Dogs Are Individuals
Dogs Are Individuals is a podcast hosted by herbalist Rita Hogan. It offers informal reflections, stories, and guidance drawn from her life and work with dogs. The show blends personal ramblings with practical herbalist insights for dog owners. It focuses on treating dogs as individual creatures with unique needs. The tone is conversational and rooted in a deep connection to animals.
Episodes
Common Herbal Mistakes to Avoid for Your Dog | Short
190: In this episode, I’m sharing some common mistakes herbalists can make when working with herbs for dogs. We’ll talk about why natural doesn’t always mean gentle, the importance of understanding individual plants, and why the right herb for one dog may not work for another. I’ll also discuss the risks of using too many herbs at once and why sometimes the best approach is to keep things
Whole Food Vitamins, Omegas + More for Your Dog
189: I’m coming to you live from the AHVMA conference in San Diego with my herbal understudy and friend, Krista Fox of Pug and Hound. We’re talking about holistic veterinary medicine, what makes it different from conventional veterinary care, and why looking at the whole animal matters so much.
Topics Discussed:
→ What is holistic veterinary care?
→ What are whole food vitamins for
Does Your Dog Have Gallbladder Sludge? Try These Herbs | Short
188: Gallbladder sludge can be a frustrating issue for dogs, so in this episode, I’m sharing some of the herbal remedies I like to use to support the gallbladder and liver. We’ll talk about artichoke, linden, and hedge maple, along with some of the other symptoms that can show up alongside gallbladder issues. I’ll also share a quick update on my Tavari journey.
Sponsored By:
→ Pug & H
5 Steps To Better Organ Health For Your Dog
187: This week, I’m breaking down my five-step framework for supporting your dog’s organ health with herbs. We’re talking about the nervous system, lymphatic system, liver, digestion, and creating a protocol based on your individual dog. I’m also sharing why herbal protocols should change with the seasons and why you shouldn’t give your dog the same supplements forever.
Sponsored By:
→ Gr
Seasonal Transition Into Fall: Colon & Respiratory Health | Short
186: As we transition from summer into fall, our dogs can experience subtle changes in their bodies and overall health. In this episode, I talk about the connection between the lungs and colon, how seasonal changes can affect breathing, digestion, skin, and hydration, and what signs to watch for in your dog. I also discuss supporting dogs through the transition with moisture, diet, and he
What You Should Know About Milk Thistle
185: Is all milk thistle really the same? In this episode, I talk about the difference between whole milk thistle seed and standardized milk thistle extracts, how they differ, and when you might use one over the other. I also discuss what to look for on labels, the role of milk thistle in liver support, and why it’s important to know exactly what you’re giving your dog.
Sponsored By:
→ Gr
Herbal Support for Arthritis + Joint Pain in Dogs
184: In this short episode, I’m coming to you from SuperZoo in Las Vegas to share one of her biggest takeaways from the event. After dealing with significant back pain throughout the week, I was introduced to Tvati, a topical oil traditionally made from the inner bark of Hibiscus tiliaceus, and was surprised by my experience using it.
Sponsored By:
→ Animal Essentials is offe
How to Support Your Dog Through Candida & Yeast Overgrowth
183: Does your dog struggle with itchy skin, ear issues, or constantly chewing their paws? In this episode, I talk all about candida and yeast overgrowth in dogs, what can cause it to get out of balance, and some of the signs you may notice in your dog. I also discuss the role of diet, antibiotics, stress, and gut health, along with some of my favorite herbs, supplements, and ways to supp
Should You Deworm Your Dog? What Every Owner Should Know | Short
182: Should you deworm your dog regularly, or only when it's actually necessary? In this episode, I break down why routine deworming without testing may not always be the best approach and explain the importance of fecal testing before treatment. I also discuss how parasites affect your dog's health, the role they play in the immune system, why heavy parasite burdens should always be addr
Supporting Your Dog Through Wildfire Smoke
181: Wildfire smoke can be hard on both you and your dog. In this episode, I share simple ways to reduce smoke exposure, how to recognize when your dog may need extra support, and the herbs I reach for most during wildfire season, including mullein, plantain, marshmallow root, licorice, and New England aster. As always, it's about supporting the individual in front of you with herbs that
The Right Way to Use Comfrey for Dogs | Short
180: Comfrey is one of herbalism's most beloved plants but it's also one of the most misunderstood. While it's known for supporting the healing of bones, ligaments, tendons, and skin, it deserves a healthy dose of respect. In this episode, I share how I use comfrey in my practice, why it's one of my favorite herbs for external healing, and why I'm much more cautious when it comes to inter
How pH Affects Your Dog's Health
179: Many dog owners worry about whether their dog's body is too acidic or too alkaline…but is that actually the right question?
