Advertise on podcast: Speaking of Pets

Got something to say to this podcast? Send a voicemail, and you might hear yourself on the next episode! Speaking of Pets episode 136 featuring Dr. Natasha Olby! In this episode, Dr. Natasha Olby shares insights into veterinary geriatric medicine, cognitive aging in dogs, and emerging research on aging processes. Discover how veterinary students are being prepared to better care for aging pets and the latest tools for assessing cognitive decline. Natasha Olby gained her veterinary degree from Cambridge University in the UK in 1991, and after a brief period spent in mixed general practice, returned to Cambridge to complete a PhD in spinal cord injury and a surgical training. Following completion of her PhD and a post doctoral position, also focused on spinal cord injury, she moved to North Carolina State University to do a neurology/neurosurgery residency and she has stayed at NCSU as a faculty member since then. Dr. Olby is the 2014 recipient of the Faculty Achievement Award from the American Association of Veterinary Clinicians. The award is presented to an AAVC member who has achieved national recognition in academic or institutional practice, teaching, research, or in another endeavor that advances veterinary medicine. In 2017, Dr. Olby was awarded the Dr. Kady M. Gjessing and Rahna M. Davidson Distinguished Chair in Gerontology. Read more here. She is the author or co-author of more than 100 scientific publications, is the co-editor of both the British Small Animal Veterinary Association (BSAVA) Manual of Canine and Feline Neurology, and Advances in Veterinary Neurology, 2014. Vet Clinics of North America. Additionally, Dr. Olby authors book chapters in a variety of veterinary textbooks and manuals. Natasha Olby is a professor of veterinary neurology and neurosurgery. She is board certified in the American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine Neurology Specialty and is a past president of the organization (2008-2011). -- As a veterinarian and accomplished musher, Dr. Tim Hunt understood his dogs’ need for a food that promoted stamina, endurance and performance through proper digestion; a food that just made them feel good. Dr. Tim’s focus has since expanded from his original backyard setup to bring an honest, nutritionally sound food – sourced only from the highest quality ingredients – to every dog. Visit https://drtims.com/ to order today! -- Speaking of Pets is owned by SLA Video Productions. Do not reproduce without written consent.

Got something to say to this podcast? Send a voicemail, and you might hear yourself on the next episode! Speaking of Pets episode 135 featuring Dr. Craig Clifford! In this episode, Dr. Craig Clifford discusses the latest advancements in veterinary cancer diagnostics, including blood tests for early detection, and explores environmental factors influencing pet cancer risk. A must-listen for pet owners and vets alike. Dr. Craig Clifford has been a medical oncologist since 2003 and currently runs all oncology-based clinical trials at BluePearl Malvern. He is active in clinical research and serves as an advisory board member with industry and non-profit foundations. He has authored/co-authored over 70 papers and book chapters and frequently lectures at major veterinary meetings in the USA and abroad. Dr. Clifford is a member of the Mars Veterinary Oncology Advisory Board and the Oncology Pathology Working Group, has served on many VCS and American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine (ACVIM) committees and was an Examiner for the Australian Scientist’s Oncology Specialty Exam. -- As a veterinarian and accomplished musher, Dr. Tim Hunt understood his dogs’ need for a food that promoted stamina, endurance and performance through proper digestion; a food that just made them feel good. Dr. Tim’s focus has since expanded from his original backyard setup to bring an honest, nutritionally sound food – sourced only from the highest quality ingredients – to every dog. Visit https://drtims.com/ to order today! -- Speaking of Pets is owned by SLA Video Productions. Do not reproduce without written consent.

