The Crunchy Carnivore

What if the hardest part of taking a holistic approach to your animal isn’t changing their food, environment, or lifestyle—but learning to be patient while their body heals?

In this episode of Crunchy Carnivore, we’re talking about one of the biggest challenges in the holistic animal journey that often gets overlooked: patience.

When you move toward a more natural, species-appropriate approach to animal care, it’s easy to expect immediate results. You change the diet. You remove potential stressors. You support the body naturally. And then… you wait.

But healing isn’t always linear. Every animal is different, and the body may need time to adapt, recover, rebalance, and rebuild.

We’ll talk about the emotional side of this process, why constantly chasing quick results can make the journey harder, and what it means to give your animal the time and consistency needed to support their natural healing process.

Whether you're exploring holistic animal care options, species-appropriate diets, natural prevention, or alternative medicine, this conversation is for you.

🐾 In this episode:

👉Why patience is one of the hardest parts of holistic animal care

👉Why healing may not happen as quickly as you expect

👉The reality of non-linear healing

👉The emotional frustration that can come with waiting for results

👉Moving away from the “quick fix” mindset

👉Learning to observe your animal instead of constantly changing course

👉Why the holistic journey requires trust, patience, and perspective

If you're on a holistic healing journey with your animal, know that you are not alone.🌿🫶

Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational and informational purposes and is not a substitute for individualized veterinary advice or diagnosis. Always work with a qualified holistic veterinary professional when appropriate for your animal's specific needs.

Don't miss future episodes!

Make sure to follow to catch more insight into the holistic approach for animals in an inviting, honest, and realistic way, right here on The Crunchy Carnivore Podcast.

Connect with Dr Levy & Melissa

Instagram |  wellspring_haa

YouTube | Wellspring Holistic Animal Academy - YouTube

Website | wellspringhaa.com

Email | [email protected]

In this episode of the Crunchy Carnivore Podcast, we sit down with renowned integrative veterinarian Dr. Marlene Siegel for a fascinating conversation about taking a more holistic approach to animal health.

Dr. Siegel shares her perspective on looking beyond symptoms and exploring the root causes of disease, while discussing the wide range of modalities she uses in her integrative veterinary practice. From nutrition and lifestyle to holistic and complementary approaches, this conversation explores how different tools can be used together to support the health and wellbeing of our animal companions.

🐾 In this episode, we explore:

What integrative and holistic veterinary medicine really means

Why looking at the whole animal can matter

The connection between nutrition, lifestyle, and animal health

Different holistic modalities used in veterinary practice

Supporting the body's natural healing processes

Dr. Marlene Siegel's approach to complex health issues

What pet owners should know when exploring integrative care

Whether you're interested in holistic veterinary medicine, natural pet health, raw feeding, animal nutrition, functional medicine, or alternative approaches to pet wellness, this conversation offers plenty to think about.

RESOURCES

Dr Marlene's website

Fascia Decompression Course

Assisted Lymphatic Therapy

TheraPro – PEMF/Infrared/Red Light Pad

Don't miss future episodes!

Make sure to follow to catch more insight into the holistic approach for animals in an inviting, honest, and realistic way, right here on The Crunchy Carnivore Podcast.

Connect with Dr Levy & Melissa

Instagram |  wellspring_haa

YouTube | Wellspring Holistic Animal Academy - YouTube

Website | wellspringhaa.com

Email | [email protected]

Discover the fascinating world of CBD oil and medicinal mushrooms for dogs in this in-depth conversation with Angela Ardolino, founder of CBD Dog Health and MycoDog.

In this episode, Angela shares her experience working with natural wellness solutions for dogs and explains how CBD for dogs, functional mushrooms, and holistic pet care support canine wellness. We explore the science, practical considerations, and growing interest around using hemp-derived CBD and medicinal mushrooms as part of a dog's wellness routine or treatment plan.

🐾 In this episode, we discuss:
• CBD oil for dogs and what pet owners should know
• Potential benefits of CBD for canine wellness
• Medicinal and functional mushrooms for dogs
• How different mushroom species are used in holistic pet care
• CBD and mushrooms for supporting dogs' overall wellbeing
• What to consider when choosing CBD products for pets
• Angela Ardolino's experience in natural pet wellness
• The future of holistic and integrative dog care

Whether you're a dog owner, holistic pet parent, veterinarian, pet wellness professional, or simply curious about natural options for dogs, this episode offers an insightful conversation about two rapidly growing areas of canine wellness.

