In this episode of the Pet Care Report Podcast by Pet Summits, host Dr. Megan Barrett discusses herbal remedies for cats with clinical canine herbalist, Rita Hogan. Rita, with over 18 years of experience in herbal medicine, shares insights on the importance of herbs in feline health, debunking common myths about their use. She highlights cat-safe herbs such as catnip for nervous system support and nettles for kidney health, and stresses the importance of moisture-rich diets for cats. Rita also p...
Jul 01, 2025•34 min•Ep. 64
In this episode, we delve into the critical topic of dog nutrition with expert Josh Haygood, founder of Mia Nutrition. Josh discusses common nutritional gaps in commercial dog food and the science-backed benefits of proper supplementation for canine health and longevity. Sharing his personal story of dramatically improving his terminally ill dog's health through a specialized diet, Josh emphasizes the importance of micronutrients and offers practical advice on choosing the right supplements. The...
Jun 05, 2025•25 min•Season 1Ep. 63
In this episode of the Pet Care Report podcast by Pet Summits, host Dr. Megan Barrett discusses how regular vet visits can help spot health issues in cats before they become critical. Special guest Dr. Zach Pilossoph, a nationally recognized fear-free integrated veterinarian, shares his insights on common health issues like periodontal disease, musculoskeletal pain, and cardiac disease that might go unnoticed without routine checkups. He also emphasizes the importance of proactive health monitor...
May 14, 2025•29 min•Season 1Ep. 62
In this episode of the Pet Care Report Podcast by Pet Summits, host Melissa Viera welcomes Amanda VanTassel, owner of No Hassle Dog Training, to discuss leash walking. Amanda shares her personal experience with her dog, Mabel, and provides practical tips on handling dogs that pull on leashes, including using long lines and reducing distractions. Amanda also covers the importance of calmness, breaking down training into manageable steps, and using landmarks and timing for effective leash training...
Apr 09, 2025•26 min•Season 1Ep. 61
In this episode of the Pet Care Report Podcast, host Melissa Viera engages in a detailed discussion with grooming expert Michelle Dixon. They delve into the relationship between grooming and canine behavior, offering valuable insights into how thorough grooming practices contribute to a dog's overall well-being. Michelle also shares tips for pet parents on handling their dogs during grooming and highlights the significance of canine nutrition. (02:34) The Grooming Process Explained (06:38) Behav...
Mar 05, 2025•27 min•Ep. 60
Join host Alora McKinley on the Pet Care Report podcast as she speaks with licensed professional counselor Mamie Jones about the emotional impact of pet loss. They discuss why grief over pets is often misunderstood, how to acknowledge and cope with these feelings, and the importance of workplace support for grieving pet owners. Mamie also shares useful rituals and resources for pet parents dealing with loss. (01:25) Why Pet Loss is Often Overlooked (03:14) Acknowledging and Honoring Your Grief (...
Nov 29, 2024•16 min•Ep. 59
In this episode of the Pet Care Report Podcast by Pet Summits, host Alora McKinley talks to Louise Griffey, founder of Life After Loss and an advanced grief recovery method specialist. They discuss the challenges of coping with pet loss the unique grief experienced by pet owners, and provide valuable advice on how to help children and adults navigate this difficult journey. Louise also shares her personal experience of loss and offers practical tips for managing grief and finding healing. (01:37...
Nov 22, 2024•16 min•Ep. 58
In this episode of the Pet Care Report podcast by Pet Summits, host Alora McKinley talks to Yaz Porritt, a canine massage therapist and Applied Herbal Choices consultant, about the complexities of diagnosing and managing pain in dogs. Yaz shares insights on common signs of pain, the importance of early intervention, and natural remedies like fresh feeding and massage therapy to alleviate dog discomfort. Yaz also emphasizes the emotional and physical aspects of pain and recommends when to consult...
Nov 15, 2024•38 min•Ep. 57
In this episode of the Pet Care Report Podcast by Pet Summits, host Dr. Megan Barrett discusses feline health and longevity tips with Shanti Zinzi, a renowned feline behavior consultant. They explore the impact of indoor air quality on cats, methods to reduce household chemicals, and practical ways to enrich an indoor cat's life. Shanti also shares insights on sacred palliative care and tips for holistic pet care to enhance the well-being and happiness of cats. Show Notes: (01:39) Hidden Factors...
Nov 01, 2024•41 min•Ep. 56
In this episode, Melissa Viera and grooming expert Kathy Firsch highlight the importance of regular dog grooming and its impact on behavior and comfort. Kathy shares tips on nail care, handling matted fur, and grooming senior dogs. Learn practical grooming techniques for maintaining your pet's health and creating positive experiences at home. Show Notes: (01:24) Recognizing Signs Your Dog Needs Grooming (03:30) The Impact of Overdue Grooming on Dogs (05:20) Importance of Regular Grooming (07:18)...