Got something to say to this podcast? Send a voicemail, and you might hear yourself on the next episode! Speaking of Pets episode 134 featuring Dr. Brian Peters! In this episode, veterinarian Dr. Brian Peters shares insights on pet health, physical exams, and how owners can better observe and communicate with their vets. Discover practical tips for pet wellness and the importance of proactive veterinary care. In this episode, Dr. Brian Peters shares insights from his extensive experience caring for pets and humans, highlighting the lessons animals teach us about life, loyalty, and empathy. Discover fascinating breed-specific health issues and hear stories that showcase the deep bond between pets and their owners. -- As a veterinarian and accomplished musher, Dr. Tim Hunt understood his dogs’ need for a food that promoted stamina, endurance and performance through proper digestion; a food that just made them feel good. Dr. Tim’s focus has since expanded from his original backyard setup to bring an honest, nutritionally sound food – sourced only from the highest quality ingredients – to every dog. Visit https://drtims.com/ to order today! -- Your Northeast Ohio animal newspaper connection is the Country Critter Journal. With distribution in Geauga, Lake, and Ashtabula counties you'll have to pick one up wherever you find magazines. Can't stop in to pick up your copy? No worries! View the publication online at https://neoccj.com Speaking of Pets is owned by SLA Video Productions. Do not reproduce without written consent.

Got something to say to this podcast? Send a voicemail, and you might hear yourself on the next episode! Speaking of Pets with guest Dr. Lindsay Starkey! Dr. Starkey earned her bachelor’s degree in animal science from the University of Arkansas and her DVM and PhD degrees at Oklahoma State University, where her graduate research focused on vector-borne infections. She completed her residency training through the National Center for Veterinary Parasitology at Oklahoma State University. Dr. Starkey recently rejoined Oklahoma State University’s College of Veterinary Medicine as an associate professor after several years at Auburn University. She is a diplomate of the American College of Veterinary Microbiology with a subspecialty in parasitology. She is involved in various research projects involving vectors, vector-borne pathogens, and diagnostic parasitology. She also teaches parasitology to veterinary students and has received 2 teaching awards, most recently the Zoetis Distinguished Teacher Award. She currently serves as a board member for the National Center for Veterinary Parasitology and the American Heartworm Society. Flea, tick, and heartworm prevention isn’t just for summer. In this episode, Dr. Lindsay Starkey, veterinarian Dr. Alice Jeromin, and Janet Novotny King discuss why pets can still be exposed to parasites throughout the year—and what owners can do to help protect them. They challenge common assumptions, including that the first frost gets rid of fleas and that removing a tick is all you need to do. The conversation explores how heartworms, fleas, and ticks survive changing temperatures, why flea infestations can persist in the home, and how different preventives offer different kinds of protection. You’ll also hear what to consider when choosing a preventive, why a missed dose may matter, and what to do if you find a tick on your pet—including why saving it may be useful. The guests discuss counterfeit products, heartworm testing for rescue dogs, and how a pet’s lifestyle and local parasite risks can affect prevention choices. Whether you live with a dog, cat, or both, this episode offers practical information to help you have a more informed conversation with your veterinarian about year-round parasite protection. Key topics: Year-round flea, tick, and heartworm preventionCommon misconceptions about parasite control in winterTick behavior and how they find hostsThe importance of testing ticks for diseasesChoosing the right parasite prevention productsThe impact of climate and seasons on parasite activityThe process of tick testing and what it revealsRisks of counterfeit pet medications-- As a veterinarian and accomplished musher, Dr. Tim Hunt understood his dogs’ need for a food that promoted stamina, endurance and performance through proper digestion; a food that just made them feel good. Dr. Tim’s focus has since expanded from his original backyard setup to bring an honest, nutritionally sound food – sourced only from the highest quality ingredients – to every dog. Visit https://drtims.com/ to order today! -- Your Northeast Ohio animal newspaper connection is the Country Critter Journal. With distribution in Geauga, Lake, and Ashtabula counties you'll have to pick one up wherever you find magazines. Can't stop in to pick up your copy? No worries! View the publication online at https://neoccj.com Speaking of Pets is owned by SLA Video Productions. Do not reproduce without written consent.