⚠️ Important: This podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not veterinary or medical advice. Always consult a qualified holistic veterinarian before introducing CBD, mushrooms, or supplements.

🎙️ ABOUT ANGELA ARDOLINO

Angela Ardolino is the founder of CBD Dog Health and MycoDog, brands focused on hemp-derived CBD and functional mushroom products for pets. In this episode, she shares her perspective and experience in the world of natural canine wellness.

RESOURCES

Cutting-edge reporting on CBD and cannabis medicine

12 Pathways Video

Cancer Research

Clinical research exploring natural support for senior dogs.

Shop vet approved CBD and medicinal mushrooms for dogs!

Medicinal Mushroom guide PDF - Mushrooms for Cancer chart

Check out Angela's podcast "Your Natural Dog"

Follow Angela on Instagram

Don't miss future episodes!

Make sure to follow to catch more insight into the holistic approach for animals in an inviting, honest, and realistic way, right here on The Crunchy Carnivore Podcast.

Connect with Dr Levy & Melissa

Instagram |  wellspring_haa

YouTube | Wellspring Holistic Animal Academy - YouTube

Website | wellspringhaa.com

Email | [email protected]

Are antibiotics creating a bigger problem for our pets? In this episode, we take a closer look at antibiotic resistance in dogs and cats through a holistic pet health perspective.

Antibiotics can be lifesaving when appropriately prescribed—but repeated or unnecessary use may contribute to antimicrobial resistance, making certain infections harder to treat. So what can pet parents do to support their animals while also using antibiotics responsibly?

In this conversation, we explore:

🐾 What antibiotic resistance in pets actually means
🦠 How resistant bacteria can affect dogs and cats
💊 When antibiotics may be appropriate—and why responsible use matters
🌿 The role of a holistic approach to pet health
🦴 How gut health and the microbiome fit into the bigger picture
🔎 Questions pet parents can discuss with their veterinarian
❤️ Practical ways to think about prevention and long-term pet wellness

If you're interested in holistic pet care, natural pet health, canine health, feline health, pet nutrition, gut health, and responsible antibiotic use, this episode is for you.

Important: This video is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for veterinary diagnosis or treatment.

 RESOURCES

❤️‍🩹 Need to reset your pet's gut after antibiotics?  Learn about our gut reset protocol AND the foundations of feeding raw in our "Raise 'Em On Raw Guide"

🦠 Critical microbiome cases should look into microbiome testing and fecal transplant therapy made from raw fed dogs by Animal Biome
Gut Microbiome Test

Gut Restore Supplement

🩺 Find a Holistic Vet 🩺

AHVMA

AVH

Don't miss future episodes!

Make sure to follow to catch more insight into the holistic approach for animals in an inviting, honest, and realistic way, right here on The Crunchy Carnivore Podcast.

Connect with Dr Levy & Melissa

Instagram |  wellspring_haa

YouTube | Wellspring Holistic Animal Academy - YouTube

Website | wellspringhaa.com

Email | [email protected]

What if the real question isn’t “How do I make the symptoms stop?” but “Why is my dog reacting this way?”

In this episode, we take a deeper, holistic look at dog allergies and explore that it's not as simple as diagnosis = drugs/avoidance.

Instead of simply treating the symptoms, we’re asking a bigger question: What could be contributing to your dog’s allergic response in the first place?

🐾 In this episode, we explore:
• How the diagnosis of "allergies" is very misleading
• Environmental allergies in dogs, including pollen, grass, dust, and mold should be a red flag
• Why some dogs develop itchy skin, licking, scratching, or recurring ear problems
• The possible root causes for your dog's system to be in overdrive
• What if "Allergies" are not always permanent
• A holistic perspective on understanding your dog’s allergies
• Why managing symptoms may not address the bigger picture

If your dog is constantly scratching, licking their paws, rubbing their face, developing hot spots, or dealing with recurring skin or ear issues, this conversation may help you start asking better questions about how to start working your dog out of the problem.

