Episodes
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In this episode of the Family Pet Podcast, the hosts discuss the various risks associated with Halloween for pets, including the dangers of candy ingestion and the anxiety pets may experience due to costumes and trick-or-treaters. Dr. Kerrie Robinson provides insights on how to keep pets safe during the holiday, including tips for managing their anxiety and ensuring they are secure. The episode concludes with fun Halloween facts and a reminder for pet owners to stay informed and proactive about their pets' health and safety during this festive time.
Takeaways
The biggest risk for pets during Halloween is accidental ingestion of candies.
Pet owners should contact their veterinarian immediately if their pet ingests candy.
Keeping pets in a separate room during trick-or-treating can reduce anxiety.
Microchipping pets can help in case they escape during Halloween.
Halloween decorations and costumes can be frightening for pets.
Using sound machines or loud music can help mask doorbell sounds.
It's important to consider a pet's temperament before taking them trick-or-treating.
The pet poison helpline is available 24/7 for emergencies.
Americans are projected to spend three billion dollars on Halloween candy this year.
Keywords
Halloween, pet safety, pet health, Halloween risks, pet anxiety, pet care, trick or treating, pet poison helpline, pet emergency, pet owners -
In this episode of the Family Pet Podcast, hosts Michael and Stephen Shirley and guest Aileen Cronin discuss how to prepare your home and your dog for the arrival of a new baby. Aileen , the owner of Baby Pack Leader, shares her expertise as a dog trainer and offers valuable tips for introducing dogs to babies. The conversation covers topics such as crate training, establishing boundaries, and teaching dogs the difference between their toys and the baby's toys. Aileen emphasizes the importance of starting early and being intentional about building a positive relationship between the dog and the baby.
Check out Aileen's website at: Baby Pack Leader
Takeaways
Start early and be intentional about preparing your home and your dog for the arrival of a new baby
Establish a crate training routine to give your dog a safe space and a break from the baby
Remove access to the baby's sleeping areas and teach the dog the difference between their toys and the baby's toys
Focus on parallel play and side-by-side interactions between the dog and the baby to build a positive relationship
Be patient and take your time in introducing the dog and the baby at each stage of the child's development
Keywords
family pet podcast, preparing home for baby, introducing dogs to babies, crate training, establishing boundaries, dog and baby relationship -
Episodes manquant?
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In this episode of the Family Pet Podcast, the hosts interview Michael Leung, the co-founder and chief product developer of SleepyPod, a pet carrier and safety products manufacturer. They discuss the importance of pet safety during car travel and the innovative products SleepyPod has developed to keep pets secure. They also talk about the crash testing process and the need for standardized regulations for pet products in cars.
Sleepypod Youtube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@sleepypod
Center for Pet Safety
Takeaways
Pet safety during car travel is crucial to protect both the pet and the occupants of the car.
SleepyPod offers a range of innovative products, including carriers and harnesses, that are designed to keep pets secure during car travel.
The crash testing process is used to ensure that SleepyPod products meet safety standards and can withstand impact forces.
There is a need for standardized regulations for pet products in cars to ensure consistent safety measures.
pet safety, car travel, SleepyPod, pet carriers, harnesses, crash testing, standardized regulations, trivia -
Register now for the 5th Annual Walk My Dog Challenge
In this episode of the Family Pet Podcast, the hosts discuss the different life stages of dogs and the specific health concerns associated with each stage. They cover topics such as vaccinations, dental care, diet and exercise, and joint health. They emphasize the importance of regular veterinary check-ups and preventive care to ensure the overall health and well-being of dogs.
Takeaways
Dogs go through three main life stages: puppy, adult, and senior.
Puppies require vaccinations, proper diet, socialization, and prevention of dietary indiscretions.
Adult dogs need annual vaccinations, dental care, proper diet and exercise, and regular blood work.
Senior dogs may experience joint and arthritis issues, so joint protectants and labradoras can help with pain management.
Regular veterinary check-ups and preventive care are crucial for dogs at every life stage.