Got something to say to this podcast? Send a voicemail, and you might hear yourself on the next episode! Speaking of Pets episode 132 featuring Dr. Richard Ford! This episode breaks down rabies from the ground up with Dr. Richard Ford, a boarded internal medicine specialist with deep experience in both veterinary medicine and public health. Janet Novotny King and Dr. Alice Jeromin guide the conversation through what rabies is, how it spreads, why bats are such a concern, and why vaccination is the critical line of defense. We discuss the real-world risks for pets and people, what happens after a suspected exposure, and why rabies is still a major global killer even though it is relatively controlled in the United States. Key Topics: History of rabies dating back to AristotleTransmission of rabies through bites and scratchesReservoir hosts including bats, raccoons, and dogsSigns and symptoms of rabies in humans and animalsPost-exposure prophylaxis and vaccination protocolsLegal requirements for rabies vaccination in the USRisks of importing pets from high-risk countriesThe significance of timely rabies vaccinationThe impact of rabies on global health and mortalityAdvances in rabies vaccine safety and efficacy-- As a veterinarian and accomplished musher, Dr. Tim Hunt understood his dogs’ need for a food that promoted stamina, endurance and performance through proper digestion; a food that just made them feel good. Dr. Tim’s focus has since expanded from his original backyard setup to bring an honest, nutritionally sound food – sourced only from the highest quality ingredients – to every dog. Visit https://drtims.com/ to order today! -- Your Northeast Ohio animal newspaper connection is the Country Critter Journal. With distribution in Geauga, Lake, and Ashtabula counties you'll have to pick one up wherever you find magazines. Can't stop in to pick up your copy? No worries! View the publication online at https://neoccj.com Speaking of Pets is owned by SLA Video Productions. Do not reproduce without written consent.

Got something to say to this podcast? Send a voicemail, and you might hear yourself on the next episode! Speaking of Pets episode 131 featuring Shawna Van Loon! In this episode, Shawna Van Loon, a professional dog groomer, shares insights into the grooming process, common pet health issues, and tips for pet owners to keep their pets healthy and calm during grooming sessions. Discover expert advice on grooming techniques, pet behavior, and how groomers and veterinarians work together to ensure pet well-being. Key topics The importance of grooming for pet healthHow groomers detect health issuesTips for calming pets during groomingTools and techniques for effective groomingBreed-specific grooming needsHandling difficult pets safelyThe role of grooming in early health detectionBest practices for pet owner grooming at home-- As a veterinarian and accomplished musher, Dr. Tim Hunt understood his dogs’ need for a food that promoted stamina, endurance and performance through proper digestion; a food that just made them feel good. Dr. Tim’s focus has since expanded from his original backyard setup to bring an honest, nutritionally sound food – sourced only from the highest quality ingredients – to every dog. Visit https://drtims.com/ to order today! -- Your Northeast Ohio animal newspaper connection is the Country Critter Journal. With distribution in Geauga, Lake, and Ashtabula counties you'll have to pick one up wherever you find magazines. Can't stop in to pick up your copy? No worries! View the publication online at https://neoccj.com Speaking of Pets is owned by SLA Video Productions. Do not reproduce without written consent.

Got something to say to this podcast? Send a voicemail, and you might hear yourself on the next episode! Speaking of Pets episode 130 featuring Dr. Judith Samson-French! Dr. Judith Samson-French has sat on both sides of the hardest moments in veterinary care: as the vet in the room, and as the advocate outside it. 30+ years. 100,000+ animals. 10,000+ surgeries. Most humans are forced to make medical decisions for their dog they were never prepared for. She helps them navigate difficult veterinary decisions. Founder of HUMM Decision Consulting. https://hummroadmap.com/the-witty-vet/subscribe Dr. Judith Samson-French shares her insights on veterinary decision-making, the importance of accurate diagnosis, and how personalized medicine can improve pet care. She discusses the evolution of veterinary practices, cost considerations, and the value of second opinions. In this episode, Dr. Judith Samson-French shares insights on veterinary practices, pet care, and the importance of personalized medicine for animals, emphasizing the value of understanding each pet's unique needs and the evolving landscape of veterinary medicine. Key Topics The importance of accurate diagnosis in veterinary medicineHow personalized treatment plans improve pet outcomesThe evolution of veterinary practices and technologyCost considerations and affordability in pet careThe value of second opinions and record keepingUnderstanding cancer treatment options and quality of lifeThe complexity of ACL surgeries and decision-makingThe role of meaningful medicine tailored to individual pets Personalized veterinary medicine and the concept of the gold standardThe importance of recognizing individual pet needs and the final lap of senior petsThe impact of supplements, diet, and lifestyle on pet health and longevityThe evolving landscape of veterinary practice and pet owner empowermentThe significance of early recognition of health issues and proactive care-- As a veterinarian and accomplished musher, Dr. Tim Hunt understood his dogs’ need for a food that promoted stamina, endurance and performance through proper digestion; a food that just made them feel good. Dr. Tim’s focus has since expanded from his original backyard setup to bring an honest, nutritionally sound food – sourced only from the highest quality ingredients – to every dog. Visit https://drtims.com/ to order today! -- Your Northeast Ohio animal newspaper connection is the Country Critter Journal. With distribution in Geauga, Lake, and Ashtabula counties you'll have to pick one up wherever you find magazines. Can't stop in to pick up your copy? No worries! View the publication online at https://neoccj.com Speaking of Pets is owned by SLA Video Productions. Do not reproduce without written consent.

