Call the Vet - an insider's guide to dog and cat health

😲 Are you concerned about the rising costs of vet care? You're not alone and this episode dives deep into the issues plaguing the pet health care space, affecting your pets, you, and those within the veterinary industry.It's easy to vilify veterinary professionals as money grabbing (and many do) but the truth is very different - Did you know that in the last 12 months, 25% of veterinary staff in the UK received absolutely NO pay raise? The preconception that vets are "only in it for the money" couldn't be more misplaced!📉 Yet this is on the back of record vet bill rises. We're facing serious global challenges in pet healthcare:- Inflation is skyrocketing, yet vet pay isn't keeping up, making it tougher for veterinary professionals worldwide.- Costs are on the rise, not just for pet owners but for the clinics too, due to increased prices for drugs and necessary medical equipment.- There's a trend of corporatization where shareholder returns are driving business decisions and the staff in your clinic may have zero say in pricing and service provisions.🧐 Importantly, we need to consider the advanced level of care provided today compared to decades ago. Practices now are equipped with state-of-the-art technology to offer the best care, which significantly drives up the costs.But is this also part of the problem?This episode covers so much more, and while I don't claim to have all the answers these topics are vital for you to be aware of so we can work towards a future that works for everyone.Learn more over in the show notes at: https://ourpetshealth.com/podcast/broken-pet-healthcareGet your question answered here- https://ourpetshealth.com/question Love the show? Sharing this episode or leaving a review helps others know it's worth a listen! - https://ourpetshealth.com/review

🐾 "Elbow dysplasia in young dogs can start affecting them not just when they're old, but potentially very early in their life!" 🐶🩺 Today on Call the Vet, we dive deep into managing chronic conditions like elbow dysplasia and arthritis:1️⃣ Multimodal approach is key—combining dietary changes, weight management, and environmental modifications to tackle the issue comprehensively.2️⃣ Therapeutic diets and supplements (especially omega-3 fatty acids) can significantly enhance comfort.3️⃣ Regular, gentle exercise and use of ramps can prevent worsening of the condition.4️⃣ Complementary therapies like hydrotherapy and physiotherapy are crucial for maintaining joint mobility and muscle mass.💡 Early intervention plays a pivotal role in managing conditions like elbow dysplasia effectively. Starting treatment when symptoms are mild can drastically improve quality of life. This proactive approach can decrease the need for continuous medication and help manage pain more effectively.For some dogs, surgery may be an option, and this episode also covers what you need to know if you think this may be the path for you and your dog.Check out all the info and dive into all the related topics over in the full show notes: https://ourpetshealth.com/podcast/dog-elbow-dysplasiaGet your question answered here- https://ourpetshealth.com/question Love the show? Sharing this episode or leaving a review helps others know it's worth a listen! - https://ourpetshealth.com/review

Increasing age can bring increasing health complexity and in this episode, we unpack a complex listener-submitted scenario about a 14-year-old Chihuahua battling congestive heart failure and mysterious seizures.This episode is packed with invaluable insights, from understanding heart murmurs to dissecting the causes behind seizures in older dogs, with insights for all pet parents with older animals.🚨 Did you know? A heart murmur isn’t always an indicator of overt heart failure in dogs! 🐶1️⃣ Dr. Alex explains that a heart murmur simply indicates turbulent blood flow, which could be due to a leaky valve but doesn't necessarily mean that heart failure is present.2️⃣ Seizures in older dogs are rarely due to epilepsy; the causes are often much more complex, ranging from organ disease to brain lesions.3️⃣ Monitoring a pet’s sleeping respiratory rate at home can be a simple yet effective way to gauge heart health over time.4️⃣ Diagnostic steps include full blood testing, urine testing, X-rays, and possibly an echocardiogram or MRI to pinpoint the exact health issues.Dive into further resources in the full show notes: https://ourpetshealth.com/podcast/dog-heart-failure-and-seizuresGet your question answered here- https://ourpetshealth.com/question Love the show? Sharing this episode or leaving a review helps others know it's worth a listen! - https://ourpetshealth.com/review