Keywords
dogs, life stages, health concerns, vaccinations, dental care, diet, exercise, joint health, preventive care, veterinary check-ups, sense of smell
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Wardrobe Change
06:00 Subcategories of Puppy Stage
13:12 Vaccinations for Puppies
22:37 Prevention and Vaccinations for Adult Dogs
27:55 Blood Work and Other Concerns for Senior Dogs -
In this episode of the Family Pet Podcast, the hosts interview Amy Shojai, a certified animal behavior consultant, about aging in cats. They discuss the physical and behavioral changes that cats experience as they get older, such as muscle wasting, hearing loss, and picky eating. Amy provides tips on how to keep senior cats active and engaged, including using food puzzle toys, providing vertical spaces, and playing with them. She also emphasizes the importance of understanding a cat's love language and meeting their needs on their terms.
https://shop.shojai.com/
https://shojai.com/
Keywords
aging in cats, physical changes, behavioral changes, muscle wasting, hearing loss, picky eating, keeping cats active, food puzzle toys, vertical spaces, playing with cats, cat love language
00:00 Introduction and Credentials
00:57 The Influence of Dr. David Harris
02:12 Specialization in Aging Pets
05:06 Behavioral and Physical Changes in Aging Cats
09:22 Encouraging Exercise in Older Cats
14:00 Feeding and Nutrition for Aging Cats
20:32 Showing Love to Senior Cats
22:36 Feline Love Languages
26:54 Top Considerations for Owners of Aging Cats
27:31 Book Recommendation and Closing -
In this episode of the Family Pet Podcast, the hosts discuss the different life stages of cats and the important aspects of their healthcare. They are joined by Kristal Stanfield, a licensed veterinary technician, who provides valuable insights. The primary themes covered in the conversation include the life stages of cats (kitten, adult, and senior), the importance of vaccines and prevention, the role of diet and exercise, dental care, and reproductive health. The hosts also touch on the topics of urinary tract issues, weight management, and joint health. The episode concludes with fun facts about fleas and ticks.
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Register now for the annual Walk My Dog Challenge!
The Family Pet Podcast discusses the fifth annual Walk My Dog Challenge, an event that encourages pet owners to walk their dogs and track their miles for a chance to win prizes. Originally, this was created for the dog-loving people of Murfreesboro, Tennessee, but now we have walkers registered from all over the world! The challenge is free to participate in and runs from April 29th to June 28th. The podcast hosts provide tips on equipment needed for walking dogs, such as harnesses and leashes, and emphasize the importance of proper training and manners during walks. They also mention the involvement of local businesses as sponsors and the opportunity for participants to win prizes from these sponsors. The episode concludes with a fun fact about greyhounds being able to run faster than horses in sprints.
Check out Wag It Better Dog Training and Boutique owned by Heather Moore. -
In this episode, Dr. Angela Briggs, a boarded veterinary dentist, discusses the importance of dental health for pets. She explains the role of a boarded veterinary dentist and the common conditions and treatments they encounter. Dr. Briggs also provides insights into root canals and fractured teeth, as well as the structure of a tooth. She emphasizes the importance of assessing dental health and the use of dental radiographs. Additionally, Dr. Briggs shares tips for preventing dental injuries and highlights common dental issues in cats.
Check out Dr. Briggs at Your Pet Dentist -
In this episode, Dr. Ben Bergstrom, a boarded veterinary ophthalmologist, discusses various aspects of veterinary ophthalmology. He explains the difference between ophthalmology and optometry, the basics of the eye across different species, and the most common species he treats. Dr. Bergstrom also highlights the importance of early detection in eye conditions and the benefits of cataract surgery. He shares a fun fact about dogs' night vision and emphasizes the role of preventive care in maintaining pets' eye health.
Takeaways
Ophthalmology focuses on the practice of medicine and surgery for the eye, while optometry is more concerned with the study of vision.The basics of the eye, such as corneal thickness and curvature, can vary across different species.Certain breeds, such as Bulldogs and Boston Terriers, are predisposed to eye conditions and should be monitored regularly.Early detection of eye conditions can help preserve vision and improve the quality of life for pets.Cataract surgery can restore vision in pets and significantly enhance their overall well-being.Check out Dr. Bergstrom and his practice, The Eye Vets located in Nashville, TN
Read an article about Fear Free eye exams by host, Michael Shirley
Check out The Family Pet Podcast YouTube channel.
