Paws and Effect

This Episode is made possible by Ultra Pet, South Africa's very own Ultra Pet premium pet food.

Discover Ultra Pet SuperWoof Large Puppy, the essential nutrition solution tailored for your growing large breed pup! Packed with high-quality protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals, this formula supports healthy digestion, strong bones, a shiny coat, and more. Give your puppy the best start with Ultra Pet SuperWoof Large Puppy, ensuring a vibrant and active future. Have a look at the full Superwoof range: https://ultra-pet.co.za/product/superwoof-large-puppy/

Today, we have the immense pleasure of welcoming the multi-talented Dr. Katie Venniker. Dr. Caity's life has been a tale of twin passions: the written word and the animal kingdom. From the outset, these dual loves framed the story of her life, pulling her in seemingly opposite directions. Balancing the stethoscope with the pen, she's working on a non-fiction book that promises to share the real, raw, and often humorous tales from the front lines of veterinary work, inspired by great storytellers like James Heriot and Adam Kay.

Join us as we delve deep into the multidimensional life of a vet who wears many hats: a medical professional, an author, a mother, and a wife. We'll discuss the emotional roller coaster of the vet's world, the importance of support within the profession, and how Dr. Caity's experiences spill beautifully into her writing, aiming to capture the unique bond between pets and their owners. Get ready to be moved by her flash fiction reading, "Journey through an old dog's vein," which offers a poignant glimpse into the profound moments of being a vet. You can also go see her Substack at caitygunthorpvenniker.substack.com

So, snuggle up with your furry friend and tune in for an episode that touches on the dedication required in the veterinary field, the power of storytelling, and the strength needed to overcome challenges and criticism. Whether you're a pet industry professional looking to be part of our community or a passionate pet owner, this episode is sure to resonate with you.

For more awesome pet care tips and a good belly rub of education and fun, swing by my Instagram profile @ultrapetvet and hit follow. We also have a audio version of all our episodes on all major podcast platforms. Here are a few to consider following us on:

Get in contact with Dr Caity Venniker:

THIS EPISODES SPONSORS:

ULTRA PET:

South Africa's very own Ultra Pet premium pet food, who has been scientifically formulating premium pet food for over 25 years. If you want to take the guesswork out of feeding your furry friends, give Ultra Pet premium pet food a try.

Check them out here⁠ here⁠.

PLANTDOG :

Discover Plantdog's Plant-Based Functional Treats - sugar-free, grain-free, and kind to your pet and the planet. With delicious flavours like Burger, BBQ Chicken, and Bacon, infused with Wild Rosehip Berry, Peanut Butter & Flaxseed, these treats are packed with natural ingredients to support your dog's health and wellbeing. Find out more at ⁠plantdog.co.za⁠ and treat your furry friend while supporting environmental causes!

JUSTFORPETS.CO.ZA

⁠JustForPets.co.za⁠ is proud to sponsor this episode of the Paws and Effect podcast. Visit their website for all your pet needs and find everything from toys to food and much more. The team over at Just For Pets believe that every pet deserves the best care possible, and that's why we offer a wide range of products to help keep your furry friend happy and healthy - ⁠Check them out here⁠.

We discuss a serious and potentially fatal condition affecting our feline companions, particularly our male cats, the case of urinary obstruction or blockage. Urinary obstruction are quite common in male cats and can quickly turn into an emergency. Today, we're discussing how you can spot the warning signs like straining in the litter box or not urinating at all, which need immediate attention – we're talking within a day.

Dr. Inke Helm joins us to share her invaluable experience and practical advice. We'll also touch on what makes female cats different and what all cat owners can do now to help prevent this scary situation.

Remember, this condition is serious but often manageable. The information we're sharing today could be a life-saver for your cat. Let's get started.

This Episode is made possible by Ultra Pet, South Africa's very own Ultra Pet premium pet food.

