PetAbility Podcast

Can Reiki help our animals relax, heal, and deepen the connection we share with them? In this episode of the PetAbility Podcast, we explore the fascinating world of Reiki for animals with returning guest Samantha Hankey, CVT, CSAMP, RM.

Sam joined us previously to talk about therapeutic massage for animals, and this time she's back to introduce us to another gentle, complementary approach to animal wellness: Reiki. As a certified Veterinary Nurse, Small Animal Massage Practitioner, and Reiki Master, Sam brings a unique perspective that blends her background in veterinary medicine with her training in holistic and energetic practices.

What Is Reiki—and How Does It Work With Animals?

Reiki is a form of energy healing often described as working with the energy that flows through and around all living things. One of the things that makes Reiki particularly interesting for animals is that it can be offered without physical touch, allowing animals to participate in a way that feels comfortable to them.

During our conversation, Sam helps us better understand what a Reiki session may look like, how animals can respond, and why respecting an animal's individual preferences and boundaries is such an important part of the process.

In This Episode, We Discuss:

• What Reiki is and how Sam explains it to a pet parent or someone who has never experienced it
• The different ways animals may respond during a Reiki session
• Why animals don't necessarily need to be touched to receive Reiki
• How Reiki may support relaxation, emotional well-being, and a sense of calm
• The importance of allowing animals to choose how—and whether—they participate
• Reiki as a valuable complementary practice alongside conventional veterinary care 
• The connection between our own emotions and the animals who share our lives
• Using Reiki to create comfort and connection during difficult transitions and end-of-life care
• Common misconceptions about Reiki 
• What pet parents should consider when looking for a Reiki practitioner

If you are curious about how energy work might impact and improve your pet's life physically and emotionally, tune in to learn more about how to support your four-legged companion's overall well-being. If you think this may be for you, you may even want to learn how to perform Reiki with your own pet in the comfort of your home.

About Our Guest

Samantha Hankey is a certified Veterinary Nurse with experience in alternative veterinary medicine. She is a certified Small Animal Massage Practitioner and Reiki Master and has additional training in acupressure, Tui Na, and craniosacral work for animals. Sam combines her veterinary background with holistic approaches to support the well-being of animals and the people who love them.

You may find out more about Sam, her services, and schedule an appointment on her website, Healing With Sam or on Instagram @healingwith_sam

Disclaimer

VitalVet.org, a platform for all things related to pet rehab - product information, education, and resources abound!
MedcoVet (show sponsor)  Luma - advanced red-light therapy therapy that puts healing in the hands of the pet owner in the comfort of home!

Use Promo Code PETPOD22  to receive discounts from our affiliates!
Jope - science-backed supplements
Ruff Ramp - a safe alternative to stairs
Optimum Pet Vitality - education/coursework 
Dr. Buzby’s -Toe Grips to prevent slipping, Encore Mobility joint supplement, and Brain Boost cognitive supplement. Using this link donates 20% to PetAbility
Calm & Cozy Cat Wrap - a must-have for anybody working with cats
HedzUpPets Watercollars – save your dog from drowni...

How do you know when a dog will truly benefit from a brace? Can a CCL brace for dogs replace surgery? What role does a dog hock brace play after an Achilles tendon injury? In Part 2 of our conversation with canine physical therapist Caroline (Carrie) Adrian, BS, MSPT, PhD, tCPT, we turn our attention to hind limb injuries and conditions and the growing role of canine orthotics in veterinary rehabilitation for the pelvic limb.

We begin with a brief review of orthoses for the front limb, trunk stabilization and pelvic/hip support devices before diving into some of the most common indications for hind limb orthoses. Carrie shares how custom orthotic devices can protect healing tissues, improve function, reduce pain, and support mobility in dogs recovering from injury, managing chronic conditions, or requiring long-term assistance.

Just as importantly, we discuss why quality matters. Not all braces are created equal, and poorly designed, poorly fitted, or copycat products may fail to provide appropriate support—or even interfere with healing. Orthoses should always be selected based on a sound diagnosis, patient-specific goals, and careful follow-up.