😱 Don't gamble with your pet's life. When it comes to your furry friend's surgery, knowing the risks is crucial for their safety!🩺 Surgery may not be just routine - from a tiny risk of 0.01% for neutering procedures (that's 1 death for every 10,000 surgeries) through to a 16% death rate for the sickest of patients, the risk really does vary hugely by individual.🏥 Several measures can increase safety: from pre-surgery blood tests, weight management, to advanced monitoring equipment - these are vital!💡 The takeaway? Proactive health management & choosing a vet with the right skills & equipment is a game-changer. It not only reduces risk but ensures peace of mind.💬 Have you ever delayed a surgery for your pet due to fear of anesthesia risks? What could have eased your worries? Share your thoughts!Dive into everything you need to know and more over in the show notes - https://ourpetshealth.com/podcast/pet-surgery-safetyGet your question answered here- https://ourpetshealth.com/question Love the show? Sharing this episode or leaving a review helps others know it's worth a listen! - https://ourpetshealth.com/review

🐾 Get ready to tackle this itchy pet mystery with Dr. Alex answering a question sent in by listener Trish that addresses some really key pet-care pearls. From narrowing down the potential causes of any problem, the importance of making a proper diagnosis, through to when to seek the input from your veterinarian. This episode has something for every pet parent!Check out The Dog Allergy Summit here - https://ourpetshealth.com/allergysummitAnd the full show notes here - https://ourpetshealth.com/podcast/multiple-itchy-dogsGet your question answered here- https://ourpetshealth.com/question Love the show? Sharing this episode or leaving a review helps others know it's worth a listen! - https://ourpetshealth.com/review

🐾 Did you know that it used to be common for veterinarians to withhold pain relief for pets with joint injuries or wounds? The thinking was that this was needed to prevent them from overusing the injured area and causing more harm 😱Some vets and owners still advocate for this approach.In my latest podcast episode, I dive deep into this shocking practice and why it's time for this outdated thinking to be left in the past. Join me as I discuss the impact of pain on a pet's well-being and the importance of appropriate pain management.I highlight the negative effects of pain on healing, the body, and the human-animal bond, and why it's crucial to prioritize pain relief whenever pain is present.While some may have reservations about using pain medication, I emphasize the various options in our arsenal for managing pain, promoting a multimodal approach for the best outcomes. My big takeaway is that we owe it to our pets to ensure they not only have a great chance of recovery but also remain comfortable throughout their healing journey.Find out more in the show notes: https://ourpetshealth.com/podcast/no-pain-relief🐶 Are you aware of the impact of pain on your pet's overall well-being? What are your thoughts on the use of pain medication for pets? Let's start a conversation and ensure our furry family members receive the care they deserve.#PetHealth #AnimalWellbeing #VeterinaryCare #DogPainManagement #PetPainReliefGet your question answered here- https://ourpetshealth.com/question Love the show? Sharing this episode or leaving a review helps others know it's worth a listen! - https://ourpetshealth.com/review

🐾 Do you know just how effective acupuncture is for our dogs and cats?In answering one listener question I dive into the placebo effect in both humans and animals, shedding light on the importance of understanding what the evidence says, or doesn't say.And it's not just acupuncture. Understanding the intricacies of alternative treatments and their impact on our pets' well-being is crucial for making informed decisions as pet parents.We dive into the multimodal approach to pet care, incorporating proven therapies in all different areas of your pet's life. By optimizing treatment strategies and embracing a holistic approach, we can enhance our pets' long-term comfort and overall well-being.The key learning from this episode is that as responsible pet parents, it's essential to critically evaluate the treatments we consider for our pets and prioritize evidence-based care.Have you ever explored alternative therapies for your pets? What are your thoughts on evidence-based treatments versus alternative therapies? Share your experiences and insights in the comments below! 🐾Dive into all the links and related information in the show notes - https://ourpetshealth.com/podcast/dog-acupuncture #PetHealth #EvidenceBasedCare #HolisticPetCare #AnimalWellness #dogacupunctureGet your question answered here- https://ourpetshealth.com/question Love the show? Sharing this episode or leaving a review helps others know it's worth a listen! - https://ourpetshealth.com/review

