ingredient Deep Dive with Dr. Amber, DVM: Oatmeal for Dogs and Cats Shampoo
You've seen it on every pet shampoo. But do you actually know what it does? 🌾
Unleashed Curiosity by Vital Pet Life launches a brand new segment — 60 Second Ingredient Deep Dives — and Dr. Amber Da Silva, DVM is starting with one of the most common and most misunderstood ingredients in pet wellness.
Today: Oatmeal.
Not the breakfast kind. The kind that could be actively restoring your pet's skin health — or doing absolutely nothing — depending entirely on whether the brand you're usin...
Dogs, Aging & the Future of Medicine: What We’re Learning from Canine Longevity, Health Science & Breakthroughs for Longer Lives
🐾 Your Dog Is Aging Like You — And That's Changing Medicine Forever
The Dog Aging Project is tracking tens of thousands of dogs nationwide — and what researchers are finding could reshape how we approach health for both dogs AND humans.
Dogs don't just mirror us emotionally. They mirror us biologically. Same diseases. Same environment. Same aging pathways. Just on a faster timeline.
⏱️ TIMESTAMPS:
00:00 - The Dog Aging Project: What It Is
01:16 - Why dogs are the perfect human aging model
02:57 - C...
The One Why Cats Knead & Zoom at 3AM – 10 Weird Cat Behaviors Explained by a Vet
Why Cats Knead, Zoom at 3AM & Knock Things Over – 10 Weird Cat Behaviors Explained by a Vet
Your cat isn't weird. Science just finally caught up. 🐱
We decode 10 viral cat behaviors with Dr. Amber Da Silva, DVM — and the answers will surprise you. Our Short on cat kneading just crossed 160,000 views, so we're going deeper.
⏱️ TIMESTAMPS
00:00 — Kneading / "Making Biscuits" 🍞
03:39 — The Slow Blink / Cat Kiss 😻
04:14 — "If I Fit, I Sit" 📦
04:48 — 3AM Zoomies 🌙
06:10 — B...
What Your Vet Isn't Telling You About Dog Longevity: Rehab, Teeth & Mobility With Dr. Paul Toniolli
Your Dog Could Live LONGER With These 3 Habits | Canine Rehab, Dental Care & Mobility | Unleashed Curiosity
Most pet parents are accidentally shortening their dog's life without even knowing it. Dr. Paul Tonioli, founder of Antelope Animal Hospital, certified canine rehabilitation practitioner and orthopedic surgeon, reveals the three biggest pillars of pet longevity that nobody talks about enough.
🔥 TIMESTAMPS:
00:00 — Intro: The secret to adding healthy years
01:09 — Meet Dr. Paul Tonioli
05:46 — What is canine rehabilitation?
07:05 — The underwater treadmill explained
09:23 — W...
60-Second Ingredient Deep Dive with Dr. Amber, DVM: Krill
Are you wasting money on pet supplements that don’t actually work?
In this episode of Unleashed Curiosity by Vital Pet Life, we introduce a new segment: 60-Second Ingredient Deep Dive with Dr. Amber, DVM—where we break down the real science behind the most common (and most confusing) pet wellness ingredients.
No fluff. No jargon. Just what actually matters for your dog or cat’s health.
Today’s spotlight: Krill Powder 🦐
You’ll learn:
• What kri...
Why Dogs Chase Their Tails, Follow You & Act Strange: 10 Hidden Behaviors Every Pet Parent Must Understand for a Happier, Healthier Dog
Why do dogs chase their tails, scratch your bed, lick you, or suddenly bark at nothing?
What if those “cute” or “weird” behaviors are actually your dog trying to communicate something important about their health, stress levels, or environment?
In this episode of Unleashed Curiosity by Vital Pet Life, host Donie Yamamoto sits down with veterinarian Dr. Amber Da Silva to break down the top 10 most common dog behaviors—and what they really mean.
From tail chasing and zoomies
Pet Anxiety Explained: How to Calm Nervous Dogs & Stressed Cats Naturally
Is your dog pacing, panting, or showing signs of stress?