In this episode, I explain how pH works throughout your dog's body, why healthy dogs naturally have different pH levels in different organs, and why trying to "alkalize" your dog may do more harm than good. You'll learn how blood pH differs from urine pH, what u
The Benefits of Mullein Oil for Your Dog's Ears | Short
178: Mullein is one of my favorite herbs for supporting irritated dog ears naturally. In this episode, I share why mullein flower oil has been used for generations to calm inflammation, ease discomfort, and support the ear's natural healing process. You'll learn how ear health connects to the rest of the body, why recurring ear issues often point to deeper imbalances, and how to safely ha
Frequencies and Dogs, The Unseen World
177: In this episode, I'm diving into frequency medicine and why I believe it's an often-overlooked part of healing. I talk about hertz, resonance, and the energetic signatures of plants, trees, mushrooms, animals, and even the Earth itself. We explore how frequency shows up in herbal medicine, flower essences, and nature, and why spending time outdoors can have such a profound effect on
The Surprising Benefits of Soil Probiotics for Dogs | Short
176: I recently got a chance to review the clinical research behind Green Juju's Soil Probiotics, and honestly, the results blew my mind.
In this short episode, I'm breaking down the findings from a study conducted with Innovative Pet Lab and discussing what they could mean for your dog's gut health, immune function, skin, digestion, and overall well-being.
Topics Discussed:
→
Pancreatitis in Dogs: What It Is and How to Treat It
175: In this one, I'm walking through what pancreatitis actually is, the difference between acute and chronic, what causes it (hint: I don't blame high-fat diets), and how to recognize it in your dog. I also share my full herbal protocol with dosing for phytoembryonic therapies and glycerin extracts. Plus a quick note on the GastroElm supplement I love for recovery and chronic cases. And
The Hidden Weight of Pet Loss, Grief + Regret | Short
174: Have you ever found yourself replaying all the things you wish you had known before your dog passed away? Today I'm talking about grief, regret, and those imaginary timelines we create after losing a beloved dog. I share a few stories about my own dogs, the lessons they taught me, and why I believe our dogs never want us carrying guilt after they're gone.
Topics Discusse
How To Choose The Right Herbal Remedy For Dogs | Short
173: I’ve noticed so many dog parents getting overwhelmed trying to choose the “right” herbal product for their dogs…tinctures, glycerites, powders, chews… what’s actually best? In this short episode, I break down the differences between some of the most common herbal formats, how they work in the body, and why delivery method matters just as much as the herb itself. I also share when I p
Sedentary Dogs, Nervous Systems + Chronic Itching
172: What if your dog’s anxiety, itching, reactivity, or destructive behavior isn’t just behavioral… but a sign they’re not moving enough?
In this episode, I’m talking about the hidden effects of sedentary living on dogs and why movement is about so much more than exercise. From nervous system regulation and lymphatic flow to emotional health and behavior, I break down why modern indoor l
Alfalfa vs Nettles for Dogs, What’s the Difference? | Short
171: Today I’m breaking down the key differences between alfalfa and nettles for dogs, including how each herb supports recovery, allergies, joints, circulation, and overall vitality. I’ll explain why alfalfa is one of my favorite tonic herbs for depleted dogs, when nettles may work better for inflammation and allergies, and how herbal energetics can help you choose the right fit for your
Sebaceous Cysts in Dogs, What They Mean + Natural Remedies
170: Ever find a lump on your dog and immediately panic?