Overvaccination of pets is a controversial topic with serious health implications? 🤔In the latest episode of Call the Vet Show, I delved into the hot potato issue of vaccination, addressing the concerns and risks associated with overvaccination. 🎙️I talk about the importance of vaccinations as a core strategy to prevent dangerous infectious diseases, like the parvovirus outbreaks currently occurring in various parts of New Zealand. However, I also highlighted the need to avoid overvaccination, explaining the normal vaccination schedules of the essential core vaccines along with assessing the need for "lifestyle" vaccines.And don't worry, I also address the potential of vaccine side-effects, the risks of overvaccination, and one big vaccine alternative...The key learning from this episode is to carefully consider the individual risks and benefits of vaccinations for each pet, ensuring they receive necessary protection without being over vaccinated unnecessarily. 🐶Dive deeper into all of the issues discussed in today's show over in the full show notes - https://ourpetshealth.com/podcast/pet-overvaccination-risksGet your question answered here- https://ourpetshealth.com/question Love the show? Sharing this episode or leaving a review helps others know it's worth a listen! - https://ourpetshealth.com/review

Is your furry friend scratching non-stop, leaving open wounds and red, dry skin? Imagine the distress they must be feeling and the worry it brings to you as their loving caregiver.You've tried home remedies like hydrogen peroxide, colloidal silver, and apple cider vinegar, but nothing seems to provide relief.But what if the root cause of your dog's itch goes beyond just dry skin? Could it be parasites, infections, allergies, or another underlying skin problem? The mystery of your dog's discomfort is like a puzzle waiting to be solved. You're seeking answers and solutions, but barriers like financial constraints and transportation limitations stand in your way.In this episode of Call the Vet, Dr. Alex addresses a listener's concern about her dog's incessant itching and open wounds.The listener, Nicole, is based in Jamaica and unable to afford veterinary care or transport her dog to a clinic.Dr. Alex dives into the possible causes of itch, including parasites, infections, allergies, and other skin problems. He offers practical advice for at-home treatment, specifically highlighting the importance of addressing underlying infections and the potential use of isoxazoline group treatments.Despite the challenges, Dr. Alex emphasizes the value of seeking veterinary consultation, sharing insights on telemedicine options and the importance of prompt diagnosis and intervention.Dive deeper into these topics over in the full show notesGet your question answered here- https://ourpetshealth.com/question Love the show? Sharing this episode or leaving a review helps others know it's worth a listen! - https://ourpetshealth.com/review

Get ready to unleash your cat's full potential! In this episode of Call the Vet, join Dr. Alex and special guest, accredited animal behavior technician Leili from Supakit, as they reveal essential skills to teach your cat.From harness training to recall and carrier comfort, discover expert tips for fostering a happy, confident feline. Uncover the art of training, understanding your feline friend's body language, and building a strong bond that lasts a lifetime. Dive into more cat training tips over in the full show notesGet your question answered here- https://ourpetshealth.com/question Love the show? Sharing this episode or leaving a review helps others know it's worth a listen! - https://ourpetshealth.com/review

Dive into the purr-fect solution for your cat's bathroom behavior!In this episode of Call the Vet, Dr. Alex helps out lister Kim who is having issues with her cat pooping in the bath - gross! Bit whether it's problem pooping or peeing outside the litter box, this episode brings you six top tips including insights on cleanliness, litter types, and behavioral changes, to help you uncover the secrets to getting your feline friend back on track and toileting where you want them to.For more toileting resources be sure to head over to the full show notesGet your question answered here- https://ourpetshealth.com/question Love the show? Sharing this episode or leaving a review helps others know it's worth a listen! - https://ourpetshealth.com/review

