Unleashed Curiosity: Dog & Cat Health, Nutrition & Vet Advice by Vital Pet Life

🐾 Tick season and wildfire smoke have more in common than you'd think, and it all shows up on your pet's skin and coat. In this episode, Dr. Amber Da Silva joins Donie to break down why summer is the season to pay closer attention to grooming, even when nothing looks obviously wrong on the surface. 🧴 How often to brush, bathe, and check your pet depending on coat type and climate 🌿 What to actually look for on a shampoo label (oatmeal, aloe vera, fragrance-free formulas) 🐟 Why omega-3 fatty acids support healthy skin and a glossy coat from the inside out 🐾 Simple paw checks that catch cuts, burns, and irritation before they become bigger issues A few extra minutes of grooming each week does double duty, keeping pets comfortable while helping pet parents catch small issues early. 🧴Previous episode on fragrances and chemicals: https://vitalpet.life/unleashed-curiosity-episode-83 🥵Previous episode guide on heat and hot paws: https://vitalpet.life/unleashed-curiosity-episode-106 ❤️ Connect with us: ᐧ Check out our website: http://www.unleashedcuriosity.com/ ᐧ LinkedIn: linkedin.com/showcase/unleashed-curiosity-podcast ᐧ Facebook - facebook.com/vitalpetlife ᐧ TikTok: @vitalpetlife ᐧ Instagram: @vitalpetlife ᐧ X: @vitalpetlife ᐧ YouTube: @vitalpetlife ᐧ Check out our website: www.vitalpetlife.com 🎧 You may also enjoy: Why Your Pet's Bad Behavior Is Actually Boredom And How to Fix It Today https://smartlink.ausha.co/unleashedcuriosity/why-your-pet-s-bad-behavior-is-actually-boredom-and-how-to-fix-it-today Music: Life of Riley by Kevin MacLeod (CC BY 4.0) Don't forget to follow us or send us your questions at hello@unleashedcuriosity.com . Thank you for tuning in! #PetHealth #DogGrooming #CatGrooming #PetCare #SkinAndCoat #TickSeason #PetParents #UnleashedCuriosity Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Most pet parents know the signs when something's physically wrong - limping, vomiting, a dull coat. Far fewer recognize the signs of a bored pet, even though boredom is one of the most common (and most overlooked) drivers of "bad behavior" in dogs, cats, and even birds. In this episode, Donie and Dr. Amber Da Silva, DVM unpack what boredom actually looks like across species, why it's becoming more common in modern pet households, and what pet parents can do about it today - no special equipment required. 🐾 What a bored dog, cat, or bird actually looks like day to day 🏠 Why boredom is becoming more common in modern pet households 🎯 Simple, no-equipment ways to add enrichment starting today The throughline: a bored pet isn't a badly behaved pet, and a bored-behaving pet isn't a sign of a bad pet parent. It's a signal, and it's fixable. ❤️ Connect with us: ᐧ Check out our website: http://www.unleashedcuriosity.com/ ᐧ LinkedIn: linkedin.com/showcase/unleashed-curiosity-podcast ᐧ Facebook - facebook.com/vitalpetlife ᐧ TikTok: @vitalpetlife ᐧ Instagram: @vitalpetlife ᐧ X: @vitalpetlife ᐧ YouTube: @vitalpetlife ᐧ Check out our website: www.vitalpetlife.com 🎧 You may also enjoy: Tick & Flea Season: What's Actually Happening to Your Dog This Summer https://smartlink.ausha.co/unleashedcuriosity/tick-flea-season-what-s-actually-happening-to-your-dog-this-summer Music: "Life of Riley" by Kevin MacLeod (CC BY 4.0) Don't forget to follow us or send us your questions at hello@unleashedcuriosity.com . Thank you for tuning in! #UnleashedCuriosity #VitalPetLife #DogBehavior #CatBehavior #PetEnrichment #PetHealth #DogCare #CatCare #PetParent #PetPodcast Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

"I found a tick on my dog and I feel terrible" - if that's you every summer, Dr. Amber Da Silva has good news: it's not on you. She joins Donie Yamamoto to explain what actually drives tick and flea activity this time of year, why it has almost nothing to do with how careful you've been, and the two-minute daily habit that catches problems before they become vet visits. In this episode: Why tick and flea activity ramps up every summer, and why it's not a parenting failure Where ticks and fleas actually come from, even on a short walk around the block What a real, thorough tick check looks like, and the areas that matter most The safest way to remove an attached tick What to watch for with fleas, and how to confirm it fast The three-part proactive routine that catches problems early ❤️ Connect with us: ᐧ Check out our website: http://www.unleashedcuriosity.com/ ᐧ LinkedIn: linkedin.com/showcase/unleashed-curiosity-podcast ᐧ Facebook - facebook.com/vitalpetlife ᐧ TikTok: @vitalpetlife ᐧ Instagram: @vitalpetlife ᐧ X: @vitalpetlife ᐧ YouTube: @vitalpetlife ᐧ Check out our website: www.vitalpetlife.com 🎧 You may also enjoy: The Science of Animal Consciousness: Do Dogs and Cats Really Feel Emotions? https://smartlink.ausha.co/unleashedcuriosity/the-science-of-animal-consciousness-do-dogs-and-cats-really-feel-emotions Music: "Life of Riley" by Kevin MacLeod (CC BY 4.0) Don't forget to follow us or send us your questions at hello@unleashedcuriosity.com . Thank you for tuning in! #UnleashedCuriosity #VitalPetLife #TickSeason #FleaSeason #DogHealth #PetHealth #DogCare #SummerPetCare #VetAdvice #PetPodcast Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Do animals really feel things — or are we just projecting? In this episode of Unleashed Curiosity, Donie and Dr. Amber dig into a new philosophy framework out of Michigan State University that's helping scientists figure out which animals are actually conscious. 