Got something to say to this podcast? Send a voicemail, and you might hear yourself on the next episode! Speaking of Pets episode 129 featuring Dr. Tim Hunt! Dr. Tim Hunt graduated from Michigan State University's School of Veterinary Medicine in 1989. He is a member of the Michigan Board of Veterinary Medicine and holds licenses in Alaska and Arizona. For over 25 years, Dr. Hunt has practiced at the companion animal veterinary hospital he established, often reminiscing about the Ramen noodles he ate while building his practice from the ground up. Dedicated to continuous learning, he attends annual education programs on surgery, ultrasound, and internal medicine. In February 2019, he became an SDEP™ Abdomen Certified Sonographer and Instructor, further advancing his skills in diagnostics. An avid dog musher, Dr. Hunt has raced sled dogs and served as a race vet worldwide, including the Iditarod and the UP 200. He founded Dr. Tim's Premium All Natural Pet Food in 2004 to provide a diet that mimics the natural nutrition of dogs and cats. He lives on 50 acres near Marquette with his wife, Mary, their pets, and his stepson’s family nearby. Key Topics: Wildlife rescue stories including eagles, foxes, and turtlesLead poisoning in raptors and conservation effortsHandling wildlife safely and legallyWildlife behavior and signs of illnessWildlife rehabilitation techniques and challenges -- As a veterinarian and accomplished musher, Dr. Tim Hunt understood his dogs’ need for a food that promoted stamina, endurance and performance through proper digestion; a food that just made them feel good. Dr. Tim’s focus has since expanded from his original backyard setup to bring an honest, nutritionally sound food – sourced only from the highest quality ingredients – to every dog. Visit https://drtims.com/ to order today! -- Your Northeast Ohio animal newspaper connection is the Country Critter Journal. With distribution in Geauga, Lake, and Ashtabula counties you'll have to pick one up wherever you find magazines. Can't stop in to pick up your copy? No worries! View the publication online at https://neoccj.com Speaking of Pets is owned by SLA Video Productions. Do not reproduce without written consent.

Got something to say to this podcast? Send a voicemail, and you might hear yourself on the next episode! Speaking of Pets episode 128 featuring Dr. Brad Ryan and Grandma Joy! In this episode, Dr. Brad Ryan and Grandma Joy share their inspiring journey of reconnecting through adventures in national parks, overcoming personal struggles, and embracing the healing power of nature and family bonds. In this episode, Brad, Janet, and Dr. Alice explore the transformative power of vulnerability, intergenerational connection, and embracing joy at any age. They share personal stories, insights on societal norms, and practical advice for living a fulfilling life across generations. Key topics: The importance of national parks in mental health and family bondingPersonal stories of overcoming depression and suicidal thoughtsThe impact of intergenerational relationships and forgivenessThe significance of respecting wildlife and nature conservationAdventures in national parks and the value of outdoor experiences The importance of vulnerability and authenticityIntergenerational connection and its societal benefitsThe concept of joy versus happiness and living fullyPersonal stories of overcoming trauma and finding healingThe role of community and kindness in mental healthThe impact of societal norms on aging and social interactionPractical advice for older adults to stay active and engagedThe significance of mentorship and sharing wisdom across generations-- As a veterinarian and accomplished musher, Dr. Tim Hunt understood his dogs’ need for a food that promoted stamina, endurance and performance through proper digestion; a food that just made them feel good. Dr. Tim’s focus has since expanded from his original backyard setup to bring an honest, nutritionally sound food – sourced only from the highest quality ingredients – to every dog. Visit https://drtims.com/ to order today! -- Your Northeast Ohio animal newspaper connection is the Country Critter Journal. With distribution in Geauga, Lake, and Ashtabula counties you'll have to pick one up wherever you find magazines. Can't stop in to pick up your copy? No worries! View the publication online at https://neoccj.com Speaking of Pets is owned by SLA Video Productions. Do not reproduce without written consent.