In this episode, I’m breaking down sebaceous cysts, what they actually are, why they form, and what your dog’s body is trying to tell you. I walk you through the connection between the skin, liver, and lymphatic system, plus simple, effective ways to support your dog naturally. From warm compresses to herbal remedies and diet shifts
Natural Support for Dog Ear Hematomas, Herbal Protocol Explained | Short
169: Ear hematomas can appear suddenly, turning a normal dog ear into a swollen, fluid filled flap almost overnight. In this episode, I walk through what a hematoma actually is, why it happens, and how conventional treatment often focuses on drainage or surgery with mixed long term results.
Topics Discussed:
→ What causes ear hematomas in dogs
→ Can dog hematomas heal naturally
→ Ho
Dog Detox Protocols, How to Safely Remove Lead Exposure
168: In this episode, I wrap up my lead series by walking through what a real herbal protocol for lead exposure in dogs actually looks like in practice. Instead of aggressive detox approaches, I focus on gentle drainage, proper binding support, and working with the body in a steady, structured way over time.
Sponsored By:
→ Green Juju
→ Real Mushrooms
Check Out Rita:
→ The Her
Dog Detox 101, Clearing Lead and Heavy Metals Safely | Short
167: In this episode, I break down how lead and other heavy metals quietly build up in your dog’s body, and what you can do about it using herbal medicine. I walk you through phytoembryonic therapies, including European alder, black poplar, grapevine, and more, and explain how they support detoxification, the liver, lymphatic system, and nervous system.
Topics Discussed: → How do you deto
The Truth About Lead, Herbs, and Your Dog’s Health
166: In this episode, I’m digging into one of the most misunderstood and fear-driven topics in the natural pet space, lead and heavy metals in herbs. I break down what actually matters when it comes to exposure, why sourcing and dosage are everything, and how to think about herbal safety without spiraling into fear.
Sponsored By:
→ Green Juju
→ Real Mushrooms
Topics Discussed:
Heavy Metals in Herbs? What Dog Owners Need to Know | Short
165: Are heavy metals hiding in your dog’s herbal supplements? In this short episode, I break down the truth about lead in herbs and why this issue is more about environmental exposure than contamination.
I walk you through how plants absorb heavy metals, why roots like dandelion and turmeric carry higher risk, and how sourcing plays a huge role in safety. I also share what to look for in
How to Support Your Dog Through Mold Exposure
164: Today I’m covering a topic most of us try to avoid…mold. I’ll walk you through how mold affects both dogs and people, why some of us get sick while others don’t, and the key systems in the body that handle toxins like the liver, bile, and lymph. I also share my favorite herbal and nutritional remedies to support detoxification, energy, and immune function safely and effectively, plus
Glaucoma vs Cataracts: Protect Your Dog’s Eyes Naturally | Short
163: Okay, now onto eyes - last episode we talked cataracts, today it’s glaucoma. These two get lumped together a lot, but they’re really different. Cataracts mess with the lens, glaucoma messes with pressure inside the eye, and both can cause vision problems if ignored. I explain why fluid movement, lymphatic drainage, liver health, and nutrition all play a role…not just for your dog, bu
Dog Cataracts Explained: Causes, Herbs & Eye Health Tips
162: Ever wonder what’s really going on beneath the surface when we talk about our dogs’ eye health? Today we’re hanging out in that space between science, intuition, and good old fashioned common sense, talking about cataracts from a whole dog ecosystem perspective. It’s not just about eyes, it’s about what’s happening inside, from diet and minerals to stress and seasonal living. No pani
Dog Dental Recovery: Herbal Support After Surgery | Short
161: In this short episode, I’m sharing practical ways to help your dog recover after a dental procedure without overcomplicating things. We’re looking at simple, natural support ideas that help your dog’s body handle stress, inflammation, and healing from the inside out. If you’ve ever wondered what to do after your dog gets dental work, this is a quick, easy listen with tips you can sta
How Dental Disease Impacts Your Dog’s Heart
160: We’re continuing our deep look at dental health, but this time I’m taking you beyond plaque and tartar and into terrain, inflammation, mineral balance, and how chronic periodontal disease can quietly impact the heart valves.
