The Dr. Molly Says Podcast

This week on Dr. Molly Says, I’m BACK!! And we’re talking about one of the most common things I see in veterinary practice… ear infections.From the head shaking and funky smells to the mystery ear gunk, I’m breaking down what’s actually happening inside your pet’s ears, why these infections keep coming back, and why treating the infection itself isn’t always enough.We get into yeast vs. bacterial infections, how allergies can play a HUGE role, and why I always want to know what’s causing the problem in the first place. Because if your dog keeps getting ear infections over and over again, there might be more going on than meets the eye.We also get into:* Yeast vs. bacteria and why figuring out the difference matters* What your vet is looking for during an ear exam* When ear infections can affect hearing, balance, and more* How often you should actually be cleaning your pet’s earsPLUS: a little ear anatomy, some truly gross microscope discoveries, and a reminder that our pets can’t exactly tell us when their ears hurt… so it’s up to us to pay attention.The Dr. Molly Says podcast is BACK, and we’re here every week! Have questions or a topic you want me to cover? Send them my way.LOVE YOU GUYS 💛Timestamps:00:00 Welcome Back to Dr. Molly Says!00:39 Opening The Local Vets & Returning to the Podcast04:09 Why Dog & Cat Ear Infections Are So Common04:35 Understanding Dog & Cat Ear Anatomy08:37 What Is Otitis Externa?10:17 Signs Your Pet Might Have an Ear Infection11:32 Yeast vs. Bacterial Ear Infections14:06 Foreign Objects, Ear Canal Growths & Eardrum Damage16:27 Why Your Dog Keeps Getting Ear Infections19:13 Why Ear Infections Are Painful22:49 Choosing the Right Treatment for an Ear Infection25:49 Why Your Pet Needs an Ear Infection Recheck26:49 Allergies & Other Underlying Causes of Ear Infections28:06 Ear Problems in Cats & Ear Polyps28:51 Ear Mites: What Pet Owners Should Know30:35 Ear Hematomas: Why Head Shaking Can Cause Swelling34:35 Deep Ear Infections & Problems With Balance and Hearing36:22 How Often Should You Clean Your Dog’s or Cat’s Ears?38:06 Ear Cleaning Products You Should Avoid38:40 Should You Pluck Your Dog’s Ear Hair?39:44 Can Ear Infections Go Away on Their Own?40:29 SEE YOU NEXT WEEK!!!!!---------------------------------------------------------------Listen to the pod on YouTube/Spotify/Apple:https://www.youtube.com/@drmollysayspod https://open.spotify.com/show/7xmKqrXGPJXpsbDbtCMgfe?si=17148ddc74604cb1 https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-dr-molly-says-podcast/id1800302028---------------------------------------------------------------Follow Dr. Molly:Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/drmollysaysTikTok | https://www.tiktok.com/@drmollysaysFollow the podcast:Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/drmollysayspod/TikTok | https://www.tiktok.com/@drmollysayspod---------------------------------------------------------------

This week on Dr. Molly Says, I’m joined by veterinarian, feline medicine enthusiast, industry leader, and fellow “we have a lot of opinions about vet med” human… Dr. Jason Epstein.We get into everything from cat-only hospitals, corporate veterinary medicine, the future of feline care, and one of the biggest debates happening in veterinary medicine right now.Dr. Epstein shares his journey through general practice, leadership roles, startups, vaccine clinics, and why he’s now building cat-focused veterinary hospitals, because according to him… cats don’t belong in dog hospitals. (Yes, he said it.)We also get into:* Why feline medicine deserves its own approach* The surprising problem with traditional mixed animal hospitals* Corporate vet med, leadership, and what happens when practices collapse overnight* Accessibility, affordability, and the realities of modern veterinary care* The future of veterinary technicians and why they deserve WAY more support* The controversial Veterinary Professional Associate (VPA) conversation happening in the U.S.* Whether mid-level veterinary providers could help… or create bigger problemsPLUS: hot takes, conference friend lore, cat behavior misunderstandings, “spicy cats” vs moody monarchs 👑, and a surprisingly passionate discussion about veterinary education, legislation, and who should actually be writing healthcare policy.LOVE YOU GUYS 💛Timestamps:00:00:00 Welcome + meet Dr. Jason Epstein00:01:00 Marching band, clarinet discourse & veterinary origin story00:05:00 Early career, GP life & leadership transitions00:06:30 Corporate veterinary medicine + what happened with My Pets Wellness00:08:50 Affordable care, vaccine clinics & community medicine00:10:20 Why Dr. Epstein is building cat-only hospitals00:11:30 HOT TAKE: “Cats don’t belong in dog hospitals”00:13:00 Species-specific veterinary care: future or fantasy?00:15:00 What cats actually experience at the vet (and why it matters)00:20:00 Feline medicine gaps in veterinary education00:30:00 Cat-friendly care, environment & understanding feline behavior00:40:00 “Spicy cats” aren’t spicy… they’re cats00:41:30 The VPA conversation explained (without assuming you’ve been living on vet internet)00:44:00 Colorado, legislation & why this debate got very real, very fast00:50:00 Education pathways, supervision rules & big concerns about implementation00:57:00 Access to care vs quality of care — can both exist?01:00:00 Vet tech utilization, title protection & workforce challenges01:05:00 Where veterinary medicine might be headed next01:07:00 Final thoughts + why this is definitely not the last conversation we’re having about this---------------------------------------------------------------Listen to the pod on YouTube/Spotify/Apple:https://www.youtube.com/@drmollysayspod https://open.spotify.com/show/7xmKqrXGPJXpsbDbtCMgfe?si=17148ddc74604cb1 https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-dr-molly-says-podcast/id1800302028---------------------------------------------------------------Follow Dr. Molly:Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/drmollysaysTikTok | https://www.tiktok.com/@drmollysaysFollow the podcast:Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/drmollysayspod/TikTok | https://www.tiktok.com/@drmollysayspod---------------------------------------------------------------

