The Science Pawdcast - podcast cover

The Science Pawdcast

Jason and Kris Zackowskitwitter.com

The Science Pawdcast breaks down the latest science happening in the human world AND the pet world. 
Each episode will also bring you a guest to enthral you with their area of knowledge.
You'll learn, be captivated, and laugh along with host Jason Zackowski. 
Pets and Science, it's the pawfect mix. 

You'll also get episodes of PetChat which are the live shows from social audio. 
PetChat is a live community gathering updates about the animals in our life, but also the animals in the wonderful community that supports us!


Heart and Hope.

Science and Shenanigans. 

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Episodes

Season 6 Episode 37: Mammoth Hunters and Veterinary Ventures with Dr. Amber Pisle

Send us a text Ever wondered how the Clovis people survived 13,000 years ago? Discover the secrets revealed by stable isotope analysis that prove they were more than just gatherers—they were expert mammoth hunters! Plus, enjoy some mammoth-themed humor to lighten the prehistoric revelations. With these insights, we unravel the mysteries of early American expansion and the extinction of Ice Age giants, all while celebrating the rich tapestry of our ancient past. In an engaging conversation with D...

Dec 06, 202458 minSeason 6Ep. 37

Season 6 Episode 36: The HPV Vaccine's Impact, Cat Intelligence, and Cheyenne Bair on Med School!

Send us a text Experience a groundbreaking revelation in the world of health as we uncover the true power of the HPV vaccine in reducing cervical cancer mortality rates. Discover how a study from the Medical University of South Carolina showcases a striking 60% decrease in deaths amongst women under 25, thanks to this vital vaccine. The story doesn't end there—dive into the importance of maintaining vaccination rates, tackling misinformation, and expanding these life-saving benefits across broad...

Nov 29, 202454 minSeason 6Ep. 36

Pet Chat November 24th: Bunsen is on T.V. and Snowy Adventures!

Send us a text Have you ever had to keep a secret so big it felt like your heart might burst? That’s how we felt holding onto the incredible story and now we can finally share it with you! We recount the whirlwind visit from CBC's Nancy and Pete, who not only captured the magic of our lives with pets but also shared their own delightful tales of animal love and relationships. Amidst the excitement, we found ourselves caught in a snowy adventure with our dogs, adding a touch of winter wonder to o...

Nov 25, 202439 min

Episode 35 Season 6: Bunsen's Tapeworm Cyst and the Transformative Pet-Human Bond with Denise Mange

Send us a text What would you do if your beloved pet faced a life-threatening crisis? Our family went through this unimaginable experience when our cherished dog, Bunsen, suddenly fell ill. Initially feared to be bloat, a dire condition for large dogs, the vet discovered a massive 10-pound growth in his abdomen. We share the emotional whirlwind of those tense days leading up to Bunsen's successful surgery and miraculous recovery—a story that resonated so deeply, it will be featured on CBC news. ...

Nov 23, 20241 hr 5 minSeason 6Ep. 35

Pet Chat Nov 16: Bernoulli's Comical Escapades and Heartfelt Pet Tales

Send us a text Ever wondered how a dog could transform a simple walk into a comical journey? Bernoulli, our lively pup, who frequently finds himself hilariously baffled after sprinting too far ahead during our walks with Bunsen and Beaker. This episode brims with tales of Bernoulli's charming escapades, from his amusing "trust fall" into Alicia's arms to his social adventures at Waggles doggy daycare. You'll discover the joy and camaraderie that our furry companions weave into our lives, remindi...

Nov 19, 202457 min

Season 6 Episode 34: Chonky Microbes, Tick Meds, and Wildlife Conservation with Dr. Charlotte Milling

Send us a text Unlock the secrets of nature's smallest wonders and their potential to save our planet! Discover the world of microbiology with "Chonkus," a cyanobacterium found in Italy's volcanic waters that might just hold the answers to climate change. Explore the hidden dynamics of the ocean's microscopic ecosystems and learn how these unseen organisms are critical to our environmental future. Join us as we chat with Dr. Charlotte Milling, an expert from Eastern Washington University, who sh...

Nov 16, 20241 hr 7 minSeason 6Ep. 34

Pet Chat November 2nd: Mountain Adventures

Send us a text Pet Chat is a recording of our live show which brings together our community from Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram! Have you ever shared a spontaneous adventure with your furry friends that left you with memories to treasure forever? Join us as we recount a joy-filled day in the mountains with our beloved dogs, Bunsen, Beaker, and Bernoulli. We met up with Holly- Sasha the Bernadoodle's mom, and her husband Colin for a delightful dog-friendly lunch in Canmore, where laughter was a...