Dental disease is never just about brushing. It’s about the ecosystem inside your dog, their minerals, their liver, their lymphatic flow, their stress levels, an
Your Dog AFTER a Dental. Breaking It Down. | Short
159: Today’s episode is all about dental cleanings. We’re talking systemic effects, liver, lymph, and kidney support, and how anesthesia can impact more than just the teeth. I’ll cover everything from detox support, hydration, gentle movement, antioxidants, to helping your dog’s organs process the stress of a procedure safely. Remember, a dental isn’t just about the teeth…it’s a systemic
Dog Dental Health, How Oral Care Impacts Immunity and Digestion
Since it is dental month, I wanted to sit down and chat about how oral health is not just about teeth or breath, it is about digestion, immunity, inflammation, lymph flow, behavior, and honestly your dog’s whole vibe.
We dig into how chewing and saliva support the nervous system, why oral bacteria can impact the heart, liver, joints, and gut, and how low grade dental issues can quietly sh
Preventing Ear Infections With Ozonated Oils For Dogs | Short
157: In this short, I’m talking about ozonated ear drops and why they’ve become such a helpful part of my dogs’ ear care routine. With my own bulldogs being prone to chronic ear irritation and flare ups, I’ve been looking for gentle ways to support their ears before things get out of hand, and ozonated oils have been a real game changer.
I walk you through what ozone actually is, how ozon
When to Go to the Vet: A Holistic Approach for Dogs
156: In this episode, I talk about the difference between being holistic and being rigid, and why fear of “doing the wrong thing” can sometimes delay the help our dogs truly need. I share personal reflections from my own cancer experience and how it shaped my view of integrative care for animals. We explore why getting a diagnosis is not giving up, and how veterinary medicine can act as a
Breaking Down A Dental Formula | Short
155: In this episode, I’m answering a listener's question about dental health for dogs and sharing why the mouth is never just about teeth. I talk through a popular dental formula from an herbal perspective and explain how ingredients meant for oral health can also support detox, the gut, and overall balance in the body.
This is a casual, solo episode with me connecting the dots between p
How Antibiotics Affect Dogs, Gut Issues, Skin, and Behavior | Short
154: In this short holiday episode, I’m chatting about antibiotics and my own love, frustration relationship with them. They can absolutely save lives, but when we don’t rebuild the microbiome afterward, our dogs can deal with gut issues, skin problems, anxiety, allergies, and other symptoms months or even years later. I talk about when I personally choose to use antibiotics, what I look
Winter Herbal Infusions For Dogs: Kidney & Anxiety Support
153: Winter is here, and our dogs need extra care! Today I’m covering herbal infusions to support your dog’s kidneys, digestion, and overall wellness during the colder months. From parsley and goldenrod to marshmallow root, nettles, and ginger, I explain how to prepare safe and effective infusions, dose them for different sizes, and observe your dog’s responses. I also share tips on probi
Hidden Chemicals in Your Home That Affect Your Dog’s Health | Short
152: In this holiday short, I’m digging into something most dog parents barely think about, all the stuff we put on our dogs and around them. Shampoos, sprays, cleaners, even the things on your floors, it all adds up, and your dog’s skin, liver, kidneys, and microbiome are doing way more work than you realize. I share a few stories, a few surprises, and why some products you think are har
Tear Stains and Fermented Mushrooms
151: Ever wonder why your dog has those stubborn brown tear stains? Today I’m looking into what’s really going on behind the eyes. It’s not just cosmetic…tear stains can signal congestion in the liver, gut, and lymphatic system. I break down how the microbiome, liver, and lymph all play a role, and share what you can do to help restore natural detox pathways and calm inflammation.
