You’ve cut the treats. You’re walking them more. They still haven’t lost weight, so you assume you’re doing something wrong.You’re probably not. Dr Ernie Ward has spent over twenty years on pet obesity, and his message is blunt: this was never simply about feeding less and exercising more. It’s biological, it’s medical, and “try harder” is why most weight-loss plans fail.In this episode:Why “feed less, exercise more” doesn’t work for most petsThe at-home check that tells you more than the scale ever willWhat excess weight is quietly doing to joints, and the link to diabetes⁠Why treats aren’t the enemy, and how to keep them in the planThe one change this week that makes the biggest differenceDr Ernie Ward founded the Association for Pet Obesity Prevention. This conversation will change how you think about your pet’s weight, and take the guilt out of it.Connect with Dr Carra:Website: https://drcarra.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr_carraLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drcarra/Hillcrest Veterinary Hospital: https://hillcrestvets.co.za/Connect with Dr Ernie Ward:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drerniewardLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drernieward/Website: https://www.drernieward.com/Free Tools mentioned in this episode: http://petobesityprevention.org/ & http://worldpetobesity.org/Podcast Production:This Podcast is produced by Kythe Creative and filmed on-site at Hillcrest Veterinary Hospital.Kythe Creative: https://kythecreative.co.za/THIS EPISODE'S SPONSORS:Ultra Pet:This episode is sponsored by Ultra Pet, who has been scientifically formulating premium pet food for over 25 years. If you want to take the guesswork out of feeding your furry friends, give Ultra Pet a try. Check them out here at www.ultra-pet.co.zaJust For Pets:Just For Pets is proud to sponsor this episode of the Paws and Effect podcast. Visit their website for all your pet needs and find everything from toys to food and much more. The team over at Just For Pets believe that every pet deserves the best care possible, and that's why we offer a wide range of products to help keep your furry friend happy and healthy - Check them out at https://www.justforpets.co.za/FOR SPONSORSHIPS AND GUEST APPEARANCES, email us at [email protected], and we'll get in touch with you.Don't forget to LIKE this if you found it helpful, SUBSCRIBE for more episodes and content like this.

Your old dog is slowing down. Sleeping more. Taking the stairs carefully. He’s just getting old, right?Maybe. Or maybe he’s in pain, and “he’s just getting old” is one of those pet myths that sounds completely reasonable, right up until it costs your pet something.Vet Cat Henstridge joins us to take apart the pet advice that sounds sensible but isn’t, the stuff you’ve half-believed for years:“Bad breath is normal in dogs and cats”, what it’s actually telling you“He’s still eating, so he can’t be in pain”, why that’s not trueThe “natural remedy” trend that’s landing dogs at the emergency vetAre vets really paid off by “Big Kibble”? Cat answers straightHow to tell good pet advice from dangerous advice, before you act on itCat the Vet is a practising vet and one of the most trusted voices in UK pet care. This one will change how you read your feed.Connect with Dr Carra:Website: https://drcarra.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr_carraLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drcarra/Hillcrest Veterinary Hospital: https://hillcrestvets.co.za/Connect with Cat Henstridge:Instagram: @cat_the_vetLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cat-henstridgePodcast Production:This Podcast is produced by Kythe Creative and filmed onsite at Hillcrest Veterinary Hospital.Kythe Creative: https://kythecreative.co.za/THIS EPISODE'S SPONSORS:Ultra Pet:This episode is sponsored by Ultra Pet, who has been scientifically formulating premium pet food for over 25 years. If you want to take the guesswork out of feeding your furry friends, give Ultra Pet a try. Check them out here at www.ultra-pet.co.zaJust For Pets:Justforpets.co.za is proud to sponsor this episode of the Paws and Effect podcast. Visit their website for all your pet needs and find everything from toys to food and much more. The team over at Just For Pets believe that every pet deserves the best care possible, and that's why we offer a wide range of products to help keep your furry friend happy and healthy - Check them out at https://www.justforpets.co.za/FOR SPONSORSHIPS AND GUEST APPEARANCES, email us at [email protected], and we'll get in touch with you.Don't forget to LIKE this if you found it helpful, SUBSCRIBE for more episodes and content like this.