This week on Dr. Molly Says… it’s just us!!! .… and an uncomfortable conversation we probably need to have about pet obesity.Because… statistically? A LOT of our dogs and cats are overweight. And before you get defensive — hear me out. This isn’t about aesthetics. We’re talking about real health consequences, chronic disease, arthritis, diabetes, mobility loss, and yes… shorter lifespans.We’re breaking down how veterinarians actually evaluate weight (hello body condition score), why so many pets gain weight without owners realizing it, and some hot takes about treats, free feeding, “active lifestyles,” and why your dog maybe doesn’t need a snack every time they pee.We also get into:* How to tell if your dog or cat is actually overweight* Why body condition score matters more than the number on the scale* The surprising diseases linked to obesity in dogs and cats* Why labs, beagles, and indoor cats can be especially prone to weight gain* Free feeding vs meal feeding (yes… we’re doing this debate)* Why treat calories count WAY more than you think* How spay/neuter changes metabolism* The real math behind feeding recommendations* Weight loss strategies that actually work in real lifePLUS: we discuss Solo cup measurements pretending to be “one cup,” chunky cat culture, why your veterinarian is not trying to offend you, and my slightly controversial opinion about potty treats.LOVE YOU GUYS 💛Timestamps:00:00:00 Welcome back! Season 2, podcast updates & the new clinic build00:02:45 Why pet obesity is uncomfortable to talk about00:04:00 Hot take: your dog doesn’t need a potty treat forever00:05:00 The shocking number of overweight pets in the U.S00:06:00 Why weight matters beyond “looking chunky”00:07:00 Body Condition Score explained (4–5/9 is the goal)00:09:00 How to actually tell if your pet is overweight00:13:00 Diseases linked to obesity in cats00:15:00 Arthritis, mobility & obesity in dogs00:17:00 How pets become overweight in the first place00:18:00 Labs, beagles & genetics of appetite00:19:00 Why your pet probably isn’t as “active” as you think00:20:00 Feeding guides vs actual calorie calculations00:21:00 Free feeding vs meal feeding debate00:23:00 Treat calories add up FAST00:26:00 Spay/neuter, hormones & metabolism changes00:28:00 Helping pets lose weight realistically00:30:00 Measuring food correctly (the Solo cup problem 💀)00:32:00 Treat rules, exercise & muscle mass00:34:00 When weight loss isn’t working: thyroid & medical causes00:35:00 Multi-pet household struggles00:36:00 Exercise ideas for indoor cats00:38:00 Why vets keep bringing up weight (even when owners hate hearing it)00:39:00 Fresh food, calorie density & marketing myths00:42:00 Weight loss diets, supplements & final thoughts00:43:00 SEE YOU NEXT WEEK!!!!!---------------------------------------------------------------Listen to the pod on YouTube/Spotify/Apple:https://www.youtube.com/@drmollysayspod https://open.spotify.com/show/7xmKqrXGPJXpsbDbtCMgfe?si=17148ddc74604cb1 https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-dr-molly-says-podcast/id1800302028---------------------------------------------------------------Follow Dr. Molly:Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/drmollysaysTikTok | https://www.tiktok.com/@drmollysaysFollow the podcast:Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/drmollysayspod/TikTok | https://www.tiktok.com/@drmollysayspod---------------------------------------------------------------Keywords: Pet obesity, overweight dogs, overweight cats, dog weight loss, cat weight loss, veterinary medicine, Dr Molly Says, pet health, dog nutrition, cat nutrition, pet obesity prevention, body condition score, dog treats, cat treats, pet calories, healthy pets, dog health, cat health, veterinary advice, pet lifespan, dog obesity, cat obesity, pet wellness, vet podcast, pet care tips, pet nutrition, veterinarian, dog diet, cat diet, pet weight management