In This Episode:

• Review of trunk support and hip stabilization options
• When is a brace the right choice—and when is it not?
• What can orthoses realistically accomplish?
• Conservative management with orthoses versus surgery
• The importance of custom design, fit, and follow-up care
• Potential complications from poorly fitted devices
• Why rehabilitation exercises remain essential alongside bracing
• The risks of knockoffs, copycat devices, and inadequate support
• Skin management and monitoring during orthosis use

Pelvic Limb Topics Covered

Trunk, Pelvis & Hip (or coxofemoral joint)

• Review of trunk stabilization devices
• Support for hip dysplasia, weakness, and neurologic conditions
• The role of pelvic support in dogs with mobility deficits
• How garments facilitate posture and why posture matters for function

Stifle (Knee)

• Cranial cruciate ligament disease (CCL/ACL injuries)
• Three basic choices of care
• Functional bracing following injury or surgery
• Why bracing won't help medial patellar luxation (MPL) 
• Meniscal considerations
• Matching the orthosis to the individual patient
• Setting realistic expectations for outcomes

Tarsus (Hock or ankle)

• Achilles tendon injuries
• Graduated Flexion Orthoses (GFO) the balance between allowing appropriate tissue stress to augment healing while protecting healing tissue from reinjury

Orthosis Management

• Skin care and pressure point monitoring
• Importance of proper fit and ongoing adjustments
• Gradual acclimation to brace use - the schedule
• Regular reassessment as healing progresses

Key Takeaways

• Braces are medical devices—not one-size-fits-all solutions.
• Proper diagnosis and custom fitting are critical for successful outcomes.
• High-quality canine orthotics can improve mobility, comfort, and healing.
• Poorly designed or improperly fitted braces may delay recovery or cause additional problems.
• Rehabilitation remains an essential part of every bracing program.

Find Dr. Adrian at CanineIQ.net.
Her email is [email protected]

Companies and products mentioned during this episode:

• DogLeggs
• Hero Braces
• Thera-Paw
• WiggleLess®
• HipLign

Whether you're a veterinary rehabilitation professional, veterinarian, technician, student, or devoted pet owner, this episode offers practical guidance on how orthotic devices can help improve mobility, function, and quality of life for canine patients.

Thanks for listening to PetAbility Podcast! If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with colleagues and fellow animal rehabilitation enthusiasts.

Disclaimer

VitalVet.org, a platform for all things related to pet rehab - product information, education, and resources abound!
MedcoVet (show sponsor)  Luma - advanced red-light therapy therapy that puts healing in the hands of the pet owner in the comfort of home!

Use Promo Code PETPOD22  to receive discounts from our affiliates!
Jope - science-backed supplements
Ruff Ramp - a safe alternative to stairs
Optimum Pet Vitality - education/coursework 
Dr. Buzby’s -Toe Grips to prevent slipping, Encore Mobility joint supplement, and Brain Boost cognitive supplement. Using this link donates 20% to PetAbility
Calm & Cozy Cat Wrap - a must-have for anybody working with cats
HedzUpPets Watercollars – save your dog from drowni...

When is a brace the right choice? What can it realistically accomplish? And when might it actually hinder recovery? Caroline (Carrie) Adrian, BS, MSPT, PhD, tCPT (Canine Physical Therapist), helps us answer these questions and much more.

We begin our two-part series on veterinary orthoses and bracing by focusing on the thoracic limb (front leg), trunk & pelvis/hip. We discuss the principles behind orthotic devices, common indications, clinical decision-making, and the importance of selecting the appropriate device for each patient.

From shoulder instability to carpal hyperextension injuries, we explore how orthoses can improve function, protect healing tissues, reduce pain, and help dogs return to activity while avoiding common pitfalls.