Oct 25, 2024•25 min•Ep. 55
Join host Alora Mckinley as she interviews Narelle Cooke, founder of CanineCeuticals, about the extensive benefits of PEA (palmitoylethanolamide) for pets. Discover how PEA acts as an anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and antihistamine to support pets with allergies, skin conditions, and pain from conditions like osteoarthritis and nerve injuries. Learn about its compatibility with conventional medications and its superior bioavailability in ultramicronized forms. (02:30) Understanding PEA and the E...
Oct 18, 2024•23 min•Ep. 54
In this episode of the Pet Care Report podcast, host Alora McKinley welcomes Dr. Marlene Siegel, a veteran veterinarian focusing on bioregulatory medicine. Dr. Siegel shares her insights on integrative veterinary medicine, emphasizing the importance of understanding the biology of pets and identifying root causes rather than just treating symptoms. She explains her six steps to healing, including stopping harmful practices, ensuring proper nutrition, healing the gut, and understanding the role o...
Oct 11, 2024•32 min•Ep. 53
In this episode of the Pet Care Report Podcast, Dr. Meghan Barrett discusses cat behavior and stress management techniques with holistic cat therapist Pam Webster. They explore holistic methods like cat calming blankets, herbal therapies, and color therapy to ease feline stress. Pam emphasizes the importance of identifying stress triggers and provides tips on activities such as leash training, slow introductions for new pet arrivals, and creating cat-friendly environments. Show Notes (01:42) Ide...
Oct 04, 2024•21 min•Ep. 52
In this episode of the Pet Care Report podcast, host Alora McKinley speaks with Sharon Katzke, president and CEO of Phototonic Healing, LLC, about the benefits of light therapy for pets. They discuss how different wavelengths of light aid in wound healing, pain management, and overall health while highlighting the accessibility and effectiveness of at-home light therapy tools. Sharon also shares insights on the scientific support for light therapy and its applications in human and animal health....
Sep 27, 2024•24 min•Ep. 51
In this Pet Care Report Podcast episode by Pet Summits, host Alora McKinley welcomes Dr. Elaine Cebuliak, a pioneer in holistic veterinary practices. They discuss the dangers of carcinogens, toxins, and poor nutrition in pet food and explore the benefits of holistic treatments and fresh foods for pet health. Dr. Elaine shares valuable insights into the role of nutrition, herbs, and natural compounds in preventing and treating cancer in pets. (02:08) The Impact of Diet on Cancer (02:57) Understan...
Sep 20, 2024•47 min•Ep. 50
In this Pet Care Report podcast episode by Pet Summits, host Alora McKinley discusses canine neurodiversity and sensory diets with Sharon Vincuilla, a certified dog behavior consultant. They explore how understanding individual dog sensitivities can improve their behavior and well-being. Learn practical tips on creating tailored sensory diets to help dogs with anxiety and aggression and foster a better pet-parent relationship. (01:49) Explaining Neurodiversity in Dogs (03:56) Recognizing and Sup...
Sep 13, 2024•28 min•Ep. 49
In this episode of the Pet Care Report podcast by PetSummits, host Alora McKinley talks with Dr. Nat, an integrative veterinarian specializing in holistic treatment for pets. They discuss the benefits and usage of essential oils like frankincense, lavender, and copaiba, as well as herbs like turmeric, garlic, and ginger for preventing and treating pet health issues. Dr. Nat also shares personal stories and tips for safely incorporating these natural remedies into your pet's care routine. Show No...
Sep 06, 2024•28 min•Ep. 48
In this episode of the Pet Care Report Podcast, host Alora McKinley speaks with Donna, the founder of Into Loving Homes, about home-to-home pet adoption as an alternative to shelters. Donna discusses her journey, including her previous work with Till the Cows Come Home, and the benefits of direct pet adoptions in maintaining animal well-being and preventing overcrowded shelters. Learn about the processes and challenges involved in this unique and compassionate approach to rehoming pets. (03:52) ...
Aug 30, 2024•31 min•Ep. 47
In this episode of the Pet Care Report podcast, Dr. Meghan Barrett hosts Dr. Marlene Siegel, an integrated veterinarian, to discuss the stark differences in health needs between cats and dogs. They emphasize the importance of species-appropriate diets, particularly for obligate carnivores like cats, and the dangers of carbohydrate-laden kibble. Dr. Siegel shares insights on proper hydration, avoiding toxins, and movement to ensure the longevity and well-being of pets. Discover practical tips for...
Aug 23, 2024•40 min•Ep. 46
In this Pet Care Report podcast episode, host Melissa Viera talks with certified behavior expert Michael Shikashio about canine aggression. They explore how pain and stress can trigger aggressive behavior in dogs, the importance of recognizing subtle signs, and the role of positive reinforcement in behavior modification. Michael also shares advice on finding qualified professionals and highlights resources for pet owners and professionals, including the upcoming Aggression in Dogs conference. (0...