Chapters00:00
Introduction01:13
Introduction of Dr. Ben Bergstrom02:12
Difference between Ophthalmology and Optometry03:07
The Basics of the Eye Across Species04:34
Becoming a Boarded Ophthalmologist05:02
Choosing Ophthalmology as a Specialty06:02
The Eye Across Different Species07:50
Most Common Species Treated08:29
Treating Wildlife09:51
Reasons for Pets to Visit an Ophthalmologist10:41
Breeds Predisposed to Eye Conditions12:11
When to See an Ophthalmologist13:11
Tests for Eye Conditions17:35
Early Detection and Cost Benefit20:34
Senior Pets and Eye Care21:05
Importance of Early Detection23:20
Importance of Vision and Cataract Surgery25:28
Fun Fact: Dogs' Night Vision29:03
Conclusion -
Mikkel Becker, lead trainer at Fear Free Pets, joins the Family Pet Podcast to discuss fear, anxiety, and stress that pets experience during veterinary care. They cover the importance of protecting the emotional well-being of pets, the benefits of Fear Free certification for veterinary practices, and tips for preparing dogs and cats for vet visits. They also share fun facts about calming music and scents for pets. Overall, Fear Free veterinary care aims to reduce fear, anxiety, and stress in pets, creating a more positive and comfortable experience for both pets and their owners.
Fear Free Happy Homes website
Happy Paws Podcast
Donate to Michael's St Baldrick's Foundation fundraising page!
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Podcast Format
03:01 Fear Free Pets and Emotional Well-being
06:19 Fear Free Certification and Common Themes
09:27 Why Pets Fear Visiting the Veterinarian
11:59 Fear Free Certified Veterinary Practice
15:15 Preparing a Dog for a Vet Visit
24:21 Benefits of Fear Free Veterinary Care
29:27 Fun Facts about Fear Free Veterinary Care -
In this episode, Dr. Holly Brown from Antec Diagnostics continues the discussion about lab testing. The sensitivity and specificity of the CBC test are explained, highlighting its ability to detect abnormalities but not always provide specific information about the underlying disease process. The importance of further testing and interpreting lab results with veterinary professionals is emphasized. The role of the chemistry test in assessing organ function is discussed, along with the significance of heartworm testing and prevention. The episode concludes with a reminder for pet owners to prioritize annual blood work for their pets.
Takeaways
The CBC test is sensitive but not always specific, meaning it can detect abnormalities but may not provide specific information about the underlying disease process.
Further testing, such as imaging or additional blood tests, may be necessary to determine the cause of abnormalities detected in the CBC.
Interpreting lab results should be done in consultation with veterinary professionals to ensure accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
The chemistry test assesses organ function and provides valuable information about a pet's overall health.
Heartworm testing is crucial for early detection and prevention of heartworm disease, which can be deadly but is preventable.
Annual blood work is essential for establishing baselines, monitoring health, and detecting potential issues early. -
In this episode of the Family Pet Podcast, host Stephen and guest Dr. Holly Brown discuss the importance of lab work in pet healthcare. They cover topics such as the complete blood count (CBC), fecal testing, and urinalysis. They also explore the differences between in-house testing and reference labs. Dr. Brown emphasizes the value of baseline lab results and provides a fun fact about the origin of the word 'leukemia'. The episode concludes with a preview of Part 2, where they will delve deeper into specific aspects of lab testing.
Takeaways
Lab work is an essential part of pet healthcare and can provide valuable insights into a pet's overall health.
The complete blood count (CBC) is a comprehensive test that examines red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets.
Fecal testing helps detect gastrointestinal parasites and is crucial for both the pet's health and public health.
Urinalysis provides valuable information about kidney function, hydration status, and various metabolic processes.
Choosing between in-house testing and reference labs depends on factors such as urgency, convenience, and the range of available tests.
Performing lab work at different stages of a pet's life can establish baselines and detect abnormalities early on.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Funny Skits
01:24 Introducing the Family Pet Podcast and Guest
03:23 Lab Work and Its Importance
06:19 Understanding the Complete Blood Count (CBC)
09:09 Fecal Testing and its Significance
13:01 The Urinalysis and its Role in Diagnosis
16:31 In-House Testing vs. Reference Labs
19:24 When to Perform Lab Work
23:45 The Value of Baseline Lab Results
24:30 Fun Fact: The Origin of the Word 'Leukemia'
26:14 Conclusion and Preview of Part 2 -
In this episode, Justin Wallen teaches us the basics of keeping bugs and spiders as pets!
