Speaking of Pets

Speaking of Pets is meant to bridge the gap between pet owners and reliable veterinary information. It addresses the concerning fact that pet owners often consult multiple sources or rely on neighbor-recommended treatments before seeking professional veterinary care. The podcast’s goal is to equip pet owners with science-based, evidence-based knowledge to ensure their pets receive safe and effective treatments, avoiding adverse effects caused by unqualified advice. Dr. Alice Jeromin, with her sister Janet, an animal advocate, will host conversations with experts in various veterinary fields. RSSVERIFY

Latest Episodes:

Rescue Tales: A Journey into Wildlife Rehabilitation | SOP ep. 33 - Mona Rutger Oct 16, 2024

Show notes

In this heartwarming episode Mona Rutger joins Janet and Alice as they recount an unforgettable day filled with unexpected events and animal rescue.

Meet Mona Rutger, the founder of Back to the Wild, a nonprofit wildlife rehabilitation center, who has dedicated her life to caring for injured and orphaned animals. From turtles to eagles, Mona's hands-on experience and deep passion for wildlife shine throughout the conversation.

Listen in as they discuss the intricacies of animal rehabilitation, the importance of legal regulations in caring for wild animals, and the incredible techniques used to help rehabilitate and return them to the wild. You’ll learn about the challenges of caring for different species, the misconceptions people have about orphaned animals, and how listeners can get involved in wildlife rescue efforts.

With laughter and poignant stories of animals in need, this episode is a celebration of compassion, education, and the wild wonders of nature. Whether you’re an animal lover or just curious about wildlife rehabilitation, this episode will inspire you to appreciate the beauty of the creatures around us. Tune in for a journey that is as enlightening as it is heartwarming!

https://www.backtothewild.org/about

https://www.ohiomagazine.com/ohio-life/article/back-to-the-wild-castalia

Support our sponsor for this episode Blue Buffalo by visiting bluebuffalo.com. BLUE Natural Veterinary Diet formulas offer the natural alternative in nutritional therapy. At Blue Buffalo, we have an in-house Research & Development (R&D) team with over 300 years’ experience in well-pet and veterinary therapeutic diets, over 600 scientific publications, and over 50 U.S. patents. At Blue Buffalo, we have an in-house Research & Development (R&D) team with over 300 years’ experience in well-pet and veterinary therapeutic diets, over 600 scientific publications, and over 50 U.S. patents. All footage is owned by SLA Video Productions.

The Magic of the Human-Animal Bond | SOP ep. 32 - Michael Bugary Oct 09, 2024

Show notes

Join us for an inspiring episode featuring Michael Bugary, involved with the Pet Pals program at University Hospitals of Cleveland, along with his faithful companion, Lingo. Michael, a former baseball player for the Boston Red Sox and University of California, Berkeley, faced a life-altering journey that led him to discover the profound power of the human-animal bond after enduring a career-ending injury and battling brain cancer. In this heartfelt conversation, Michael shares touching stories about how Lingo, an ex-military dog, has brought joy and comfort to countless young patients at Rainbow Babies Children's Hospital. You'll hear about the incredible impact their visits have on children facing serious health challenges and how Lingo helps transform fear into friendship. We'll also delve into the mission of Pet Pals, exploring how both dogs and their handlers must qualify to participate in this remarkable program. Tune in to discover how Lingo's gentle presence has not only aided patients but also helped Michael find healing and purpose in his own life. Don't miss this uplifting episode filled with tales of resilience, love, and the magic of pets! https://www.dliflc.edu/spc-lingo-retires-from-dliflc-embarks-on-new-mission/ https://www.uhhospitals.org/rainbow/patients-and-visitors/visitor-services/pet-therapy-services Support our sponsor for this episode Blue Buffalo by visiting bluebuffalo.com. BLUE Natural Veterinary Diet formulas offer the natural alternative in nutritional therapy. At Blue Buffalo, we have an in-house Research & Development (R&D) team with over 300 years’ experience in well-pet and veterinary therapeutic diets, over 600 scientific publications, and over 50 U.S. patents. At Blue Buffalo, we have an in-house Research & Development (R&D) team with over 300 years’ experience in well-pet and veterinary therapeutic diets, over 600 scientific publications, and over 50 U.S. patents. All footage is owned by SLA Video Productions.

Navigating and Preventing Pet Poisoning | SOP ep. 31 - Dr. Renee Schmid Oct 02, 2024

Show notes

In this episode of our podcast, Alice and Janet dive into a critical topic every pet owner should be aware of—pet poisoning. Alice poses a thought-provoking scenario to Janet: What if you came home to find your medication vial on the floor, empty, with your golden retriever, Libby, staring back at you? The conversation quickly unfolds into a discussion about the potential dangers lurking in our homes for our furry friends.