👉🏼 RESOURCES 👈🏼

💭Ready to give your dog a gut reset and learn more about the holistic approach to animal care?  Get Wellspring's free intro guide!

🐕 Want to learn how to switch your dog onto the natural path?  Check out Wellspring's "Basics Bundle" and address the two most important lifestyle choices holistically!

Don't miss future episodes!

Make sure to follow to catch more insight into the holistic approach for animals in an inviting, honest, and realistic way, right here on The Crunchy Carnivore Podcast.

Connect with Dr Levy & Melissa

Instagram |  wellspring_haa

YouTube | Wellspring Holistic Animal Academy - YouTube

Website | wellspringhaa.com

Email | [email protected]

As a holistic veterinarian, Dr. Levy has seen firsthand that the true cost of rescuing a dog extends far beyond the adoption fee. Rescue dogs often arrive with unique physical, emotional, behavioral, and nutritional needs that require patience, commitment, and a whole-body approach to healing.

In this video, we'll explore the real financial, emotional, and health costs of adopting a rescue dog, along with practical ways to help them thrive naturally.

You'll learn:
🐾 The hidden medical costs many adopters don't anticipate
🐾 Why gut health, nutrition, and the microbiome matter after adoption
🐾 How stress and trauma affect a rescue dog's immune system and behavior
🐾 Common health issues seen in rescued dogs
🐾 Natural ways to support detoxification, immunity, and recovery
🐾 The importance of enrichment, exercise, and emotional healing
🐾 Creating a wellness plan for long-term health—not just disease prevention

Whether you're considering your first rescue dog or have welcomed several into your family, understanding their holistic needs can help them transition from surviving to truly thriving.

Every rescue dog has a story. With informed care, patience, proper nutrition, holistic veterinary guidance, and compassion, you can become an important part of their next chapter.

Have you rescued a dog? Share your experience in the comments! What surprised you most about the journey?

👍 If you found this helpful, please Like, Subscribe, and turn on notifications for more evidence-informed holistic pet health, natural nutrition, preventative care, and wellness tips for dogs and cats.

👉🏼 RESOURCES 👈🏼

💭Curious about the holistic approach to animal care?  Get Wellspring's free Intro Guide which includes the gut reset protocol!

🐕 Learn how to feed raw and protect your dog from pests naturally with the guides in our Basics Bundle!

💪🏼 Want to support your dog's hormone health?  Gender specific beef organ supplements from Heart & Soil are an excellent option!

🦠 GUT RESET SUPPLEMENTS 🦠

Standard Process Enteric Support and Standard Process Immune Support can be purchased here:  Standard Process

4 Leaf Rover Organ Care and 4 Leaf Rover Protect can be purchased here:
4 Leaf Rover

Need a therapeutic gut restoration?  Check out Animal Biome Gut Restore From Raw Fed Dogs

✳️Green Lipped Mussel Oil is an excellent source of omega-3's and fighter of inflammation.  It offers a natural, marine-based alternative to fish oil, with unique anti-inflammatory properties and broad support for joint, cardiovascular, brain, and eye health.

🔅When selecting a green-lipped mussel oil product, consider:

Purity and extraction method: Cold-extraction preserves bioactive compounds 

Concentration of omega-3s: Higher concentrations provide more potent anti-inflammatory effects 

Sustainability: Look for products sourced from clean, renewable New Zealand waters 

Don't miss future episodes!

Make sure to follow to catch more insight into the holistic approach for animals in an inviting, honest, and realistic way, right here on The Crunchy Carnivore Podcast.

Connect with Dr Levy & Melissa

Instagram |  wellspring_haa

YouTube | Wellspring Holistic Animal Academy - YouTube

Website | wellspringhaa.com

Email | [email protected]

When it comes to caring for our animals, many people are told to "follow the science." But what does that really mean?

In this video, we explore why scientific studies can be a helpful tool—but also, not all studies are created equal. Study design, funding, sample size, statistical significance, and real-world application all matter. We'll explain why it's important to evaluate research critically instead of accepting every published conclusion at face value.

You'll learn:

🔶 Why scientific studies have strengths and limitations.
🔶 How evidence-based medicine includes more than published research alone.
🔶 How to become a more informed pet owner by asking better questions and considering multiple sources of evidence.

