Speaking of Pets

Dr. Alice Jeromin and Janet Novotny King welcome back parasitology expert Dr. Christopher Lee to discuss the dangerous rise of New World Screwworm and how it affects our pets. This aggressive parasite eats living tissue and presents a severe threat to warm-blooded animals across North America. Dr. Christopher Lee breaks down the life cycle of the fly, clinical symptoms to watch for, and effective preventive treatments like monthly Isoxazolines. The conversation also covers tapeworm risks such as Echinococcus multilocularis, coyote interactions, and public health concerns surrounding Cryptosporidiosis. Pet owners will learn actionable steps to keep their dogs and cats...

Ear infections are a common source of frustration for pet owners, but they aren't always a one-time event. Dr. Emily Rothstein, a board-certified veterinary dermatologist, joins Dr. Alice Jeromin and Janet Novotny King to demystify why these infections occur, from pendulous ears to underlying allergies. They break down why "simple" treatments often fail, the importance of rechecks, and why over-the-counter products can do more harm than good. You’ll learn exactly what triggers chronic issues and how to advocate for the right treatment plan during your next clinic visit. This conversation gives you the clinical vocabulary to take control of...

Are you wondering how to care for your dog's skin without causing irritation or dryness? In this ultimate pet bathing guide, host Janet Novotny King and board-certified veterinary dermatologist Dr. Alice Jeromin break down the science behind proper grooming. They explain when to use a specialized pet shampoo and how to navigate common issues like allergies and skin infections. You'll learn when active ingredients like chlorhexidine, miconazole, and benzoyl peroxide are necessary, and why restoring the skin barrier with ceramide or phytosphingosine is critical for allergic dogs. Discover trusted veterinary brands like DOUXO, Virbac, Dechra, and VetriMax to keep...

Dogs that participate in sled racing are built differently. Therefore, they also need a different kind of dog food if they are to perform at their best. Janet King and Dr Alice Jeromin are joined by Dr Tim Hunt, who has launched his own pet food company to bridge the nutrition gap being faced by dogs competing in the annual Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race. He explains why fat is the most critical energy source for sled dogs and why stool quality is the most reliable metric for determining if a dog is properly fueled. Dr. Hunt also stresses...

Are you still using the "lit match" trick to remove ticks? If so, you could be doing more harm than good.

In this episode, we sit down with renowned veterinary parasitologist Dr. Lindsay Starkey to debunk the dangerous myths surrounding parasite control that are putting your pets at risk. From why "winter breaks" from preventatives are a dangerous gamble to the terrifying resurgence of the New World Screwworm, Dr. Starkey provides the science-backed insights every pet parent needs to hear.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

Witnessing your beloved pet experience a seizure is undeniably terrifying, but understanding what’s happening in their brain can make all the difference. Is it a sudden health emergency, or a condition that can be managed at home? In this comprehensive look at seizures in pets, we sit down with renowned veterinary neurologist Dr. Missy Carpentier to separate fact from fiction.

From the subtle facial twitching often seen in cats to the more dramatic tonic-clonic (grand mal) seizures in dogs, we explore the spectrum of abnormal brain activity. You will learn:

Planning for your future is responsible, but have you considered who will care for your furry family members if you are suddenly unable to? Today, host Dr. Alice joins attorney Nolan James to tackle the critical, often overlooked topic: What You Can Do Legally To Provide For Your Pets.

While most pet owners consider their companions family, the law views them as property—making proactive planning essential. From setting up pet trusts to designating a "backup to the backup" in your durable power of attorney, this discussion demystifies the steps you need to take to...

Animal behavior is pretty difficult to understand. Our cats and dogs cannot speak for themselves, and we often panic when they suddenly behave differently or erratically. Janet King and Dr. Alice Jeromin unpack the common reasons behind behavioral issues with your pets with Dr. Carlo Siracusa, a veterinary behavior specialist. They delve into the right way to manage aggression, anxiety, and chronic pain, which often cause problems with pet behavior. Dr. Siracusa also explains the direct (and sometimes negative) impact of diet, environmental changes, and extreme breeding in the everyday lives of your dogs and cats, as well as...

