Being a veterinarian is not just about cuddling puppies and kittens all day. There is a dark side to the profession. There are some really difficult, challenging, and at times upsetting parts to being a part of this profession. I think it is important that everyone is aware that being a vet is not all the sunshine and rainbows it’s portrayed to be on popular TV shows and glossy Instagram posts.

Full show notes: the pros + cons of being a veterinarian

Being a veterinarian can be an incredibly rewarding job. Let me take you into my world as a companion animal GP vet as I discuss the five things I enjoy best about being a veterinarian. Full show notes at ourpetshealth.com/info/being-a-veterinarian

If you are dealing with a sick pet then there is a real chance you might be becoming stressed, depressed, anxious or even angry.  All of these will affect YOUR quality of life so it is important you look after YOU!  The syndrome known as "caregiver burden" is well recognized in people who care for chronically ill family members, but it has only more recently been recognized in owners who have to look after sick pets.

Show notes - ourpetshealth.com/info/caregiver-burden

If your dog enjoys swimming, or if you're going on long hikes and they're drinking from lakes and from streams, then at this time of year you really need to know all about blue-green algae poisoning in dogs. Blue-green algae can kill a dog within 15 minutes. It produces toxins that stop the nerves working or destroy the liver. The main risk period is late summer and early autumn when water levels are low and warm - perfect for blue-green algae growth.

Check out my complete guide to blue-green algae poisoning in dogs

Just how similar are dogs to their closest relation - the gray wolf? The evolution of dogs from wolves is not as straight forward as you might believe. Just how similar are dogs and wolves? Are they really such close relatives that your dog could easily revert back to their ancestral form, or are the differences more than skin deep?

Full show notes: ourpetshealth.com/info/dog-evolution

 If you are coming up to retirement, or if you are already retired, and you’re thinking about getting a new dog then there are some of the questions that you need to ask yourself when you are thinking about what the best dog for retirement is. Retirement and senior living can bring a specific set of challenges and opportunities. It is really important for you and your new dog that you plan and consider all of your options carefully. Here are some considerations, as well as the best dog breed suggestions!

Full show notes: ourpetshealth.com/info/best-retirement-dog

 There are a number of different reasons why a dog pants. Some of them are normal. Some of them are signs of serious diseases. If your dog has started panting all the time and you’re wondering why they are panting so much, then I've got the nine main reasons that you need to think about. A simple examination by your vet may be enough to diagnose the problem or give the AOK, but if there is something that needs treating, an early diagnosis could make all the difference in how successful this will be for your dog

Full show notes - ourpetshealth.com/info/dog-panting-causes

Not all pets find forever homes. To make matters worse, up to 25% of dogs and cats entering the shelter system get euthanized. Find out what you can do to stop these dogs and cats being killed. It is a responsibility we all have!

Show notes:  https://ourpetshealth.com/info/shelter-euthanasia 

 Are grain-free diets causing dogs to die of heart failure? The answer is yes, but it is now clear that lentils, peas and potato are also major problem ingredients. These are the facts you need to know if your dog is eating a grain free diet.

Full show notes - https://ourpetshealth.com/info/is-grain-free-dog-food-killing-our-pets

It's vital every dog owner learns these 5 main signs and symptoms of heatstroke in dogs. Heat stroke can kill and it can kill incredibly quickly, so picking up on the fact that your dog is starting to overheat early can save their life!

Free hot weather dog care guide: https://ourpetshealth.com/summerdogcare

Show notes - https://ourpetshealth.com/info/dog-heatstroke-symptoms