Our goal isn't to dismiss science—it's to encourage thoughtful, balanced decision-making that combines high-quality research with practical experience and a whole-animal perspective.

If you're interested in holistic veterinary medicine, natural animal health, nutrition, and evidence-informed pet care, subscribe for more videos that bridge science with real-world experience.

Resources:

Why Most Scientific Publications Are WRONG (replicability crisis) - VIDEO

Homeopathy Research Institute - HRI is a UK-based charity dedicated to promoting high-quality research in homeopathy at an international level.

Raw Feeding Research

Feed Real - Canine Nutrition Research Articles

Dogs Naturally - Vaccine Research in regard to immunity longevity

Vital Animal Podcast Interview with Dr Will Falconer and Dr Todd Cooney - Includes Parvo Data linked in the show notes - AUDIO

Dr Isaac Golden's book on immunizing with homeopathy and includes research and data showing it's effectiveness

Don't miss future episodes!

Make sure to follow to catch more insight into the holistic approach for animals in an inviting, honest, and realistic way, right here on The Crunchy Carnivore Podcast.

Connect with Dr Levy & Melissa

Instagram |  wellspring_haa

YouTube | Wellspring Holistic Animal Academy - YouTube

Website | wellspringhaa.com

Email | [email protected]

Dog obesity is reaching epidemic levels, with overweight dogs facing increased risk of diabetes, joint problems, inflammation, heart disease, and shorter lifespans. In this video, we explore the real causes behind canine obesity, why traditional feeding advice may be failing, and how a holistic approach to dog weight loss, natural dog nutrition, raw feeding, fresh food diets, and metabolic health can help your dog thrive. If you’ve been searching for answers about overweight dogs, healthy dog weight management, species-appropriate diets, or how to help your dog lose weight naturally, this is a must-watch.

More than 50% of dogs are now considered overweight or obese — and it’s not just about calories. From ultra-processed kibble and hidden sugars to chronic inflammation and hormonal imbalance, the root causes of weight gain go deeper than most pet owners realize.

In this video, we break down dog obesity from a holistic health perspective, looking at:

🐾 The hidden ingredients in commercial dog food that promote weight gain
🐾 How ultra-processed diets impact metabolism
🐾 The role of inflammation and gut health in fat storage
🐾 Why “calories in, calories out” is an oversimplified model
🐾 The connection between spay and neuter and weight gain
🐾 Natural strategies for sustainable, healthy weight loss
🐾 How fresh, whole foods can restore metabolic balance

We’ll also talk about practical steps you can start today — without starving your dog or relying on prescription “diet” foods.

Obesity doesn’t just affect how your dog looks. It affects how they feel, move, age, and live. The good news? With the right knowledge and a proactive, natural approach, you can dramatically improve your dog’s quality of life.

If you care about longevity, vitality, and giving your dog the healthiest life possible, this conversation matters.

👍 Like
💬 Comment your dog’s breed and current diet
🔔 Subscribe for more holistic dog health education

Because weight is not just about food — it’s about health at the cellular level.

RESOURCES

🥩 "Raise 'Em On Raw" Wellspring's  guide to raw feeding including a protocol for healing leaky gut

🍖 "Give Your Dog a Bone" by Dr Ian Billinghurst

🐶 "Natural Nutrition for Dogs and Cats" by Kymythy Schultze

Don't miss future episodes!

Make sure to follow to catch more insight into the holistic approach for animals in an inviting, honest, and realistic way, right here on The Crunchy Carnivore Podcast.

Connect with Dr Levy & Melissa

Instagram |  wellspring_haa

YouTube | Wellspring Holistic Animal Academy - YouTube

Website | wellspringhaa.com

Email | [email protected]

What happens when over 50 years of dog training experience meets a holistic, whole-body approach to canine wellness?

In this episode of "The Crunchy Carnivore Podcast", we sit down with Minnesota-based trainer Katie of Katie’s K9 to explore how decades of hands-on experience have shaped her grounded, no-nonsense philosophy on training—and ultimately led her to embrace and educate others on more holistic practices for dogs.

Katie has seen it all. From old-school training methods to today’s modern trends, she brings a unique perspective on what actually works, what doesn’t, and why behavior can’t be separated from a dog’s overall health and environment.