🐾 Get ready to capture your furry friends' most adorable moments as Dr. Alex welcomes pet photography experts Darlene, Kathy, and Bonnie to the Call the Vet podcast!In this episode, they delve into the magical world of pet photography, exploring how these talented photographers bring out the unique personalities and beauty of dogs and cats through their lenses.From tips on preparing your pets for a session to finding the perfect pet photographer, this episode is a must-listen for all pet parents who want to preserve their precious moments with their fur babies.So grab your headphones and join us as we dive into the art of pet photography on this captivating episode of Call the Vet podcast! 📸🎙️Connect with our guests and dive into more information over in the full show notesGet your question answered here- https://ourpetshealth.com/question Love the show? Sharing this episode or leaving a review helps others know it's worth a listen! - https://ourpetshealth.com/review

You would think that military dogs would be given the best care when it comes time to retire...In this episode, we dive into a topic that might be new to some of our listeners: the rescue and rehabilitation of military dogs. Our guest, Bob from Mission Canine Rescue, shares his insights on the incredible work they do to provide happy endings for retired military dogs, contractor working dogs, and police dogs who have served humankind. We discuss the different breeds of military dogs, the work they do, and the unfortunate reality of what their fate can be after retirement. Join us as we shed light on this important issue and learn more about how we can support these amazing animals who have dedicated their lives to serving their country.For all the notes, links and related content head over to the full show notes at ourpetshealth.com/podcast/military-dog-rescueGet your question answered here- https://ourpetshealth.com/question Love the show? Sharing this episode or leaving a review helps others know it's worth a listen! - https://ourpetshealth.com/review

Calling all cat lovers! 🐱 Get ready for a heartwarming episode of "Call the Vet" as host Dr. Alex sits down with the amazing Nancy Peterson to delve into the world of raising foster kittens.🐾 From the importance of caring for feral mother cats to the ins and outs of nurturing scared kittens, this episode is packed with must-know tips and adorable stories.😻 Discover how to raise these little furballs to not just survive, but thrive, as Dr. Alex and Nancy share their expertise and experiences. Tune in and be prepared for a dose of fuzzy cuteness, enlightening insights, and the joy of making a positive impact on these precious feline lives.🌟 Don't miss out on this meow-nificent episode of "Call the Vet"! Subscribe now and join the purr-fect conversation. 🎧✨We took the notes for you! Find all the links, details and more in the blog "Kitten Fostering 101".Get your question answered here- https://ourpetshealth.com/question Love the show? Sharing this episode or leaving a review helps others know it's worth a listen! - https://ourpetshealth.com/review

If you're worried about your furry friend's upset tummy, diarrhea, or blood in their stools, this episode is a must-listen!Join veterinarian Dr. Alex Avery on another episode of the "Call the Vet Show" as he addresses a common concern among pet parents – colitis in dogs.Dr. Alex and guest pet parent Jeannine dive into the ins and outs of colitis, exploring different diet options, including the infamous chicken and rice, and whether switching to brown rice is a safe bet. They also discuss the benefits of commercial diets, supplements, and expert consultation for a more nutritionally complete approach.Don't miss out on valuable insights, practical tips, and real-life stories that are bound to help your furry companion bounce back to health. Subscribe to "Call the Vet Show" for expert guidance and a deeper understanding of your pet's well-being.Remember, knowledge is power when it comes to your furry family member's health and you can find all the shownotes and related information here!Get your question answered here- https://ourpetshealth.com/question Love the show? Sharing this episode or leaving a review helps others know it's worth a listen! - https://ourpetshealth.com/review

Dive into the fascinating world of pet wearables with our special guest, Guilherme Coelho. In this episode of 'Call the Vet,' Dr. Alex and Guilherme explore the groundbreaking technology that is revolutionizing pet care 🐶🐱.👨‍⚕️From AI-powered monitors to smartphone integration, discover how pet wearables are keeping our furry friends safe, healthy, and connected!📈 Join us as we uncover the power of data, early intervention, and the incredible potential of understanding our pets' thoughts and feelings. Don't miss out on this paw-some episode!Tune in now and be a part of the pet care revolution 💥Get your question answered here- https://ourpetshealth.com/question Love the show? Sharing this episode or leaving a review helps others know it's worth a listen! - https://ourpetshealth.com/review