Sponsor
Gallbladder Sludge: Understanding Stagnation in Your Dog’s Gallbladder
150: Today we’re talking about all things gallbladder: what it is, why it shows up, and the simple things that can influence healthy bile flow in dogs. I also answer a listener's question about supportive options and walk through the everyday factors that can play a role like diet, stress, thyroid function, gut balance, and hydration.
Topics Discussed:
→ What causes gallbladde
What Really Happens Inside Your Dog After Spay or Neuter
149: Today I’m covering all things reproductive health for dogs. I’m not getting too heavy on the science, promise, just some insights and little clarifications from my recent spay/neuter clinic, plus some behind-the-scenes stuff you might not have considered.
We also get to talk about the body as a whole system: how everything from the brain to the liver and even the adrenals are connect
Lung Harmony for Warm Dogs | Short
148: If your pup pants easily, prefers cool spots, or deals with dry, irritated coughing, this episode’s for you. Today I’m talking all about Lung Harmony for Warm Dogs, one of my favorite formulas for supporting serious lung conditions in dogs who tend to run hot.
I’ll walk you through the ingredients one by one and explain how they work together to calm heat, restore moisture, and
Lung Harmony for Cool Dogs: Herbal Support for Fall & Winter
147: I just got back from Europe and I’m so excited to cover today’s topic: Lung Harmony. We’re in lung season right now, so it’s the perfect time to talk about keeping your dog’s respiratory system balanced and strong. In this episode, I walk you through my Lung Harmony formula ingredient by ingredient, and explain how herbs like echinacea, elecampane, maize buds, calendula, and gray ald
Help Your Warm Dog Breathe Easier This Fall | Short
146: I’m coming to you from England & we’re covering lung tonics for warm dogs. If your dog loves cool floors, overheats easily, or struggles with respiratory irritation, this one’s for you. I’ll walk you through a powerful herbal blend that helps soothe inflammation, improve oxygen flow, and restore balance to tired lungs and why it’s so essential for supporting warm dogs through fal
How Spay & Neuter Really Affect Your Dog’s Health
145: In this episode of Dogs Are Individuals, I cover the effects of spay and neuter on your dog’s hormones, nervous system, and overall health. I explain why removing reproductive organs isn’t just about preventing puppies, it can disrupt critical hormone loops, stress the adrenals, affect bones, joints, behavior, and even increase risk for certain cancers.
I share practical strategies f
Seasonal Lung Support for Cool / General Dogs: Herbs, Tonics & Tips | Short
144: I’m coming to you from Ireland with a quick episode all about supporting your dog’s lungs during seasonal changes. As we head into cooler weather, our pups are more prone to respiratory stress, coughing, and slower recovery from inflammation. I break down my Lung Tonic formula with reishi, black currant buds, calendula, and ginger, plus share why these herbs are so powerful for boost
The Hidden Dangers of Flea Meds You’re Using on Your Pets
143: In this short, I share a recent experience with a client whose small dog had a frightening reaction after being exposed to a topical flea treatment meant for their cats. Thankfully, with the guidance of emergency vet Dr. Lynda Loudin, we were able to troubleshoot and figure out what was going on. This episode covers the risks of spot-on flea and tick products, how they impact dogs, c
Hormone Health for Dogs: What Spay and Neuter Really Do
142: In this episode, I’m talking all about hormones and how we can support our dogs with glandulars. When dogs are spayed or neutered, their hormones drop off suddenly and that shift can affect everything from the adrenals and liver to bones, connective tissue, energy, and the immune system.
I break down what glandulars are, why I use things like ovary, uterus, liver, and bone marrow, an
Understanding Dog Pain: Physical Signs, Behavior Changes, and Relief | Short
141: Today I’m covering a topic every dog guardian should understand: pain. Dogs are masters at hiding discomfort, so it’s crucial to learn the subtle signs,both physical and behavioral,that indicate your dog may be hurting. From stiffness, limping, and changes in posture, to shifts in mood, sleep, appetite, and even breathing, I cover the key ways to recognize pain in your furry companio
Kibble Makeover: Simple Steps That Transform Your Dog’s Bowl
140: Today we’re giving kibble a little love. I know, I know, kibble doesn’t usually get the spotlight, but not everyone can go full-on raw or home-cooked every single meal. And that’s okay! So instead of stressing about perfection, I’m breaking down how to turn that bowl of dry crunchies into something way more nourishing.
