Speaking of Pets

Speaking of Pets with guest Dr. Lindsay Starkey!

Dr. Starkey earned her bachelor’s degree in animal science from the University of Arkansas and her DVM and PhD degrees at Oklahoma State University, where her graduate research focused on vector-borne infections. She completed her residency training through the National Center for Veterinary Parasitology at Oklahoma State University. Dr. Starkey recently rejoined Oklahoma State University’s College of Veterinary Medicine as an associate professor after several years at Auburn University. She is a diplomate of the American College of Veterinary Microbiology with a subspecialty in parasitology. She is involved in various research projects involving vectors, vector-borne pathogens, and diagnostic parasitology. She also teaches parasitology to veterinary students and has received 2 teaching awards, most recently the Zoetis Distinguished Teacher Award. She currently serves as a board member for the National Center for Veterinary Parasitology and the American Heartworm Society.

Flea, tick, and heartworm prevention isn’t just for summer. In this episode, Dr. Lindsay Starkey, veterinarian Dr. Alice Jeromin, and Janet Novotny King discuss why pets can still be exposed to parasites throughout the year—and what owners can do to help protect them.

They challenge common assumptions, including that the first frost gets rid of fleas and that removing a tick is all you need to do. The conversation explores how heartworms, fleas, and ticks survive changing temperatures, why flea infestations can persist in the home, and how different preventives offer different kinds of protection.

You’ll also hear what to consider when choosing a preventive, why a missed dose may matter, and what to do if you find a tick on your pet—including why saving it may be useful. The guests discuss counterfeit products, heartworm testing for rescue dogs, and how a pet’s lifestyle and local parasite risks can affect prevention choices.

Whether you live with a dog, cat, or both, this episode offers practical information to help you have a more informed conversation with your veterinarian about year-round parasite protection.

Key topics:

• Year-round flea, tick, and heartworm prevention
• Common misconceptions about parasite control in winter
• Tick behavior and how they find hosts
• The importance of testing ticks for diseases
• Choosing the right parasite prevention products
• The impact of climate and seasons on parasite activity
• The process of tick testing and what it reveals
• Risks of counterfeit pet medications

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As a veterinarian and accomplished musher, Dr. Tim Hunt understood his dogs’ need for a food that promoted stamina, endurance and performance through proper digestion; a food that just made them feel good. Dr. Tim’s focus has since expanded from his original backyard setup to bring an honest, nutritionally sound food – sourced only from the highest quality ingredients – to every dog. Visit https://drtims.com/ to order today!

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Your Northeast Ohio animal newspaper connection is the Country Critter Journal. With distribution in Geauga, Lake, and Ashtabula counties you'll have to pick one up wherever you find magazines. Can't stop in to pick up your copy? No worries! View the publication online at https://neoccj.com

Speaking of Pets is owned by SLA Video Productions. Do not reproduce without written consent.

Speaking of Pets episode 132 featuring Dr. Richard Ford!

This episode breaks down rabies from the ground up with Dr. Richard Ford, a boarded internal medicine specialist with deep experience in both veterinary medicine and public health. Janet Novotny King and Dr. Alice Jeromin guide the conversation through what rabies is, how it spreads, why bats are such a concern, and why vaccination is the critical line of defense. We discuss the real-world risks for pets and people, what happens after a suspected exposure, and why rabies is still a major global killer even though it is relatively controlled in the United States.

Key Topics:

• History of rabies dating back to Aristotle
• Transmission of rabies through bites and scratches
• Reservoir hosts including bats, raccoons, and dogs
• Signs and symptoms of rabies in humans and animals
• Post-exposure prophylaxis and vaccination protocols
• Legal requirements for rabies vaccination in the US
• Risks of importing pets from high-risk countries
• The significance of timely rabies vaccination
• The impact of rabies on global health and mortality
• Advances in rabies vaccine safety and efficacy

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As a veterinarian and accomplished musher, Dr. Tim Hunt understood his dogs’ need for a food that promoted stamina, endurance and performance through proper digestion; a food that just made them feel good. Dr. Tim’s focus has since expanded from his original backyard setup to bring an honest, nutritionally sound food – sourced only from the highest quality ingredients – to every dog. Visit https://drtims.com/ to order today!