Could your dog save another dog’s life just by taking a sniff? The answer is a resounding yes! Join us as we dive into the fascinating world of biomedical olfaction with Dr. Cindy Otto and Dr. Clara Wilson, authors of the groundbreaking paper, Trained Dogs Can Detect the Odor of Hemangiosarcoma in Canine Blood Samples. Hemangiosarcoma—a silent killer that devastates breeds like Labradors, German Shepherds, and Golden Retrievers—is often diagnosed too late. But pioneering work at the Penn Vet Working Dog Center is changing that. Discover how these incredible canines are using their powerful sense of smell...

Thinking of getting backyard chickens or already have a flock? Chances are you’re still “winging it” on some aspects of chicken care. We sat down with Dr. Maurice Pitesky, a UC Davis veterinarian and poultry expert, to discuss his new book, Dr. Cluck's Backyard Chickens. The book is a lighthearted, comical, and essential reference designed to convey the best science regarding husbandry, nutrition, and welfare. Learn why Marek’s disease is the number one killer of backyard birds (and how to prevent it), the crucial “5% rule” for treats, and the surprising truth about the notorious backyard egg-washing debate. Get ready to...

Ever wondered what it's like to be a "vet"s vet"? Meet Dr. Doug Mader, a triple-board certified specialist who treats everything from cats and dogs to reptiles, amphibians, and even 350-pound alligators. In this episode, we dive into his fascinating journey from the gritty streets of inner-city Los Angeles to the sun-drenched shores of Key West, where he now spearheads critical wildlife conservation and exotic pet care. From performing surgeries on sea turtles to his bond with mentally challenged snakes, Dr. Mader shares the powerful stories behind his memoir and his life-long dedication to the human-animal bond.

Pet surgery makes any owner anxious and nervous, especially since they cannot see what happens to their fur babies once they enter the operating room. Veterinary surgeon Dr. Sheldon Padgett is here to set the score on what really happens when your cats or dogs go under the knife, and why there is nothing you should be afraid of. Together with Janet King and Dr. Alice Jeromin, he breaks down the different surgical methods they use to ensure the safety of pets during surgery and keep them away from peril at all costs. Dr. Sheldon also discusses how today’s...

Many people are "afraid to adopt a senior dog" because they worry about attachment and loss. Rachelle "Chelle" Allen, founder and director of the Silver Snout Senior Dog Rescue in Venice, Florida, is here to challenge that fear. She believes it is a "beautiful thing" to love a dog in the last chapter of their life. In this heartwarming interview, Chelle shares how Silver Snout pulls little old dogs—often with treatable ailments—off euthanasia lists and helps them blossom. You will hear the inspiring story of Randy Patrick, who was saved the day before Thanksgiving, and learn how thes...

Animal abuse is a dark and hidden issue, but knowing what to look for can save a life—both human and animal. In this powerful episode, we sit down with recently retired Officer Gary Levine of the Lee County Sheriff's Office Animal Cruelty Task Force. He reveals the shocking link between animal abuse and other crimes (like drug offenses and domestic violence), explains how Florida classifies these offenses (misdemeanor vs. felony), and shares the inspiring story of Lieutenant Hope, the three-pawed pit bull ambassador. Learn the critical signs of neglect and the best way to report animal abuse anonymously to...

Many people cannot resist short-nosed dog breeds because they are cute, loving, loyal, and even portable. However, they require a high level of maintenance if they are to live long and healthy lives. Janet King and Dr. Alice Jeromin are joined by Dr. Liesl Bigge, a small animal internal medicine specialist, to discuss how to properly take care of French Bulldogs, Pugs, Cavalier King Charles Spaniels, and all types of brachycephalic dogs. From addressing their breathing issues to treating their gastrointestinal problems, they present the best practices to keep them healthy and active if you own or are planning...

Spring is not just a vibrant season of bloom, but also of pollens and allergies – and even our pets are not safe from it. Dr. Alice Jeromin is joined by her sister, Janet Novotny King, to take a deep dive into pet allergies during springtime. Together, they discuss how to properly take care of itchy pets, the benefits of allergy shots and immunotherapy, and the recommended drugs to use such as Atopica, Apoquel, Cytopoint. They also discuss the right diet for dogs and cats with allergies, as well as how food like Live Clear by Purina can reduce allergenicity in...