This week on The Dr. Molly Says Podcast, we're diving deep into everything you need to know about Dachsunds!We get into where Dachshunds came from, what they were originally bred to do (spoiler: they were literally bred to hunt badgers underground 😳), why they've become one of the most popular dog breeds in the country, and what makes them such a unique mix of hilarious, stubborn, loyal, opinionated little dogs.But of course, we're not just talking about their personalities. We're also talking about the medical stuff every current or future Dachshund owner should know.We get into:* The different types of Dachshunds (smooth, long-haired & wire-haired)* Standard vs. miniature Dachshunds* Why these dogs have SUCH big personalities* Prey drive, barking, training challenges & "selective hearing" 😅* The truth about IVDD (intervertebral disc disease) and why Dachshunds are so prone to it* Signs of back pain and when it's a veterinary emergency* Whether stairs, jumping and exercise actually increase IVDD risk* Why maintaining a lean body weight is one of the most important things you can do for your Dachshund* Pet insurance and why I'm a huge advocate for it in this breed* Dental disease, anesthesia myths & why small dogs need dental care earlier than most owners realize* Heart disease, patellar luxation and other common health concerns* What to look for in a responsible Dachshund breeder* The major red flags everyone should know about before buying a puppyWhether you already have a Dachshund, you're thinking about getting one, or you just love learning about dogs, this episode is your complete veterinarian's guide to one of the most iconic breeds out there.LOVE YOU GUYS 💛Timestamps00:00 Welcome back + life updates00:00:52 Building The Local Vet & rabbit medicine updates 🏥🐰00:02:06 Meet the Dachshund: history, origins & why they're so popular00:03:32 Standard vs. Miniature Dachshunds00:04:22 Smooth, Long-Haired & Wire-Haired Dachshunds00:06:08 Common Dachshund colors & the dangers of Double Dapple breeding00:08:05 Dachshund personality: stubborn, loyal & VERY opinionated00:10:22 Why Dachshunds love to bark, chase & ignore your commands 😅00:12:03 The #1 health issue in Dachshunds: IVDD explained00:14:42 Signs of IVDD & when it's an emergency00:16:25 Preventing back problems: exercise, weight & muscle mass00:18:15 Why every Dachshund owner should consider pet insurance00:18:55 Dental disease: the health problem nobody talks about00:20:18 Why brushing your Dachshund's teeth matters so much00:22:00 Heart disease & mitral valve disease in Dachshunds00:23:15 Patellar luxation, arthritis & mobility concerns00:24:42 Allergies, cancer risks & mammary tumors00:26:08 Finding an ethical Dachshund breeder: what to look for00:27:08 Red flags, coat colors & breeding practices to avoid 🚩00:28:05 Are Dachshunds right for your family? Final thoughts00:28:55 LOVE YOU GUYS 💛---------------------------------------------------------------Listen to the pod on YouTube/Spotify/Apple:https://www.youtube.com/@drmollysayspod https://open.spotify.com/show/7xmKqrXGPJXpsbDbtCMgfe?si=17148ddc74604cb1 https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-dr-molly-says-podcast/id1800302028---------------------------------------------------------------Follow Dr. Molly:Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/drmollysaysTikTok | https://www.tiktok.com/@drmollysaysFollow the podcast:Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/drmollysayspod/TikTok | https://www.tiktok.com/@drmollysayspod---------------------------------------------------------------

Hi friends! This week's episode is a quick one because by the time you're watching this, I'll be in Jamaica! But before I left - I recorded an episode about something a lot of you have been asking about: my new veterinary practice!

I know I've mentioned it here and there, but I've never actually sat down and told you the whole story — how it came to be, what it's going to look like, and why I'm doing this instead of just... not (spoiler: there was a corporate buyout involved, and honestly, that was my sign 😅).