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Your Northeast Ohio animal newspaper connection is the Country Critter Journal. With distribution in Geauga, Lake, and Ashtabula counties you'll have to pick one up wherever you find magazines. Can't stop in to pick up your copy? No worries! View the publication online at https://neoccj.com

Speaking of Pets is owned by SLA Video Productions. Do not reproduce without written consent.

Speaking of Pets episode 131 featuring Shawna Van Loon!

In this episode, Shawna Van Loon, a professional dog groomer, shares insights into the grooming process, common pet health issues, and tips for pet owners to keep their pets healthy and calm during grooming sessions. Discover expert advice on grooming techniques, pet behavior, and how groomers and veterinarians work together to ensure pet well-being.

Key topics

• The importance of grooming for pet health
• How groomers detect health issues
• Tips for calming pets during grooming
• Tools and techniques for effective grooming
• Breed-specific grooming needs
• Handling difficult pets safely
• The role of grooming in early health detection
• Best practices for pet owner grooming at home

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As a veterinarian and accomplished musher, Dr. Tim Hunt understood his dogs’ need for a food that promoted stamina, endurance and performance through proper digestion; a food that just made them feel good. Dr. Tim’s focus has since expanded from his original backyard setup to bring an honest, nutritionally sound food – sourced only from the highest quality ingredients – to every dog. Visit https://drtims.com/ to order today!

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Your Northeast Ohio animal newspaper connection is the Country Critter Journal. With distribution in Geauga, Lake, and Ashtabula counties you'll have to pick one up wherever you find magazines. Can't stop in to pick up your copy? No worries! View the publication online at https://neoccj.com

Speaking of Pets is owned by SLA Video Productions. Do not reproduce without written consent.

Speaking of Pets episode 130 featuring Dr. Judith Samson-French!

Dr. Judith Samson-French has sat on both sides of the hardest moments in veterinary care: as the vet in the room, and as the advocate outside it. 30+ years. 100,000+ animals. 10,000+ surgeries. Most humans are forced to make medical decisions for their dog they were never prepared for. She helps them navigate difficult veterinary decisions. Founder of HUMM Decision Consulting.

https://hummroadmap.com/the-witty-vet/subscribe

Dr. Judith Samson-French shares her insights on veterinary decision-making, the importance of accurate diagnosis, and how personalized medicine can improve pet care. She discusses the evolution of veterinary practices, cost considerations, and the value of second opinions. In this episode, Dr. Judith Samson-French shares insights on veterinary practices, pet care, and the importance of personalized medicine for animals, emphasizing the value of understanding each pet's unique needs and the evolving landscape of veterinary medicine.

Key Topics

• The importance of accurate diagnosis in veterinary medicine
• How personalized treatment plans improve pet outcomes
• The evolution of veterinary practices and technology
• Cost considerations and affordability in pet care
• The value of second opinions and record keeping
• Understanding cancer treatment options and quality of life
• The complexity of ACL surgeries and decision-making
• The role of meaningful medicine tailored to individual pets Personalized veterinary medicine and the concept of the gold standard
• The importance of recognizing individual pet needs and the final lap of senior pets
• The impact of supplements, diet, and lifestyle on pet health and longevity
• The evolving landscape of veterinary practice and pet owner empowerment
• The significance of early recognition of health issues and proactive care

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As a veterinarian and accomplished musher, Dr. Tim Hunt understood his dogs’ need for a food that promoted stamina, endurance and performance through proper digestion; a food that just made them feel good. Dr. Tim’s focus has since expanded from his original backyard setup to bring an honest, nutritionally sound food – sourced only from the highest quality ingredients – to every dog. Visit https://drtims.com/ to order today!