Aug 16, 2024•29 min•Ep. 45
In this episode of the Pet Care Report podcast by Pet Summits, host Alora McKinley interviews Dr. Yushchenko, a holistic veterinarian, about the value of animal communication, especially during end-of-life care. Dr. Yushchenko shares personal stories and practical advice on caring for aging pets, including holistic methods like acupuncture. The conversation emphasizes the deep connection between pets and their owners and how understanding a pet's thoughts can alleviate owners’ guilt and stress. ...
Aug 09, 2024•29 min•Ep. 44
In this episode of the Pet Care Report Podcast, Dr. Ava Frick shares insights on improving the quality of life for senior dogs. Listeners learn about transitioning timelines, preventative care, and treatments like chiropractic therapy and essential oils. Dr. Frick emphasizes how dietary adjustments and non-invasive therapies can extend a dog's lifespan and address age-related issues. Show Notes: (01:42) Understanding Senior and Geriatric Dogs (02:35) Pain Management and Quality of Life (04:27) P...
Aug 02, 2024•22 min•Ep. 43
In this Pet Care Report podcast episode by PetSummits, host Melissa Viera talks with Dr. Karolina Westlund about noise phobia in dogs, exploring its causes, effects, and signs. They emphasize early recognition, various strategies for managing the phobia, and the importance of environmental control, distraction, owner behavior, and conditioned relaxation. The episode also highlights the significance of giving animals choices and the potential need for professional help, as well as offers practica...
Jul 26, 2024•32 min•Ep. 42
In this episode of the Pet Care Report Podcast by Pet Summits, host Alora McKinley discusses the difficult topic of pet loss and grief with Dr. Sarah Kerr, a death doula and founder of the Center for Sacred Death Care. Dr. Sarah shares her insights on preparing for the inevitable loss of a pet, the emotional impact on families, and how to handle the process and aftermath of euthanizing a pet. She also emphasizes the importance of rituals and ceremonies in processing grief and offers practical ad...
Jul 19, 2024•21 min•Ep. 41
In this Pet Care Report Podcast episode by Pet Summits, host Dr. Meghan Barrett discusses cat behavior and integration with Linda Hall and Rita Reimers from the Cat Behavior Alliance. They emphasize taking it slow, understanding personality cues, and offer practical tips like using temporary screen doors and scent swapping. Their insights aim to foster peaceful coexistence and build stronger bonds between cats and their owners. Show Notes (03:44) Can Cats Be Friends? (06:52) Steps for Introducin...
Jul 12, 2024•35 min•Ep. 40
In this Pet Care Report podcast episode by Pet Summits, host Melissa Viera welcomes renowned dog trainer Irith Bloom. They discuss the critical topic of introducing dogs and cats, focusing on common mistakes, stress signs, and successful integration strategies. She also provides tips for long-term maintenance, addressing potential medical issues, and when to seek professional help. Show Notes: (02:17) Common Mistakes in Introducing Pets (03:40) Understanding Cat and Dog Behavior (10:38) Training...
Jul 05, 2024•36 min•Ep. 39
In Pet Summits's Pet Care Report podcast episode, host Alora McKinley discusses pet loss and grief with Erica Messer, the founder of Wolfie's Wish. After losing her beloved cat Wolfgang, Erica created pet loss grieving cards to help others through their grief. They explore strategies for coping, the importance of community support, and how to honor and remember your pet. Show Notes: (01:44) Erica's Story and the Birth of Wolfie's Wish (06:06) Coping Strategies for Pet Loss (07:46) Getting Anothe...
Jun 28, 2024•21 min•Ep. 38
In this episode of the Pet Care Report, Dr. Megan Barrett interviews Susan Groeneveld, a serial entrepreneur merging technology with animal care. They discuss the groundbreaking application of AI in detecting pain in cats and its potential to revolutionize feline healthcare. Susan explains how AI offers a non-invasive way to monitor feline health, improving veterinary care and treatment outcomes while also exploring the future implications of AI in enhancing animal well-being. Show Notes: (00:03...
Jun 21, 2024•32 min•Ep. 37
In this episode, our Dog Training host Melissa Viera is joined by guest Judy Moore, a Portland, Maine, resident who has dedicated her life to humane training for difficult dogs. Get ready to learn what to do if your dog bites someone and how to prevent it from happening. Show Notes: (00:04:21) Uncover the surprising factors contributing to a dog's likelihood of biting, even days before the incident occurs. (00:07:12) Learn the most effective strategies for preventing dog bites (00:09:03) Find ou...
Jun 14, 2024•32 min•Ep. 36
This week on the Pet Care Report podcast by Pet Summits, host Alora McKinley explores veterinary nursing with Dr. Roz, a holistic vet nurse specializing in animal rehabilitation, naturopathy, and homeopathy. Dr. Roz discusses pathways into vet nursing, the skills and qualifications needed, and the rewarding aspects of the career. Show Notes: (00:00:50) Exploring a Career as a Vet Nurse (00:01:46) Pathways and Qualifications for Vet Nursing (00:03:35) Job Prospects and Daily Responsibilities (00:...
Jun 08, 2024•29 min•Ep. 35