Check out his business Justin's Critters located in Lookout Mountain, Georgia. -
In this episode of the Family Pet Podcast, Dr. Christine Garrett discusses chronic kidney disease in pets. The kidneys act as filters, removing waste and maintaining electrolyte balance in the body. Chronic kidney disease is characterized by irreversible loss of kidney function. Common signs and symptoms include increased thirst, frequent urination, vomiting, and weight loss. Diagnosis involves physical exams, blood work, urinalysis, and imaging. Prevention strategies include maintaining hydration and avoiding toxins. Treatment options include dietary changes, fluid therapy, and medication. The life expectancy and quality of life for pets with chronic kidney disease vary depending on the cause and treatment.
Takeaways
Chronic kidney disease in pets is characterized by irreversible loss of kidney function.
Common signs and symptoms include increased thirst, frequent urination, vomiting, and weight loss.
Diagnosis involves physical exams, blood work, urinalysis, and imaging.
Prevention strategies include maintaining hydration and avoiding toxins.
Treatment options include dietary changes, fluid therapy, and medication.
The life expectancy and quality of life for pets with chronic kidney disease vary depending on the cause and treatment.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction
01:00 Preventive Medicine and Chronic Kidney Disease
03:18 Function of the Kidneys
04:29 Electrolyte Balance and Kidney Function
06:05 Chronic Kidney Disease in Pets
08:30 Irreversible Loss of Kidney Function
09:26 Signs and Symptoms of Chronic Kidney Disease
11:10 Diagnosing Chronic Kidney Disease
12:31 Risk Factors for Chronic Kidney Disease
15:11 Chronic Kidney Disease in Dogs
17:40 Prevention of Chronic Kidney Disease
19:41 Treatment of Chronic Kidney Disease
23:02 Life Expectancy and Quality of Life
25:13 Closing Remarks -
In this episode of the Family Pet Podcast, we talk to Dr. David Levine and Ashley Wheeler LVMT to discuss rehabilitation for pets. They explain the purpose of rehab, which includes reinforcing post-operative surgeries and maximizing function in cases of arthritis or neurological conditions. The guests also highlight the importance of assessment and individualized treatment plans. They discuss various rehab techniques such as underwater treadmills and balance tools. Additionally, they provide tips for preventing the need for rehab, including maintaining a healthy weight and incorporating regular exercise. The episode concludes with fun facts about otters and the evolution of ear sizes in animals.
Takeaways
Rehabilitation for pets aims to reinforce post-operative surgeries and maximize function in cases of arthritis or neurological conditions.
Assessment is crucial in determining the progress of rehab and making necessary adjustments to the treatment plan.
Various techniques, such as underwater treadmills and balance tools, are used in pet rehabilitation.
Preventing the need for rehab can be achieved by maintaining a healthy weight and incorporating regular exercise.
Fun facts: Otters hold hands when they sleep, and the size of an animal's ears can vary based on its habitat.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Personal Experiences
02:19 Rehabilitation for Pets
05:23 The Purpose of Rehab
07:04 Comparison to Human Occupational Therapy
08:20 Rehabilitation Techniques
10:00 Prescribing Rehab Exercises
13:00 Duration of Treatment
14:12 Homework for Pet Parents
15:24 Assessing Improvement
17:16 Canine vs. Feline Rehabilitation
20:20 Exercise for Cats
23:02 Advancements in Animal Physical Therapy
25:58 Preventing the Need for Rehab
28:12 The Importance of Activity
29:21 Fun Facts
31:51 Closing Remarks -
Dr. Christiane Massicotte, a boarded veterinary neurologist with Veterinary Care and Specialty Group in Chattanooga, TN, joins the podcast to discuss various neurologic diseases in pets. She explains the role of a veterinary neurologist, which includes diagnosing and treating brain, spinal cord, nerve, and muscle diseases. One common condition she discusses is intervertebral disc disease (IVDD), which can cause herniated discs in pets. Dr. Massicotte emphasizes the importance of early intervention and proper diagnosis for successful treatment. She also highlights the signs that indicate a trip to the neurologist is necessary, such as seizures, abnormal behavior, and difficulty walking. Dr. Massicotte explains the treatment options available, including surgery, medication, and radiation therapy. She reassures pet parents that advancements in technology and treatment options have greatly improved outcomes for neurologic diseases. Dr. Massicotte concludes by providing hope and emphasizing the importance of improving the quality of life for pets with neurologic conditions.