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Your Northeast Ohio animal newspaper connection is the Country Critter Journal. With distribution in Geauga, Lake, and Ashtabula counties you'll have to pick one up wherever you find magazines. Can't stop in to pick up your copy? No worries! View the publication online at https://neoccj.com

Speaking of Pets is owned by SLA Video Productions. Do not reproduce without written consent.

Speaking of Pets episode 129 featuring Dr. Tim Hunt!

Dr. Tim Hunt graduated from Michigan State University's School of Veterinary Medicine in 1989. He is a member of the Michigan Board of Veterinary Medicine and holds licenses in Alaska and Arizona. For over 25 years, Dr. Hunt has practiced at the companion animal veterinary hospital he established, often reminiscing about the Ramen noodles he ate while building his practice from the ground up.

Dedicated to continuous learning, he attends annual education programs on surgery, ultrasound, and internal medicine. In February 2019, he became an SDEP™ Abdomen Certified Sonographer and Instructor, further advancing his skills in diagnostics.

An avid dog musher, Dr. Hunt has raced sled dogs and served as a race vet worldwide, including the Iditarod and the UP 200. He founded Dr. Tim's Premium All Natural Pet Food in 2004 to provide a diet that mimics the natural nutrition of dogs and cats. He lives on 50 acres near Marquette with his wife, Mary, their pets, and his stepson’s family nearby.

Key Topics:

• Wildlife rescue stories including eagles, foxes, and turtles
• Lead poisoning in raptors and conservation efforts
• Handling wildlife safely and legally
• Wildlife behavior and signs of illness
• Wildlife rehabilitation techniques and challenges

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As a veterinarian and accomplished musher, Dr. Tim Hunt understood his dogs’ need for a food that promoted stamina, endurance and performance through proper digestion; a food that just made them feel good. Dr. Tim’s focus has since expanded from his original backyard setup to bring an honest, nutritionally sound food – sourced only from the highest quality ingredients – to every dog. Visit https://drtims.com/ to order today!

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Your Northeast Ohio animal newspaper connection is the Country Critter Journal. With distribution in Geauga, Lake, and Ashtabula counties you'll have to pick one up wherever you find magazines. Can't stop in to pick up your copy? No worries! View the publication online at https://neoccj.com

Speaking of Pets is owned by SLA Video Productions. Do not reproduce without written consent.

Speaking of Pets episode 128 featuring Dr. Brad Ryan and Grandma Joy!

In this episode, Dr. Brad Ryan and Grandma Joy share their inspiring journey of reconnecting through adventures in national parks, overcoming personal struggles, and embracing the healing power of nature and family bonds. In this episode, Brad, Janet, and Dr. Alice explore the transformative power of vulnerability, intergenerational connection, and embracing joy at any age. They share personal stories, insights on societal norms, and practical advice for living a fulfilling life across generations.

Key topics:

• The importance of national parks in mental health and family bonding
• Personal stories of overcoming depression and suicidal thoughts
• The impact of intergenerational relationships and forgiveness
• The significance of respecting wildlife and nature conservation
• Adventures in national parks and the value of outdoor experiences The importance of vulnerability and authenticity
• Intergenerational connection and its societal benefits
• The concept of joy versus happiness and living fully
• Personal stories of overcoming trauma and finding healing
• The role of community and kindness in mental health
• The impact of societal norms on aging and social interaction
• Practical advice for older adults to stay active and engaged
• The significance of mentorship and sharing wisdom across generations

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As a veterinarian and accomplished musher, Dr. Tim Hunt understood his dogs’ need for a food that promoted stamina, endurance and performance through proper digestion; a food that just made them feel good. Dr. Tim’s focus has since expanded from his original backyard setup to bring an honest, nutritionally sound food – sourced only from the highest quality ingredients – to every dog. Visit https://drtims.com/ to order today!

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Your Northeast Ohio animal newspaper connection is the Country Critter Journal. With distribution in Geauga, Lake, and Ashtabula counties you'll have to pick one up wherever you find magazines. Can't stop in to pick up your copy? No worries! View the publication online at https://neoccj.com Speaking of Pets is owned by SLA Video Productions. Do not reproduce without written consent.