I give you all the details about some special features in the new practice:

• Why our exam rooms have their OWN exterior doors (hint: anxious dogs and achy senior dogs will thank us)
• The comfort room - a private space with its own entrance specifically for euthanasia appointments, so families don't have to walk back through the lobby afterward
• "The vet bar" - basically a nurse's station meets open pharmacy window, so you can actually SEE the care happening as you walk through

Then we finish off chatting about the real timeline (soft opening tentatively September 1st, grand opening party September 19th — mark your calendars!), hiring updates, and why I believe so strongly in private practice vet med.

If you've ever wondered what actually goes into opening a vet clinic — or you just want to nose around the design decisions with me — this episode is for you!!!!

If you want to see visuals of everything I'm describing, come find me on socials; I'm @drmollysays and the clinic is @thelocalvets. And if you've got questions about the practice, please send them in! I'd love to do a Q&A episode as we get closer to opening.

LOVE YOU GUYS!

Timestamps:

00:00:00 Welcome back + why today's episode is just me

00:04:27 The building, the layout & what our clinic will look like

00:09:57 Design details — porches, the comfort room & full transparency

00:15:32 Opening timeline, hiring updates & the mystery new vet

00:20:52 Private practice vs. corporate vet med (and how you can help)

00:22:00 LOVE YOU GUYS 💛

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Listen to the pod on YouTube/Spotify/Apple:

https://www.youtube.com/@drmollysayspod

https://open.spotify.com/show/7xmKqrXGPJXpsbDbtCMgfe?si=17148ddc74604cb1

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-dr-molly-says-podcast/id1800302028

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Follow Dr. Molly:

Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/drmollysays/

TikTok | https://www.tiktok.com/@drmollysays

Follow the podcast:

Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/drmollysayspod/

TikTok | https://www.tiktok.com/@drmollysayspod

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This week on Dr. Molly Says, I’m hanging out with our FIRST repeat guest, Dr. Tannetje Crocker! We’re talking about veterinary medicine, practice ownership, motherhood, social media, and what it’s really like trying to build a business while juggling everything else.

Then we get into YOUR questions…from choosing the right veterinarian and veterinary clinic red flags to dental health, supplements, arthritis, emergency cases, and more. Plus, we talk about how pet owners can better support their veterinary teams and share some of the craziest cases we’ve seen in emergency medicine. 😂

Basically, it’s two veterinarian friends talking about the realities of vet med, business, pets, and everything in between.

LOVE YOU GUYS 💛

00:00 Dr. Tanja Is Back!

04:31 Opening a New Veterinary Surgery Practice

14:15 Answering Your Pet & Veterinary Questions

17:13 The Pros & Cons of Being a Vet Content Creator

23:40 Balancing Motherhood & Practice Ownership

29:31 What Pet Owners Should Ask Their Veterinarian

47:58 Veterinary Clinic Red Flags

56:47 Crazy Emergency Vet Stories

01:02:43 How to Support Your Veterinary Team

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Listen to the pod on YouTube/Spotify/Apple:

https://www.youtube.com/@drmollysayspod

https://open.spotify.com/show/7xmKqrXGPJXpsbDbtCMgfe?si=17148ddc74604cb1

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-dr-molly-says-podcast/id1800302028

---------------------------------------------------------------

Follow Dr. Molly:

Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/drmollysays/

TikTok | https://www.tiktok.com/@drmollysays

Follow the podcast:

Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/drmollysayspod/

TikTok | https://www.tiktok.com/@drmollysayspod

Follow Dr. Tannetje Crocker:

Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/dr.tannetje.crocker

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This week on Dr. Molly Says, we’re going to vet school! Well… kind of lol.

We’re doing a Vet School for Pet Owners episode because I firmly believe educated pet parents are the best pet parents, and today, we’re talking about something that every dog and cat owner has probably dealt with at some point: vaccines.

I’m breaking down the diseases we vaccinate our pets against, what those diseases actually do, and why your veterinarian recommends the vaccines they do. Because “your dog needs the distemper combo” is helpful information… but knowing what that vaccine is actually protecting your dog from? Even better.

We get into:

• What the infamous distemper/parvo combo actually protects dogs from
• Why distemper can be so devastating, including the neurologic form that can show up weeks or months later
• Why parvo is basically the absolute worst and why it’s so incredibly contagious
• What leptospirosis is, why it’s now considered a core vaccine for dogs, and why it’s not just a “farm dog” disease
• The truth about the kennel cough vaccines (and why they don't necessarily prevent every single cough)
• Canine influenza, Lyme disease, and which dogs may benefit from those vaccines
• The vaccines cats need, including herpesvirus, calicivirus, and feline panleukopenia
• Why feline leukemia vaccination is especially important for outdoor cats
• Why some vaccines are recommended every year while others can be given every three years

Basically, if you’ve ever sat in your veterinarian’s office and thought, “Okay, but what exactly are you vaccinating my pet AGAINST?” - THIS episode is for you.

