PetAbility Podcast

Whether it's 10 degrees below or 110 degrees, there are plenty of easy, fun exercises that you can do with your pet in the comfort of your home. Cathy and Chris share some of their favorites: squats, walking backwards, high tugging, reaching, digging, front feet up, spinning, high 5s, tunnels, obstacle coursing, and happy trails!! They explain why each exercise is beneficial – maybe it strengthens your pet’s hind end or stabilizes their core or stretches their hips or makes them more aware of their feet or promotes balance. Maybe its ALL of the above!! Most of all, these exercises are enriching, mentally tiring and just plain ol’ fun for both of you. These activities are appropriate for dogs of all sizes, shapes, and ages. Even the cat lovers out there can do many of these! With a little creativity and some common household objects, all exercises talked about in the show can be executed with no special equipment needed. So no more excuses – get your pet moving!!

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...

“Humanity over vanity!” Grooming is much more important than just making sure your pet looks pretty or smells good. Grooming is vital to maximizing your pet’s overall health and well-being. No grooming or improper grooming can lead to pain, decreased mobility, skin and ear infections, issues with thermo-regulation, poor oral hygiene, and the list goes on. Most don’t realize that the groomer is in integral part of your pet’s care team. By bringing your pet to regular grooming appointments every 4-6 weeks, the groomer becomes a first line of defense – examining skin, coat, teeth, ears, and nails, finding things that may need attention long before your pet’s next scheduled veterinary appointment. As a certified fear-free groomer, Meghan does all this while making your pet’s experience as pleasant as possible, establishing trust, and changing their emotional response to grooming. She describes what a fear-free appointment might look like and how she works to make it a positive experience for your pet by inviting them to participate in the process. Meghan listens to what the dog is telling her, allowing her to work around any anxiety-producing issues. When your pet looks forward to grooming, it will more likely look forward to other experiences such as veterinary appointments. Finally, we get into the nitty gritty of salon safety, sanitary clips, senior comfort grooms, and the recommended frequency of bathing, brushing, and nail trims. By the way, Meghan bets your dog’s nail are too long!

Links mentioned in the show:
Check out Meghan's thriving grooming business at The Soggie Doggie.
Go to Fear Free Pets to learn more about this exciting shift in vet medicine.
For Meghan's "how to" on nail trim's, click nail trim video.
To see a puppy's first fear free groom, click here.
To learn more about Meghan, go to her Facebook and Instagram.
See Paw Mats to find the cushy, non-slip mats Meghan mentioned.
See the book Meghan's Creative Grooming work is featured in.

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...

It’s all about living with cancer, not dying from cancer. Dr. Erica Barron, owner of her mobile vet practice, wants the pets in her care to not just live longer, but live well. Listen as Dr. Erica describes how integrative veterinary medicine (in her case, acupuncture and herbs) aids pets with cancer to have improved energy, decreased pain, increased appetites, and overall better quality of life. Traditional cancer treatments, such as surgery or chemotherapy, can be augmented with Eastern medical philosophies. She looks at every pet as a whole, not as a diagnosis, that results in treating the totality of each animal – not simply their cancer. Dr. Erica emphasizes treating patients is not a one size fits all, but very individualized based on the needs, abilities, and desires of the  pet and their owners. As a veterinarian that goes into the pet’s home, she has a unique perspective that allows her to examine the pet’s environment and advise accordingly. The frequency of treatments, often once per week, enables her to have timely, important conversations so that pets in her care can live their best lives.

To learn more about Dr. Erica Barron, her book, or follow her on Instagram (and see adorable pet pics), go to these links:
ACUVET
NOVA Cat Clinic
Needles in a Haystack... An Unexpected Cure! (Dr. Erica's book)
https://www.instagram.com/novacatclinic/
https://www.instagram.com/acupunctureforpets/
https://www.instagram.com/dr.erica_vet/

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...

Gain additional insights into your hosts by listening to this fun and informative episode. Cathy and Chris ask each other questions that they didn't disclose to each other in advance. Chris brags about her rehab exploits with a  400 lb. sea lion named Baranov, while Cathy talks about getting punched in the face by a penguin and an unfulfilled dream of rehabbing sea turtles! Enjoy their candor and exploits in the animal world.

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...

None of us wants to think that our pets are experiencing pain. But in reality, many pets have both short-lived painful episodes throughout their lives or even chronic pain due to injury or disease as they age. So how do we know they are in pain? After all, they can’t talk to us. Throughout this episode, we discuss what signs to look for so you will be better equipped to realize what your pet is telling you. In addition, we converse about:

·         The definition of pain that is both physical AND emotional

·         What body language to look for that may be indicative of pain

·         Unrecognized or overlooked sources of pain

·         Acute vs. chronic pain

·         How pain is different than suffering

·         Signs of pain in cats

·         Sick bird syndrome

·         Unique characteristics of northern dog breeds

·         Importance of controlling our own emotional reactions to our pet’s pain

·         Keeping a pain journal

·         Simple things to do if you suspect your pet has pain

·         Signs of inflammation

So pain is a necessary evil that we and our pets both deal with. Empower yourself to help your pet!

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...

This show covers everything you’ve ever thought about, or NOT thought about, when it comes to your pet's bed. If you’re like us, you get a bit overwhelmed when it’s time to select the right bed for your best friend. There is more to it than size and color. We will help you come up with a checklist of considerations to aid in picking out that perfect bed:

·                        What position does your dog sleep in?

