So many pet parents want to do the right thing and so they vaccinate on schedule, give monthly parasite prevention, and follow the “standard” advice from their vet. But what if those very routines are putting your dog (or cat) at risk?

In this episode, I’m joined by veterinarian Dr. Laurie Coger to unpack the hidden risks of routine care and what’s actually safe for your pup. We talk about vaccines, flea and tick medications, heartworm prevention, and how to make decisions that protect your dog’s long-term health.

This conversation is full of practical takeaways you can use right away, like the questions to ask your vet, when titer testing makes sense, how to know if parasite prevention is really necessary, and why building your dog’s microbiome may be the best defense of all.

If you’ve ever felt confused about what your dog really needs (and what they don’t), this episode will give you clarity and confidence to make the best choices for your pet.

KEY INSIGHTS:

✨ The crucial difference between vaccination (giving a shot) and immunization (achieving immunity), and why titer testing matters.

✨ Why protocols are designed for the weakest pets, and how that can mean overdosing the strongest.

✨ The hidden risks of long-acting parasite preventives (and why convenience can sometimes come at a cost).

✨ Safer, smarter ways to approach flea, tick, and heartworm prevention based on region, lifestyle, and your dog’s health history.

✨ How the microbiome is your dog’s first line of defense, and why antibiotics and kibble diets can undermine resilience.

✨ The environmental ripple effects of vaccines and parasite medications we rarely consider.

✨ Why building a veterinary dream team—integrative vets, conventional vets, specialists, and emergency care—is the best way to cover every stage of your dog’s life.

✨ How to approach conversations with your vet with respect, even when you disagree, and find practitioners who align with your values.

RESOURCES:

🐾 Dr. Laurie Coger’s book 👇

 Vaccines Explained:The Wholistic Vet’s Guide to Vaccinationing Your Dog 

FOLLOW:

Dr. Laurie Coger Website: https://healthydogworkshop.com/

Dr. Laurie Coger on Instagram: @healthydogworkshop

Integrative Pet Wellness Center: https://integrativepet.com/

Integrative Pet Wellness Center on Instagram: @integrativepet

Dr. Lily Chen on Instagram: @dr.lilychen

@the.unicorn.vet

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