Begin your pet's road to recovery with Ultra Pet's SPECIAL DIET GASTRIC LIQUID CARE, a unique porridge-like formula perfect for dogs and cats overcoming gastrointestinal woes. Specially crafted to replenish crucial nutrients during your furry friend's convalescence, this easily digestible recovery diet promises a swift return to health.

Find out more about Ultra Pet's Special Diet Gastric Liquid Care:

https://ultra-pet.co.za/product/special-diet-gastric-liquid-care/

Dr. Inke Helm is a committed and passionate veterinary surgeon on the team at Hillcrest Veterinary Hospital (https://hillcrestvets.co.za/) with over six years of professional experience. Renowned for her dedication, she has furthered her expertise by pursuing a postgraduate diploma in Small Animal Surgery at the University of Pretoria—and now is putting her training to great use in saving many lives that come into her care. Her exceptional skills are highlighted in her proficiency in abdominal ultrasonography and her innate talent for surgical cases.

GET IN CONTACT WITH DR INKE HELM:

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/hillcrestvet

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/hillcrestvethosp

Website - https://hillcrestvets.co.za

THIS EPISODE IS SPONSORED BY:

ULTRA PET:

South Africa's very own Ultra Pet premium pet food, who has been scientifically formulating premium pet food for over 25 years. If you want to take the guesswork out of feeding your furry friends, give Ultra Pet premium pet food a try.

Check them out here⁠ here⁠.

PLANTDOG :

Discover Plantdog's Plant-Based Functional Treats - sugar-free, grain-free, and kind to your pet and the planet. With delicious flavours like Burger, BBQ Chicken, and Bacon, infused with Wild Rosehip Berry, Peanut Butter & Flaxseed, these treats are packed with natural ingredients to support your dog's health and wellbeing. Find out more at ⁠plantdog.co.za⁠ and treat your furry friend while supporting environmental causes!

JUSTFORPETS.CO.ZA

⁠JustForPets.co.za⁠ is proud to sponsor this episode of the Paws and Effect podcast. Visit their website for all your pet needs and find everything from toys to food and much more. The team over at Just For Pets believe that every pet deserves the best care possible, and that's why we offer a wide range of products to help keep your furry friend happy and healthy - ⁠Check them out here⁠.

In today’s episode we dive into the delicate subject of our pets' eye health with the passionate Dr Katie Edmonds, a vet with a keen interest in all things ocular. Today, you'll learn about the signs and causes of eye complications in pets, from ulcers to the traumatic proptosis.

Dr Katie will discuss everything from treatment options to how our pets cope with vision loss.Are you ready to become your pet's eye health advocate? Then keep listening as we uncover the essentials of ophthalmic care with Dr Katie, ensuring that your furry friends receive the best care possible.

Is your cat overweight? Extra weight can harm your cat's health, increasing the risk of illnesses like diabetes and heart disease. Ultra Pets Metabo-lite diet food is expertly formulated for weight management while maintaining lean muscle mass. It contains lean fresh meat for protein. Ideally, it should be used with a weight reduction plan that includes exercise. Learn more about UltraPet’s Metabo-Lite here: https://ultra-pet.co.za/product/special-diet-metabo-lite

You can find Dr Katie on Instagram

THIS EPISODE IS SPONSORED BY:

ULTRA PET:

South Africa's very own Ultra Pet premium pet food, who has been scientifically formulating premium pet food for over 25 years. If you want to take the guesswork out of feeding your furry friends, give Ultra Pet premium pet food a try.

Check them out here here.

PLANTDOG :

Discover Plantdog's Plant-Based Functional Treats - sugar-free, grain-free, and kind to your pet and the planet. With delicious flavours like Burger, BBQ Chicken, and Bacon, infused with Wild Rosehip Berry, Peanut Butter & Flaxseed, these treats are packed with natural ingredients to support your dog's health and wellbeing. Find out more at plantdog.co.za and treat your furry friend while supporting environmental causes!

JUSTFORPETS.CO.ZA

JustForPets.co.za is proud to sponsor this episode of the Paws and Effect podcast. Visit their website for all your pet needs and find everything from toys to food and much more. The team over at Just For Pets believe that every pet deserves the best care possible, and that's why we offer a wide range of products to help keep your furry friend happy and healthy - Check them out here.