In This Episode:

• What is the difference between a brace, orthotic, and orthosis?
• Goals of orthotic management versus immobilization
• Conservative management +/- orthosis versus surgery
• Patient selection: Which dogs are good candidates?
• The role of canine physical rehabilitation alongside bracing
• Why custom fitting and follow-up evaluations matter

Thoracic Limb Topics Covered

Shoulder

• Medial shoulder instability (MSI in dogs)
• The controversy surrounding hobbles and when they may—or may not—be appropriate

Elbow

• Limited indications for elbow orthoses
• Potential use in osteoarthritis to diminish the load
• A lot of unknowns and potential for the elbow

Carpus (Wrist)

• Carpal hyperextension injuries
• Working and sporting dogs
• Purpose of carpal wraps and performance support

Trunk Stability & Core Support

• Benefits of trunk stabilization devices
• Supports for hip dysplasia and Degenerative Myelopathy (DM) with video on our YouTube channel

Key Takeaways

• Braces are tools—not cures—and work best as part of a comprehensive rehabilitation plan.
• Correct diagnosis is essential before selecting an orthotic device.
• Proper fit and regular reassessment are critical to avoid complications such as skin irritation, pressure sores, or altered gait mechanics.
• Rehabilitation exercises remain an important component of recovery, even when a brace is being used.

Coming Next: Part 2

This conversation continues in our next episode, where we'll shift our focus to the pelvic limb (back leg), including:

• Trunk support and hip bracing review
• Stifle (knee) injuries and cranial cruciate ligament disease
• Medial patellar luxation
• Tarsal (hock, ankle) injuries and orthotic options
• Achilles tendon injuries and Graduated Flexion Orthoses (GFO)
• Functional bracing for recovery and long-term management
• Skin management with orthosis use

Whether you're a veterinary rehabilitation professional, veterinarian, technician, student, or devoted pet owner, Part 2 will continue exploring how orthotic devices can help improve mobility and quality of life for canine patients.

Find Dr. Adrian at CanineIQ.net.

Companies with products mentioned during this episode:
DogLeggs
Hero Braces
Thera-Paw
Wiggleless
HipLign

Thanks for listening to PetAbility Podcast! If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with colleagues and fellow animal rehabilitation enthusiasts.

Disclaimer

VitalVet.org, a platform for all things related to pet rehab - product information, education, and resources abound!
MedcoVet (show sponsor)  Luma - advanced red-light therapy therapy that puts healing in the hands of the pet owner in the comfort of home!

Use Promo Code PETPOD22  to receive discounts from our affiliates!
Jope - science-backed supplements
Ruff Ramp - a safe alternative to stairs
Optimum Pet Vitality - education/coursework 
Dr. Buzby’s -Toe Grips to prevent slipping, Encore Mobility joint supplement, and Brain Boost cognitive supplement. Using this link donates 20% to PetAbility
Calm & Cozy Cat Wrap - a must-have for anybody working with cats
HedzUpPets Watercollars – save your dog from drowni...

What happens when veterinary professionals take healthcare directly into the communities that need it most?

In this episode of PetAbility Podcast, we're joined by Marilyn Jerome, LVT, MS who shares her experience helping establish and operate low-cost wellness clinics throughout all five boroughs of New York City while working with the ASPCA. These clinics provided essential preventive and wellness care—including vaccines, spay/neuter services, nail trims, and more—to thousands of pets whose families might otherwise have gone without veterinary care.

Marilyn takes us behind the scenes to explain how these large-scale community clinics worked, who they served, and why veterinary nurses were at the heart of their success. From patient flow and anesthesia support to client education and compassionate care, this conversation highlights the incredible impact veterinary technicians and nurses make every day—especially in underserved communities.

Whether you're a veterinary professional, shelter worker, or pet owner who believes every animal deserves access to care, this episode offers an inspiring look at one model that has improved countless lives.