Speaking of Pets episode 127 featuring Dr. Katherine Polak, DVM, MPH, MS, DACVPM, DABVP!

In this episode, Dr. Katherine Polak shares her global work in animal welfare, including rescue missions, combating the dog meat trade, and improving veterinary capacity worldwide. Discover the challenges and successes in transforming animal welfare practices across different cultures and countries.

Dr. Katherine Polak is Senior Vice President of the Centers of Expertise at Humane World for Animals, where she leads the organization's global companion animal, farm animal welfare, wildlife, research and testing, and animal rescue programs. A board-certified specialist in Veterinary Preventive Medicine and Shelter Medicine, she has spent more than two decades advancing animal welfare through veterinary medicine, policy, systems change, and international collaboration. Dr. Polak is an internationally recognized leader, author, and speaker who has worked globally to develop sustainable solutions that improve the lives of animals and the communities that care for them.

Key topics:

• Global animal rescue efforts
• Combatting the dog meat trade in Asia
• Improving veterinary capacity worldwide
• Cultural challenges in animal welfare
• Disaster relief for animals
• Legislation and policy change for animal protection
• Community engagement and education
• Celebrity involvement in animal welfare
• Impact of pet ownership trends in Asia
• Strategies for changing cultural practices

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As a veterinarian and accomplished musher, Dr. Tim Hunt understood his dogs’ need for a food that promoted stamina, endurance and performance through proper digestion; a food that just made them feel good. Dr. Tim’s focus has since expanded from his original backyard setup to bring an honest, nutritionally sound food – sourced only from the highest quality ingredients – to every dog. Visit https://drtims.com/ to order today!

--

Your Northeast Ohio animal newspaper connection is the Country Critter Journal. With distribution in Geauga, Lake, and Ashtabula counties you'll have to pick one up wherever you find magazines. Can't stop in to pick up your copy? No worries! View the publication online at https://neoccj.com

Is the rising summer heat turning your daily walk schedule into a guessing game? Join Janet King and Dr. Alice Jeromin as they sit down with veterinary sports medicine and rehabilitation specialist Dr. Kelly Fishman to tackle essential summer pet wellness strategies. They discuss keeping pets cool, hydration, and why arthritis prevention should begin early—not just when mobility issues appear. From muscle-supporting supplements like Myos Pet to managing heat indices during the dog days of summer, this episode provides actionable, science-based advice to ensure your pet stays happy and healthy. Discover the proactive steps you can take today to optimize your pet’s healthspan and keep them moving comfortably.

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All footage is owned by SLA Video Productions.

Dr. Alice Jeromin and Janet Novotny King welcome back parasitology expert Dr. Christopher Lee to discuss the dangerous rise of New World Screwworm and how it affects our pets. This aggressive parasite eats living tissue and presents a severe threat to warm-blooded animals across North America. Dr. Christopher Lee breaks down the life cycle of the fly, clinical symptoms to watch for, and effective preventive treatments like monthly Isoxazolines. The conversation also covers tapeworm risks such as Echinococcus multilocularis, coyote interactions, and public health concerns surrounding Cryptosporidiosis. Pet owners will learn actionable steps to keep their dogs and cats protected year-round from emerging parasitic threats.

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All footage is owned by SLA Video Productions.

Ear infections are a common source of frustration for pet owners, but they aren't always a one-time event. Dr. Emily Rothstein, a board-certified veterinary dermatologist, joins Dr. Alice Jeromin and Janet Novotny King to demystify why these infections occur, from pendulous ears to underlying allergies. They break down why "simple" treatments often fail, the importance of rechecks, and why over-the-counter products can do more harm than good. You’ll learn exactly what triggers chronic issues and how to advocate for the right treatment plan during your next clinic visit. This conversation gives you the clinical vocabulary to take control of your pet's ear health effectively.

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All footage is owned by SLA Video Productions.

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