🧠 The "marker" debate — what scientists look for to judge whether a creature can feel 🦀 Why hermit crabs are the surprising test case researchers keep coming back to 🐕🐈 What the science says about dogs and cats specifically (spoiler: it's good news) ❤️ Why trusting what you see in your own pet is backed by more science than you'd think Not a philosophy lecture — a grounded, real-talk look at why the science keeps landing closer to "yes, they feel more than we assumed." ❤️ Connect with us: ᐧ Facebook - facebook.com/vitalpetlife ᐧ TikTok: @vitalpetlife ᐧ Instagram: @vitalpetlife ᐧ X: @vitalpetlife ᐧ YouTube: @vitalpetlife ᐧ LinkedIn: linkedin.com/showcase/unleashed-curiosity-podcast ᐧ Check out our website - www.vitalpetlife.com 🎧 You may also enjoy: Therapy Dogs, Mental Health & Community Impact with Jody Williams https://smartlink.ausha.co/unleashedcuriosity/therapy-dogs-mental-health-community-impact-with-jody-williams Music: "Life of Riley" by Kevin MacLeod (CC BY 4.0) Don't forget to follow us or send us your questions at hello@unleashedcuriosity.com . Thank you for tuning in! #UnleashedCuriosity #VitalPetLife #AnimalConsciousness #PetHealth #DogBehavior #CatBehavior #PetScience #DogsOfInstagram #CatsOfInstagram #PetPodcast Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Therapy Dogs in Jails, Clinics & Airports: The Human-Animal Bond in Action In this episode of Unleashed Curiosity, Donie and Dr. Amber sit down with Jody Williams, Executive Director of Therapy Dogs of America and Therapy Dogs of Santa Barbara. Jody shares how her organization has taken the human-animal bond into places most people wouldn't expect - county jails, behavioral health clinics, airport terminals, and classrooms - and what she's seen change as a result. From a young man who hadn't left his jail cell in two months stepping out to meet a labrador, to clinic patients who show up because they know the dog will be there, Jody's stories from the front lines of animal-assisted support make the case better than any research paper. Topics covered: 🐾 How Therapy Dogs of Santa Barbara grew from a library reading program to a multi-site behavioral health partner 🏥 What the jail-based competency treatment program is and why therapy dogs fit in ✈️ The Santa Barbara Airport therapy dog program and the unexpected moments it creates 🐕 What makes a dog (and a handler) suited for this kind of work 💙 How to get involved if your dog has what it takes 💙 Connect with our guest, Jody Williams of Therapy Dogs America: ᐧ Website: Therapydogssb Therapy Dogs of America ᐧ Instagram: @therapydogssb and @therapydogsofamerica ᐧ Facebook: Facebook Therapy Dogs of Santa Barbara | Santa Barbara CA ❤️ Connect with us: ᐧ Facebook - facebook.com/vitalpetlife ᐧ TikTok: @vitalpetlife ᐧ Instagram: @vitalpetlife ᐧ X: @vitalpetlife ᐧ YouTube: @vitalpetlife ᐧ LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/vitalpetlife ᐧ Check out our website - www.vitalpetlife.com You may also enjoy: Is Your Dog or Cat Overweight? The 2-Year Difference Pet Parents Miss https://smartlink.ausha.co/unleashedcuriosity/is-your-dog-or-cat-overweight-the-2-year-difference-pet-parents-miss Music: "Life of Riley" by Kevin MacLeod (CC BY 4.0) Don't forget to follow us or send us your questions at podcast@vitalpetlife.com . Thank you for tuning in! #UnleashedCuriosity #VitalPetLife #PetHealth #TherapyDogs #HumanAnimalBond #DogMom #AnimalAssistedTherapy #DogTraining #PetPodcast #JodyWilliams Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Donie kicks things off with a confession: after a few weeks of extra treats and fewer walks in the heat, she's pretty sure her dogs Tuxedo and Jean Martin have put on some weight. Dr. Amber's in the same boat with her recently adopted dog Willow, who's on her own weight loss journey. It's perfect timing, because nearly 60% of pets in this country are overweight or obese right now, and pets at a healthy weight live an average of two years longer than those who aren't. Dr. Amber explains why this is almost never on the pet parent - it's a mix of highly palatable commercial food, treat marketing, spaying and neutering's effect on metabolism, and increasingly indoor, sedentary lifestyles for both dogs and cats. In this episode, we cover: Why overweight pets are the norm, not the exception - and why that's not your fault The 4 things every pet parent should know: daily calories, calories in current food, calories from treats, and body condition score The 3-point at-home check: rib, waist, and side profile Why it works across every breed and body type, from lean greyhounds to stout Frenchies Why keeping joints moving matters as a pet's weight comes down Whether you've got a dog, a cat, or both, tune in for a simple, no-guilt way to help your pet feel their best. 