Have you ever wondered what really goes into the food you give your beloved pet? In this episode of Speaking of Pets, veterinary dermatologist Dr. Alice Novotny and Janet Novotny King sit down with industry veteran Dr. Marcie Campion to pull back the curtain on the pet food world. Dr. Campion, who has spent over 35 years working for major pet food companies, tackles your most pressing questions: What exactly are AAFCO feeding trials and are they required? How do voluntary and mandatory recalls work? We also dive into crucial topics like the safety protocols co-manufacturers use, the truth about...

DNA testing is crucial in maintaining your pets' health. But how does it really work? Janet King and Dr. Alice Jeromin are joined by Dr. Adam Boyko, Founder of Embark DNA Testing For Pets. He explains that this procedure is not just about identifying the breed of your pets, but also about preventing major diseases and detecting genetic defects before they worsen. Dr. Boyko also shares about his efforts with his brother to go around the world, which allowed them to build a database of DNA information of almost three million dogs – so far.

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Heart problems in your pets are certainly life-threatening, especially for these creatures who cannot verbally describe what they are feeling. Janet King and Dr. Alice Jeromin sit down with Dr. Jonathan Goodwin, a veterinary cardiologist, to share the next steps you should take in case your pets are experiencing some discomfort. He explains what to do when your cats or dogs are experiencing heart murmurs and the right time to seek emergency assistance for them. Dr. Goodwin also shares the healthiest diet for your pets and how to keep their heart health in optimal levels at all times.

Cats are some of the most loving creatures out there, and they deserve all the love in the world. If one ever finds its way into your house, be it a stray or an adopted cat, you must know how to properly take care of it. Janet King and Dr. Alice Jeromin talk all about it with Dr. Linda Schoenberg, a cat veterinarian and immunologist. Together, they discuss the most practical way to bring a cat into your home, especially if you already own dogs or other cats. Dr. Linda also shares valuable advice on adopting adult cats, treating...

Are you going through hell whenever you give medications to your pets? Perhaps a compounding pharmacy can finally put an end to this problem. Janet King and Dr. Alice Jeromin chat with Dr. Rae Hutchins, inaugural Chief Veterinary Officer of Wedgewood Pharmacy, who explains how customizing pet medications into palatable forms can make medicine time for your pets a breeze. She explains how such drugs are developed and produced, ensuring the safety and comfort of your beloved pets. Stop stressing over pill pockets and messy liquids by discovering how a responsible compounding pharmacy can change your and your pet’s...

Concerned about watching your beloved middle-aged or older pet slow down? Discover the secrets to better pet mobility and a higher quality of life in this essential episode of Speaking of Pets! Join us as we welcome integrative veterinary expert Dr. Kelly Fishman. Dr. Fishman, owner and founder of Strut Animal Mobility Specialists, shares her multi-modal approach—combining nutrition, fitness, and advanced therapies like acupuncture and hydrotherapy—to help aging cats and dogs stay active, comfortable, and happy for years to come. Don’t let your vet dismiss stiffness as “just old age.” Learn the subtle signs of pain and what y...

Tired of feeling like there's no hope left for your aging or ailing pet? In this episode of Speaking of Pets, we dive deep into the world of Integrative Veterinary Medicine with expert Dr. Neal Sivula. From the basics of pet acupuncture (and why cats might prefer laser!) to the truth about herbal medicine sourcing, Dr. Sivula shares science-backed insights and heartwarming stories of turning "last resort" patients around. Discover why integrative care isn't just a trend, but a multifaceted approach to giving your beloved pet the best quality of life—even when the diagnosis feels final. If you've ev...

Speaking of Pets episode 102 - Back to the Wild LIVE Take 2!

In this fascinating revisit, we check back on our visit to Back to the Wild, a remarkable wildlife rehabilitation center dedicated to rescuing, healing, and releasing native Ohio wildlife. Our hosts experience the magic up close as the team introduces us to several of their beautiful owl ambassadors—each with a story of survival and hope.

And just when you think nature can’t get any more amazing, we witness a live butterfly chrysalis emerging in real time — a brea...

Speaking of Pets episode 101 - Dr. Jonathan David Dear Take 2!

We're excited to bring you a special re-release of one of our most popular episodes from the Speaking of Pets Podcast! In this episode, Dr. Jonathan Dear—a small animal internal medicine specialist turned passionate beekeeper—guides us through the remarkable world of honey bees. Listen as Dr. Dear recounts his transformation from hobbyist to expert, highlighting the essential connection between bees, our environment, and the food we eat.