Joining them is Dr. Renee Schmid, the director and senior veterinary toxicologist at Pet Poison Helpline. With her expertise, Dr. Schmid sheds light on the various household items, plants, and foods that can be toxic to pets. From common medications and foods like chocolate and xylitol to unexpected dangers like certain plants and mushrooms, this episode is packed with essential information for all pet owners.

Listeners will learn about the importance of knowing what to keep on hand in case of an emergency, how to respond if a poisoning incident occurs, and the vital role of the Pet Poison Helpline. Dr. Schmid shares insights on how they assist pet owners and veterinarians alike in navigating toxic ingestion cases.

This is a must-listen episode for anyone with pets, as it equips you with the knowledge to protect your beloved companions. Tune in to hear the practical advice and valuable resources that can help keep your pets safe. If you’ve ever had questions about pet poisoning or want to know what to do in an emergency, this episode is for you!

https://www.petpoisonhelpline.com/

All footage is owned by SLA Video Productions.

Compassionate Care for Both Pets & Their Humans | SOP Ep. 30 - Dr. Anna Van Heeckeren Sep 25, 2024

Show notes

In today's episode, we dive deep into the pressing issue of rising veterinary care costs and the heartbreaking impact it has on the human-animal bond. As pet owners, we all want the best for our furry friends, yet the reality is that many are faced with difficult choices, even relinquishing their pets to shelters due to financial constraints.

We are thrilled to welcome our special guest, Dr. Anna Van Heeckeren, a passionate veterinarian and the founder of the One Health Organization. With her extensive background in veterinary medicine and molecular genetics, Dr. Heeckeren is on a mission to provide affordable veterinary access to pet owners in Northeast Ohio who need it the most.

Join us as we explore Dr. Heeckeren's journey, the vital work One Health Organization is doing, and the collaborative efforts with local shelters to ensure pets remain in loving homes. We’ll discuss the importance of compassionate care, the challenges faced by low-income pet owners, and how we can all contribute to making a difference in the lives of pets and their owners.

She was able to share her experience as a survivor, highlighting the crucial role that pets play in providing emotional support during tough times. This brings us back to the heart of our discussion: the importance of understanding the human-animal bond and the need for accessible veterinary care, especially for those facing economic hardships.

Join us as we reflect on personal stories, share insights about the interconnectedness of human, animal, and environmental health, and emphasize the need for compassion and understanding within our communities. Dr. Heeckeren’s passion and dedication to her mission are truly inspiring, and this conversation will leave you with a greater appreciation for the role pets play in our lives and the importance of supporting those who care for them.

Be sure to check our Facebook page for links to resources, including the One Health Organization’s website, where you can learn more about their efforts and how you can help make a difference. Tune in for an engaging and heartfelt discussion that highlights the resilience of the human spirit and the unconditional love of our pets.

Dr. Anna Van Heeckeren has always loved animals. She grew up surrounded by dogs, cats, horses, a donkey, a goat, rabbits, birds, guinea pigs, and even llamas. Naturally, she wanted to become a veterinarian.

Dr. Anna first attended the University of Michigan. She earned a Bachelor's degree in Biology there. Later, she earned a master's of science degree (MS) in molecular genetics and her Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) from The Ohio State University.

Over the years, Dr. Anna has volunteered at many animal nonprofits. The most prominent was the American Veterinary Medical Foundation. In 2008, she founded One Health Organization. Her dream was (and still is) to benefit the whole community by keeping animals healthy.

When she's not busy being the President and CEO, Dr. Anna spends time with her husband and cat named Pearl (with Pearl's permission). She is the proud mom of two young women.

FInd a wealth of resources here:

https://www.onehealth.org/

Justice for Paws: A Conversation with Judge Nancy Margaret Russo | SOP Ep. 29 Sep 18, 2024

Show notes

Janet and Alice are joined by the inspiring Judge Nancy Margaret Russo, who shares her journey as a judge and animal advocate. The episode kicks off with a delightful reunion between Janet and Judge Russo, who discover their sorority sisterhood, complete with fond memories and secret handshakes.

As the conversation unfolds, Judge Russo reflects on her role in the legal system, discussing the complexities of animal rights laws in Ohio, including the challenges surrounding Goddard's Law. She recounts poignant stories from her courtroom, including a harrowing dog fighting case and the impact of animal abuse on domestic violence situations. Hear about her beloved rescue dogs, Maximus and Lorenzo, and how they bring comfort to those in need, including children testifying in court.