🐾 ❤️ Connect with us: ᐧ Facebook - facebook.com/vitalpetlife ᐧ TikTok: @vitalpetlife ᐧ Instagram: @vitalpetlife ᐧ X: @vitalpetlife ᐧ YouTube: @vitalpetlife ᐧ LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/vitalpetlife ᐧ Check out our website - www.vitalpetlife.com You may also enjoy: Your Pet in Bed: The Real Science on Sleep Disruption, Health Risks, and What a Vet Wants You to Know https://smartlink.ausha.co/unleashedcuriosity/your-pet-in-bed-the-real-science-on-sleep-disruption-health-risks-and-what-a-vet-wants-you-to-know Music: "Life of Riley" by Kevin MacLeod (CC BY 4.0) Don't forget to follow us or send us your questions at podcast@vitalpetlife.com . Thank you for tuning in! #PetHealth #DogHealth #PetWeightLoss #UnleashedCuriosity #VitalPetLife Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Should Your Pet Sleep in Your Bed? In this episode of Unleashed Curiosity, Donie and Dr. Amber Da Silva break down what the science actually says about co-sleeping with your pet - and why the headlines on this topic keep leaving out the most important variable. A 2022 study from Utrecht University confirmed that sharing a bed with a healthy pet does increase exposure to certain pathogens. But increased exposure is not the same as getting sick. For healthy adults with healthy pets on a routine prevention schedule, the actual transmission risk is low. Dr. Amber walks through who the real risk conversation is for, what a responsible co-sleeping setup actually looks like from a vet standpoint, and why the study called for better owner education - not a ban on pets in the bedroom. The conversation shifts to the sleep disruption side of the story. A 2024 study found that co-sleeping with dogs was associated with poorer perceived sleep quality and greater insomnia severity - more so for dog owners than cat owners, and more pronounced in households with multiple pets. Donie and Dr. Amber unpack why both things can be true at once: the comfort is real, and so is the disruption. Dr. Amber shares a practical trial approach for anyone who suspects their dog may be affecting their sleep. Topics covered: 🐾 Who is actually at risk and what the research says 🐕 Why dogs disrupt sleep more than cats 😴 The middle-path fix and Dr. Amber's practical recommendation ❤️ Connect with us: ᐧ Facebook - facebook.com/vitalpetlife ᐧ TikTok: @vitalpetlife ᐧ Instagram: @vitalpetlife ᐧ X: @vitalpetlife ᐧ YouTube: @vitalpetlife ᐧ LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/vitalpetlife ᐧ Check out our website - www.vitalpetlife.com You may also enjoy: Should You Take Your Dog Out in This Heat? What the Research Actually Says https://smartlink.ausha.co/unleashedcuriosity/should-you-take-your-dog-out-in-this-heat-what-the-research-actually-says Music: "Life of Riley" by Kevin MacLeod (CC BY 4.0) Don't forget to follow us or send us your questions at podcast@vitalpetlife.com . Thank you for tuning in! #UnleashedCuriosity #VitalPetLife #DogHealth #PetHealth #CosleepingPets #DogParents #PetPodcast #VeterinaryAdvice #PetCare #DogBehavior Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Should You Take Your Dog Out in This Heat? What the Research Actually Says In this episode of Unleashed Curiosity, Donie and Dr. Amber Da Silva break down why the number on your weather app isn't the one that actually matters for your dog outdoors. On a 75-degree sunny day, pavement can reach 125 degrees, hot enough to burn paw pads in under a minute, especially for puppies who haven't built up calluses yet. Dr. Amber walks through the simple hand test that tells you if the ground is too hot to walk on, boots or not. The conversation moves into the heat index, why humidity changes how effectively a dog can cool down through panting, and the rule of thumb for knowing when it's time to skip outdoor exercise altogether. Donie and Dr. Amber also cover which dogs need extra caution in warm weather, from flat-faced breeds to seniors, puppies, and dogs with thick double coats, plus the surprising risk of dogs who are too ball-driven to self-regulate. Dr. Amber closes out with the early signs your dog may be overheating, what to do the moment you notice them, and why walk timing, hydration, and a shorter, smarter walk can make all the difference during the hottest months. Topics covered: 🌡️ Why pavement temperature matters more than air temperature ✋ The 10-second hand test for checking if the ground is too hot 💧 How the heat index factors in humidity, not just temperature 🐾 Which dogs are most at risk in warm weather ⚠️ Early signs your dog may be overheating and what to do next 🌤️ Walk timing, hydration, and simple habits for summer safety ❤️ Connect with us: ᐧ Facebook - facebook.com/vitalpetlife ᐧ TikTok: @vitalpetlife ᐧ Instagram: @vitalpetlife ᐧ X: @vitalpetlife ᐧ YouTube: @vitalpetlife ᐧ LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/vitalpetlife ᐧ Check out our website - www.vitalpetlife.com