Is your cat hiding, overgrooming, or acting differently?
Pet anxiety is more common than most pet parents realize — and it can impact your pet’s gut health, immune system, behavior, and overall longevity.
In this episode of Unleashed Curiosity by Vital Pet Life, Donie Yamamoto and veterinarian Dr. Amber Da Silva break down:
The real signs of anxiety in dogs and cats
Why anxiety is often misdiagnosed or overlooked
Ho...
Salmon Oil for Dogs & Cats: Omega-3 Benefits for Skin, Coat & Joints | 60-Second Deep Dive with Dr. Amber, DVM
What does fish oil really do for your dog or cat—and how do you know if it’s actually high quality?
In this episode of “60-Second Ingredient Deep Dive,” veterinarian Dr. Amber Da Silva and Donie Yamamoto from Vital Pet Life break down one of the most popular pet supplements: fish oil for dogs and cats.
No fluff. Just science-backed clarity.
You’ll learn:
• Key fish oil benefits for dogs and cats: skin & coat...
Pets in Dreamland: Stares, Barks & Secrets Pet Parents Must Know About Their Dogs and Cats Sleeping Behavior
Why does your dog bark, twitch, or run in their sleep? Why do cats suddenly stare at walls like they see something you can’t? And when should pet parents actually worry?
In this episode of Unleashed Curiosity, veterinarian Dr. Amber Da Silva and Vital Pet Life founder Donie Yamamoto explore the science behind some of the most mysterious pet behaviors — from dogs barking during dreams to cats freezing mid-stare.
Many pet parents notice strange behaviors like blank stares, sleep barking, twitching legs...
Pet Longevity Secrets: Holistic Vet Dr. Judy Morgan on Natural Health, Diet & Dental Care | Holistic Pet Care & Dog Nutrition Secrets
Want your dog or cat to live longer? Holistic veterinarian Dr. Judy Morgan shares powerful tips on dog nutrition, natural pet health, and pet longevity.
In this episode of Vital Pet Life’s Unleashed Curiosity, Donie Yamamoto and Dr. Amber De Silva sit down with renowned holistic veterinarian Dr. Judy Morgan, who has more than 40 years of experience in integrative veterinary medicine.
Dr. Morgan shares the six ways to keep pets naturally healthy, including whole-food nutrition, responsible vaccination, reducing chemical exposure, de...
Longevity in Pets Begins Before the Gray Hair: Why Preventive Care Matters More Than Age
Longevity in Pets Begins Before the Gray Hair: Why Preventive Care Matters More Than Age
Longevity isn’t something you fix later — it’s something you build early.
Most pet parents associate aging with gray muzzles and slower walks. But what if the biggest mistake we make is waiting too long to think about longevity? In this episode of Unleashed Curiosity: Vital Pet Life, Donie Yamamoto and Dr. Amber Da Silva, DVM, dive into why prevention matters more than age and how small daily habits can tr...
The Secret Life of Cats: What Independent Pets Really Need to Live Longer, Happier Lives ft. Megan Merriman
The Secret Life of Cats: What Independent Pets Really Need to Live Longer, Happier Lives ft. Megan Merriman
Are cats really “low maintenance”… or are they just quiet about what they need?
In this heartfelt and eye-opening episode of Unleashed Curiosity, we uncover the truth about feline longevity, independence, and the silent health signs many cat parents miss.
From rescuing a kitten off the 405 freeway to volunteering with at-risk shelter cats in Los Angeles, Megan Merriman shares powerful rescue stories, real-life lessons, and what cats h...
Inside VMX 2026: Vital Pet Life on the Future of Pet Wellness
Inside VMX 2026: Vital Pet Life on the Future of Pet Wellness
What does the future of pet health really look like — and how does it impact your dog or cat today?
In this episode of Unleashed Curiosity, we take you inside VMX 2026, one of the world’s largest and most influential veterinary conferences, where Vital Pet Life joined thousands of veterinarians, researchers, and industry leaders shaping the next era of pet wellness.