Revisit our in-depth conversation about the challenges facing beekeepers today, from...

Celebrate a major milestone with Episode 100 of the Speaking of Pets Podcast! Dr. Alice Novotny Jeromin and Janet Novotny King are joined by Dr. Tod Cooperman, founder of ConsumerLab.com, for a fascinating, funny, and crucial conversation about supplements for both people and pets.

Dr. Cooperman shares the founding story of ConsumerLab, explains the surprising realities of supplement regulation, and reveals what his team’s rigorous testing has uncovered in the world of vitamins, pet supplements, and even pet food. From counterfeit products to heavy metal contamination and misleading marketing claims, this episode is pa...

Speaking of Pets episode 99 - Dr. Deborah Greco!

Join hosts Alice and Janet as they welcome Dr. Debbie Greco DVM, PhD, Diplomate ACVIM-SA—a veterinary internal medicine specialist and pharmacologist—for an enlightening discussion on the "Twitter of the Body": the endocrine system.

In this episode, Dr. Greco breaks down:

- Veterinary Endocrinology 101: What an endocrine disease is and why tiny hormonal shifts can have a massive impact on your pet's health.

- Common Conditions in Cats and Dogs: A deep dive into diabetes, hypothyroidism, Cush...

Speaking of Pets episode 99 - Dr. Deborah Greco!

Join hosts Alice and Janet as they welcome Dr. Debbie Greco DVM, PhD, Diplomate ACVIM-SA—a veterinary internal medicine specialist and pharmacologist—for an enlightening discussion on the "Twitter of the Body": the endocrine system.

In this episode, Dr. Greco breaks down:

- Veterinary Endocrinology 101: What an endocrine disease is and why tiny hormonal shifts can have a massive impact on your pet's health.

- Common Conditions in Cats and Dogs: A deep dive into diabetes, hypothyroidism, Cush...

Is the bird flu (H5N1) still a threat? The media may be quiet, but the risk to your pets, particularly cats, is very real.Hosts Alice and Janet welcome renowned expert Dr. Andrew Bowman, MS, DVM, PhD, Diplomate ACVPM, and a specialist in zoonotic and emerging infectious diseases, to get an urgent update.In this vital episode, Dr. Bowman breaks down:- The Current Threat: What strains of highly pathogenic H5N1 are currently circulating, and why they are concerning as they evolve and jump to new species.- The Danger to Cats: How the virus presents in...

Is the bird flu (H5N1) still a threat? The media may be quiet, but the risk to your pets, particularly cats, is very real. Hosts Alice and Janet welcome renowned expert Dr. Andrew Bowman, MS, DVM, PhD, Diplomate ACVPM, and a specialist in zoonotic and emerging infectious diseases, to get an urgent update. In this vital episode, Dr. Bowman breaks down:- The Current Threat: What strains of highly pathogenic H5N1 are currently circulating, and why they are concerning as they evolve and jump to new species.- The Danger to Cats: How the virus presents in...

Join us as we welcome veterinary nutrition expert, Dr. Amy Farcas, DVM, MS, DACVN, for a deep dive into daily pet nutrition. While many focus on disease-specific diets, this episode is dedicated to the everyday questions pet owners have about feeding their healthy companions.

Dr. Farcas shares her journey—from her start as a kennel cleaner to becoming a board-certified veterinary nutritionist—and introduces her holistic approach: Full Circle Pet Nutrition. This philosophy emphasizes collaboration between the nutritionist, the pet owner, and the veterinarian to create a comprehensive and customized feeding plan...

Join us as we welcome veterinary nutrition expert, Dr. Amy Farcas, DVM, MS, DACVN, for a deep dive into daily pet nutrition. While many focus on disease-specific diets, this episode is dedicated to the everyday questions pet owners have about feeding their healthy companions.

Dr. Farcas shares her journey—from her start as a kennel cleaner to becoming a board-certified veterinary nutritionist—and introduces her holistic approach: Full Circle Pet Nutrition. This philosophy emphasizes collaboration between the nutritionist, the pet owner, and the veterinarian to create a comprehensive and customized feeding plan...