You may also enjoy: The Healing Power of Dogs: Therapy Dog Training, Caregiving & the Bond That Saves Us with Susan Hartzler https://smartlink.ausha.co/unleashedcuriosity/the-healing-power-of-dogs-therapy-dog-training-caregiving-the-bond-that-saves-us-with-susan-hartzler Music: "Life of Riley" by Kevin MacLeod (CC BY 4.0) Don't forget to follow us or send us your questions at podcast@vitalpetlife.com . Thank you for tuning in! #UnleashedCuriosity #VitalPetLife #DogSafety #PetSafety #SummerPets #DogWalking #PetHealth #DogParents #PetPodcast #VeterinaryAdvice Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Dogs, Grief and Caregiving: The Human Animal Bond In this episode of Unleashed Curiosity, Donie sits down with Susan Hartzler, author and a recognized authority on therapy dogs and the human animal bond. Susan shares the story behind Sit With Me, her guided meditation practice for pet parents and their dogs, and how her own dogs, Blondie, Bliss, and Baldwin, carried her through pivotal moments in her life, from dating in her twenties to caring for her father through his Parkinson's diagnosis. Susan and Donie also talk about what it takes to train and work with a therapy dog, matching a dog's temperament to the right environment, and practical advice for caregivers and pet parents seeking more calm with their dog. Topics covered: 🧘 The origin story behind Sit With Me guided meditations 🐾 How dogs support human well-being through everyday connection 📖 Susan's memoir on dating and her dog Blondie 💙 Caregiving for a parent while navigating grief 🐕 What it takes to train and work with a therapy dog ❤️ Practical advice for caregivers and pet parents seeking calm 💙 Connect with our guest, Susan Hartzler: ᐧ Website: susanhartzler.com ᐧ Instagram: @susanhartzlerauthor ᐧ Books, blog, and Sit With Me meditations available on Substack: https://blissdog.substack.com/ ❤️ Connect with us: ᐧ Facebook - facebook.com/vitalpetlife ᐧ TikTok: @vitalpetlife ᐧ Instagram: @vitalpetlife ᐧ X: @vitalpetlife ᐧ YouTube: @vitalpetlife ᐧ LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/vitalpetlife ᐧ Check out our website - www.vitalpetlife.com You may also enjoy: From Hype to Health: The Science Driving the Next Era of Pet Supplements https://smartlink.ausha.co/unleashedcuriosity/from-hype-to-health-the-science-driving-the-next-era-of-pet-supplements Music: "Life of Riley" by Kevin MacLeod (CC BY 4.0) Don't forget to follow us or send us your questions at podcast@vitalpetlife.com . Thank you for tuning in! #UnleashedCuriosity #VitalPetLife #PetHealth #TherapyDogs #HumanAnimalBond #DogMom #PetCaregiving #DogTraining #PetPodcast #SusanHartzler Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

We don't wait for a cavity to start brushing our teeth, so why wait to support our pets? In this episode, Donie Yamamoto sits down with Dr. Amber Da Silva, DVM, to unpack what's really driving the pet supplement boom - and how pet parents can tell a quality product from marketing noise. Dr. Amber Da Silva breaks down what separates credible formulation from hype: ingredient-specific research, transparent sourcing, and serving sizes that actually match what the science supports. She and Donie also dig into why format matters as much as formula. A great ingredient does nothing if a pet won't take it or an owner won't stick with it consistently. The conversation moves into gut health and the microbiome - an area Dr. Amber Da Silva calls "cutting edge" - with connections extending well beyond digestion. They also talk candidly about industry frustrations: overcomplicated labels, serving-size math that doesn't add up, and the gap between marketing claims and what shows up in the exam room. Looking ahead, Dr. Amber Da Silva shares three trends she's watching: personalized formulations tailored to breed, age, and life stage; strain-level probiotic research; and a shift toward stronger accountability across the supplement category. This is a conversation about consistency over hype, and about treating pet parents as informed partners in their animals' long-term care. In this episode: What's really driving the daily-supplement shift for pets The three drivers of product quality: formulation, format, and transparency Why serving-size transparency matters more than ingredient count The microbiome's expanding role in companion animal health Where the supplement category is headed next #PetHealth #PetCare #UnleashedCuriosity #VitalPetLife #PetSupplements ❤️ Connect with us: ᐧ Facebook - facebook.com/vitalpetlife ᐧ TikTok: @vitalpetlife ᐧ Instagram: @vitalpetlife ᐧ X: @vitalpetlife ᐧ YouTube: @vitalpetlife ᐧ LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/vitalpetlife ᐧ Check out our website - www.vitalpetlife.com You may also enjoy: Snake Season Is Here: What Every Dog Owner Needs to Know Before It's Too Late https://smartlink.ausha.co/unleashedcuriosity/snake-season-is-here-what-every-dog-owner-needs-to-know-before-it-s-too-late Music: "Life of Riley" by Kevin MacLeod (CC BY 4.0) Don't forget to follow us or send us your questions at podcast@vitalpetlife.com . Thank you for tuning in! Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