Topics Discussed:
→ How can I make my dog’s kibble healthie
Using AI For Herbal Information | Short
139: In today’s short I’m covering an important topic: AI and herbal medicine. I talk about why you need to be careful relying on AI for formulations, how it can easily get herbs and their energetics completely wrong, and why true herbal knowledge can’t be scraped from the internet. I even share some funny AI experiments that went hilariously off track.
Topics Discussed:
→ Can
Discoid Lupus in Dogs: Tips & Tricks | Short
138: In this episode I’m covering Discoid Lupus in dogs, a tricky autoimmune condition that affects the skin, especially the face, nose, lips, and ears. I break down what it looks like, which breeds are more susceptible, and both conventional and holistic ways to support your pup. From herbal remedies like turmeric and medicinal mushrooms, to phytoembryonic therapies like mountain pine an
The Privilege Of Feeding All Natural
137: In this episode, I’m covering how far dog nutrition has come since I started feeding my first Rottweiler decades ago. I talk about the huge shift from almost no options to the amazing variety of fresh, raw, minimally processed, and ethically sourced foods we have now. But more than that, I get real about why supporting each other, no matter where you are on your feeding journey, is w
Why I Love Raspberry Leaf For Female Dogs | Short
136: In this short episode I’m covering one of my favorite herbs for female dogs, spayed or unspayed, raspberry leaf! I’ll walk you through how it works as a uterine tonic, how it can help with irregular heat cycles, false pregnancies, hormone balance, and even emotional shifts some dogs experience during their cycles.
Topics Discussed:
→ Can raspberry leaf help regulate my dog’s heat cyc
What To Know About Copper, The Liver, + Your Dog’s Diet
135: Today’s episode is all about copper storage disease: what it is, why it’s becoming more common, and how to support your dog naturally if it shows up. I talk about the difference between natural and synthetic copper, why certain breeds are more at risk, and how commercial dog food might be doing more harm than good.
I’m also sharing my favorite herbs, supplements, and phyto-embryonic
Earthing For Dogs (+ Their Humans) | Short
134: Coming to you from sunny Folly Beach, I’m covering one of my favorite healing tools: earthing. Yep, it’s exactly what it sounds like...getting those bare feet (and paws) on the ground to reconnect with the natural electrical charge of the Earth. In this episode, I share why grounding is way more than a wellness trend and how it helps reduce inflammation, balance hormones, improve sle
Plechner’s Part Two: Herbs, Hormones, + Healing Plans
133: We’re coming to you from the thick, damp air of Williamsburg, Virginia, where I’m reflecting on how far I’ve come in handling the heat and how our dogs can, too. I talk a bit about what “damp” means in both human and animal bodies, why mold might be a hidden culprit, and why it’s worth looking into testing if your dog seems off.
I’m also sharing some remedies for dogs with endocrine
Introduction To Plechners Syndrome | Short
132: In this short episode I’m covering NERS Syndrome, also known as Lector Syndrome. I explain what it is, the symptoms to watch for, and why this theory of endocrine-immune imbalance matters when it comes to your dog’s long-term health.
From chronic allergies and thyroid issues to anxiety and immune dysfunction, NERS might be part of the picture. Whether or not your vet recognizes it, I
What Every Dog Owner Should Know About Leaky Gut
131: On this episode of Dogs Are Individuals, I’m unpacking the complex world of leaky gut in dogs. From energetic patterns like dampness and heat to key causes like antibiotics, stress, and candida overgrowth, we’ll talk about how this condition affects digestion, allergies, immune health, and even behavior. Learn how to recognize the signs, understand the role of the lymphatic system an
Your Dog Is Not A Wolf | Short
130: This week I’m coming to you from the road—literally—while on my Herbal Dog Tour! In this episode, I dig into a question I was asked on tour: Can our dogs intuitively choose their energetics like wild animals do? I unpack why our dogs aren’t wolves, how seasonal eating plays into health, and why commercial diets make energetics more important than ever.