Takeaways
A veterinary neurologist diagnoses and treats brain, spinal cord, nerve, and muscle diseases in pets.
Intervertebral disc disease (IVDD) is a common condition that can cause herniated discs in pets.
Signs that indicate a trip to the neurologist is necessary include seizures, abnormal behavior, and difficulty walking.
Treatment options for neurologic diseases include surgery, medication, and radiation therapy.
Advancements in technology and treatment options have greatly improved outcomes for pets with neurologic conditions.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction
01:38 What does a veterinary neurologist do?
03:02 Herniated discs in pets
05:11 Understanding intervertebral disc disease
07:13 Signs that a trip to the neurologist is needed
10:23 Referrals to a neurologist
12:59 Treatment options for neurologic diseases
16:22 Advancements in technology and treatment options
18:30 Treatment options for seizures
20:37 Providing hope and improving quality of life
23:21 Fun fact: 25% of blood is in the brain
25:00 Closing remarks -
In this episode of the Family Pet Podcast, Dr. Katelyn Marlowe discusses veterinary oncology and the similarities and differences between human and pet cancers. She explains the causes of cancer and the various ways it can be diagnosed in pets. Dr. Marlowe also explores the different treatment options available, including surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and targeted therapies. She emphasizes the importance of considering the pet's quality of life when making treatment decisions. The episode concludes with a fun fact about contagious cancers in dogs and Tasmanian devils.
Takeaways
Cancer in pets is similar to cancer in humans, with some types of cancer being more common in certain species.
Diagnosing cancer in pets often involves physical examinations, blood work, imaging tests, and biopsies.
Treatment options for cancer in pets include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and targeted therapies.
The cost of cancer treatment for pets can vary depending on the type of cancer and the chosen treatment approach.
It is important for pet owners to consider the pet's quality of life when making treatment decisions.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction
02:24 Introduction to Veterinary Oncology
04:20 Comparison of Human and Pet Cancers
06:00 Common Cancers in Animals
07:09 Understanding Cancer and its Effects
08:44 Causes of Cancer
09:00 Diagnosing Cancer in Pets
13:10 Use of AI in Cancer Diagnosis
15:50 Treatment Options for Cancer
20:26 Quality of Life Considerations
22:16 Financial Considerations
25:08 Definitions: Benign, Malignant, Metastasis, Margins, Systemic, Remission
30:47 Importance of Informed Decision-Making
32:02 Fun Fact: Contagious Cancers
34:35 Conclusion -
Summary
In this episode of the Family Pet Podcast, hosts Michael and Stephen Shirley are joined by Dr. Sam Bilko, a board-certified veterinarian specializing in emergency and critical care. They discuss the training and preparation required for emergency and critical care veterinarians, as well as the body's response in traumatic situations. Dr. Bilko explains the difference between emergency and critical care and provides an example of how they work together in cases of toxin ingestion. They also discuss the considerations for scheduling exams and the impact of COVID-19 on emergency care. The episode concludes with a fun fact about copper toxicity in pennies.Takeaways
Emergency and critical care veterinarians undergo extensive training in life-threatening emergencies and the ongoing care of critically ill patients.In traumatic situations, the body's response can lead to cardiovascular, respiratory, and neurologic changes.Emergency care focuses on immediate intervention and stabilization, while critical care involves ongoing monitoring and support in the ICU.Pet owners should consider pet insurance to help cover the costs of emergency and critical care.When seeking emergency care, pet owners should provide as much information as possible, including medications and medical records.Chapters
00:00
Introduction and Guest Introduction01:20
Understanding Critical Care Veterinary Medicine02:22
Training and Preparation for Emergency and Critical Care03:36
The Body's Response in Traumatic Situations04:22
Difference Between Emergency and Critical Care05:14
Example: Emergency and Critical Care for Toxin Ingestion06:55
Differences Between General Practice and Emergency Care07:52
Urgent Care vs. Emergency Care10:29
Considerations for Scheduling Exams11:57
Impact of COVID-19 on Emergency Care13:11
Showing Appreciation to Emergency Care Teams14:00
What to Bring to the Veterinary ER15:38
The Importance of Pet Insurance for Emergency Care16:52
Advice for Pet Owners in Emergency Situations17:30
The New Normal in Emergency Care18:58
Fun Fact: Copper Toxicity in Pennies20:30
Closing Remarks
Got a question for Michael and Stephen? Run across something interesting you want to share with the show? Do you have a topic idea for a future episode? Send it to us at [email protected].Thank you for joining us on The Family Pet Podcast! Don't forget to subscribe, and if you found this episode helpful, share it with fellow pet enthusiasts. Wishing you and your pets a Happy New Year!