This conversation goes far beyond obedience. We dive into the connection between nutrition, lifestyle, and behavior—and how supporting the whole dog can transform not just how they act, but how they feel.

In this episode, we cover:
• How 50+ years of dog training shaped Katie’s philosophy
• The evolution of training methods
• Why behavior issues are often rooted in more than just training
• How holistic practices support balanced, responsive dogs
• The importance of educating dog owners—not just training dogs
• Real-life insights from decades of working with dogs and families

Whether you’re struggling with behavior challenges or simply want to better understand your dog, this episode offers timeless wisdom, practical insight, and a refreshing perspective on raising truly healthy, balanced dogs.

Resources:

"Natural Immunity" by Pat McKay

Katie's K9- learn more about Katie K9!

Check out Katie's radio show!

"Basics Bundle"- Want to learn how to feed raw and keep the chemicals off of your dog?  The "Basics Bundle" includes Wellspring's top two guides for raising a dog naturally and will help get you there!

Don't miss future episodes!

Make sure to follow to catch more insight into the holistic approach for animals in an inviting, honest, and realistic way, right here on The Crunchy Carnivore Podcast.

Connect with Dr Levy & Melissa

Instagram |  wellspring_haa

YouTube | Wellspring Holistic Animal Academy - YouTube

Website | wellspringhaa.com

Email | [email protected]

Are you struggling with your dog's behavioral issues and wondering if medication is the only answer? In this episode of The Crunchy Carnivore Podcast, we dive deep into the common veterinary approach of prescribing drugs like Prozac, Paxil, Trazodone, and Gabapentin for pet behavior modification.

But is medicating your furry friend always the best solution? Join us as we explore the efficacy of these pharmaceuticals and discuss potential holistic alternatives that could address the root cause of your dog's anxiety or other behavioral challenges. Discover what dog anxiety really looks like, possible root causes, and the options that are available beyond conventional drug treatments.  Empower yourself to make informed decisions for your pet's well-being.

🐾 What are the common drugs prescribed for dog behavior?
🐾 What's the difference between normal dog behavior and anxious behavior.
🐾 Exploring holistic and natural alternatives to dog behavior medication.
🐾 Lifestyle choices and natural medicine options to help promote calm.

Don't miss this crucial discussion for every dog owner looking for a balanced approach to pet behavioral health!

#DogBehavior #PetHealth #HolisticPetCare #DogTraining #DogAnxiety #PetMedication #TheCrunchyCarnivorePodcast #WellspringHolisticAnimalAcademy

RESOURCES

Wellspring's NR Puppy Bundle- Everything you need from searching for the perfect puppy to all of the foundational parts of raising a puppy the way nature intended.


Looking for a grounding mat?  Find one at earthing.com


Sound therapeutics for all types of issues Zoundz for Pets


Sound proof puppy training-  Pupschool App


Online training and enrichment by Susan Garrett- Crate Games

🌿 SUPPLEMENTS 🌿

CBD that really works!  Check out CBD Dog Health


Discover the power of mushrooms - MycoDog


Bring immediate calm and relief from stress- Bach's Rescue Remedy

Herbal anxiety tincture -Tranquil Times

Canine calming chews- July 3rd by Herbsmith


📕 BOOKS 📕

Enrichment Games for High Energy Dogs by Barbara Buchmayer


Meet Your Dog: The Game-Changing Guide to Understanding Your Dog's Behavior by Kim Brophey

The Way of Life Method: How to Heal Your Relationship with Your Dog and Raise a Sound, Strong, and Spirited Companion by Souha Ezzedeen


CANINE ENRICHMENT: THE BOOK YOUR DOG NEEDS YOU TO READ 2ND EDITION by Shay Kelly


Canine Body Language: A Photographic Guide: Interpreting the Native Language of the Domestic Dog by Brenda Aloff

Don't miss future episodes!

Make sure to follow to catch more insight into the holistic approach for animals in an inviting, honest, and realistic way, right here on The Crunchy Carnivore Podcast.

Connect with Dr Levy & Melissa

Instagram |  wellspring_haa

YouTube | Wellspring Holistic Animal Academy - YouTube

Website | wellspringhaa.com

Email | [email protected]