This Episode is made possible by Ultra Pet, South Africa's very own Ultra Pet premium pet food.

Begin your pet's road to recovery with Ultra Pet's SPECIAL DIET GASTRIC LIQUID CARE, a unique porridge-like formula perfect for dogs and cats overcoming gastrointestinal woes. Specially crafted to replenish crucial nutrients during your furry friend's convalescence, this easily digestible recovery diet promises a swift return to health. Find out more about Ultra Pet's Special Diet Gastric Liquid Care:

https://ultra-pet.co.za/product/special-diet-gastric-liquid-care/

This week, we're getting up close with a super special NPO — it's all about an amazing program called 'Funda Nenja,' which, by the way, means 'learning with the dog' in isiZulu. It's not your everyday pet project; it’s changing lives, both human and canine, in heartwarming ways down in South Africa.

I've had an uplifting chat with Lisa Button, one of the heart and soul behind Funda Nenja. We chatted about how they’re teaching kids to treat dogs like the awesome beings they are, not just pets. Let's just say, it’s about kindness, respect, and a whole new way of seeing our furry pals.

Lisa got into the details—like, how they manage to teach all these amazing things; the way donations make everything possible, and why kids are the best hope for a kinder future with animals. Spoiler alert: It's super inspiring!

Want to help out? Check out https://www.fundanenja.co.za. Every little bit helps, and honestly, it's a cause that'll warm your heart every time it crosses your mind.

Oh, and if you’re in the pet biz with fun tales or smart tips, send me a message! We're always on the lookout for inspirational people to join us on the show.

So there you have it. Hit that subscribe button, and pass this along to your friends. With each episode and story, we're sprucing up the world, one waggy tail at a time! See you next time on the Paws & Effect Podcast!

You can find Lisa Button here:

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/fundanenja/

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/fundanenja

Website -https://www.fundanenja.co.za/

Jump to a topic:

01:16 Funda Nenjas humble beginnings

This week, we're going full-on puppy love. I had a fantastic chat with the amazing Dr. Nicky Hogan from Hillcrest Veterinary Hospital, and we're spilling all the kibble on how to give your little fluff balls the healthiest head start.

We get into the nitty-gritty of avoiding scary stuff like pyometra and whether to spay or not to spay. We also chew over everything from puppy diets to making that first vet trip a walk in the park. If you've ever worried about when to start vaccinations or how to make sure your pup's growing up just right, then this one's for you!

I'm here to cut through the internet jargon and give you the real-deal advice straight from the vet's mouth – well, from Dr. Hogan's and mine, anyway! We're all about keeping it real and making sure you've got the know-how to tackle puppyhood like a pro.

So, grab your pup, hit play, and join our cosy corner of the pet world. And hey, if we tickle your ears with something you like, hit that subscribe button and become a part of our pet-loving podcast family. Got a burning question or a cute puppy tale? Drop us a line in the comments – we simply love hearing from our listeners.

For more awesome pet care tips and a good belly rub of education and fun, swing by my Instagram profile @ultrapetvet and hit subscribe. We also have a audio version of all our episodes on all major podcast platforms. Here are a few to consider following us on:

Spotify: https://sptfy.com/pawsandeffect

Apple Podcast: https://apple.co/43fUJc4

You can Find Dr Nikki Hogan here:

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/hillcrestvet/

Jump to a topic:

00:55 Puppies' vaccinations start at six weeks.

04:32 Watch out for congenital conditions in dogs.

06:39 Testicles descend, sometimes one can remain undescended.

10:40 Ensure normal temperature before vaccinating for health.

14:14 Pet insurance: vital for accidents and illness.

17:39 Owners shouldn't delay puppy vaccinations for fear.

20:31 Vaccine boosts antibodies, prepares immune system, vital.

25:51 Annual rabies vaccination recommended for endemic areas.