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In this episode, the Michael and Stephen discuss the basics of reading a pet food label with guest Dr. Megan Sprinkle, the president of the American Academy of Veterinary Nutrition. They emphasize the importance of understanding pet food labels and making informed decisions about pet nutrition. The chapters cover topics such as the attraction to pet nutrition, the importance of a balanced diet, understanding calories on pet food labels, laws and regulations for pet food, and tips for choosing pet food. The episode concludes with a fun fact and information about Dr. Sprinkle's podcast, Vet Life Reimagined.
Links
The Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO)Dr. Sprinkle's podcast Vet Life Reimagined
Takeaways
Understanding pet food labels is crucial for making informed decisions about pet nutrition.Pet food labels should include a nutritional adequacy statement and specify the life stage the food is suitable for.Calories on pet food labels are listed in kilocalories per kilogram or kilocalories per cup.Ingredients on pet food labels are listed in order of weight before cooking.Consulting with a veterinarian and considering individual pet needs are important when choosing pet food.Chapters
00:00
Introduction01:26
Starting the New Year01:56
Getting into Pet Food03:40
Guest Introduction04:04
Guest's Attraction to Pet Nutrition05:30
Understanding Food Labels06:06
Importance of Reading Labels07:04
Balanced Diet for Pets08:49
Where to Start Reading Labels10:58
Calories on Pet Food Labels15:58
Nutritional Adequacy Statement17:15
Laws and Regulations for Pet Food20:26
Understanding Ingredients24:46
Tips for Choosing Pet Food29:04
Additional Resources30:56
Fun Fact33:36
Guest's Podcast33:56
Conclusion -
Summary
In this episode, Michael and Stephen recap their top five episodes of the year as voted on by themselves. They also mention some honorable mentions and discuss the impact of their guests on the show. The top five episodes cover a range of topics including dog sports, diabetes in pets, pet dentistry, cat ownership, and new treatments for canine arthritis. The hosts express their gratitude to the listeners and encourage them to leave reviews and share the podcast with others.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and New Year's Greetings
01:28 Honorable Mentions: Episode 68 with Dr. Amy Pike
03:21 Honorable Mention: Episode 71 with Dr. David Dycus
05:45 Honorable Mention: Episode 83 with Dr. Christine Garrett
09:38 Number 5: Episode 50 with Ashton Bemis on Dog Sports
13:22 Number 4: Episode 49 with Dr. Sarah Wooten on Diabetes in Pets
17:10 Number 3: Episode 47 with Bonita Altier on Pet Dentistry
19:57 Number 2: Episode 57 with Pam Johnson Bennett - Five things every cat owner should know
23:19 Number 1: Episode 73 with Dr. Tamara Grubb on New Treatment for Canine Arthritis
29:46 Conclusion and Fun Fact
Got a question for Michael and Stephen? Run across something interesting you want to share with the show? Do you have a topic idea for a future episode? Send it to us at [email protected].Thank you for joining us on The Family Pet Podcast! Don't forget to subscribe, and if you found this episode helpful, share it with fellow pet enthusiasts. Wishing you and your pets a Happy New Year!
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