That dry, sprinkler-like buzz on a trail with your dog. If you've heard it, you know. Rattlesnake season is here - and this year it's already running hot. Dr. Amber Da Silva, DVM and co-host of Unleashed Curiosity, breaks down what rattlesnake aversion training actually is, why the single-session class often fails, and what every dog owner in rattlesnake territory needs to do before they need it. If you hike or live in rattlesnake country, this episode is for you. This goes deeper than basic tips - into the canine fear memory science that makes training stick, the hemotoxic reality of pit viper bites, and the emergency prep gap most dog owners don't know they have. What's covered: 0:00 - Intro: the sound that changes you 0:55 - What is rattlesnake aversion training (RAT)? 1:41 - Why live snakes are essential (not rubber props) 2:30 - The single-session failure problem 3:15 - What a durable multi-station program looks like 4:20 - The emergency reality: hemotoxic venom + the 30-minute window 6:45 - Antivenom locator tool every outdoor dog owner needs 8:10 - The rattlesnake vaccine: pros, cons, and what it doesn't do 10:32 - Final action items Whether you're looking for rattlesnake tips for dogs, trying to understand if rattlesnake aversion training is worth it, or want to know what to do if your dog gets bitten - this episode covers all of it with real veterinary insight, not just general advice. Resources: veterinarysnakebite911.com - find your nearest antivenom-equipped vet by ZIP code 🐍🐕 #RattlesnakeSeason #RattlesnakeAversionTraining #DrAmberDVM #VitalPetLife #DogSafety ❤️ Connect with us: ᐧ Facebook - facebook.com/vitalpetlife ᐧ TikTok: @vitalpetlife ᐧ Instagram: @vitalpetlife ᐧ X: @vitalpetlife ᐧ YouTube: @vitalpetlife ᐧ LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/vitalpetlife ᐧ Check out our website - www.vitalpetlife.com You may also enjoy: Dog Nutrition Decoded - Treats, Nutrition & Rescue Truths | Beth Jackson of Oliver P. Toliver's https://smartlink.ausha.co/unleashedcuriosity/dog-longevity-decoded-treats-nutrition-rescue-truths-beth-jackson-of-oliver-p-toliver-s-thoroughly-tasty-treats Music: "Life of Riley" by Kevin MacLeod (CC BY 4.0) Don't forget to follow us or send us your questions at podcast@vitalpetlife.com . Thank you for tuning in! Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

What if the treats you give your dog every day are getting in the way of their care? In this episode of Unleashed Curiosity, Donie Yamamoto and Dr. Amber Da Silva, DVM sit down with Beth Jackson, founder of Oliver P. Toliver's Thoroughly Tasty Treats, for a conversation that will change how you think about every snack you hand your pup. Beth's brand was born from a 10-week-old rescue puppy who nearly died from Parvo - and one simple rule: every ingredient must earn its place. In this episode, you'll discover: 🐾 Why "natural" and "grain-free" labels are largely marketing jargon 🦮 Why 15 minutes of sniff-led walking beats a 2-mile run ❤️ How two rescue dogs became UCLA therapy dogs 🍠 Beth's ingredient standard: "If I can't explain why it's in there, it shouldn't be" 📉 How daily treats contribute to pet obesity - and what the calorie math really looks like Whether your dog is a rescue, a senior, a puzzle-loving genius, or a treat-motivated chaos machine, this episode is for you. 🐾 #OliverPToliver #DogTreats #DogNutrition #BethJackson #VitalPetLife 🎉 GIVEAWAY ALERT - VPL × Oliver P. Toliver! We've teamed up with Oliver P. Toliver's to give away a prize bundle for your pup! How to enter: Head to our Instagram 👉 https://vitalpet.life/VPLxOliverPToliverGiveaway ⏰ Giveaway runs June 23 - July 3, 2026 | U.S. residents only. 💙 Connect with our guest, Beth Jackson of Oliver P. Toliver's: ᐧ Website: oliverptoliver.com ᐧ Instagram: @ oliver_p_toliver_dog_treats ❤️ Connect with us: ᐧ Facebook - facebook.com/vitalpetlife ᐧ TikTok: @vitalpetlife ᐧ Instagram: @vitalpetlife ᐧ X: @vitalpetlife ᐧ YouTube: @vitalpetlife ᐧ LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/vitalpetlife ᐧ Check out our website - www.vitalpetlife.com You may also enjoy: Moving Well - The Link Between Mobility and Long-Term Pet Care https://smartlink.ausha.co/unleashedcuriosity/moving-well-living-longer-the-link-between-mobility-and-pet-longevity Music: "Life of Riley" by Kevin MacLeod (CC BY 4.0) Don't forget to follow us or send us your questions at podcast@vitalpetlife.com . Thank you for tuning in! Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Is your dog or cat slowing down? Before you chalk it up to normal aging, this episode might change how you see your pet's everyday movement. In this episode of Unleashed Curiosity, Donie Yamamoto and Dr. Amber Da Silva, DVM dig into one of the most overlooked topics in pet health: joint mobility and what it really means for your pet's long-term quality of life. Dr. Amber busts some of the biggest myths pet parents believe, including why a dog that isn't limping or crying out can still be in significant discomfort. She walks through the subtle behavioral signs that often go unnoticed - from stiffness after sleep, to avoiding stairs, to changes in litter box behavior in cats - and explains why catching these signs early can make a real difference. You'll also hear what actually happens inside a joint as pets age - how cartilage, fluid, and surrounding tissue are affected, and why visible signs are often the last to show up. Dr. Amber and Donie also cover: Why proactive daily support matters more than waiting for a diagnosis What to look for in a joint supplement and how to evaluate ingredients The key ingredients showing real research-backed promise for joint support How NSAIDs work, when they're appropriate, and what to monitor The vicious cycle of poor mobility, muscle loss, and weight gain - and how to interrupt it Comfortable daily movement matters. Supporting your pet's movement may be one of the most important things you do for them. Subscribe so you never miss an episode. If this resonated, share it with a fellow pet parent who wants more comfortable, active time with their animal. 🐾 #PetMobility #DogJointHealth #CatJointHealth #DrAmberDVM #VitalPetLife ❤️ Connect with us: ᐧ Facebook - facebook.com/vitalpetlife ᐧ TikTok: @vitalpetlife ᐧ Instagram: @vitalpetlife ᐧ X: @vitalpetlife ᐧ YouTube: @vitalpetlife ᐧ LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/vitalpetlife ᐧ Check out our website - www.vitalpetlife.com You may also enjoy: Pet Supplements, Ethical Breeding & Vet Insights with Dr. Karyn Kanowski https://smartlink.ausha.co/unleashedcuriosity/pet-supplements-ethical-breeding-vet-approved-health-advice-with-dr-karyn-kanowski Music: "Life of Riley" by Kevin MacLeod (CC BY 4.0) Don't forget to follow us or send us your questions at podcast@vitalpetlife.com . Thank you for tuning in! Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

What if your vet's training was shaped more by pharmaceutical companies than by nutrition science? In this episode of Unleashed Curiosity, hosts Donie Yamamoto and Dr. Amber Da Silva, DVM sit down with Dr. Karyn Kanowski, veterinary content creator, supervisor at Pango Vet, and co-host of the Chatty Cattys podcast, for a wide-ranging conversation about pet health, supplements, and the future of animal care. In this episode, we cover: Why Dr. Karyn believes pet nutrition and supplements deserve more attention in everyday care The real welfare issues behind ear cropping, tail docking, and cat declawing What water quality (yes, really) could be doing to your pet's urinary health Why building a loose daily routine - not a rigid one - may help ease anxiety in your pets Dr. Karyn's #1 advice for every pet parent: have a financial contingency plan before your pet gets sick Whether you're a new pet parent or a longtime advocate for animal welfare and care, this episode will challenge the way you think about pet health, proactive pet care, and what it truly means to advocate for your animal's care. 🐶🐱 #DrKarynKanowski #PetSupplements #EthicalBreeding #VitalPetLife #PetHealthAdvice 💙 Connect with our guest, Dr. Karyn Kanowski: ᐧ Instagram: @karyn.kanowski ᐧ Catster: catster.com ᐧ Dogster: dogster.com ᐧ Podcast: Chatty Cattys ᐧ Work: pangovet.com ❤️ Connect with us: ᐧ Facebook - facebook.com/vitalpetlife ᐧ TikTok: @vitalpetlife ᐧ Instagram: @vitalpetlife ᐧ X: @vitalpetlife ᐧ YouTube: @vitalpetlife ᐧ LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/vitalpetlife ᐧ Check out our website - www.vitalpetlife.com You may also enjoy: Good Poops, Happy Dog - Getting to the Bottom of Digestive Trouble https://smartlink.ausha.co/unleashedcuriosity/good-poops-happy-dog-getting-to-the-bottom-of-digestive-trouble Music: "Life of Riley" by Kevin MacLeod (CC BY 4.0) Don't forget to follow us or send us your questions at podcast@vitalpetlife.com . Thank you for tuning in! Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

What's Behind Your Dog's Digestive Discomfort - And Why Diet Alone May Not Be Enough You've switched the food. You've been patient. But occasional loose stools, digestive gas, and coat issues keep coming back. In this episode of Unleashed Curiosity, Donie Yamamoto sits down with integrative veterinarian Dr. Amber Da Silva, DVM to explore what most pet parents never hear: gut microbiome balance may play a central role in your dog's overall health - and diet changes alone may not be enough to support it. Dr. Amber breaks down: ✔️ Why occasional loose stools, gas, and coat appearance may all relate to gut microbiome balance ✔️ The gut-skin connection and how probiotic support may benefit healthy skin and coat ✔️ What can affect microbiome balance (stress, diet changes - and how to support it) ✔️ Why even a nutritious diet works best when digestion and nutrient utilization are supported ✔️ The difference between single-strain and multi-strain probiotics - and why strain diversity matters ✔️ Why species-appropriate probiotic strains may better support your dog's gut microbiome than human-formulated products If you're looking for a new framework for understanding your dog's digestive health from the inside out, this episode is for you. 