LOVE YOU GUYS 💛

Timestamps:

00:00 Welcome y’all!!

00:52 Why Pet Owners Should Understand Vaccines

02:01 Dog Vaccines: What Are We Protecting Against?

02:25 Distemper, Adenovirus, Parainfluenza & Parvo

03:28 Canine Distemper

08:59 Adenovirus

11:21 Parvovirus

17:00 Parainfluenza & Kennel Cough

8:57 Dog Core Vaccine Schedule

19:41 Leptospirosis

24:10 Bordetella & Kennel Cough

26:01 Canine Influenza

28:13 Lyme Disease

30:07 Cat Vaccines

30:42 Feline Herpesvirus

33:21 Feline Calicivirus

34:34 Feline Panleukopenia

36:25 Feline Leukemia Virus 38:30 Final Thoughts & Vaccine Q&A

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Listen to the pod on YouTube/Spotify/Apple:

https://www.youtube.com/@drmollysayspod

https://open.spotify.com/show/7xmKqrXGPJXpsbDbtCMgfe?si=17148ddc74604cb1

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-dr-molly-says-podcast/id1800302028

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Follow Dr. Molly:

Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/drmollysays/

TikTok | https://www.tiktok.com/@drmollysays

Follow the podcast:

Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/drmollysayspod/

TikTok | https://www.tiktok.com/@drmollysayspod

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This week on Dr. Molly Says, it’s just me… and we’re talking about one of the most important diseases in veterinary medicine that somehow still manages to be one of the most misunderstood: heartworm disease. I know, I know… heartworms aren't exactly the sexiest podcast topic BUT if you've ever wondered, "Does my indoor dog really need heartworm prevention?" or "Is heartworm prevention actually safe?" or "Can't I just skip it during the winter?"… we're answering all of it.We start with Heartworm 101 (don't worry, I'll make parasites as fun as they can possibly be 🤝). We talk about how dogs actually get heartworms, why mosquitoes are the real villains here, and how these parasites somehow manage to make their way from one tiny mosquito bite all the way into your dog's heart and lungs. (Nature is... honestly kind of terrifying.)Then we get into the questions I hear every single day in practice.* How heartworm disease actually develops* Why your dog can have heartworms for MONTHS before showing any symptoms* The scary complications veterinarians worry about (including caval syndrome)* What heartworm treatment actually looks like... and why we'd all rather prevent it than treat it* How heartworm preventatives actually work (because they don't work the way most people think they do)* Whether indoor dogs really need heartworm medication (spoiler: yes 😅)If you've ever had questions about heartworm prevention (or you've seen one too many TikToks trying to convince you it's more dangerous than heartworm itself) this episode is for you.LOVE YOU GUYS 💛Timestamps:00:00 Welcome back! Why we're talking about heartworm disease01:20 What heartworm actually is03:58 How mosquitoes transmit heartworm07:18 The heartworm life cycle explained11:10 What heartworms do inside the body15:57 Early signs of heartworm disease17:34 Right-sided heart failure & caval syndrome20:13 Wolbachia bacteria & why it matters for treatment22:30 How veterinarians diagnose heartworm disease25:45 Heartworm treatment explained30:39 Why treatment is expensive (and dangerous)31:39 Heartworm prevention myths debunked32:28 How heartworm preventatives actually work34:24 Ivermectin, resistance & prevention options36:30 Why year-round prevention matters37:43 Why your vet recommends annual heartworm testing38:31 Indoor dogs still need prevention39:20 LOVE YOU GUYS 💛---------------------------------------------------------------Listen to the pod on YouTube/Spotify/Apple:https://www.youtube.com/@drmollysayspod https://open.spotify.com/show/7xmKqrXGPJXpsbDbtCMgfe?si=17148ddc74604cb1 https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-dr-molly-says-podcast/id1800302028---------------------------------------------------------------Follow Dr. Molly:Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/drmollysaysTikTok | https://www.tiktok.com/@drmollysaysFollow the podcast:Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/drmollysayspod/TikTok | https://www.tiktok.com/@drmollysayspod---------------------------------------------------------------

This week on Dr. Molly Says, we’re taking a little trip down memory lane!!! We’re working hard behind the scenes on the clinic right now (more on that soon 👀), so while we’re in the thick of it, we’re revisiting one of our favorite episodes with my friend and internal medicine specialist, Dr. Nicole Fein.