She trained to deliver babies. She ended up delivering goats, treating zebras, and running one of the busiest mixed animal clinics around, and she wouldn’t have it any other way.In this candid episode, veterinarian and practice owner Dr Christine Staten shares the unconventional path from aspiring obstetrician to veterinary clinic owner, and what it actually takes to build a veterinary business from scratch.She’s honest about the parts most people don’t talk about: the weight of practice ownership, imposter syndrome, and how she protects work-life balance in a profession known for burnout.Key topics:The leap from obstetrics dreams to large animal medicineWhat no one tells you about owning a veterinary practiceTreating the unusual patients, from goats to zebrasImposter syndrome and protecting your wellbeing in vet medBuilding and leading a team that lastsWhether you’re dreaming of owning a clinic, leading a team, or you just love the animals behind the medicine, Dr Staten offers a refreshingly hopeful take on where the veterinary profession is heading, and the flexibility, community, and passion that make it worth it.SPONSOR: Ultra PetCheck out Ultra Pets' new range here: https://ultra-pet.co.za/product/optimal-balance-adult/Connect with Dr Carra:Website: https://drcarra.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr_carraLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drcarra/Hillcrest Veterinary Hospital: https://hillcrestvets.co.za/Connect with Dr Christine Staten:Instagram: @dr.christinestatenLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-christine-statenPodcast Production:This Podcast is produced by Kythe Creative and filmed onsite at Hillcrest Veterinary Hospital.Kythe Creative: https://kythecreative.co.za/THIS EPISODE'S SPONSORS:Ultra Pet:This episode is sponsored by Ultra Pet, who has been scientifically formulating premium pet food for over 25 years. If you want to take the guesswork out of feeding your furry friends, give Ultra Pet a try. Check them out here at www.ultra-pet.co.zaJust For Pets:Justforpets.co.za is proud to sponsor this episode of the Paws and Effect podcast. Visit their website for all your pet needs and find everything from toys to food and much more. The team over at Just For Pets believe that every pet deserves the best care possible, and that's why we offer a wide range of products to help keep your furry friend happy and healthy - Check them out at https://www.justforpets.co.za/FOR SPONSORSHIPS AND GUEST APPEARANCES, email us at [email protected], and we'll get in touch with you.Don't forget to LIKE this if you found it helpful, SUBSCRIBE for more episodes and content like this.

Dog pulling, biting, lunging, or just flat-out not listening?In this raw and honest episode, dog trainer Tom Davis tears down the myths keeping owners and their dogs stuck.Tom exposes why so many “hopeless” and reactive cases land at his door after training failed elsewhere, and reveals the uncomfortable truth: the real breakdown is usually in the human–dog relationship, not the dog.He doesn’t sugarcoat it. Tom explains why “balanced training”, using clear boundaries and accountability, not just treats and praise, transforms dogs that “positive only” methods leave behind.He unpacks what socialisation actually means (hint: it isn’t letting your puppy greet every dog in sight), why neutrality beats excitement, and when avoiding a trigger quietly makes things worse instead of better.Then Tom says the part most trainers won’t: the industry’s egos and tribal warfare are costing dogs their lives. Owners get pushed toward one rigid ideology, the dog doesn’t improve, and the leash gets handed to a shelter. His message cuts through it, no dog is beyond help, but the help you choose matters more than you think.Whether you’ve got a new puppy or a serious behavioural case you’re on the brink of giving up on, this episode will challenge what you thought you knew and show you how to become the leader your dog actually needs.Key topics:Why most trainers fail difficult and reactive dogs, and what to do insteadThe pitfalls of trend-driven training (and why “positive only” might not be so positive)What “socialisation” really means, and why neutrality mattersAvoidance vs. real behavioural change: when to face triggers head-onHow to pick the right dog trainer for your situationThe hope, and the responsibility, every owner needs to hearLike, comment, and subscribe for more unfiltered expert insights into dog behaviour and training.SPONSOR: Ultra PetCheck out Ultra Pets' new range here: https://ultra-pet.co.za/product/premium-recipe-adult/Connect with Dr Carra:Website: https://drcarra.