·                        Can they get in/out of the bed with ease?

·                        What materials is the bed made of - both inside and out?

·                        Is it washable?

·                        Does this bed warm or cool your pet?

·                        Is it durable?

·                        Is it suitable for outdoors?

·                        Does it have a liner?

·                        Is the cover removable?

Click here for more information on DogLeggs.

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...

PetAbility teams up with Behave Atlanta to explore how  trainers and behaviorists  intersect with physical rehabilitation so that pets may live their best lives. Have you really ever thought about how your pet’s emotional health might affect their physical health? Or why it may be important, even vital, to have a well-trained, emotionally balanced pet? Skills such as leash manners, a strong recall, and drop it/leave it can be the difference between life and death. And a well-behaved pet means they can  join you on exciting adventures out in the community, further enhancing the bond between you. We also discuss  how stress impacts your pet’s health and how to recognize the signs of stress,  including cortisol spikes. Heck, what is cortisol and why should you care? How do you keep your dog below their threshold by creating a Zen zone or taking a cortisol vacation? And did you know that your stress level can actually be mirrored by your pet? Yikes! Finally, think how different a visit to the vet might be if it was a wonderfully positive experience because they enjoy everything from the car ride there to being handled for their physical exam.  We think after listening to this episode, you will not only see your pet differently and focus on their emotional well-being in addition to physical well-being. Just like humans,  body and soul cannot be compartmentalized – each impacts the other.

Click here to learn more about Amy and Lillian, owners of Behave Atlanta.
Read this article Article about stress being contagious between people and their dogs.
Learn more about the Sleepy Pod cat (pet) bed/carrier/car seat that is mentioned in the podcast.

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...

If you’ve ever had the profound pleasure of loving a pet, you’ve undoubtedly experienced grief when they pass. But the loss of a pet is distinctive because our relationship with our pets is unique: non-verbal, ever-present, physical in nature, and full of unconditional love. We often have longterm and intense relationships with our pets that we have with no other human on earth. So to feel grief when our pet dies is real, wrenching, and normal. Laurie Levine helps us to understand how this loss can feel invisible in a society that has difficulty with death and dying, thus grieving the loss of a pet can feel very lonely. Laurie explains that grief is the other side of love. Pet grief is different; it is not a linear process, but a journey. In this episode we discuss the emotions of relief, guilt, and even embarrassment when our pet dies. Laurie discusses the importance of memorializing our pets and gives advice on rituals to help us through the grieving process. Sudden death vs. prolonged decline - how does this impact grief? Is there such a thing as anticipatory grief? What is a good death? How is euthanasia not only a responsibility, but also a gift? Finally, how can we support others who are grieving the loss of their pet?

Laurie offers phone, virtual, or personal sessions, as well as drop-in support groups in Arlington, MA, at SleepyDogVeterinary.
P: 781-350-8219
E: [email protected]

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...

"It's always about the one." Those are the words from founder, Martin Kaufman, of OrthoPets. After helping more than 25,000 pets world-wide since its inception in 2003, Martin is still driven by serving that next pet in need. This podcast is packed with information: starting with describing what an orthotic (brace) and prosthetic (replacement limb segment) are, to learning if your pet might be a candidate, to the team-supported ordering process, and finally helping your pet adjust. Our pets naturally have the willingness and determination to succeed despite physical challenges they may face. We will discuss OrthoPets' most-requested and far superior custom knee brace for treatment of cruciate ligament tears as well as  custom braces for elbows, wrists/paws, ankles/paws, and shoulders. Listen to how Naki'o, a dog who lost all of his limbs to frostbite, thrived after receiving four prosthetic limbs (first ever!) and simultaneously transformed Martin's thought processes. We'll even talk about the orthotic for a goat named Jerry! Yes, a goat! The bottom line is that orthotics for an injury and prosthetics for a partially missing limb are all about improving function, decreasing pain, and  making mobility easier.  And we have the opportunity and responsibility to provide an improved quality of life for them via an orthotic or prosthetic. Let's do this together!

Click here for more information about OrthoPets
OrthoPets Facebook link
OrthoPets Instagram link
Link to the ACORN Stifle Study done by University of Louisville here showing the effectiveness of one of OrthoPets most popular devices.

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...

Despite cats clearly being superior to all other beings (at least that's what the cats tell us), sometimes they need a little help from us lowly humans due to injury, disease, or genetic conditions. But how on earth do you get a cat to cooperate with a physical rehabilitation program? Anybody who knows anything about cats, knows that a cat isn't going to do anything he or she doesn't want to, right? WRONG! Listen as professional animal behaviorist Lillian Ciardelli tells the story of Sal, a rescue cat who had a front-limb amputation and hip surgery at the same time due to a trauma! Yes, Sal had a bit of a rough start in life, but Lillian applied her behavior training to the vet's prescribed rehabilitation plan, using Sal's natural  cat instincts and her own creativity for a successful outcome! She examined everything from his play style to what motivates him while being careful to avoid  stress. Turns out cats are highly trainable and benefit from physical rehabilitation after all.

Click here to learn more about Lillian and her business, Behave Atlanta, LLC.
Click here to read Lillian's article about Sal's rehab including pictures and video!
Click here for Best Friends Animal Sanctuary.

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...