Join Donie Yamamoto, CEO and Founder of Vital Pet Life, and Dr...
Toxins at Home: Hidden Threats to Your Pet’s Health, Safety, and Longevity Every Pet Parent Needs to Know
Toxins at Home: Hidden Threats to Your Pet’s Health, Safety, and Longevity Every Pet Parent Needs to Know
Your home might be putting your pet at risk—without you even realizing it.
In this episode of Unleashed Curiosity, Donie Yamamoto and Dr. Amber Da Silva, DVM reveal the hidden household toxins that quietly affect your dog or cat’s health, longevity, and daily comfort.
Because pets live closer to the ground, sniff everything, lick surfaces, and share our space, they’re exposed to chemical...
60-Second Ingredient Deep Dive with Dr. Amber, DVM: Green-Lipped Mussel (GLM) for Dog & Cat Joint Health
60-Second Ingredient Deep Dive: Green-Lipped Mussel 🐚
What does green-lipped mussel actually do for your pet?
In this rapid-fire episode of Unleash Curiosity, Dr. Amber breaks down:
• What green-lipped mussel is
• How it supports joint comfort & mobility
• How much dogs and cats really need
• Red flags to avoid low-quality versions
No fluff. No jargon. Just clear, vet-approved insight for pet parents who want better health outcomes.
Follow Unleash Curiosity for more 60-second sci...
Unlocking the Secret Language of Animals ft. Kylie Wade for Pet Parents, Dogs, Cats, Pets
What if animals—here and beyond the rainbow bridge—could truly communicate with us? Former CEO Kylie Wade shares how a life-changing encounter with 50 humpback whales opened her intuitive abilities and later helped her connect with her cat, Cortez, in ways that brought deep healing.
Inspired by Telepathy Tapes and even moments in Bluey, Kylie reveals how energy, presence, and emotion can help us hear what animals are trying to say—without words.
Secret Animal Communication. Pet Rainbow Bridge. Listen differently. Connect deeper. Heal through connection.
C...
Four Strategies to Jumpstart Your Pet’s Longevity for Dogs, Cats, Pet Parents
Ever wonder how some pets stay vibrant and joyful well into their golden years, while others slow down too soon? In this episode of Unleashed Curiosity, Donie Yamamoto, CEO of Vital Pet Life, and Dr. Amber Da Silva, DVM, break down the four proven strategies to help your pet live longer, healthier, and happier lives.
We dive into:
Nutrition that nourishes at the molecular level—why high-quality food matters more than you think.
Movement and healthy weight—the surprising impact on lifespan and vitality.
Stre...
Introducing Pet Longevity with Donie & Dr. Amber for Dogs, Cats, Pet Parents
Join Donie Yamamoto and Dr. Amber Da Silva, DVM as they explore how your pets can live longer, healthier, and happier lives.
In this episode, we’re laying the foundation for longevity and whole-life wellness, sharing science-backed insights, actionable tips, and the practical steps every pet parent can take.
🎧 In this episode, you’ll learn:
What longevity really means for pets: lifespan AND healthspan
How nutrition, supplements, and gut health influence vitalit...
2026 Pet Wellness Reset: Vet-Approved Tips You Can Start Today for Dogs and Cats that Pet Parents Should Save or Follow
🎙️ Season 3 Premiere | Start Your Pet’s Healthiest Year Yet
What if one small change in 2026 could add years to your pet’s life?
In this New Year kickoff episode of Unleashed Curiosity Vital Pet Life podcast, hosted by Donie Yamamoto and Dr. Amber Da Silva, DVM, explore the most impactful yet simple ways pet parents can support longevity, gut health, joint health, and overall wellness in dogs and cats.
You’ll learn:
• The #1 supplement vets recommend
• How to spot early signs of health issues at...