30:09 Hookworm life cycle involves high energy growth.

33:17 People delight in practised activities, discuss neutering.

37:20 Oestrogen causes incontinence in female dogs. Large breed dogs prone to health issues.

40:16 Debate on correlation between diabetes and yoga.

43:24 Optimise pets' health through balanced puppy nutrition.

45:16 Puppy vaccination usually at 6-12 weeks.

50:09 Puppy's sudden lack of appetite and vomiting.

51:55 Tiny puppies need frequent feeding to avoid hypoglycemia.

56:52 Seeking passionate pet industry experts for podcast.

58:57 Discuss opportunities, future guests, sponsors, celebrate friendship.

We’ve cranked up the heat—literally! Podcasting from a sweltering car, we’re showing the dangers pets face if they’re left behind on hot days. In this raw episode, we sit in the hot car alongside the brilliant Dr. Nic Stirk from Watercrest Veterinary Clinic for an episode you can't skip. We're get into the nitty-gritty of heatstroke, how our furry pals handle the heat, and crucial tips to keep them safe. We chat about how dogs have it rough when temperatures soar and what signs scream for attention.

Dr Nic’s 2020 Hot Car Video: https://www.facebook.com/watercrestvet/videos/694181824833062

Dr. Nic Stirk is the kind of vet who looks out for our furry friends, especially when it comes to the danger of leaving them in hot cars. He's the guy telling you straight: no quick nip to the shops is worth the risk. Whether you're stuck at the till behind someone counting pennies or you get caught up having a chinwag about someone’s pet, there's no such thing as a quick in-and-out when you're running errands.

Keep your pets cool, hydrated, and always, always safe during the hot summer days.

You can Find Dr Nic on:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/watercrestvet/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/watercrestvet/

Website: https://watercrestvet.co.za/

This Episode is made possible by Ultra Pet, South Africa's very own Ultra Pet premium pet food.

Begin your pet's road to recovery with Ultra Pet's SPECIAL DIET GASTRIC LIQUID CARE, a unique porridge-like formula perfect for dogs and cats overcoming gastrointestinal woes. Specially crafted to replenish crucial nutrients during your furry friend's convalescence, this easily digestible recovery diet promises a swift return to health. Find out more about ⁠Ultra Pet's Special Diet Gastric Liquid Care

THIS EPISODE WAS SPONSORED BY:

ULTRA PET:

⁠⁠⁠⁠JustForPets.co.za⁠⁠⁠⁠ is proud to sponsor this episode of the Paws and Effect podcast. Visit their website for all your pet needs and find everything from toys to food and much more. The team over at Just For Pets believe that every pet deserves the best care possible, and that's why we offer a wide range of products to help keep your furry friend happy and healthy - Check them out at ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.justforpets.co.za/⁠⁠⁠⁠

FOR SPONSORSHIPS AND GUEST APPEARANCES, Email us at ⁠⁠⁠⁠[email protected]⁠⁠⁠⁠ and we'll get in touch with you.

Don't forget to LIKE this if you found it helpful, SUBSCRIBE for more episodes and content like this.

Music License with Soundstripe:

Elevate your senior cat's well-being with Ultra Pet's Optimal Balance Senior Cat Food. Specially crafted for ages 11 to 14, this complete formula, rich in fresh meat, ensures vibrancy and health. Join us in the episode for an exclusive look at the key to your cat's golden years! This Episode is made possible by Ultra Pet, South Africa's very own Ultra Pet premium pet food - Find out more about Ultra Pet's Optimal Balance Senior Cat Food

In our latest heart-to-heart, we delved into the complex world of pet heart disease with the brilliant Dr Pieter Hanekom. He enlightened us on early detection of murmurs, particularly in puppies – a vital step to prevent heart issues down the line. We explored the nuances between fainting and seizures in our furry friends, examined the dire consequences of heart failure in cats and dogs, and addressed the vital importance of treatment plans, including medication like pimobendin that can delay heart failure. It was a soul-stirring reminder that, as pet parents, our vigilance can lead to longer, healthier lives for our beloved companions.