In This Episode You'll Learn

•  How the ASPCA's free and deeply discounted wellness clinics  operated 
•  What services were offered and why preventive care matters 
•  How families qualified for affordable veterinary services 
•  The essential role veterinary nurses and technicians played before, during, and after each clinic 
•  The logistical challenges of providing high-volume veterinary care 
•  Lessons learned from serving diverse communities across New York City's five boroughs 
•  Why improving access to veterinary care strengthens both animal welfare, the human-animal bond, and society at-large
•  Marilyn's advice for veterinary professionals interested in community medicine and outreach 

Why This Conversation Matters

Preventive veterinary care is one of the most effective ways to keep pets healthy—but for many families, access remains a significant challenge. Community wellness clinics help bridge that gap by providing affordable services that prevent disease, reduce suffering, and keep pets with the people who love them.

As Marilyn explains, none of this happens without skilled veterinary nurses who coordinate patient care, educate families, assist veterinarians, and keep high-volume clinics running safely and efficiently.

This episode is a reminder that expanding access to veterinary care isn't just about medicine—it's about compassion, teamwork, and meeting people where they are.

Enjoyed this episode?

Please subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with fellow veterinary professionals, animal welfare advocates, and pet lovers. Your support helps us continue bringing conversations that improve mobility, recovery, and quality of life for pets everywhere.

PetAbility Podcast — Helping pets live healthier, happier, and more mobile lives.

Disclaimer

VitalVet.org, a platform for all things related to pet rehab - product information, education, and resources abound!
MedcoVet (show sponsor)  Luma - advanced red-light therapy therapy that puts healing in the hands of the pet owner in the comfort of home!

Use Promo Code PETPOD22  to receive discounts from our affiliates!
Jope - science-backed supplements
Ruff Ramp - a safe alternative to stairs
Optimum Pet Vitality - education/coursework 
Dr. Buzby’s -Toe Grips to prevent slipping, Encore Mobility joint supplement, and Brain Boost cognitive supplement. Using this link donates 20% to PetAbility
Calm & Cozy Cat Wrap - a must-have for anybody working with cats
HedzUpPets Watercollars – save your dog from drowni...

What if the cause of a dog's chronic pain, gait abnormalities, weakness, or unexplained mobility challenges isn't orthopedic at all?

In this episode of PetAbility Podcast, hosts Chris Cranston, MPT, CCRP, and Cathy Symon, CVT, CCRP, CHPT, explore the often-overlooked condition known as Tethered Cord Syndrome (TCS) with pet physical therapist and rehabilitation expert Amie Hesbach. TCS occurs when the spinal cord is abnormally restricted, creating tension on the nervous system that can affect movement, comfort, and overall quality of life.

Because the symptoms can mimic a variety of orthopedic, neurologic, and behavioral (think anxiety!) conditions, many affected dogs may go undiagnosed for years. Amie shares her insights into recognizing the subtle signs of TCS, the challenges of obtaining an accurate diagnosis, and the treatment and rehabilitation options available to help these dogs live more comfortable, functional lives.

Whether you're a veterinarian, rehabilitation professional, trainer, or devoted dog owner, this conversation will help you better understand a condition that may be hiding in plain sight.

In This Episode

• What Tethered Cord Syndrome is and how it affects the canine nervous system
• Why TCS is frequently overlooked or misdiagnosed
• Common signs and symptoms that should raise concern
• Conditions that TCS can mimic
• How TCS is diagnosed and why diagnosis can be challenging
• Current treatment options and the role of rehabilitation
• Practical advice for owners seeking answers for dogs with chronic mobility issues
• The importance of advocacy, awareness, and early recognition

Key Takeaway

Tethered Cord Syndrome may be uncommon, but awareness matters. By recognizing the signs early and pursuing appropriate diagnostic evaluation, owners and professionals can help affected dogs receive the care and support they need to achieve their best possible quality of life.

You may reach out directly to Amie by email at [email protected] or via her website: EmpowerPhysio.

Disclaimer

VitalVet.org, a platform for all things related to pet rehab - product information, education, and resources abound!
MedcoVet (show sponsor)  Luma - advanced red-light therapy therapy that puts healing in the hands of the pet owner in the comfort of home!