We’re diving into everything from what internists actually do to the reality of specialty vet care (plus a few unhinged tangents… obviously).We break down how someone becomes a board-certified veterinary internist (spoiler: years of chaos + 16-hour exams), the types of cases they see all the time (yes… so much poop), and a hot take you might not expect: more diagnostics ≠ better medicine.We also get into:* When it’s actually time to see a specialist* The relationship between pet owners, general practitioner veterinarians, and specialists (it’s a throuple, not a love triangle)* Why some cases should be referred sooner (and what can go wrong when they’re not)* The real cost conversations that need to happen in vet med* Why internal medicine is basically the “everything that doesn’t make sense” specialtyPLUS: Dr. Nicole explains her viral “baby talking patients” videos (yes, including “mouth meat” 💀), we discuss cuteness aggression, and share what really happens behind the scenes at the vet.And of course… we end with Global Pet Expo chaos: piglet parades (aka Frenchies in wagons), influencer pets, and why veterinarians are just trying their best out here.LOVE YOU GUYS 💛Timestamps:00:00:00 Welcome + recording from a hotel bed

00:02:00 What is Global Pet Expo?

00:03:00 Meet Dr. Nicole Fine (internal medicine specialist)

00:07:00 How you become a veterinary internist (aka years of torture)

00:14:55 What cases internal medicine actually sees

00:18:30 Favorite cases (Addison’s, immune disease & emergencies)

00:21:00 What a typical day looks like (and why it’s so communication-heavy)

00:23:00 When should you ask for a specialist referral?

00:26:00 GP vs specialist dynamics (the “throuple” conversation)

00:33:50 Cases that should be referred sooner

00:37:00 Cost conversations & setting expectations

00:39:00 Making specialty care more accessible

00:42:30 Trends in cases + city vs rural vet med

00:46:00 IVDD, surgery vs medical management

00:49:00 Viral baby talk videos explained (yes… really)

00:55:00 Global Pet Expo chaos (piglet parade, influencer pets)

00:59:00 Outro---------------------------------------------------------------Listen to the pod on YouTube/Spotify/Apple:https://www.youtube.com/@drmollysayspod https://open.spotify.com/show/7xmKqrXGPJXpsbDbtCMgfe?si=17148ddc74604cb1 https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-dr-molly-says-podcast/id1800302028---------------------------------------------------------------Follow Dr. Molly:Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/drmollysaysTikTok | https://www.tiktok.com/@drmollysaysFollow the podcast:Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/drmollysayspod/TikTok | https://www.tiktok.com/@drmollysayspod

This week on Doctor Molly Says, we're diving into one of the biggest conversations happening in veterinary medicine right now: corporate ownership of veterinary practices.

If you've seen posts claiming that "Wall Street owns your vet," or wondered why veterinary care seems to be getting more expensive every year, this episode is for you. This isn't a simple issue, and I wanted to share the perspective of someone who's worked in both corporate and privately owned practices.

We start by talking about what private equity actually is, why investors have become so interested in veterinary medicine, and how corporate buyouts have changed the landscape of the profession. I also explain why I think the conversation online is missing some really important context—and why your veterinarian is almost never the villain in this story.

Then we talk about older generations of practice owners, why veterinary care was historically underpriced, how better equipment and better pay for staff have changed the cost of running a clinic, and why some price increases were honestly inevitable.

If you've ever wondered why vet bills have gotten more expensive, whether corporate practices are "bad," or what the future of veterinary medicine might look like, I hope this episode gives you some clarity.

LOVE YOU GUYS 💛

Timestamps:
00:00:00 Welcome back + Why we're talking about corporate veterinary medicine
00:02:26 What private equity is (and why it's buying veterinary practices)
00:05:30 Corporate medicine vs. private practice: what's the real concern?
00:07:34 How we got here: the history behind today's veterinary industry
00:12:27 Why veterinary costs have increased over the years
00:15:17 What actually happens after a practice is bought out
00:20:02 Why I'm hopeful about the future of private practice
00:23:29 How pet owners can support independent veterinary clinics
00:25:25 The hidden cost of unhealthy dog breeds
00:31:37 Final thoughts + What comes next

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Listen to the pod on YouTube/Spotify/Apple:

https://www.youtube.com/@drmollysayspod

https://open.spotify.com/show/7xmKqrXGPJXpsbDbtCMgfe?si=17148ddc74604cb1

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-dr-molly-says-podcast/id1800302028

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Follow Dr. Molly:

Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/drmollysays/

TikTok | https://www.tiktok.com/@drmollysays

Follow the podcast:

Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/drmollysayspod/

TikTok | https://www.tiktok.com/@drmollysayspod

This week on Doctor Molly Says, it's just me, and we're finally tackling a topic so many of you have been asking me about for a long time: kidney disease!