At Hillcrest Veterinary Hospital in South Africa, Dr. Pieter holds the esteemed position of head vet, spearheading the cardiology department. His entry into the world of veterinary cardiology was sparked during his university days, inspired by an eminent lecturer who deeply influenced his career path. With the introduction of ultrasound into veterinary medicine 15 years ago, Dr. Pieter swiftly became proficient in cardiac ultrasound for small animals, recognising its importance in the early detection of heart disease.

As the head vet at the practice, Dr. Pieter combines his comprehensive knowledge with a true passion for enhancing animal welfare, steering his team towards delivering outstanding veterinary care. His fervour for his speciality is a cornerstone of his professional identity, making him a leading veterinary cardiologist and a dedicated advocate for advancing animal health through innovative diagnostic and therapeutic techniques.

Tune in to our latest episode to learn how you can better care for your pet's heart. Remember, the love they give us is boundless; let’s ensure their hearts beat strong. Subscribe, stay informed, and let's make every moment with our pets count!

GET IN CONTACT WITH DR PIETER HANEKOM:

THIS EPISODE WAS SPONSORED BY:

ULTRA PET:

⁠⁠⁠JustForPets.co.za⁠⁠⁠ is proud to sponsor this episode of the Paws and Effect podcast. Visit their website for all your pet needs and find everything from toys to food and much more. The team over at Just For Pets believe that every pet deserves the best care possible, and that's why we offer a wide range of products to help keep your furry friend happy and healthy - Check them out at ⁠⁠⁠https://www.justforpets.co.za/⁠⁠⁠

FOR SPONSORSHIPS AND GUEST APPEARANCES, Email us at ⁠⁠⁠[email protected]⁠⁠⁠ and we'll get in touch with you.

Don't forget to LIKE this if you found it helpful, SUBSCRIBE for more episodes and content like this.

Music License with Soundstripe:

Give your dogs relief from food allergies with Ultra Pet Special Diet - Hypo-Allergenic. Crafted by our veterinarian and nutritionist, this formula features Duck meal and Potato as novel protein and carbohydrate sources, offering a respite for your dog's digestive and immune systems from common food allergens - Find out more: https://ultra-pet.co.za/product/special-diet-hypo-allergenic

In this episode, we are delighted to introduce our esteemed guest, Paige from Equine Librium, who will share her extensive knowledge and experience in the field of animal rehabilitation. We're setting the stage for an in-depth conversation on the vital role of physiotherapy in your pet's recovery and overall health management.

We'll navigate through the essentials of keeping your furry companions at their ideal weight through proper exercise and nutrition, and how Paige's unique role bridges the gap between veterinary science and attentive pet ownership.

Get ready to unravel the intricacies of physiotherapy protocols in the veterinary world, understand the timing for interventions post-surgery, and discover the remarkable benefits of therapies like underwater treadmills for both healing and conditioning.

Are we as pet parents proactive enough in seeking help? What revolutionary treatments are changing the game for post-operative care? How can strengthening exercises and weight management impact recovery and overall well-being?

For insights into these compelling topics and how you can apply them to give your pets the quality life they deserve, tune in to this episode. Hit the subscribe button to join our "Paws & Effect" community, where together, we strive to enhance the lives of pets through knowledge, care, and the magic touch of Veterinary Physiotherapy. Let's leap forward into a world of healthier, happier pets!

Jump to a topic:

04:42 Managing recovery after cruciate ligament repair and risks.

08:33 Regular sessions with holistic practitioners offer understanding.

11:15 Ultra Pet Special Diet Hypo-Allergenic Dog Food Review

13:05 Optimising patient charts for pre-surgery planning.

16:32 Medical students train with vets on anatomy.

19:14 Review patient charts, communicate with surgeon, evaluate.

22:58 Encouraging leg movement boosts blood flow.

27:04 Smooth recovery requires good owner engagement, communication.

31:00 Dog post-op, struggling to use hind legs.