🔔 New episodes every week. Subscribe so you never miss a science-backed conversation that helps you make better-informed decisions for your pet. #DogGutHealth #DogProbiotics #DrAmberDVM #VitalPetLife #PetDigestiveHealth ❤️ Connect with us: ᐧ Facebook - facebook.com/vitalpetlife ᐧ TikTok: @vitalpetlife ᐧ Instagram: @vitalpetlife ᐧ X: @vitalpetlife ᐧ YouTube: @vitalpetlife ᐧ LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/vitalpetlife ᐧ Check out our website - www.vitalpetlife.com You may also enjoy: The Future of Pet Health - What We Saw at Global Pet Expo 2026 https://smartlink.ausha.co/unleashedcuriosity/the-future-of-pet-wellness-what-we-saw-at-global-pet-expo-2026 Music: "Life of Riley" by Kevin MacLeod (CC BY 4.0) Don't forget to follow us or send us your questions at podcast@vitalpetlife.com . Thank you for tuning in! Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Donie Yamamoto and Dr. Amber Da Silva, DVM are back from Global Pet Expo 2026 with one major takeaway: pet health and nutrition are evolving fast - from personalized nutrition and microbiome innovation to sustainability and ingredient transparency, today's pet parents are increasingly conscientious about the ingredients in the treats and supplements they give their pets. In this episode, they discuss the biggest trends shaping the future of pet health and nutrition, why clean sourcing and recognizable ingredients matter, and Vital Pet Life's launch at the show of Only Salmon Oil for Dogs & Cats - the first pet supplement oil in the U.S. to carry the Aquaculture Stewardship Council (ASC) label. 🔔 Subscribe for weekly pet health insights and share with a fellow pet parent! #GlobalPetExpo2026 #VitalPetLife #OnlySalmonOil #ASCCertified #PetHealthTrends ❤️ Connect with us: ᐧ Facebook - facebook.com/vitalpetlife ᐧ TikTok: @vitalpetlife ᐧ Instagram: @vitalpetlife ᐧ X: @vitalpetlife ᐧ YouTube: @vitalpetlife ᐧ LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/vitalpetlife ᐧ Check out our website - www.vitalpetlife.com You may also enjoy: Why Your Dog Needs to Sniff on Walks (It's Not What You Think) https://smartlink.ausha.co/unleashedcuriosity/why-your-dog-needs-to-sniff-on-walks-it-s-not-what-you-think Music: "Life of Riley" by Kevin MacLeod (CC BY 4.0) Don't forget to follow us or send us your questions at podcast@vitalpetlife.com . Thank you for tuning in! Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Your dog isn't walking - they're reading. Every fire hydrant, every blade of grass, every invisible trail left by a passing stranger - your dog is processing all of it through a nose that's up to 100,000x more powerful than yours. But most walks are designed entirely around human priorities: speed, distance, calories burned. In this episode of Unleashed Curiosity, Dr. Amber Da Silva, DVM and Donie Yamamoto break down the fascinating science of canine olfaction and why sniffing isn't a bad habit - it's a biological necessity. What you'll learn: Why dogs have 300 million olfactory receptors (vs. our 5-6 million) How sniffing may ease stress and build confidence in dogs The difference between a "march walk" and a mentally enriching sniff walk What your dog is actually detecting when they stop at a fire hydrant Why restricting sniffing is like making your dog wear a blindfold Whether you have a high-energy pup or a couch potato, this episode will change how you think about the daily walk. 🐾 Slow down. Let them sniff. Your dog will thank you. #DogSniffing #CanineOlfaction #DrAmberDVM #VitalPetLife #DogWalkTips ❤️ Connect with us: ᐧ Facebook - facebook.com/vitalpetlife ᐧ TikTok: @vitalpetlife ᐧ Instagram: @vitalpetlife ᐧ X: @vitalpetlife ᐧ YouTube: @vitalpetlife ᐧ LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/vitalpetlife ᐧ Check out our website - www.vitalpetlife.com You may also enjoy: 60-Second Ingredient Deep Dive with Dr. Amber, DVM - Oatmeal in Pet Shampoo for Dogs and Cats https://smartlink.ausha.co/unleashedcuriosity/60-second-ingredient-deep-dive-with-dr-amber-dvm-oatmeal-for-dogs-and-cats-shampoo Music: "Life of Riley" by Kevin MacLeod (CC BY 4.0) Don't forget to follow us or send us your questions at podcast@vitalpetlife.com . Thank you for tuning in! Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