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr_carraLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drcarra/Hillcrest Veterinary Hospital: https://hillcrestvets.co.za/Connect with Tom Davis:Instagram: instagram.com/tomdavisYouTube: youtube.com/user/AmericasCanineEDPodcast Production:This Podcast is produced by Kythe Creative and filmed onsite at Hillcrest Veterinary Hospital.Kythe Creative: https://kythecreative.co.za/THIS EPISODE'S SPONSORS:Ultra Pet:This episode is sponsored by Ultra Pet, who has been scientifically formulating premium pet food for over 25 years. If you want to take the guesswork out of feeding your furry friends, give Ultra Pet a try. Check them out here at www.ultra-pet.co.zaJust For Pets:Justforpets.co.za is proud to sponsor this episode of the Paws and Effect podcast. Visit their website for all your pet needs and find everything from toys to food and much more. The team over at Just For Pets believe that every pet deserves the best care possible, and that's why we offer a wide range of products to help keep your furry friend happy and healthy - Check them out at https://www.justforpets.co.za/FOR SPONSORSHIPS AND GUEST APPEARANCES, email us at [email protected], and we'll get in touch with you.Don't forget to LIKE this if you found it helpful, SUBSCRIBE for more episodes and content like this.

Most veterinarians graduate knowing how to save lives. Almost none of them graduate knowing how to manage money, price their services without guilt, or build a business they can actually exit one day.In this episode, financial advisors Tom Seeko and CJ Burnett, from Florida Veterinary Advisors, get honest about the financial realities of veterinary medicine, the guilt, the misconceptions, the burnout that isn’t really burnout, and the practice ownership mistakes that are quietly eroding what should be one of the most rewarding careers there is.This isn’t a conversation about investment products or spreadsheets. It’s about the mindset and habits that either build financial freedom or silently prevent it, and why so many intelligent, dedicated professionals end up on the wrong side of that line.If you’re a new graduate, a practice owner, or somewhere in between, and money feels like the thing nobody in your profession talks about honestly, this one’s for you.SPONSOR: Ultra PetCheck out Ultra Pets' new range here: https://ultra-pet.co.za/product/premium-recipe-adult/Connect with Dr Carra:Website: https://drcarra.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr_carraLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drcarra/Hillcrest Veterinary Hospital: https://hillcrestvets.co.za/Connect with Tom Seeko:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flveterinaryadvisors/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tomseeko/Connect with CJ Burnett:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flveterinaryadvisors/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cj-burnett-0805a02b/Podcast Production:This Podcast is produced by Kythe Creative and filmed onsite at Hillcrest Veterinary Hospital.Kythe Creative: https://kythecreative.co.za/THIS EPISODE'S SPONSORS:Ultra Pet:This episode is sponsored by Ultra Pet, who has been scientifically formulating premium pet food for over 25 years. If you want to take the guesswork out of feeding your furry friends, give Ultra Pet a try. Check them out here at www.ultra-pet.co.zaJust For Pets:Justforpets.co.za is proud to sponsor this episode of the Paws and Effect podcast. Visit their website for all your pet needs and find everything from toys to food and much more. The team over at Just For Pets believe that every pet deserves the best care possible, and that's why we offer a wide range of products to help keep your furry friend happy and healthy - Check them out at https://www.justforpets.co.za/FOR SPONSORSHIPS AND GUEST APPEARANCES, email us at [email protected], and we'll get in touch with you.Don't forget to LIKE this if you found it helpful, SUBSCRIBE for more episodes and content like this.