Topics Discussed:
→ Can d
Talking To Your Vet | Dr. Lynda Loudon
129: In this episode, we’re getting real about those “oh no” vet moments—the kind that leave you sweaty, stressed, and maybe yelling at your dog’s doctor (oops). Emergency vet Dr. Lynda Loudon joins us to chat about how to be a more prepared, less panicked pet parent and how to navigate difficult conversations with your vet.
Topics Discussed:
→ What should I ask my vet
Seasonal Allergies and Liver Health
128: In this episode, I’m jumping right into seasonal allergies — and why they might not be all about the pollen. I never thought I’d be taken down by allergies, but here I am, sounding like a frog underwater. I’m sharing what I’ve learned from my own experience and how it relates to your dog’s health. Seasonal allergy symptoms are often a reflection of what’s going on inside the body, es
Addison’s Disease in Dogs: Symptoms, Causes & Herbal Support
127: This week, I’m digging into Addison’s disease in dogs—what it is, how it shows up, and why it’s so often missed. It’s one of those conditions that can mimic a bunch of other issues, which makes getting the right diagnosis a real challenge.
I’ll break down what’s actually happening with your dog’s adrenal glands, how vets typically test for it, and what treatment looks like. If you’ve
A Match Made in Hell: Milk-Bone Meets Jif Peanut Butter | Short
126: In this short episode, I go on a much-needed rant about something that truly made my stomach turn: Milk-Bone has teamed up with Jif peanut butter to create a new dog treat—and it's just as bad as it sounds. I break down the disturbing ingredients in both products, from glyphosate-laced wheat and trans fats to sugar, molasses, and mystery meats. These kinds of humanized, ultra-process
What to Do After a Tick Bite | Short
125: In this episode, we’re diving deep into what happens after your dog gets bit by a tick — because that moment matters. I answer a listener's question about my After formula and break down how each ingredient helps support your dog’s body post-bite — from the cellular level all the way to the emotional layer. We’re talking olive bud, sweet chestnut, teasel, mushrooms, and more — all wo
Cushings: A Dog Owner's Guide
In this episode of Dogs Are Individuals, we are going to talk about Cushing’s by request. I’m going to share my dog’s journey to help you recognize signs like panting, skin changes, and increased appetite. We’ll also explore diagnostic tools and treatment options, including holistic support. If your dog’s health feels like a mystery, this one’s for you. Topics Discussed: What are the earl
This One Brain Pathway Could Change Your Dog’s Life (And Yours Too!) | Short
123: In this episode, I’m covering a fascinating topic: the glymphatic pathway. Think of it as your (and your dog’s!) brain detox system—kind of like the lymphatic system, but for the brain. We’ll explore how it works, why it matters for cognitive clarity and emotional regulation, and what you can do to support it naturally, especially in your dog.
I’ll also share updates from my book tou
Conditioning The Gut For Probiotics
122: In today’s episode, we are going to talk about preparing the gut for probiotics. A lot of people don’t realize that we have to prepare and strengthen the gut before it’s ready for probiotics, which I talk about a lot in my new book The Herbal Dog.
Strengthening the glycocalyx and IGA builds a resistant gut barrier before introducing probiotics. This is especially true in
Supporting Spay + Neuter | Short
121: In this episode, I explore natural ways to support your dog’s health after spay or neuter surgery. We’ll discuss how herbs like ashwagandha and rhodiola can help balance hormones and keep your pup healthy and happy. I’ll also highlight how herbs can complement veterinary care, not replace it. Whether your dog’s surgery was recent or some time ago, I’ll share practical tips for aiding
The Things We Forget We Are Doing To Our Dogs
120: In this episode, we're diving into often-overlooked aspects of canine care that can significantly impact your dog's health and well-being. We'll discuss why it's worth rethinking conventional practices like spaying and neutering, along with natural approaches to heartworm prevention, antibiotic recovery, and building a healthy microbiome. I'll also share effective, environmentally fr
HPP vs Traditional Raw Food: Which Diet is Best for Your Dog’s Health?