Join veterinarian Dr. Alex as he dives into the often fraught world of itch and allergy diagnosis. In this episode, he is joined by the incredible Dr. Jeff Werber, an award-winning veterinarian with over 38 years of experience.Together, in this sneak peek into The Dog Allergy Summit, they unravel the complexities of canine allergies and discuss how to make an accurate diagnosis, along with the common pitfalls to avoid.If you've ever wondered why your furry friend is constantly scratching or suffering from skin-related issues, this episode is for you. Discover the common culprits behind allergic reactions in dogs, whether it's environmental triggers or food sensitivities. Dr. Jeff Werber breaks down the different diagnostic methods and explains how to differentiate between seasonal and year-round allergies.But it doesn't stop there! Dr. Alex and Dr. Jeff also tackle the complications that can arise from secondary infections and discuss the importance of maintaining healthy skin for your dog's overall well-being.Whether you're a dedicated pet owner seeking answers for your four-legged companion or simply curious about the world of veterinary medicine, this episode of "Call the Vet" is a must-listen. Tune in and empower yourself with the knowledge to better care for your furry family member.Check out The Dog Allergy Summit todayGet your question answered here- https://ourpetshealth.com/question Love the show? Sharing this episode or leaving a review helps others know it's worth a listen! - https://ourpetshealth.com/review

Ready to unlock the secret to your pet's sparkling smile ✨? Join our host, Dr. Alex Avery, alongside guest pet parent Michelle, as they tackle the age-old challenge of keeping our furry friends' teeth in top shape. Michelle's 14-year-old fur baby, Jerry, might have a heart murmur and can't undergo surgery, but that doesn't mean his dental health can't be improved!Discover expert tips, practical advice, and innovative solutions to take your pet's dental care to the next level. From in-home brushing techniques and dental treats to special diets and oral gels, Dr. Alex leaves no stone unturned when it comes to finding the perfect dental routine for your four-legged companion.Did you know that neglecting your pet's dental health is one of the biggest mistakes pet parents make? Don't worry, you're not alone! Tune in to this episode to learn valuable insights that will give your pet something to smile about.Remember, taking care of your pet's teeth is not just about making their smile shine - it's about ensuring their overall health and happiness. So, grab your toothbrush and join the conversation on "Call the Vet" as we help pet parents become dental care heroes for their furry family members!🔊 Listen now and don't forget to share this episode with fellow pet parents who want to give their pets the best dental health imaginable. Let's make sure every pet can enjoy a life full of bright smiles and wagging tails! 🐾🦷Get your question answered here- https://ourpetshealth.com/question Love the show? Sharing this episode or leaving a review helps others know it's worth a listen! - https://ourpetshealth.com/review

Are pets a privilege or a necessity?When sickness or injury strikes, sometimes the most expensive treatments are affordable and at other times those at the cheaper end of the spectrum are completely out of reach.So, if you can’t afford their care, should you have a pet?For all the notes, related links, and discussion head over to the full show notesGet your question answered here- https://ourpetshealth.com/question Love the show? Sharing this episode or leaving a review helps others know it's worth a listen! - https://ourpetshealth.com/review

Are you guilty of focusing on the physical health of your pet, while neglecting their mental and emotional wellbeing? Most pet parents (including myself) are to some degree.Today this comes to an end as we discuss what emotional disease is, how you can spot your pet dog or cat may be struggling, before diving into some cutting-edge treatment options…For further information and all the links discussed in today's episode, be sure to head over to the full show notesGet your question answered here- https://ourpetshealth.com/question Love the show? Sharing this episode or leaving a review helps others know it's worth a listen! - https://ourpetshealth.com/review