Use Promo Code PETPOD22  to receive discounts from our affiliates!
Jope - science-backed supplements
Ruff Ramp - a safe alternative to stairs
Optimum Pet Vitality - education/coursework 
Dr. Buzby’s -Toe Grips to prevent slipping, Encore Mobility joint supplement, and Brain Boost cognitive supplement. Using this link donates 20% to PetAbility
Calm & Cozy Cat Wrap - a must-have for anybody working with cats
HedzUpPets Watercollars – save your dog from drowni...

Patellar Luxation Reimagined: Shifting the Treatment Paradigm with Dr. David Dycus

Patellar luxation is one of the most commonly diagnosed orthopedic conditions in dogs—but are we thinking about it all wrong?

In this episode of the PetAbility Podcast, we revisit this familiar condition through a very different lens with veterinary orthopedic surgeon David Dycus, DVM, MS, CCRP, DACVS-SA. Rather than focusing on the basics of diagnosis and grading, Dr. Dycus shares emerging insights that challenge conventional thinking about what truly drives patellar instability and dysfunction - and the profound arthritic changes that this alignment mismatch may lead to over time -  by treating each case individually.

Together, we discuss:

•  What are the limitations of the traditional patellar luxation treatment model  
•  Why eliminating grading of patellar luxation offers a broader perspective
• How alignment of the proximal limb (femur) and distal limb (tibia) affects patellar stability and why 3D imaging via CT scan is key
•  How biomechanics and functional movement are reshaping treatment   considerations
•  How surgical decision-making is evolving through a patient-specific approach
•  How the shift toward more non-traditional surgical corrections is resulting in   better short-term and long-term prognosis
•  Why collaborative care, rehabilitation & conditioning are more vitally important for best outcomes
•  The future of patellar luxation management in veterinary medicine

This episode is ideal for veterinarians, rehabilitation professionals, veterinary students, breeders, trainers, and dedicated pet owners interested in the future of canine orthopedic care. 

If you thought patellar luxation was “just a minor knee problem,” this conversation may completely change your perspective.

Click for more information about Dr. Dycus and his practice, Fusion Veterinary Orthopedics. Follow Dr. Dycus on Instagram and Facebook.

Disclaimer

VitalVet.org, a platform for all things related to pet rehab - product information, education, and resources abound!
MedcoVet (show sponsor)  Luma - advanced red-light therapy therapy that puts healing in the hands of the pet owner in the comfort of home!

Use Promo Code PETPOD22  to receive discounts from our affiliates!
Jope - science-backed supplements
Ruff Ramp - a safe alternative to stairs
Optimum Pet Vitality - education/coursework 
Dr. Buzby’s -Toe Grips to prevent slipping, Encore Mobility joint supplement, and Brain Boost cognitive supplement. Using this link donates 20% to PetAbility
Calm & Cozy Cat Wrap - a must-have for anybody working with cats
HedzUpPets Watercollars – save your dog from drowni...

Disasters can strike without warning—but preparation can save lives. In this episode, we sit down with disaster preparedness expert, “Disaster Patrick,” to talk about how pet parents can protect their animals before, during, and after an emergency. From building a simple pet disaster kit to creating an evacuation plan that actually works, Patrick shares practical, real-world advice every pet owner should hear.

🚨 Why Pet Disaster Preparedness Matters
• Pets are often the most vulnerable during emergencies  
• A lack of planning can lead to separation, injury, or worse 
• Preparation doesn’t have to be complicated—but it does need to be intentional 
• Veterinary teams can play a key role in helping clients prepare 

🧰  Pet Disaster Kit 
• What is the 5-Pocket Method? Learn the 5 Ps – Physical, Psychological, Personal, Papers, Phone
• Why a backpack for EVERY pet?
• What is the recurring "decision" you must make during a disaster?
• Use multiple methods (physical & digital) for ID, records, etc.
• Pro tip - Don't forget the "selfie" with your pet

⚡ Quick Wins You Can Do Today
• Build or start your pet emergency kits
• Snap an updated photo of you & your pet 
• Check that microchip and ID info are current 
• Identify at least one safe evacuation destination 

🎯 Key Takeaway
Preparedness isn’t about fear—it’s about proactively giving your pet the best chance of staying safe when the unexpected happens.