Got something to say to this podcast? Send a voicemail, and you might hear yourself on the next episode! Speaking of Pets episode 127 featuring Dr. Katherine Polak, DVM, MPH, MS, DACVPM, DABVP! In this episode, Dr. Katherine Polak shares her global work in animal welfare, including rescue missions, combating the dog meat trade, and improving veterinary capacity worldwide. Discover the challenges and successes in transforming animal welfare practices across different cultures and countries. Dr. Katherine Polak is Senior Vice President of the Centers of Expertise at Humane World for Animals, where she leads the organization's global companion animal, farm animal welfare, wildlife, research and testing, and animal rescue programs. A board-certified specialist in Veterinary Preventive Medicine and Shelter Medicine, she has spent more than two decades advancing animal welfare through veterinary medicine, policy, systems change, and international collaboration. Dr. Polak is an internationally recognized leader, author, and speaker who has worked globally to develop sustainable solutions that improve the lives of animals and the communities that care for them. Key topics: Global animal rescue effortsCombatting the dog meat trade in AsiaImproving veterinary capacity worldwideCultural challenges in animal welfareDisaster relief for animalsLegislation and policy change for animal protectionCommunity engagement and educationCelebrity involvement in animal welfareImpact of pet ownership trends in AsiaStrategies for changing cultural practices -- As a veterinarian and accomplished musher, Dr. Tim Hunt understood his dogs’ need for a food that promoted stamina, endurance and performance through proper digestion; a food that just made them feel good. Dr. Tim’s focus has since expanded from his original backyard setup to bring an honest, nutritionally sound food – sourced only from the highest quality ingredients – to every dog. Visit https://drtims.com/ to order today! -- Your Northeast Ohio animal newspaper connection is the Country Critter Journal. With distribution in Geauga, Lake, and Ashtabula counties you'll have to pick one up wherever you find magazines. Can't stop in to pick up your copy? No worries! View the publication online at https://neoccj.com

Got something to say to this podcast? Send a voicemail, and you might hear yourself on the next episode! Is the rising summer heat turning your daily walk schedule into a guessing game? Join Janet King and Dr. Alice Jeromin as they sit down with veterinary sports medicine and rehabilitation specialist Dr. Kelly Fishman to tackle essential summer pet wellness strategies. They discuss keeping pets cool, hydration, and why arthritis prevention should begin early—not just when mobility issues appear. From muscle-supporting supplements like Myos Pet to managing heat indices during the dog days of summer, this episode provides actionable, science-based advice to ensure your pet stays happy and healthy. Discover the proactive steps you can take today to optimize your pet’s healthspan and keep them moving comfortably. ◇ ─ ◇ ─ ◇ All footage is owned by SLA Video Productions.

Got something to say to this podcast? Send a voicemail, and you might hear yourself on the next episode! 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 protected year-round from emerging parasitic threats. ◇ ─ ◇ ─ ◇ All footage is owned by SLA Video Productions.

Got something to say to this podcast? Send a voicemail, and you might hear yourself on the next episode! 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 your pet's ear health effectively. ◇ ─ ◇ ─ ◇ All footage is owned by SLA Video Productions. Be a part of our Mission by sharing your animal stories, pictures, businesses and helpful information for us to share with all our readers. Learn more about Country Critters Magazine at neoccj.com.

Got something to say to this podcast? Send a voicemail, and you might hear yourself on the next episode! 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 your companion healthy and itch-free. ◇ ─ ◇ ─ ◇ All footage is owned by SLA Video Productions

Got something to say to this podcast? Send a voicemail, and you might hear yourself on the next episode! 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 the powerful bond between humans and sled dogs, as well as why lead dogs are born and not trained. ◇ ─ ◇ ─ ◇ All footage is owned by SLA Video Productions.