Holiday Pet Health Guide: Prevent Diabetes, Boost Longevity for Your Dog and Cat
Pet diabetes is rising faster than most pet parents realize—and too often, it’s diagnosed when it’s already advanced. In this must-listen episode of Unleashed Curiosity, host Donie Yamamoto, founder of Vital Pet Life, sits down with Dr. Amber De Silva, DVM to break down what every dog and cat parent needs to know now to protect their pet’s long-term health.
As we head into a new year filled with fresh starts (and plenty of treats), this conversation dives deep into why diabetes is becoming more com...
Breaking It Down with Dr. Amber: Why Gut Health Is the Key to Your Pet’s Happiness A Podcast For Dogs Taking Probiotic Supplement
🐾 70% of Your Pet’s Immune System Starts in the Gut — Here’s Why That Matters
Did you know up to 70% of your dog or cat’s immune system lives in their gut? In this eye-opening episode of Breaking It Down with Dr. Amber, veterinarian Dr. Amber Da Silva, DVM joins host Donie Yamamoto to unpack why gut health is the foundation of your pet’s overall wellness — and what every pet parent needs to know right now.
🎙️ What You’ll Learn in This Episode
Your pet’s gut impacts far more than digestion. I...
Unleashing Sustainability: How Pet Sustainability Coalition Is Driving Change in the Pet Industry for Healthier Dogs, Cats, and The Planet
In this powerful episode of Unleash Curiosity by Vital Pet Life, Donie Yamamoto and Dr. Amber Da Silva, DVM sit down with Allison Reser, Director of Sustainability & Innovation at the Pet Sustainability Coalition (PSC)—the organization leading the transformation toward a more ethical, transparent, and climate-smart pet industry.
From the founding story of PSC to the realities of ingredient transparency, responsible sourcing, and sustainable packaging, Allison breaks down what every pet brand—and every pet parent—needs to know.
If you’ve ever wondered:
What does sustainability actually...
R+D with Donie: Secrets to Balanced Pet Nutrition for Dogs and Cats Podcast
Ever wondered what’s actually inside your pet’s supplements—and whether they even work? 👀 This episode pulls back the curtain on something most brands never talk about.
Join veterinarian Dr. Amber Da Silva, DVM and Vital Pet Life founder Donie Yamamoto as they take you behind the scenes of real pet supplement formulation—from ingredient purity and third-party testing to the science that keeps your pets thriving.
If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by probiotics, mobility formulas, shiny-coat oils, or the thousands of “functional treats” out there… this episode is your new cheat code.<...
Breaking It Down with Dr. Amber: Are We Over-Vaccinating Our Pets?
💉 Are pet vaccines really necessary—or are we overdoing it? In this episode of Breaking It Down with Dr. Amber, Dr. Amber Da Silva, DVM, teams up with Donie Yamamoto, CEO of Vital Pet Life, to tackle one of the most debated topics in pet care: vaccines.
🙀 From deadly diseases like parvo, rabies, and distemper to the myths surrounding vaccine safety, Dr. Amber breaks down the science in a clear, practical way. Learn why puppies and kittens need a precise vaccine series, how adult pets’ immunity works, and why individual vaccination protects entire communities of pets—an...
R+D with Donie: The Power of Omega-3 fatty acids in Salmon Oil
Welcome back to Unleashed Curiosity: R&D with Donie, the series where we take you behind the science, sourcing, and formulation of Vital Pet Life’s most loved products. In today’s episode, we’re diving deep into the power of Omega fatty acids — the heart and science behind our signature Vital Pet Life Salmon Oil.
Join Donie Yamamoto, Founder of Vital Pet Life, and Dr. Amber Da Silva, DVM, as they unpack what makes high-quality salmon oil truly effective for your pet’s skin, coat, joints, heart, and overall wellness.
You’ll disco...
Energy, Emotion, and the Unspoken Bond Between Humans and Pets ft. Crystal Heinemann of The Psychic Soul
In this episode of Unleashed Curiosity, Donie sits down with Crystal Heinemann—intuitive guide, healer, and founder of The Psychic Soul, a spiritual wellness brand helping people master their energy, regulate emotions, and deepen their intuitive connection.
