This is the time of year when organizations such the Pet Poison Helpline (PPH) receive the most calls. Steve talks with veterinary toxicologist Dr. Renee Scmid, director of veterinary medicine and a senior veterinary toxicologist at PPH. Lilies are fragrant for us but very toxic to cats. And chocolate is never a good idea. She warns about products with an artificial sweetener called Xylitol or birch sugar. The discussion is wide-ranging, and includes dispelling Internet jokesters and disinformation.

Human Animal Bond Association’s International Human Animal Bond Day is November 8. Dr. Marc Bekoff, professor emeritus of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology at the University of Colorado, Boulder, and Fellow of the Animal Behavior Society has authored so many important books about dogs. His most recent is Dogs Demystified: An A to Z Guide to All Things Canine with a forward by his friend Dr. Jane Goodall. Dr. Bekoff dispels several myths, such as if dogs always love us conditionally? And are dogs even capable of love? Also, discussed is the intensification of the human animal bond.  Sponsored by www.farmtopettreats.com

Dr. Ernie Ward, is a world-renowned expert and advocate for pet health and nutrition. He’s the founder and President of the Association for Pet Obesity Prevention. He explains just how many pets are overweight or obese. He says we need to stop playing the blame game. Yes, feeding too much and feeding the too many human treats, definitely a part of the problem. But the explanation for so many overweight/obese pets is far more complex. He also offers the truth about pet treats, and what to watch out for. He’s a fan of a pure single ingredient, and he explains why.  Sponsored by www.farmtopettreats.com

Dr. Ian Dunbar is arguably the most influential dog trainer, ever. He’s done so much, from supporting professionalization of what is now considered a legitimate profession to defining puppy classes, not to mention authoring many books.

His most recent book is Barking Up the Right Tree: The Science and Practice of Positive Dog Training. In this discussion, Dr. Dunbar – always with strongly held views – discusses Fear Free, puppy socialization, and even prevention of what is likely now the most common behavior problem in dogs, which is separation anxiety. Dr. Dunbar offers free books here.

Dr Marty Becker is the most influential veterinarian on the planet. Several years ago he said “why aren’t we paying attention to the emotional well-being of pets?” and founded the Fear Free initiative to minimize fear, anxiety and stress at veterinary visits. This notion has not only caught on around the world with veterinary professionals, but also dog trainers, dog groomers and pet sitters. Fear Free has been and continues to be transformational.

Dr Adam Christman, chief veterinary officer DVM360, and Steve Dale in a wide-ranging discussion about how veterinary medicine continues to evolve and what the pet parents’ role is today.

Dr. Mary Gardner can apparently foretell the future, as today the notion of euthanizing at home or a dog’s favorite place, or providing hospice is something pet parents are seeking. Lap of Love is a network of over 300 veterinarians around the country with the goal of empowering every owner to care for their geriatric pets including at-home euthanasia. What she says about the right time to euthanize may be surprising.

We do have more geriatric pets than ever, and to answer questions about their needs she’s authored old pet bibles: It’s Never Long Enough: A Practical Guide to Caring for Your Geriatric Dog and Nine Lives Are Not Enough: A Practical Guide to Care for Your Geriatric Cat.

Dr. Debra Horwitz, world renowned veterinary behaviorist and co-editor Decoding Your Dog, discusses why dog bites may be on the rise. For starters, she says hugging your dog isn’t likely a good idea. We may call them our fur babies, but treating dogs like human babies doesn’t benefit the dog. Also, discussed are dog bite prevention tips as well as how the Fear Free initiative is transforming veterinary medicine.

Pilley Bianchi, who is the author of For the Love of DOG, and her late dad, professor John W. Pilley, Jr. trained Chaser, the smartest dog in the world. How did they do it? How smart was Chaser? How smart are dogs really? Are we not tapping into what all dogs are capable? Pilley has a way to open minds and dispel myths.

Ear infections are among the most common complaints heard by veterinarians, which makes ZYMOX a savior for pet parents, ZYMOX Ear Cleanser combines protein, enzymes to gently cleanse. ZYMOX Ear Solution provides two options with the patented combination of enzymes. Billy Bosco, research and development at Pet King Brands, explains how this company, now celebrating 25-years, grew from a seed of an idea in his mom’s basement to what it is today. Zymox products are available on:  Amazon, Chewy, at select Petco, and Petsmart stores and at many other fine pet retailers!

Dr. RuthAnn Lobos, lead veterinarian at Merrick Pet Care, joins Steve Dale on this Merrick Pet Care Five Star Interview. “Doggy breath” isn’t necessarily something we should ignore. Listen in while Dr. Lobos talks about what causes “doggy breath” and how it can be prevented.

Merrick Pet Care Far Star interview is brought to you by Merrick Pet Care.