We start with kidney disease 101: what your dog or cat's kidneys are actually doing back there (hint: way more than you'd think), and why these little bean-shaped organs are so vital to basically every system in the body.

Then we get into the two big categories: acute kidney injury and chronic kidney disease. For acute kidney injury, I'm walking you through all the surprising culprits; lilies, antifreeze, grapes and raisins, NSAIDs like ibuprofen, too much vitamin D, certain mushrooms, dehydration, heat stroke, anesthesia risk, heart disease, urinary obstructions, and one I get on my soapbox about: leptospirosis. I really want more of you to understand what "lepto" is and why vaccinating for it matters, especially if your dog has ever had unexplained kidney failure.

Then we dig into chronic kidney disease: why it's so common in cats, why symptoms can be sneaky and subtle until it's fairly advanced, and all the bloodwork markers your vet is actually looking at (creatinine, BUN, SDMA, phosphorus, potassium, urine specific gravity, and protein) when they tell you your pet's kidney values. I also break down IRIS staging, which helps guide how often we monitor and treat.

Finally, we talk treatment because while we can't "cure" chronic kidney disease, there is SO much we can do to slow it down and keep pets feeling good for a long time: prescription kidney diets (and why they're not the internet villain people think they are), hydration strategies, subcutaneous fluids, blood pressure management, and more.

If you've ever gotten "the kidney talk" from your vet and left confused, or you just want to understand your pet's aging kidneys a little better, this episode is for you.

LOVE YOU GUYS 💛

Timestamps:

00:00:00 Welcome back + We're finally talking kidney disease!

00:05:02 Acute kidney injury: toxins that cause it (lilies, antifreeze, grapes & more)

00:10:15 Leptospirosis: the soapbox on vaccination & missed diagnoses

00:15:17 From acute injury to chronic kidney disease

00:20:21 Decoding kidney bloodwork: creatinine, BUN & SDMA

00:25:14 Kidney disease in cats

00:30:15 IRIS staging: how vets grade kidney disease

00:35:12 How do we treat kidney disease

00:40:00 Thanks for listening!!!

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Listen to the pod on YouTube/Spotify/Apple:

https://www.youtube.com/@drmollysayspod

https://open.spotify.com/show/7xmKqrXGPJXpsbDbtCMgfe?si=17148ddc74604cb1

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-dr-molly-says-podcast/id1800302028

---------------------------------------------------------------

Follow Dr. Molly:

Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/drmollysays/

TikTok | https://www.tiktok.com/@drmollysays

Follow the podcast:

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---------------------------------------------------------------

This week on Dr. Molly Says, we're back with another dog breed deep dive!!! You guys loved the last breed episode so much that we had to do it again, and this time it's extra personal: we're talking about the Yorkshire Terrier, in honor of my patient (and honorary muse) Sophia, who bosses everyone around and 100% deserves her own bow collection. 💅

But first, a quick PSA/clarification on the clinic front: after all the love (and questions!) on the open-concept ER clips from Veg Emergency Group, I wanted to walk you through exactly how it's laid out so you know it's not just one big room where everyone's staring at each other lol. More clinic footage coming soon!!!

OK let's get into Yorkies: did you know they were NOT bred to be fancy lap dogs?! Scottish textile workers brought them into Yorkshire to hunt rats and mice in mills and coal mines — literal blue collar pest control that somehow became Victorian royalty's favorite accessory. We get into breed standard (under 7 lbs, no such thing as an official "teacup" or "micro" Yorkie, sorry), temperament (bold, smart, opinionated, shockingly athletic, and yes big barkers), and the grooming commitment that comes with that gorgeous coat (daily brushing please!!).

We also talk nutrition and then the big one: health issues to know before you bring one home. Dental disease and retained baby teeth, patellar luxation, tracheal collapse, liver shunts, Legg-Calve-Perthes disease, pancreatitis, mitral valve disease, cataracts. It's a lot, but knowledge is power, and it's exactly why ethical breeding and health testing matter so much.

Plus: are Yorkies actually good family dogs? (Yes, with the right training and expectations!) What to look for (and avoid!) in a breeder, and why Sophia may be a princess but could probably also thrive as a farm girl.