🔗 Learn More at DisasterPatrick.com

Disclaimer

VitalVet.org, a platform for all things related to pet rehab - product information, education, and resources abound!
MedcoVet (show sponsor)  Luma - advanced red-light therapy therapy that puts healing in the hands of the pet owner in the comfort of home!

Use Promo Code PETPOD22  to receive discounts from our affiliates!
Jope - science-backed supplements
Ruff Ramp - a safe alternative to stairs
Optimum Pet Vitality - education/coursework 
Dr. Buzby’s -Toe Grips to prevent slipping, Encore Mobility joint supplement, and Brain Boost cognitive supplement. Using this link donates 20% to PetAbility
Calm & Cozy Cat Wrap - a must-have for anybody working with cats
HedzUpPets Watercollars – save your dog from drowni...

Finding the right doggie daycare or boarding facility can make a tremendous difference in your dog’s safety, health, and behavior. PetAbility Podcast sits down with the owner of Butter’s House to uncover what sets high-quality, professional facilities apart. From preventing injuries/illness to supporting positive behavior and enrichment, this conversation is packed with practical guidance to help pet owners make informed, confident decisions.

🐾 Safety, Supervision, & Health

• How playgroups should be structured for safety and compatibility 
• What appropriate staff-to-dog ratios and supervision really look like 
•  How reputable facilities work to prevent illness & injury 

🐾 Behavior & Enrichment

•  The importance of structured enrichment vs. unregulated free play and how downtime prevents overstimulation 
•  When daycare can actually improve behavior vs. dogs coming home   stressed or behaviorally worse
•  Who daycare may not be the right fit for 

🐾 Staff & Facility Standards

•  The difference between dog lovers and trained professionals 
•  Why understanding canine body language is critical 
•  Facility design features that impact safety, stress, and cleanliness 

🐾 Trust & Transparency

•  Key questions every owner should ask before choosing a facility 
•  The role of communication, transparency, and accountability 
•  What it means when a facility limits access or avoids questions 

Key Takeaways:  Not all dog daycares are created equal—structure, supervision, and training matter. Safety includes health protocols and stress management, not just preventing fights. The right environment can support positive behavior. Asking the right questions can help you confidently choose a safe, enriching space for your dog. 

Click here more information about Butter's House in Milford, MA.

Disclaimer

VitalVet.org, a platform for all things related to pet rehab - product information, education, and resources abound!
MedcoVet (show sponsor)  Luma - advanced red-light therapy therapy that puts healing in the hands of the pet owner in the comfort of home!

Use Promo Code PETPOD22  to receive discounts from our affiliates!
Jope - science-backed supplements
Ruff Ramp - a safe alternative to stairs
Optimum Pet Vitality - education/coursework 
Dr. Buzby’s -Toe Grips to prevent slipping, Encore Mobility joint supplement, and Brain Boost cognitive supplement. Using this link donates 20% to PetAbility
Calm & Cozy Cat Wrap - a must-have for anybody working with cats
HedzUpPets Watercollars – save your dog from drowni...

Joint issues affect pets of all ages—not just seniors—and today’s conversation with Jope cofounder, Dr. Christine, dives into what makes their Hip & Joint Dog Chews with undenatured type II collagen (UC-ll) different from traditional joint supplements.  

Speaking both as a veterinarian and a pet parent, Dr. Christine, discusses the science of how UC-II works with the immune system, how it supports mobility and comfort as with her own dog, Pepsi, and where it fits within a multimodal joint care plan.

If you’re a pet parent looking for proactive support—or a veterinary professional exploring new tools for mobility management—this episode delivers practical insight backed by science.