Nov 09, 202453 min

Season 6 Episode 33: Vaping Vapouizes, Feline Language, and Canine Training with Jennifer Holland

Send us a text Ever wondered how the world of pet cognition parallels that of human language learning? Join us as we explore this fascinating topic with insights from researchers in Tokyo and Azabu University, who have uncovered groundbreaking evidence that cats can associate words with images, similar to infants learning language. This discovery challenges our perception of feline intelligence and opens new dimensions in our communication with our feline companions. We'll also draw intriguing c...

Nov 08, 202456 minSeason 6Ep. 33

Season 6 Episode 32: Maternal Care, Canine Generosity, and How Earth Came To Life with Ferris Jabr

Send us a text This week, we unravel the indispensable role doulas play in maternal health, highlighting fresh findings from the American Journal of Public Health. Learn how these incredible individuals provide vital support, helping mothers navigate the pivotal phases of pregnancy and postpartum with better health outcomes and stronger family bonds. Next, we turn our attention to the world of canine generosity—ever wondered if your furry friend has a giving nature? Join us as we examine a fasci...

Oct 26, 20241 hr 5 minSeason 6Ep. 32

Pet Chat October 19th: Bernoulli's Antics, New Cats and Thanksgiving Surprises

Send us a text Pet Chat is a live show that runs every Saturday at 8PM Eastern for 1 hour. It bring together audiences on Twitter (X), Instagram, and Facebook. Bernoulli finally mastered the art of the figure eight, and what better way to celebrate than with a nibble on his own report card? From Beaker's persistent eyelid bump that's kept us all guessing since Comic-Con, to Kris's photo diary capturing Bernoulli's adorable journey from mischievous puppy to dignified adult, there's never a dull m...

Oct 23, 202437 min

Season 6 Episode 31: Hair-Tugging Pain, Liquid Cats and Hammerhead Sharks with Dr. Erin Spencer

Send us a text Ever wondered why pulling a strand of hair can send a jolt faster than any other pain? Join us as we uncover this surprising discovery, complete with humorous anecdotes from our own lives, like kitchen mishaps and martial arts blunders. We share the remarkable research from Sweden revealing hair-pulling pain as the speed demon of all pain signals, zooming through your nervous system at an astonishing 160 kilometers per hour. Our lively chat not only highlights this quirky facet of...

Oct 19, 20241 hr 5 minSeason 6Ep. 31

Season 6 Episode 30: A Jiggly Spot, Animal Shelters, and the Icy Secrets of Mars with Dr. Ali Bramson

Send us a text Unlock the secrets of our solar system as we explore the mesmerizing charm of Jupiter and its iconic Great Red Spot. Our cosmic journey begins with a deep dive into Jupiter's colossal presence, its rapid spin, and the numerous moons that dance around it, including mighty Ganymede. Discover the latest buzz about the "jiggly" motion of the Great Red Spot and what it could mean for our understanding of this ancient storm. Plus, we bring you intriguing tidbits and anecdotes that add a...

Oct 12, 202459 minSeason 6Ep. 30

Pet Chat September 28th: Bunsen's Astonishing Health Journey and Cosplay Adventures at Comic-Con

Send us a text What happens when a beloved Bernese Mountain Dog faces a health scare that even the most experienced veterinarians find astonishing? Join us on Pet Chat as we recount the gripping tale of Bunsen and the discovery of an enormous 10-pound cyst caused by a rare European tapeworm. The sheer improbability of this occurrence adds an element of mystery to Bunsen's story, and we share the relief and gratitude of having the cyst safely removed. Our conversation with the vet unpacks the pot...

Oct 09, 20241 hr 2 min

Season 6 Episode 29: Urban Safety, Pessimistic Pets, and Combatting Plastic Pollution

Send us a text Ever wondered how micromobility devices like e-scooters and e-bikes are shaking up our urban landscapes? Join us as we unravel a Columbia University study that reports an alarming surge in injuries from these devices. With personal anecdotes, like our son Duncan's harrowing scooter crash, we dissect the need for smarter urban planning and heightened safety measures. From defining micromobility to discussing enhanced injury surveillance, this segment offers a comprehensive look int...

Sep 27, 20241 hr 11 minSeason 6Ep. 29

Pet Chat September 21: From Obedience Training to Comic Con: Celebrating Pet Adventures and Milestones

Send us a text What if your furry friends could have their own Comic Con adventure? In this episode of Pet Chat, we start with a heartwarming tribute to Bernoulli, our intelligent and eager pup, who has just passed level one obedience training. Our journey with Bernoulli has been filled with humorous and chaotic moments, from scrambling for supplies to amusing social media reactions about his antics with our cat, Ginger. We also dive into the different training styles and techniques that have ke...