In this fascinating episode, I was privileged to talk about my favourite topic: cats! Together, Mikel Delgado, author of Play With Your Cat, and I explored the mysterious world of cat behaviour.Discover why cats can be so perplexing, how their subtle body language differs from dogs', and the emotions they really feel, including love, grief, and anxiety.The conversation explores what makes cats happy, signs of stress owners often miss, and how to foster a genuine bond with your feline companion, on your cat’s terms.Learn why play is crucial for cats of all ages, how to enrich your indoor cat’s life, and get expert advice for managing tricky issues like multi-cat households, fighting, and boredom.Perfect for cat lovers, pet owners, and anyone wanting to understand the secret lives of their feline friends!Tune in for science-backed tips, heartwarming stories, and practical strategies to make your cat’s life (and yours!) happier and healthier.SPONSOR: Ultra PetCheck out Ultra Pets new range here: https://ultra-pet.co.za/product/optimal-balance-adult/Connect with Dr Carra:Website: https://drcarra.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr_carraLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drcarra/Hillcrest Veterinary Hospital: https://hillcrestvets.co.za/Connect with Dr Mikel:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mikel.delgado/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mikel-delgado/Podcast Production:This Podcast is produced by Kythe Creative and filmed onsite at Hillcrest Veterinary Hospital.Kythe Creative: https://kythecreative.co.za/THIS EPISODE'S SPONSORS:Ultra Pet:This episode is sponsored by Ultra Pet, who has been scientifically formulating premium pet food for over 25 years. If you want to take the guesswork out of feeding your furry friends, give Ultra Pet a try. Check them out here at www.ultra-pet.co.zaJust For Pets:Justforpets.co.za is proud to sponsor this episode of the Paws and Effect podcast. Visit their website for all your pet needs and find everything from toys to food and much more. The team over at Just For Pets believe that every pet deserves the best care possible, and that's why we offer a wide range of products to help keep your furry friend happy and healthy - Check them out at https://www.justforpets.co.za/FOR SPONSORSHIPS AND GUEST APPEARANCES, Email us at [email protected], and we'll get in touch with you.Don't forget to LIKE this if you found it helpful, SUBSCRIBE for more episodes and content like this.

Join us for an informative episode with Adam Wickens, the creator behind Wickens Wicked Reptiles, one of YouTube’s largest reptile education platforms.In this episode, Adam shares the must-know facts for anyone considering a bearded dragon, exposes the common myths and mistakes new owners make, and explains the fine line between keeping your reptile alive and helping it truly thrive.Discover:Why bearded dragons are such popular pets, and what makes them uniqueThe real lifespan (hint: it’s a big commitment!)The difference between surviving and thriving, and common welfare issues often overlookedEssential first steps for new owners: set-up, enclosure debates, lighting, temperature, and moreThe truth about substrates, diet, humidity, handling, and “beardie” personalitiesCommon health pitfalls (and how to avoid them)The correct way to handle and bond with your bearded dragon (without stressing them out)Myths from pet stores that drive reptile experts crazyWhether you’re a first-time reptile owner or a seasoned enthusiast, this episode is packed with practical advice, fascinating insights, and behind-the-scenes stories from one of the hobby’s most respected voices.Don’t risk your new pet’s wellbeing, listen in and set yourself (and your dragon!) up for success.Subscribe to Wickens Wicked Reptiles for more expert videos and tips!SPONSOR: Ultra PetCheck out Ultra Pets' new range here: https://ultra-pet.co.za/product/optimal-balance-adult/Connect with Dr Carra:Website: drcarra.com/Instagram: dr_carraLinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/drcarra/Hillcrest Veterinary Hospital: hillcrestvets.co.za/Connect with Adam:YouTube: wickenswickedreptilesInstagram: wickenswickedreptilesPodcast Production:This Podcast is produced by Kythe Creative and filmed onsite at Hillcrest Veterinary Hospital.Kythe Creative: https://kythecreative.co.za/THIS EPISODE'S SPONSORS:Ultra Pet:This episode is sponsored by Ultra Pet, which has been scientifically formulating premium pet food for over 25 years. If you want to take the guesswork out of feeding your furry friends, give Ultra Pet a try. Check them out here at www.ultra-pet.co.zaJust For Pets:Justforpets.co.za is proud to sponsor this episode of the Paws and Effect podcast. Visit their website for all your pet needs and find everything from toys to food and much more. The team over at Just For Pets believe that every pet deserves the best care possible, and that's why we offer a wide range of products to help keep your furry friend happy and healthy - Check them out at https://www.justforpets.co.za/FOR SPONSORSHIPS AND GUEST APPEARANCES, Email us at [email protected], and we'll get in touch with you.Don't forget to LIKE this if you found it helpful, SUBSCRIBE for more episodes and content like this.