119: Today’s episode explores how plant medicine and raw food nutrition can boost your pet's health. We’ll break down High Pressure Pasteurization (HPP), what it means for your dog’s diet, and how it keeps food safe while maintaining key nutrients.
Throughout this episode, I’ll share my own experiences with HPP-treated and traditional raw food diets, along with insights from my boo
Moringa & Your Dog: Benefits, Risks, and Dosage | Short
118: In this episode, I’m answering a listener question from Caroline about moringa. This trendy herb is often called a superfood, but is it the right fit for your dog? As a canine herbalist, I’m breaking down what you need to know before adding moringa to your dog’s routine. Tune in for the full scoop!
Topics discussed:
Moringa’s natural habitat
Superfood category
Health be
How Clean Is Your Water? The Benefits of Drinking Filtered Water
117: In this episode, I’m diving into the importance of filtered water for both pets and humans. Whether you're at home or traveling, contaminants like chlorine, fluoride, and heavy metals can have a major impact on our health. Filtering your water helps reduce exposure to toxins, supporting a stronger immune system and overall well-being. It’s especially important for pets, as they can b
Choosing the Best Kibble: What to Look for in Your Dog’s Food | Short
116: In this episode, I dive into the Kibble Hierarchy—what separates a quality kibble from the bottom-of-the-barrel options. I break down ingredient labels, key red flags to watch for (like rendered meals and non-descript meats), and how to make better choices for your dog’s health.
This episode is especially for those who can’t feed raw or home-cooked meals exclusively. I also share som
Avian Flu: Fortifying Your Dog’s Health
In this episode of Dogs Are Individuals, I’m sharing how to boost your dog’s immune system with natural remedies—no need to panic about things like bird flu! I talk about the power of mushrooms, why they’re safe for dogs of all ages, and how to protect your pets with herbs like Agarikon, Andrographis, and elderberry. I’ll also give you an update on my book tour (so excited!) and rem
Just Say No To Sugar: Why Dogs Should Never Eat Sugar (And Neither Should You) | Short
In this episode, I’m talking about a topic that’s really important but often overlooked—sugar and its negative effects on dogs. I explain why sugar weakens the immune system, causes inflammation, and contributes to chronic diseases like cancer. I also share my own experiences with sugar and how I’ve learned to manage it, both for myself and for my dogs. If you’re feeding your dog anything
Chickens, Chamomile, and Updates & Google’s Herbal Myths
In this episode, I’m sharing something that’s near and dear to my heart: how to find reliable herbal information for your dogs. We’ve all been there—googling herbs for pets and getting overwhelmed by conflicting advice. I’ll explain why you should be cautious about the info you find online, especially when it comes to herbs like chamomile, peppermint, and garlic.
I’ll walk you through the
Brain-Boosting Herbs | Short
In this episode, I’m talking about cognition and how we can support our dogs' brain health through herbs and nutrition. I’ll walk you through some of my favorite herbs like Ginkgo Biloba, Gotu Kola, Bacopa, and Lion's Mane, and how they can help with memory, circulation, and reducing oxidative stress. I also share some brain-boosting superfoods, like Omega-3s, coconut oil, and blueberries
Winter Kidneys: Keeping Your Dog Healthy In The Winter
In this episode, I'm chatting about kidney health as we roll into "kidney season" (yep, that’s a thing) from December 21st to March 21st, and I’m sharing some nuggets from my book The Herbal Dog. I’ll explain how kidney issues can sneak up on us — like subtle signs of urinary changes or joint pain — before they show up on blood work, and how you can spot them early. I’ll also cover natura
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