This episode is sponsored in part by Humane Network, Doobert.com and Maddie's Fund.

This week, Stacy checks in with the very accomplished Dr. Gray Richter. Dr. Richter is a certified veterinary acupuncturist and certified veterinary chiropractor. In 2007 and 2008, Dr. Richter and his Montclair Veterinary Hospital team received awards from the community, including Best Veterinarian in the East Bay from Oakland Magazine, East Bay Express, and KRON 4 TV. Dr. Richter’s professional interests are in emergency, general practice, alternative care medicine, and wildlife rescue. He is also the California Veterinary Medical Association’s Alameda county representative regarding animal disaster planning. Dr. Richter is now an international bestselling author of The Ultimate Pet Health Guide.

They discuss the shift in veterinary medicine away from treating cats as small dogs, and what might have prompted this enlightenment, including the Fear Free movement, more owner engagement, and the advantages it has for both veterinarian and patient. Dr. Richter also touches on the ongoing staffing shortages many veterinary clinics are experiencing and how important veterinary technicians are within the industry.

The conversation continues with a discussion about how western and alternative medicine can be integrated for remarkable outcomes and he even offers valuable tips on feline nutrition. Dr. Richter tells Stacy about the importance of diet for outdoor community cats and gives some details about supplements he's created to help enhance the traditional diets we feed cats. As the conversation comes to a close, Dr. Richter shares his thoughts about end-of-life care for animals.

If you'd like more information about Dr. Richter's supplements, you may visit ultimatepetnutrition.com and his book, The Ultimate Pet Health Guide, is available on Amazon. (It includes 50 recipes for dog and cat food you can make at home!) To learn more about integrated care, check out petvetexpert.com.