34:55 Monitoring for potential issues with chewing injuries.

37:42 Comprehensive approach encompassing varied aspects of care.

41:55 Consult vet before adding nutraceuticals to dog's diet.

43:15 Long life, keep pets healthy, time limited.

48:55 Set realistic weight loss goals for dogs.

49:55 Acting as intermediary between vets and owners.

GET IN CONTACT WITH EQUINE LIBRIUM:

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/equinelibriumkznclinic

Website - https://equine-librium.co.za

THIS EPISODE WAS SPONSORED BY:

ULTRA PET:

⁠⁠JustForPets.co.za⁠⁠ is proud to sponsor this episode of the Paws and Effect podcast. Visit their website for all your pet needs and find everything from toys to food and much more. The team over at Just For Pets believe that every pet deserves the best care possible, and that's why we offer a wide range of products to help keep your furry friend happy and healthy - Check them out at ⁠⁠https://www.justforpets.co.za/⁠⁠

FOR SPONSORSHIPS AND GUEST APPEARANCES, Email us at ⁠⁠[email protected]⁠⁠ and we'll get in touch with you.

Don't forget to LIKE this if you found it helpful, SUBSCRIBE for more episodes and content like this.

Music License with Soundstripe:

ULTRA PETS SPECIAL DIET - JOINT HEALTH for dogs is a veterinarian-formulated food, enriched with glucosamine and chondroitin, which supports healthy joints and mobility. Quality proteins and key fatty acids ensure your dog stays healthy and energetic, while the tailored nutrition aids in their overall wellness. Trust Ultra Pet to care for your dog's joint health - Find out more here.

Welcome to another touching episode of the Paws & Effect Podcast, where we dive into the heartwarming world of therapy dogs and the incredible impact they have on humans in need. I'm your host, Dr. Carra, and in this episode, we have the absolute pleasure of speaking with Pam and her lovable therapy dog, Frankie.

Pam, from the remarkable organization Angel Paws, joins us to unravel the differences between service dogs, emotional support dogs, and the heroes of our show, therapy dogs. With a background steeped in compassion and a commitment to community, Pam shares her journey and the milestones reached with nearly 40 therapy dog teams enriching lives across KZN, from Hilton to Zinkwazi.

At Angel Paws, voluntary work is the cornerstone of their mission as they rely on generous sponsorships and donations for equipment and other vital expenses, ensuring that the magic their dogs bring to frail and dementia units in Durban and beyond continues to thrive. You'll be captivated by stories of dogs intuitively connecting with individuals, providing comfort in often the most challenging times, and sometimes even selecting the visits they partake in, making each interaction genuine and joyous.

Acknowledging the tangible benefits that therapy dogs offer in healthcare settings, we take a closer look at the protocols Angel Paws follows to keep their canine companions in top condition for hospital visits. Be it assisting professionals like physiotherapists, psychologists, and educators or reducing the fear of dogs among children and adults – their impact is undeniable.

For anyone looking to catch a glimpse of these canine angels at work or lend support, visit Angel Paws on their website. Your support can make a world of difference. Tune in to learn, be inspired, and find out how you can join the cause. It's an episode that promises to tug at your heartstrings and leave you in awe of the power of paws and their healing effect.

Get in contact with Angel Paws:

Website -https://angelpawstherapydogs.org.za/

THIS EPISODE WAS SPONSORED BY:

ULTRA PET:

⁠JustForPets.co.za⁠ is proud to sponsor this episode of the Paws and Effect podcast. Visit their website for all your pet needs and find everything from toys to food and much more. The team over at Just For Pets believe that every pet deserves the best care possible, and that's why we offer a wide range of products to help keep your furry friend happy and healthy - Check them out at ⁠https://www.justforpets.co.za/⁠

FOR SPONSORSHIPS AND GUEST APPEARANCES, Email us at ⁠[email protected]⁠ and we'll get in touch with you.

Don't forget to LIKE this if you found it helpful, SUBSCRIBE for more episodes and content like this.

Music License with Soundstripe: