Podcast episodes - Your Vet Wants You to Know

A person holds a dog's paw while the dog rests its head on a blanket.

Pemphigus foliaceous – A Crusty Skin Disease in Dogs and Cats

In this episode of ‘Your Vet Wants You to Know’, Dr. Alicia Webb Milum, a board-certified veterinary dermatologist, discusses the rare skin disease pemphigus foliaceous (PF) with host, Dr. Brittany Lancellotti. They delve into the signs, diagnosis, and treatment options for PF, a condition involving autoimmune attacks on the skin that leads to severe itch, crusts, pain, fever, inappetence, and weight loss. Dr. Webb shares a case about a dog named Piper and highlights the importance of tailored treatment plans to get the disease in remission and adjust medication for a safe solution. The episode also includes information about the disease’s prognosis and the necessity for long-term management, with additional information available on their website.

Zenrelia

Zenrelia (ilunocitinib) is a new medication for treating allergies in dogs. In this episode, veterinary dermatologists Dr. Brittany Lancellotti and Dr. Tom Lewis discuss detailed analyses of clinical trials, patient stories, and comparisons with existing treatments like Apoquel. The conversation covers the drug’s mechanism, safety considerations, and the impact on vaccine efficacy. Real-world applications are reviewed, emphasizing the importance of multiple treatment options for allergies and working to find the underlying triggers. The episode also highlights advancements in managing skin and ear infections to prevent antibiotic resistance.

Scooting

Scoot on over to this episode of ‘Your Vet Wants You to Know,’ with returning guest, veterinary dermatologist Dr. Meagan Painter, as she helps explain common anal sac problems in dogs and help you understand why your dog is scooting on the carpet. Sharing the tale of Sadie the Vizsla, Dr. Painter and Dr. Lancellotti explore the mysterious and often messy reasons behind why dogs scoot, lick their butts, and leak that awful fishy smell. Armed with wit and wisdom, they reveal how an innovative infusion procedure can transform tails from troublesome to terrific. Tune in to learn how bulking up poop and banishing butt bother can make everyone happier at home. Plus, discover the surprising link to allergies and the collaborative magic between vets and pet parents that makes tails wag everywhere!

Eye Drops

Dr. Kristen Fischer, veterinary ophthalmologist, is back to discuss the challenges and techniques for applying eye medications to pets when treating corneal ulcers, dry eye, or other eye diseases. She shares practical tips for large dogs, small dogs, and cats, as well as methods for handling more fearful or aggressive animals safely. The episode emphasizes the importance of patience, positive reinforcement, and the use of tools like muzzles and E-collars. Real-life examples, such as a Shih Tzu with dry eye disease, illustrate how owners can successfully administer eye drops. Dr. Fischer recommends pet owner communicating with veterinarians for personalized advice and exploring creative solutions to ensure pets receive the necessary treatment.

A dog being gently held with its head tilted to the side while another hand is dripping an orange dye into the dog's eye.

Corneal Ulcers

In this episode of ‘Your Vet Wants You to Know’, Dr. Kristen Fischer, veterinary ophthalmologist discusses corneal ulcers in pets. Pet owners will learn what corneal ulcers are, how they are diagnosed and treated. Dr. Fischer gives valuable insights on what pet owners should watch for, healing times, and the importance of a rapid veterinary exam. This episode provides practical advice for pet owners on how to heal their pets’ eyes faster. Treatment options, including the use of topical antibiotics and the importance of the ‘cone of shame’ for prevention of further injury, are discussed. The “Scratching the Itch” segment concludes with an overview of other helpful (and adorable) protective eyeware.

A cat lies on its back while gently held and a probe is on the belly

Abdominal Ultrasound

Abdominal ultrasounds are a common, non-invasive diagnostic test used in veterinary medicine to explore potential issues within a pet’s abdomen, such as chronic vomiting or urinary problems. In this episode, Dr. Jessica Larson, an internal medicine specialist, joins us to discuss the process, benefits, and limitations of abdominal ultrasounds, including their role in diagnosing conditions, planning further tests or treatments. Take a listen to learn how an abdominal ultrasound can give answers as to what is happening in your pet’s belly.

Plasma Cell Pododermatitis

Plasma cell pododermatitis in cats is much less comfortable than its nickname, “pillow paws”, would suggest. In this episode of Your Vet Wants You to Know, Dr. Brittany Lancellotti talks about Hermoine, a cat with plasma cell pododermatitis, including the symptoms, underlying causes (viral infections, food allergies, etc), diagnostic tests, potential triggers, and treatments. Our closing segment, ‘Scratching the Itch,’ highlights the ‘Calm and Cozy Cat Wrap’, a tool designed to alleviate the stress of administering oral medications to cats.

Cataracts in Dogs and cats

In this episode, Dr. Kristen Fischer, board certified veterinary ophthalmologist discusses the importance of early diagnosis, the different causes, and treatments of cataracts in pets. Genetic predisposition and diabetes are the most common causes of cataracts in dogs, whereas inflammation causes cataracts in cats. Early detection and treatment are essential and can be achieved by routine eye exams conducted by a veterinarian. Treatment options available include surgery, which has a success rate of around 90%. In cases where surgery isn’t possible, maintaining comfort for the pet is key. The positive impact of this treatment in pets is highlighted through a special story about a rescue dog named Ethel. Dr. Fischer also denotes the annual initiative by the American College of Veterinary Ophthalmologists that provides free eye exams for service animals globally.

Bearded Dragons

Bearded dragons are one of the most popular reptile pets. They are curious and interactive, making them good family pets. With the right care, they can live over 10 years. In this episode, Dr. Nicole Johnson, veterinarian and past president of the Association of Reptile and Amphibian Veterinarians, talks about how to keep your bearded dragon healthy, what they like to eat, and the importance of a good relationship with a veterinarian with knowledge of exotic animals and reptiles.

Honeybees

In recent years, veterinarians have become more involved in the health and welfare of honeybees as the result of changes in how antibiotics are regulated. In this episode, Dr. Brittany Kyle, veterinarian and honeybee expert, discusses the fascinating world of beekeeping, some of the common misconceptions around bees, and the lessons she has learned caring for her own bee colony. The stories shared include great resources, whether you have an established apiary or you just want to know what the buzz is all about.