Crystal shares how the energy we carry doesn’t just shape our inner world—it directly influences the pets who rely on us for safety, stability, and calm.
Whether you’re navigating stress, introducing a new pet, preparing for travel, or simply wanting to show up as the calm your pet feels—this conversation will help yo...
The Beneficial Bond Between People and Dogs
In this episode of Unleashed Curiosity, Donie Yamamoto and Dr. Amber Da Silva, DVM, delve into the profound emotional bond between people and dogs. Discover how this connection benefits mental health, reduces stress, and helps both humans and pets thrive. Inspired by the video “Exploring the Beneficial Bond Between People and Dogs,” they share science-backed insights and simple tips to strengthen your relationship with your dog through empathy, play, and daily care.
🎧 Listen now and learn how to deepen your bond with your dog — one small moment at a time.
📺 Watch the full video...
Breaking It Down with Dr. Amber: Glucosamine
💬 “High-quality supplements aren’t just for aging pets—they’re for prevention, too.” — Dr. Amber
Ever wondered what’s really inside your pet’s Glucosamine supplement? 🐶🐱
Join Dr. Amber Da Silva and Donie Yamamoto in this episode of Breaking It Down with Dr. Amber, a segment of Unleashed Curiosity by Vital Pet Life, as they uncover how Glucosamine, Chondroitin, and MSM work together to keep your pet’s joints healthy and strong.
You’ll learn:
✅ How Glucosamine supports joint mobility and cartilage health
✅ Why consistency matters for lasting...
R+D with Donie: Glucosamine to support Joint Health, Flexibility, and Mobility for Dogs and Cats
💪 Keep your pet moving with confidence! In this episode of R+D with Donie, Vital Pet Life's CEO and Founder, Donie Yamamoto along with Dr. Amber Da Silva, DVM, shares how Vital Pet Life’s liquid Glucosamine was created to support joint health, flexibility, and mobility —without any artificial colors, flavors, or added sugars. Discover why pet parents everywhere are making the switch to cleaner, more effective joint care.
✨ Better mobility starts here! 🐾 Strong joints, happy pets!
🎁 You may shop Vital Pet Life Glucosamine 👉 https://www.vitalpetlife.com/products/liquid-glucosamine-msm-chondroitin
💡 Learn more and shop V...
Modern Medicine for Pets ft. Dr. Christie Long
Discover how technology is transforming pet care. 🐾 In this episode of Unleashed Curiosity, we sit down with Dr. Christie Long, Head of Veterinary Medicine at Modern Animal, to explore how innovation is reshaping veterinary practice, supporting vets, and strengthening the bond between pets and their parents.
🎧 From telemedicine to building better workplaces for vets—get a glimpse into the future of veterinary care.
💪 Learn more and shop Vital Hip + Joint for Cats and Dogs at https://www.vitalpetlife.com/products/vital-hip-joint-for-dogs-and-cats
You may also listen here to our previous episode 🎙️ https://smartlink.ausha.co/unleash...
How to Boost Your Pet’s Health
🎉 Happy Pet Wellness Month! In this episode of Unleashed Curiosity, Donie Yamamoto, CEO & Founder of Vital Pet Life, and Dr. Amber Da Silva, DVM, share practical ways to boost your pet’s health. From preventive care to everyday wellness checks, discover simple tips to keep your furry friend happy and thriving. Plus, learn how pets can even improve your well-being. 🐾 ✨
What You’ll Learn:
🐾What “pet wellness” really means beyond vet visits
💪 Simple ways to keep pets active—even in small spaces
🩺 Preventive care, post-birth care tips and early signs of hea...
Breaking It Down with Dr. Amber: Fish Oil
🎙️ Welcome Back to Unleashed Curiosity by Vital Pet Life Podcast: Breaking It Down with Dr. Amber! :feet:
On this episode, we dive deep into the amazing benefits of Vital Pet Life’s Fish Oil with our team veterinarian, Dr. Amber Da Silva, DVM. If you're curious about how to improve your pet’s skin, coat, joints, and overall health, this episode is packed with the insights you need!