What happens when a chance pet store encounter transforms not only your life but an entire online community’s understanding of rabbits?In this deeply personal and insight-packed episode, Lorelei Carlson, creator of beloved rabbit care content and champion for responsible pet ownership, shares her extraordinary journey.From adopting her first rabbit, Lennon, on a whim during a low point in her life, to building a vibrant platform that educates millions about proper rabbit care, Lorelei discusses the myths and realities of bunny ownership, why rabbits aren’t easy pets, and the emotional bonds these intelligent animals form with their humans.Lorelei opens up about the challenges, rewards, and heartbreaks of life with rabbits: the joy of meaningful connection, the importance of bunny-proofing and enrichment, common mistakes new owners make, and how to tell if a rabbit is healthy or unhappy.She offers practical advice for families, talks candidly about coping with loss, and reminds us that rabbits are anything but low-maintenance pets.Whether you’re a long-time rabbit lover or simply curious about what makes these unique creatures such compelling companions, this conversation is packed with wisdom, warmth, and moments that will make you rethink everything you thought you knew about bunnies.Don’t miss this inspiring episode that’s a must-listen for any animal lover!LIKE & SUBSCRIBE for more thought-provoking episodes on wildlife, animal behaviour, and building a better world for all species.SPONSOR: Ultra PetCheck out Ultra Pets new range here: https://ultra-pet.co.za/product/premium-recipe-adult/Connect with Dr Carra:Website: https://drcarra.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr_carraLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drcarra/Hillcrest Veterinary Hospital: https://hillcrestvets.co.za/Connect with Lorelei:YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@LennonTheBunnyInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/loreleicarlsonPodcast Production:This Podcast is produced by Kythe Creative and filmed onsite at Hillcrest Veterinary Hospital.Kythe Creative: https://kythecreative.co.za/THIS EPISODE'S SPONSORS:Ultra Pet:This episode is sponsored by Ultra Pet, who has been scientifically formulating premium pet food for over 25 years. If you want to take the guesswork out of feeding your furry friends, give Ultra Pet a try. Check them out here at www.ultra-pet.co.zaJust For Pets:Justforpets.co.za is proud to sponsor this episode of the Paws and Effect podcast. Visit their website for all your pet needs and find everything from toys to food and much more. The team over at Just For Pets believe that every pet deserves the best care possible, and that's why we offer a wide range of products to help keep your furry friend happy and healthy - Check them out at https://www.justforpets.co.za/FOR SPONSORSHIPS AND GUEST APPEARANCES, Email us at [email protected], and we'll get in touch with you.Don't forget to LIKE this if you found it helpful, SUBSCRIBE for more episodes and content like this.