The discussion further delves into the troubling realities of puppy mills, the need for stricter regulations, and the importance of educating younger generations about animal welfare. Janet and Alice share their own rescue stories, highlighting the resilience of animals and the dedication of those who fight for their rights.

Join us for an eye-opening conversation that not only sheds light on the legal aspects of animal welfare but also emphasizes the emotional connections we share with our furry companions. We explored the harsh realities of animal and domestic abuse, the interconnectedness of these issues, and the importance of community advocacy. Join us next time as we continue to shine a light on the stories and efforts that drive change for the voiceless. Together, let's advocate for a world where every animal is treated with the respect and kindness they deserve.

https://cp.cuyahogacounty.gov/court-resources/judges/judge-nancy-margaret-russo/

All footage is owned by SLA Video Productions.

Safe Sleep; Understanding Anesthesia in Pet Dental Care | SOP ep.28 - Dr. Hoffman & Dr. McKune Sep 11, 2024

Show notes

We have a dynamic duo with us today! First off, I don’t know if you all remember our favorite board-certified veterinary dentist, Dr. Sharon Hoffman. She was on the podcast a few episodes ago, and we had so many comments and questions about dental care and oral health that we just had to bring her back. We're thrilled she could join us again! Just to remind you, Sharon is not only a board-certified veterinary dentist but also a diplomat of the American Veterinary Dental College. She earned her DVM from Louisiana State University and now runs her own veterinary dental consulting practice in Florida, while also teaching at the University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine.

Now, on to the second part of our dynamic duo! We’re joined by Dr. Carolyn McKune, a Michigan native and proud Spartan. Carolyn earned her veterinary degree from Michigan State University, completed an internship at Washington State University, and then did a residency in anesthesia and critical care at UC Davis. She became board-certified in 2009 and, after a stint on the faculty at the University of Florida, launched her own independent anesthesia consulting service, Methos Veterinary.

In this enlightening episode, we dive into the critical topic of anesthesia safety in dental care for pets, join us as they discuss the essential role of anesthesia in veterinary procedures and demystify common myths surrounding it.

Dr. McKune emphasizes the importance of a veterinarian's thorough preoperative evaluation, highlighting how anxiety can affect pets prior to dental visits. She explains the anesthesia period, which encompasses not just the procedure itself but also the pre- and post-operative care that is crucial for a safe recovery.

Dr. Hoffman shares insights on why anesthesia is necessary for comprehensive dental care and the risks associated with not using it. Together, they address frequently asked questions from pet owners, including the significance of IV catheters, the realities of anesthesia recovery, and how to prepare pets for surgery.

Throughout the episode, the duo debunks several misconceptions, such as the idea that smaller pets are inherently more at risk during anesthesia. They also discuss the importance of pain management and the individual considerations needed for pets with pre-existing conditions.

Whether you’re a seasoned pet owner or new to the world of veterinary care, this episode is packed with valuable information that will help you understand the safety protocols surrounding anesthesia in dental procedures, ensuring your furry friends receive the best care possible. Tune in for a thoughtful discussion that prioritizes the health and well-being of our beloved pets!

Mission K9 - Rescuing & Reuniting Retired Military Dogs. Paws of Valor | SOP Ep.27 - Bob Bryant Sep 05, 2024

Show notes

This episode we're beyond lucky to have Bob Bryant, co-founder of Mission K9 Rescue, joining us. Ever wondered what happens to military, contract, and police working dogs after they've served their time? Most people don’t, but Bob and his team have made it their mission to rescue, reunite, and rehabilitate these incredible dogs, many of whom are left behind in foreign countries, deemed nothing more than excess equipment. This conversation will open your eyes to the reality of their situation and the extraordinary work Mission Canine Rescue does to give these heroes the lives they deserve."Bob Bryant discusses the realities of military and police working dogs, particularly focusing on their care, training, and adoption post-service. His insights shed light on the complexities involved in handling these highly trained animals, from their language commands to the specific needs they have after retirement. Bob also touches on the financial and logistical challenges faced by organizations caring for retired working dogs, including the difficulties in securing funding and the importance of proper veterinary care.Alice and Janet's interjections emphasize the challenges of corporate ownership in veterinary practices, the costs associated with pet care, and the dedication required to maintain these dogs' well-being. Bob's story about adopting retired working dogs, especially with the example of JD and Attila, highlights the emotional connections formed between handlers and their dogs, even after years of separation.https://missionk9rescue.org/ Support our sponsor for this episode Blue Buffalo by visiting bluebuffalo.com. BLUE Natural Veterinary Diet formulas offer the natural alternative in nutritional therapy. At Blue Buffalo, we have an in-house Research & Development (R&D) team with over 300 years’ experience in well-pet and veterinary therapeutic diets, over 600 scientific publications, and over 50 U.S. patents. At Blue Buffalo, we have an in-house Research & Development (R&D) team with over 300 years’ experience in well-pet and veterinary therapeutic diets, over 600 scientific publications, and over 50 U.S. patents. All footage is owned by SLA Video Productions.