Sep 24, 202444 min

Season 6 Episode 28: Quantum Computing, Cat Blood Types, and DNA Keepsake Jewelry

Send us a text What if quantum mechanics could revolutionize the way we compute? In this episode, we break down the seemingly "spooky" principles of quantum computing, exploring concepts like qubits, superposition, and entanglement. Kris and I make these complex ideas more approachable, showing how quantum computers can perform multiple calculations simultaneously and solve problems that stump classical computers. We also touch upon exciting applications like cryptography, aiming to demystify th...

Sep 14, 20241 hr 9 minSeason 6Ep. 28

Season 6 Episode 27: From Spacecraft Safety, Money and Dogs to Author Brandon Keim

Send us a text What happens when a spacecraft designed for human travel can't safely carry its crew? Today, we unravel the latest updates on the Boeing Starliner and the safety decisions reshaping the missions of astronauts Butch Wilmore and Suni Williams. Stranded on the ISS until February 2025, they'll make their return on a SpaceX Dragon spacecraft. With historical nods to the Challenger disaster, we reflect on NASA's enduring commitment to astronaut safety and the current status of the Starl...

Sep 07, 20241 hr 10 minSeason 6Ep. 27

Pet Chat August 31: The dog days of summer are over

Send us a text Ever had to suit up in the sweltering summer heat to tackle a sneaky wasp problem? In this hilarious yet slightly tense episode of Pet Chat, where Chris recounts her daring adventure dressed in a survival suit! Our beloved pets—Bunsen, Beaker, Bernoulli, and Ginger—add their own unique twists to our week, with Bernoulli making a memorable visit to a local school and Bunsen showing remarkable resilience as he recovers from major surgery. Curious about how to handle a giant puppy wi...

Sep 02, 202438 min

Season 6 Episode 26: Microwave Bacteria, Farm Classroom Wonders, and Dinosaur Adventures with Jay Balamurugan

Send us a text Ever wondered what bacteria might be lurking in your microwave? You're about to find out! This episode kicks off with an emotional update on Bunsen's miraculous recovery from his near-death surgery, immersing you in the highs and lows of this heartwarming journey. We then shift gears to discuss a recent foodborne illness outbreak in Calgary, sharing our personal experiences and the hidden dangers in our kitchens, including the startling discovery of over 100 bacterial strains in m...

Aug 30, 20241 hr 8 minSeason 6Ep. 26

Season 6 Episode 25: Heat and Drugs, Cats vs Dogs, and the Science of Epigenetics with Melanie Lemaire

Send us a text Have you ever wondered how medications interact with summer heat, or why dog owners might be more resilient than cat owners? Join us as we uncover these mysteries and more in an episode bursting with heartfelt stories, scientific insights, and thought-provoking discussions. We kick things off by thanking our wonderful listeners for their support during Bunsen's emergency surgery. As the mercury rises, we unpack recent studies on the risks certain medications pose during hot summer...

Aug 22, 20241 hr 15 minSeason 6Ep. 25

Bunsen's Battle: A Heartfelt Tale of Emergency Surgery and Miraculous Recovery

Send us a text What would you do if your beloved pet's life was hanging in the balance? In this emotionally charged episode, we recount the heart-stopping ordeal our dear science dog, Bunsen, faced when he suddenly showed signs of severe bloat. From the horrifying moment of recognizing his distress to the frantic rush to the emergency vet, we share the critical importance of swift action in life-threatening situations. Hear about the initial tests, the urgency of further investigation, and how t...

Aug 18, 202440 min

Pet Chat August 10th: Pet Adventures, Mishaps and Heartwarming Tales

Send us a text Ever had one of those days where everything goes hilariously awry? Join us on Pet Chat as Kris recounts an eventful outing to the puppy play area with Bernoulli, where unexpected warm weather and a wardrobe mishap led to some laugh-out-loud moments. Kris braved the chaos solo while Jason battled a migraine, and despite the challenges, Bernoulli had a fantastic time, even taking an unplanned dip in the water. It's a heartwarming tale of perseverance and community spirit that pet lo...

