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...

Arthritis affects millions of pets, quietly limiting mobility, comfort, and quality of life. While medications and supplements remain important tools, many pet parents are searching for safe, evidence-based options they can use at home to support long-term joint health. Alon Landa, CEO of MedcoVet, explains the science behind how specific red and near-infrared wavelengths interact with the body at a cellular level to reduce inflammation &  chronic joint pain and support healing for improved daily well-being.

Listeners will learn how MedcoVet’s Luma device was designed specifically for pets, what unique features set it apart from other light therapy products, and how it fits into a comprehensive, multimodal arthritis care plan. The conversation also covers real-world outcomes and practical treatment guidelines.

Whether your pet is showing early signs of stiffness or living with advanced arthritis making it difficult to get up from the floor, this episode offers clarity, science-backed insight, and realistic expectations for using red light therapy to restore comfort and ease of movement.

Find your compressive guide to treating arthritis here.

What's covered:

• What red light therapy is and how it works in pets
• Why specific wavelengths matter for arthritis and inflammation
• How Luma differs from in-clinic lasers and online devices
• Signs your pet may benefit from light therapy
• What a typical treatment protocol looks like
• Integrating red light therapy into a multimodal treatment plan
• How clinical support offered by MedcoVet impacts results

Alon Landa is the CEO of MedcoVet, a veterinary technology company, that developed the Luma to bring research -based, clinically-informed red light therapy into the homes of pets who need it most.

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...

Grooming isn’t always a simple spa day—especially for pets who are fearful, painful, aging, or medically complex. In this episode of PetAbility Podcast, Chris and Cathy sit down with experienced groomer and veterinary assistant, Sophie Wasniewski, to explore sedated grooming: what it is, why it’s sometimes necessary, and how it can dramatically improve safety, comfort, and quality of life for both pets and their people.

Sophie explains how sedated grooming differs from traditional grooming, which pets benefit most, and what indicators (chronic pain, mobility challenges, anxiety, or past trauma) might suggest that sedated grooming is the often the kindest option rather than a last resort. The conversation walks listeners through what a sedated grooming appointment looks like, who’s involved on the veterinary team, and how sedation protocols are carefully chosen and monitored for safety.

Key Takeaways:

• When and why sedated grooming is recommended
• Which pets benefit most
• What happens during a sedated grooming appointment
• Safety considerations and preparation
• How sedated grooming can reduce fear, pain, and injury

Whether you’re a pet parent struggling with stressful grooming appointments or a veterinary professional supporting complex patients, this episode offers clarity, reassurance, and expert insight.

You can find Sophie at Sleepy Dog Veterinary in Arlington, 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...

With the holidays at full throttle, we thought it timely to revisit this episode on pet obesity. Pets often gain weight in winter because shorter days lead to less activity (fewer walks, more naps.) Owners might give more treats, while their pet's metabolism slows to conserve energy, creating an "extra pounds" scenario. It's crucial for owners to manage food intake and keep their dogs and cats active to prevent unhealthy gain. In 2018, obesity, along with dental issues and osteoarthritis, was put on the list as a major health concern. So yes, obesity is indeed a big problem!

Excerpt from original show notes:
Is Rover looking a little heavier than usual? Have you found yourself dipping into the treat jar more often? Turns out that keeping your pet trim is directly correlated with quality and length of life.  The equation for consistent weight is simple and familiar: calories in = calories out. But there are a host of items that can upset this balance. Listen to Cathy and Chris discuss factors leading to obesity, from breed disposition to diseases to lifestyle to medications. The plethora of life-threatening issues that obesity contributes to is shocking, ranging from breathing difficulties to increased risk of cancer. This episode is intended to inform, not shame. We provide helpful tips to determine your pet’s ideal weight, get it there, and keep it there.
 
Click here for the Dog Body Condition System chart.
Click here for the Cat Body Condition System chart.

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...

In this powerful episode, PetAbility welcomes Theresa Strader, founder of National Mill Dog Rescue (NMDR), to explore the harsh realities of commercial puppy mills and the transformative work being done to save and rehabilitate the dogs trapped within them. Theresa shares the emotional beginnings of NMDR, the rescue process from start to finish, and the medical and behavioral challenges mill dogs face on their path to adoption. Listeners will gain practical tools to recognize and avoid supporting puppy mills and hear uplifting stories that prove the resilience of the canine spirit.

What We Cover:

• The moment that inspired the creation of NMDR
• What defines a puppy mill or commercial dog farm
• Common misconceptions
• Inside look at a rescue operation
• Medical and emotional trauma mill dogs endure
• Rehabilitation and preparing dogs for adoption

Key Takeaways:

• Puppy mills persist because of consumer demand and lack of awareness.
• NMDR gives breeders another option when their dogs are no longer useful.
• Mill dogs often require patience, specialized care, and time to heal.
• Transformative process from intake to adoption, from fear to joy.
• Every dog deserves compassion, dignity, and a loving home.
• Ultimately, dogs from commercial breeding facilities make wonderful pets.

 👉 National Mill Dog Rescue: https://nmdr.org/ for more information/resources/ and adoptable dogs.

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...