Street Dog Coalition's Mission of Helping People & Their Pets | SOP ep. 26 - Dr. Constanze Goricki Aug 28, 2024

Show notes

In this episode of Speaking of Pets, we’re thrilled to welcome Dr. Constanze Goricki, a veterinarian with a remarkable journey. After earning her veterinary degree in Munich, Germany, Dr. Goricki completed an internship in small animal medicine and surgery at the University of Pennsylvania College of Veterinary Medicine. She then went on to serve as a vet for Marineland and the Florida Stranding Network, both of which we'll dive into with plenty of questions.

Two years ago, Dr. Goricki became the head of the Jacksonville team for the Street Dog Coalition, an organization dedicated to providing veterinary care to the pets of people who are homeless or at risk of homelessness. In this episode, we explore her path to joining the Street Dog Coalition and the incredible work she does to support pets and their owners in need.

Dr. Goricki shares the challenges and rewards of her work, explaining how the Street Dog Coalition helps bridge the gap between pet care and human health. We also discuss the importance of the human-animal bond, especially for those in vulnerable situations, and how this connection can often be a lifeline. Tune in to hear her inspiring story and learn more about the impact this work has on both pets and their people.

https://www.thestreetdogcoalition.org/jacksonville-fl

All footage is owned by SLA Video Productions.

The Summit County Humane Society’s $10 Million Dollar Mission of Hope | SOP ep. 25 - Louise DiLullo Aug 21, 2024

Show notes

In this episode, we dive into the world of animal welfare with a special focus on the Humane Society of Summit County, Akron, Ohio. Join Alice and Janet as they recount Alice's recent visit to the newly constructed $10 million facility—a state-of-the-art haven designed with meticulous care to address the health and safety needs of the animals it houses. From advanced air exchange systems to thoughtful design elements, Alice sheds light on the often-overlooked complexities of building such a facility.

We're also thrilled to welcome Louise DiLullo, the Director of Capital Campaign and Major Gifts for the Humane Society of Summit County. Louise shares the incredible journey behind the construction of this new facility, including the challenges and triumphs of fundraising to meet the $10 million goal—an impressive feat largely achieved through community donations. She explains the strategic planning that went into creating a space that not only meets the current needs of the animals but also anticipates future growth, all while keeping the community's support at the forefront.

But that's not all—Alice and Janet discuss the Humane Society’s many offerings, from their mobile unit to the annual Pawsibility Ball, a family favorite that doubles as a reunion and a major fundraising event. Plus, they give a shout out to the Happy Tales Humane Society Thrift Shop, a must-visit spot for anyone looking to support the cause.

Whether you're an animal lover, a supporter of community-driven initiatives, or just curious about the behind-the-scenes efforts that make such projects possible, this episode has something for you. Tune in to hear more about the incredible work being done to give animals in Summit County a second chance at life.

https://www.summithumane.org/

All footage is owned by SLA Video Productions.

Essential Pet Emergency Care Tips | SOP ep. 24 - Dr. Karl Jandrey Aug 14, 2024

Show notes

In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Karl Jandrey, a seasoned ER veterinarian, to explore critical topics every pet owner should know. We cover the importance of urinary catheters for cats and how to handle seasonal injuries that pets might face. Dr. Jandrey also discusses the dangers of household toxins, including medications, toxic plants, and the growing concern of marijuana ingestion.

We dive into the serious risks of antifreeze exposure, particularly in toilets, and how to handle snakebites during the summer months. Dr. Jandrey shares vital information on how to recognize and respond to seizures and fainting in pets, and even walks us through the steps of performing CPR on our furry friends.

Lastly, we explore the breeds predisposed to heart disease, with a focus on small breeds and hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM). This episode is packed with life-saving insights that every pet parent needs to hear. Don’t miss it!

Our TOPPODCAST Picks

Follow Us

Stay Connected

Speaking of Pets

Related Podcasts

Links

Stay Connected