Aug 13, 202451 min

Season 6 Episode 24: Martian Life, Rabies Rules, and Remarkable Octopuses with Meg Mindlin

Send us a text Could ancient microbial life have once thrived on Mars? Join us as we explore this tantalizing possibility, revealed by the Perseverance rover's groundbreaking discovery of organic molecules in Jezero crater. Learn about the mission's history, the significance of these findings, and how they compare to previous discoveries by the Curiosity rover in Gale crater. We also dive into the fascinating details of the rock sample named Cheava Falls, uncovering its unique characteristics an...

Aug 09, 20241 hr 22 minSeason 6Ep. 24

August 3rd Pet Chat: Pet Adventures, Nostalgia, and Special Moments

Send us a text Ever wondered how a mischievous puppy can outsmart older dogs? Join us in this lively episode of Pet Chat! We share laugh-out-loud moments, like Bernoulli's surprising ability to share chews with his doggy siblings and his playful tussles with Ginger. Our adventurous hikes with our dogs in Grotto Canyon and White Goat Falls add a touch of thrill as we navigate challenging terrains, creating unforgettable family memories. Our episode takes a nostalgic turn as we reminisce about cla...

Aug 08, 202451 min

Season 6 Episode 23: Element 120, Neutering News, and Pop Culture with Dr. Kyle Stanley

Send us a text Prepare yourself for an emotional rollercoaster as we kick off this riveting episode with a deeply moving update on the recent Jasper, Alberta forest fire and the unfortunate loss of the beloved Jasper Veterinary Clinic. We transition into the fascinating realm of chemistry, unveiling a revolutionary technique that might just add a super heavy element to the periodic table. Chris and I reveal our favorite elements, sparking a lively conversation about Mendeleev's enduring legacy a...

Jul 27, 20241 hr 10 min

Season 6 Episode 22 Exoplanet Sunsets, Parrot Problems, and The Cool Science of Refrigeration with Nicola Twilley

Send us a text Ever wondered what it’s like to explore a gas giant located 700 light years away from Earth? Buckle up as we unpack the mysteries of exoplanet WASP-39b, a fascinating celestial body larger than Jupiter. Thanks to the James Webb Space Telescope, we reveal groundbreaking insights into its atmosphere, including the presence of gases like carbon dioxide, sulfur dioxide, water vapor, and sodium. Discover how this tidally locked planet experiences dramatic temperature differences betwee...

Jul 19, 20241 hr 11 minSeason 6Ep. 22

Season 6 Episode 21: Climate Change Rocks, Black Dogs, and Exploring Space

Send us a text Are facility dogs with black fur unfairly judged? Join us as we uncover the findings of a recent study tackling black dog bias in courtrooms, revealing surprising insights that could reshape how facility dogs are viewed in legal settings. Prepare to be amazed by the potential of Enhanced Rock Weathering (ERW) as we explore its role in combating climate change. Discover the science behind using volcanic rock to reduce atmospheric CO2 by up to 215 billion tons over the next 75 years...

Jul 12, 20241 hr 10 minSeason 6Ep. 21

Pet Chat July 6: Rescue Cats, Dock Diving, and Heartwarming Pet Stories

Send us a text This week on Pet Chat, we promise an episode filled with heartwarming updates, groundbreaking philanthropy, and practical pet care tips. First, we kick things off with the latest on our beloved pets, including the fantastic news from Bunsen's CAT scan results, Bernoulli's adventures at puppy school, and Beaker's triumphant return to dock diving. We share our heartfelt commitment to maintaining individual activities for each pet to ensure they all feel cherished. Next, we welcome t...

Jul 12, 202443 min

Season 6 Episode 20: Mammoth Extinction, Pet Separation, and Mental Health Myths

Send us a text What really caused the extinction of the last woolly mammoths? This episode challenges the familiar narrative of genetic downfall, presenting groundbreaking genetic analyses of Wrangel Island mammoths. We uncover how harmful mutations were eradicated from their genomes, leading us to consider other culpable factors like climate change and disease. Our discussion sheds new light on conservation efforts, emphasizing the need to address modern-day species' vulnerabilities to environm...

Jul 05, 202452 min

Season 6 Episode 19: Earth's Core, Camel Culture, and Navigating Outrage

Send us a text Ever wondered if the Earth's core could change its direction? This fascinating theory is backed by decades of earthquake data and challenges long-held beliefs in geophysics. We're taking a trip to the Middle East to highlight the unique impact of camel ownership on the Omani Bedouin culture. The bond between the Bedouin youth and their camels offers emotional, social, and cognitive gains that are both intriguing and heartwarming. Shifting gears, we're joined by David Beckmeyer, ho...

Jun 29, 20241 hr 5 minSeason 6Ep. 19
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