🦴 In This Episode, We Discuss:

• What makes UC-II collagen unique compared to NSAIDs or glucosamine and chondroitin
• The science behind how Jope’s Hip & Joint Health formula works in the body to support mobility; Peyer's patches anyone?
• Which pets and conditions may benefit most from early joint support
• How this product complements weight management, rehab, and other therapies for multi-modal management of arthritis
• Safety considerations and what pet parents should know

💡 Key Takeaway

Joint care is evolving. With immune-modulating ingredients like UC-II collagen, we may be entering a new era of proactive mobility support—helping pets stay active, comfortable, and thriving longer.

📌 Connect & Learn More

To learn more about Jope and their approach to canine joint health, visit their website, petjope.com, and speak with your veterinarian about whether advanced joint support strategies are appropriate for your dog.

By using this customized link below, you will receive $10 off your order!
Shop now at  https://petjope.com/petability

Disclaimer

VitalVet.org, a platform for all things related to pet rehab - product information, education, and resources abound!
MedcoVet (show sponsor)  Luma - advanced red-light therapy therapy that puts healing in the hands of the pet owner in the comfort of home!

Use Promo Code PETPOD22  to receive discounts from our affiliates!
Jope - science-backed supplements
Ruff Ramp - a safe alternative to stairs
Optimum Pet Vitality - education/coursework 
Dr. Buzby’s -Toe Grips to prevent slipping, Encore Mobility joint supplement, and Brain Boost cognitive supplement. Using this link donates 20% to PetAbility
Calm & Cozy Cat Wrap - a must-have for anybody working with cats
HedzUpPets Watercollars – save your dog from drowni...

🎙️Is your pet getting too much food… or not enough? In this episode of PetAbility Podcast, we break down pet calories in a clear, practical way to help pet parents confidently fuel their dogs and cats — without the guesswork, for a healthier, happier life.

Feeding your pet shouldn’t feel confusing or guilt-ridden. By learning how to calculate your pet's calories, you can turn numbers into real portions, and avoid common feeding mistakes. We explore why calorie needs are about more than what’s printed on the bag and how small daily extras can quietly add up to big health issues over time.

🐾 In This Episode, We Cover:

• Why calories matter for joint health, mobility, and longevity
• What a calorie actually means for pets (and why pets aren’t small humans)
• Key factors that affect calorie needs, including age, activity level, and health status
• How to calculate daily calorie needs using RER and life-stage multipliers - there's a formula for that!
• Where to find calorie information on pet food labels
• How to turn calorie numbers into realistic meal portions
• Why treats count — and how to follow the 10% rule
• Common feeding mistakes pet parents make
• When it’s time to partner with your veterinarian

Whether your pet needs to lose weight, maintain a healthy body condition, or support mobility and overall wellness, this episode gives you tools you can start using today.

🎧 Listen now and learn how to feed smarter — one calorie at a time.

Resting Energy Requirement (RER) formula is 70×(BW in kg)^0.75.
For pets weighing between 2kg and 45kg, a simpler formula is 30×(BW in kg)+70.
Find all formulas online.

Helpful Links:
Cat Body Condition System
Dog Body Condition System
Purina Institute Nutritional Assessment Tools

Disclaimer

VitalVet.org, a platform for all things related to pet rehab - product information, education, and resources abound!
MedcoVet (show sponsor)  Luma - advanced red-light therapy therapy that puts healing in the hands of the pet owner in the comfort of home!

Use Promo Code PETPOD22  to receive discounts from our affiliates!
Jope - science-backed supplements
Ruff Ramp - a safe alternative to stairs
Optimum Pet Vitality - education/coursework 
Dr. Buzby’s -Toe Grips to prevent slipping, Encore Mobility joint supplement, and Brain Boost cognitive supplement. Using this link donates 20% to PetAbility
Calm & Cozy Cat Wrap - a must-have for anybody working with cats
HedzUpPets Watercollars – save your dog from drowni...