You've seen it on every pet shampoo. But do you actually know what it does? 🌾 In this 60-Second Ingredient Deep Dive, Dr. Amber Da Silva, DVM breaks down one of the most common and most misunderstood ingredients in pet care: oatmeal. Not the breakfast kind. The kind that could be actively supporting your pet's skin care - or doing absolutely nothing - depending entirely on whether the brand you're using got it right. Timestamps: 1:03 - What is oatmeal (in pet care)? 1:30 - What oatmeal does in your pet's body 2:10 - How often your pet needs it 2:35 - What to look for on a pet shampoo label Is this episode for you? If you want to better understand what's in your pet's grooming products, this episode is for you. 🌾🐾 #OatmealForPets #PetShampooIngredients #DrAmberDVM #VitalPetLife #IngredientDeepDive ❤️ Connect with us: ᐧ Facebook - facebook.com/vitalpetlife ᐧ TikTok: @vitalpetlife ᐧ Instagram: @vitalpetlife ᐧ X: @vitalpetlife ᐧ YouTube: @vitalpetlife ᐧ LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/vitalpetlife ᐧ Check out our website - www.vitalpetlife.com You may also enjoy: Dogs, Aging & the Future of Medicine - What We're Learning from Canine Aging Science & Health Breakthroughs https://smartlink.ausha.co/unleashedcuriosity/dogs-aging-the-future-of-medicine-what-we-re-learning-from-canine-longevity-health-science-breakthroughs-for-longer Music: "Life of Riley" by Kevin MacLeod (CC BY 4.0) Don't forget to follow us or send us your questions at podcast@vitalpetlife.com . Thank you for tuning in! Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Your Dog Is Aging Like You - And That's Reshaping Medicine. The Dog Aging Project is tracking tens of thousands of dogs nationwide - and what researchers are finding could reshape how we approach health for both dogs and humans. Dogs don't just mirror us emotionally. They mirror us biologically. Same diseases. Same environment. Same aging pathways. Just on a faster timeline. Timestamps: 00:00 - The Dog Aging Project: What It Is 01:16 - Why dogs are the perfect human aging model 02:57 - Canine dementia & Alzheimer's parallels 04:28 - What pet parents miss about cognitive decline 05:20 - What Dr. Amber says about supporting cognitive function in aging dogs 06:26 - Cancer: the #1 concern in dogs & immune function 08:02 - Why dogs outperform mice as research models 09:07 - Rapamycin & the future of health span 10:20 - Shifting from reactive to proactive pet care 11:44 - What you can do as a pet parent right now In this episode, Dr. Amber Da Silva, DVM and Donie Yamamoto break down canine dementia, cancer, chronic inflammation, and what the Dog Aging Project means for the future of veterinary and human medicine. Signs worth discussing with your vet: Confusion or disorientation at home Pacing or restlessness at night Staring at walls or getting "stuck" Forgetting familiar people or commands Early conversations with your vet can make a difference. Follow Unleashed Curiosity for weekly conversations on pet health and science-backed care. 🐾 #DogAgingProject #DogDementia #PetHealth #DogAgingScience #CanineCognitiveDysfunction #DogCancer #UnleashedCuriosity #VitalPetLife ❤️ Connect with us: ᐧ Facebook - facebook.com/vitalpetlife ᐧ TikTok: @vitalpetlife ᐧ Instagram: @vitalpetlife ᐧ X: @vitalpetlife ᐧ YouTube: @vitalpetlife ᐧ LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/vitalpetlife ᐧ Check out our website - www.vitalpetlife.com You may also enjoy: Why Cats Knead & Zoom at 3AM - 10 Cat Behaviors Explained by a Vet https://smartlink.ausha.co/unleashedcuriosity/the-one-why-cats-knead-zoom-at-3am-10-weird-cat-behaviors-explained-by-a-vet Music: "Life of Riley" by Kevin MacLeod (CC BY 4.0) Don't forget to follow us or send us your questions at podcast@vitalpetlife.com . Thank you for tuning in! Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Your cat isn't weird. Science just finally caught up. 🐱 In this episode of Unleashed Curiosity, Dr. Amber Da Silva, DVM decodes 10 cat behaviors that puzzle pet parents most - from kneading and 3AM zoomies to that unmistakable slow blink. Timestamps: 00:00 - Kneading / "Making Biscuits" 🍞 03:39 - The Slow Blink / Cat Kiss 😻 04:14 - "If I Fit, I Sit" 📦 04:48 - 3AM Zoomies 🌙 06:10 - Bird Watching Chatter 🐦 07:01 - The Loaf Position 🐈 08:04 - Knocking Things Off Tables 😤 09:01 - Showing Their Butt (it's a compliment) 🍑 10:10 - Sleeping on Your Laptop 💻 12:24 - Random Foot Attacks 🦶 What You'll Learn: Why adult cats still knead - rooted in nursing instinct The slow blink: your cat's version of "I love you" Why domestic cats think 3AM is hunting hour The chattering jaw reflex cats make at windows Why knocking things off tables is cause-and-effect learning How to address foot attacks before they become a real problem Whether you're a lifelong cat parent or just deeply confused by your new kitten, this episode gives you the science and the laughs. Follow the show and share with a fellow cat parent! 🐱🐾 #CatBehavior #WhyCatsKnead #CatParent #CatZoomies #VitalPetLife #UnleashedCuriosity #CatTips #Veterinarian #PetPodcast #CatLoaf #CatMom #CatDad #PetHealth ❤️ Connect with us: ᐧ Facebook - facebook.com/vitalpetlife ᐧ TikTok: @vitalpetlife ᐧ Instagram: @vitalpetlife ᐧ X: @vitalpetlife ᐧ YouTube: @vitalpetlife ᐧ LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/vitalpetlife ᐧ Check out our website - www.vitalpetlife.com You may also enjoy: What Your Vet Isn't Telling You About Dog Long-Term Care - Rehab, Teeth & Mobility With Dr. Paul Tonioli https://smartlink.ausha.co/unleashedcuriosity/what-your-vet-isn-t-telling-you-about-dog-longevity-rehab-teeth-mobility-with-dr-paul-toniolli Music: "Life of Riley" by Kevin MacLeod (CC BY 4.0) Don't forget to follow us or send us your questions at podcast@vitalpetlife.com . Thank you for tuning in! Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.