Reptile expert and passionate conservationist Lance Jeffery joins us for an eye-opening, heartfelt conversation about shaking up wildlife education and animal care in South Africa.From wild tales of zoo life and international animal rescue, to the dream of inspiring the next generation of conservation leaders, including nurturing the next generation of Steve Irwins, Lance shares his journey, insights on running a new local conservation centre, and why changing perceptions about snakes (and all animals) is at the heart of true conservation.Watch the episode as Lance breaks down important topics such as the real reason behind snake fears, what it takes to educate communities “outside the textbook,” and the crucial difference between a zoo and a true conservation centre. Discover thought-provoking debates about exotic pets, illegal wildlife trade, and why knowing your animal’s needs is non-negotiable.Hands-on moments, behind-the-scenes stories, and unforgettable animal guests make this not just an episode, but an experience you won’t want to miss.Whether you love wildlife or are just curious, Lance’s energy, real talk, and the team’s supportive mission will leave you inspired to see conservation in a whole new way!👉 LIKE & SUBSCRIBE for more thought-provoking episodes on wildlife, animal behaviour, and building a better world for all species.SPONSOR: Ultra PetCheck out Ultra Pets' new range here: https://ultra-pet.co.za/product/premium-recipe-adult/Connect with Dr Carra:Website: https://drcarra.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr_carraLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drcarra/Hillcrest Veterinary Hospital: https://hillcrestvets.co.za/Connect with Lance Jeffery:YouTube: @thejunglezaInstagram: the_jungle_zaPodcast Production:This Podcast is produced by Kythe Creative and filmed onsite at Hillcrest Veterinary Hospital.Kythe Creative: https://kythecreative.co.za/THIS EPISODES SPONSORS:Ultra Pet:This episode is sponsored by Ultra Pet, who has been scientifically formulating premium pet food for over 25 years. If you want to take the guesswork out of feeding your furry friends, give Ultra Pet a try. Check them out here at www.ultra-pet.co.zaJust For Pets:Justforpets.co.za is proud to sponsor this episode of the Paws and Effect podcast. Visit their website for all your pet needs and find everything from toys to food and much more. The team over at Just For Pets believe that every pet deserves the best care possible, and that's why we offer a wide range of products to help keep your furry friend happy and healthy - Check them out at https://www.justforpets.co.za/FOR SPONSORSHIPS AND GUEST APPEARANCES, Email us at [email protected], and we'll get in touch with you.Don't forget to LIKE this if you found it helpful, SUBSCRIBE for more episodes and content like this.

Step into the unpredictable world of emergency veterinary medicine with Brooke Schampers, a vet who has taken social media by storm by sharing the raw, unfiltered realities of her high-stakes career.In this candid conversation, Brooke pulls back the curtain on what really happens after hours: from pattern recognition and life-saving split-second decisions to the emotional and physical toll of night shifts.Discover why mentorship matters, how to avoid burnout and compassion fatigue, and the practical tips every young vet (and pet owner) should know.We also talk about dealing with client expectations and finances, navigating the pressures of veterinary social media, and building a fulfilling identity outside the clinic.Whether you’re a vet, a student, an animal lover, or simply curious about a life lived on the edge of chaos and compassion, this episode is packed with real talk, actionable wisdom, and inspiration for anyone passionate about the world of animals and the humans who care for them.Don’t miss Brooke’s honest reflections on resilience, recognising red flags, and why preserving joy is the ultimate key to surviving and thriving in veterinary medicine.SPONSOR: Ultra PetCheck out Ultra Pets new range here: https://ultra-pet.co.za/product/premium-recipe-adult/Connect with Dr Carra:Website: https://drcarra.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr_carraLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drcarra/Hillcrest Veterinary Hospital: https://hillcrestvets.co.za/Connect with Dr Brooke Schampers:Website: https://drbrookeschampers.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brooke_champers/Podcast Production:This Podcast is produced by Kythe Creative and filmed onsite at Hillcrest Veterinary Hospital.Kythe Creative: https://kythecreative.co.za/THIS EPISODE'S SPONSORS:Ultra Pet:This episode is sponsored by Ultra Pet, who has been scientifically formulating premium pet food for over 25 years. If you want to take the guesswork out of feeding your furry friends, give Ultra Pet a try. Check them out here at www.ultra-pet.co.zaJust For Pets:Justforpets.co.za is proud to sponsor this episode of the Paws and Effect podcast. Visit their website for all your pet needs and find everything from toys to food and much more. The team over at Just For Pets believe that every pet deserves the best care possible, and that's why we offer a wide range of products to help keep your furry friend happy and healthy - Check them out at https://www.justforpets.co.za/FOR SPONSORSHIPS AND GUEST APPEARANCES, Email us at [email protected] and we'll get in touch with you.Don't forget to LIKE this if you found it helpful, SUBSCRIBE for more episodes and content like this.