🔍 What You Can Expect:
The top benefits of fish oil for your pet’s health
How omega-3 fatty acids su...
R+D with Donie: Fish Oil for Dogs and Cats - Best Seller Pet Supplement Shiny Skin and Coat
In this episode of Unleashed Curiosity's R+D with Donie, CEO & Founder of Vital Pet Life, Donie Yamamoto and team veterinarian, Dr. Amber Da Silva, DVM, share the research and development behind Vital Pet Life’s Fish Oil. Backed by ORIVO verification and MSC sustainability certification, this blend of pollock and salmon oil provides pets with essential omega-3s for skin and coat health, among other benefits.
Tune in to learn what makes our Fish Oil different from other brands, why transparency matters, and hear real testimonials from pet parents who’ve seen the bene...
Tails of Healing ft. Karen Stevens from Therapy Dogs of America
In this episode of Unleashed Curiosity, Dr. Amber Da Silva, DVM welcomes Karen Lee Stevens, Founder of Therapy Dogs of America. A lifelong Santa Barbara native, Karen has spent the past six years sharing the healing presence of therapy dogs in schools, senior care facilities, and community organizations.
Together, they explore the inspiring journey behind Therapy Dogs of America, the impact of its programs like Wag Well—which helps children build empathy and emotional awareness—and the important role volunteers (and their dogs!) play in bringing comfort and connection to communities. Karen also shares hear...
Breaking It Down with Dr. Amber: Importance of Vital Hip + Joint for Dogs and Cats
In this episode of Breaking It Down with Dr. Amber, we’re diving into the updated formula behind our latest product—Vital Hip + Joint for Dogs & Cats. Dr. Amber walks us through the powerful new ingredients, why they were chosen, and how they work together to support your pet’s mobility and joint health at every stage of life.
Episode Highlights:
🐾 How our pets’ mobility naturally changes with age
🧬 What makes Vital Hip + Joint a proactive and preventative supplement
🐶 When to start your pet on a joint supplement—and how often to give i...
R+D with Donie: Importance of Vital Hip + Joint for Dogs and Cats
In this episode of Donie's R+D, we explore the benefits of Vital Hip & Joint—our ocean-based, vet-formulated supplement for dogs and cats. Made with powerful ingredients which supports joint health, mobility, and comfort. Learn how our clean, potent powder stands apart from generic, filler-heavy options.
Let's explore:
Why pets need joint support
What makes Vital Hip & Joint unique
Testimonial from our paw-some customer
Stay tuned for our next episode, Breaking It Down with Dr. Amber, for a deeper dive into the ve...
Keeping Pets Active: A Vet’s Approach
In this episode of Unleashed Curiosity, Donie Yamamoto and Dr. Amber Da Silva, DVM, dive into an often-overlooked topic: joint health in pets. From early warning signs to the power of prevention, they break down how exercise, weight management, and high-quality supplements can help your dog or cat stay active and pain-free for life.
🎧 Learn what to watch for, what works and what to avoid.
🎁 Learn more and shop Vital Hip + Joint for Cats and Dogs at https://www.vitalpetlife.com/products/vital-hip-joint-for-dogs-and-cats
You may als...
Rooted in Rescue: How Community and Dogs Heal Together
In this inspiring episode of Unleashed Curiosity, Donie Yamamoto and Dr. Amber Da Silva sit down with Megan and Robert, the founders of Farmer & The Flea—a grassroots open-air market that grew into a movement of healing, community, and animal rescue. What began in 2019 as a small coastal market in Summerland, California, blossomed during COVID into a sanctuary of connection, resilience, and purpose.
Megan and Robert share how yoga, service, and the belief that “healing happens through connection—and through dogs” guided them toward their newest mission: building a cage-free dog sanctuary in Santa Barbara...