We’re thrilled to welcome back one of our favorite guests, board-certified veterinary dentist Dr. Sharon Hoffman, for a deep dive into a topic pet owners frequently ask about: anesthesia safety during pet dental procedures.

For this special "Take Two" episode, Dr. Hoffman is joined by veterinary anesthesiologist Dr. Carolyn McKune, founder of Mythos Vet LLC. This dynamic duo brings their combined expertise to demystify the critical role of anesthesia in veterinary procedures, ensuring your pet receives the safest, most effective dental care possible.

In this enlightening conversation, they co...

We’re thrilled to welcome back one of our favorite guests, board-certified veterinary dentist Dr. Sharon Hoffman, for a deep dive into a topic pet owners frequently ask about: anesthesia safety during pet dental procedures.

For this special "Take Two" episode, Dr. Hoffman is joined by veterinary anesthesiologist Dr. Carolyn McKune, founder of Mythos Vet LLC. This dynamic duo brings their combined expertise to demystify the critical role of anesthesia in veterinary procedures, ensuring your pet receives the safest, most effective dental care possible.

In this enlightening conversation, they co...

When it comes to your pet’s health, there is no word more terrifying than "cancer." The immediate reaction is often fear, followed by a difficult question: "I wouldn't put myself through chemo, so why would I put my dog through it?"

In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Rance Gamblin, a veterinary oncologist formerly at Metropolitan Veterinary Hospital and now professor at Mississippi State College of Veterinary Medicine with 24+ years of experience and a calming presence that could soothe even the most "OCD" pet parent (just ask Alice!). Dr. Gamblin helps us na...

When it comes to your pet’s health, there is no word more terrifying than "cancer." The immediate reaction is often fear, followed by a difficult question: "I wouldn't put myself through chemo, so why would I put my dog through it?"

In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Rance Gamblin, a veterinary oncologist formerly at Metropolitan Veterinary Hospital and now professor at Mississippi State College of Veterinary Medicine with 24+ years of experience and a calming presence that could soothe even the most "OCD" pet parent (just ask Alice!). Dr. Gamblin helps us na...

Speaking of Pets episode 94 - Dr. Linda Schoenberg - Take 2!

This week on Speaking of Pets, we're bringing back one of our most popular and informative episodes. Join Janet and Alice as they sit down with Dr. Linda Schoenberg, founder of Just Cats, a cat-only practice she ran in Cleveland for almost 30 years.

Alice and Janet tackle listener questions sparked by updates on Alice’s 21-year-old cat, Capri, who is managing early kidney failure. Dr. Schoenberg, a true "smart cookie" with a VMD from Penn and a Ph.D. in immunology, shares he...

Speaking of Pets episode 94 - Dr. Linda Schoenberg - Take 2!

This week on Speaking of Pets, we're bringing back one of our most popular and informative episodes. Join Janet and Alice as they sit down with Dr. Linda Schoenberg, founder of Just Cats, a cat-only practice she ran in Cleveland for almost 30 years.

Alice and Janet tackle listener questions sparked by updates on Alice’s 21-year-old cat, Capri, who is managing early kidney failure. Dr. Schoenberg, a true "smart cookie" with a VMD from Penn and a Ph.D. in immunology, shares he...

This episode is a re-release of a powerful and eye-opening conversation with Bob Bryant, co-founder of Mission K9 Rescue.

This organization is dedicated to saving, reuniting, rehoming, rehabilitating, and repairing military working dogs (MWDs), contract working dogs (CWDs), and police canines who have completed their service.

🎖️ What Happens to Our K9 Veterans?

We delve into the often-unspoken fate of these heroic dogs, who are frequently classified as "excess equipment" and left behind, especially in foreign countries, after giving their all for our safety.

- 1300+ Dogs Saved...

This episode is a re-release of a powerful and eye-opening conversation with Bob Bryant, co-founder of Mission K9 Rescue.

This organization is dedicated to saving, reuniting, rehoming, rehabilitating, and repairing military working dogs (MWDs), contract working dogs (CWDs), and police canines who have completed their service.

🎖️ What Happens to Our K9 Veterans?

We delve into the often-unspoken fate of these heroic dogs, who are frequently classified as "excess equipment" and left behind, especially in foreign countries, after giving their all for our safety.

- 1300+ Dogs Saved...