LOVE YOU GUYS 🐾

Timestamps:

0:00 – Welcome back to Dr. Molly Says! + new Figs scrubs drop

3:06 – Yorkshire Terrier episode: meet Sophia + breed history

7:57 – Breed standard, appearance & temperament

12:52 – Grooming & nutrition

18:00 – Yorkie health issues: dental disease, patella, tracheal collapse

22:19 – More health issues: liver shunts, Perthes disease, heart & eyes

26:15 – Are Yorkies good family dogs? + breeder tips + Sophia's send-off

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Listen to the pod on YouTube/Spotify/Apple:

https://www.youtube.com/@drmollysayspod

https://open.spotify.com/show/7xmKqrXGPJXpsbDbtCMgfe?si=17148ddc74604cb1

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-dr-molly-says-podcast/id1800302028

---------------------------------------------------------------

Follow Dr. Molly:

Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/drmollysays/

TikTok | https://www.tiktok.com/@drmollysays

Follow the podcast:

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---------------------------------------------------------------

Hi friends! This week's episode is a quick one because by the time you're watching this, I'll be in Jamaica! But before I left - I recorded an episode about something a lot of you have been asking about: my new veterinary practice!

I know I've mentioned it here and there, but I've never actually sat down and told you the whole story — how it came to be, what it's going to look like, and why I'm doing this instead of just... not (spoiler: there was a corporate buyout involved, and honestly, that was my sign 😅).

I give you all the details about some special features in the new practice:

• Why our exam rooms have their OWN exterior doors (hint: anxious dogs and achy senior dogs will thank us)
• The comfort room - a private space with its own entrance specifically for euthanasia appointments, so families don't have to walk back through the lobby afterward
• "The vet bar" - basically a nurse's station meets open pharmacy window, so you can actually SEE the care happening as you walk through

Then we finish off chatting about the real timeline (soft opening tentatively September 1st, grand opening party September 19th — mark your calendars!), hiring updates, and why I believe so strongly in private practice vet med.

If you've ever wondered what actually goes into opening a vet clinic — or you just want to nose around the design decisions with me — this episode is for you!!!!

If you want to see visuals of everything I'm describing, come find me on socials; I'm @drmollysays and the clinic is @thelocalvets. And if you've got questions about the practice, please send them in! I'd love to do a Q&A episode as we get closer to opening.

LOVE YOU GUYS!

Timestamps:

00:00:00 Welcome back + why today's episode is just me

00:04:27 The building, the layout & what our clinic will look like

00:09:57 Design details — porches, the comfort room & full transparency

00:15:32 Opening timeline, hiring updates & the mystery new vet

00:20:52 Private practice vs. corporate vet med (and how you can help)

00:22:00 LOVE YOU GUYS 💛

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Listen to the pod on YouTube/Spotify/Apple:

https://www.youtube.com/@drmollysayspod

https://open.spotify.com/show/7xmKqrXGPJXpsbDbtCMgfe?si=17148ddc74604cb1

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-dr-molly-says-podcast/id1800302028

---------------------------------------------------------------

Follow Dr. Molly:

Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/drmollysays/

TikTok | https://www.tiktok.com/@drmollysays

Follow the podcast:

Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/drmollysayspod/

TikTok | https://www.tiktok.com/@drmollysayspod

---------------------------------------------------------------

This week on Dr. Molly Says, it’s just me… and we’re talking about one of the most important diseases in veterinary medicine that somehow still manages to be one of the most misunderstood: heartworm disease.

I know, I know… heartworms aren't exactly the sexiest podcast topic BUT if you've ever wondered, "Does my indoor dog really need heartworm prevention?" or "Is heartworm prevention actually safe?" or "Can't I just skip it during the winter?"… we're answering all of it.

We start with Heartworm 101 (don't worry, I'll make parasites as fun as they can possibly be 🤝). We talk about how dogs actually get heartworms, why mosquitoes are the real villains here, and how these parasites somehow manage to make their way from one tiny mosquito bite all the way into your dog's heart and lungs. (Nature is... honestly kind of terrifying.)

Then we get into the questions I hear every single day in practice.

• How heartworm disease actually develops
• Why your dog can have heartworms for MONTHS before showing any symptoms
• The scary complications veterinarians worry about (including caval syndrome)
• What heartworm treatment actually looks like... and why we'd all rather prevent it than treat it
• How heartworm preventatives actually work (because they don't work the way most people think they do)
• Whether indoor dogs really need heartworm medication (spoiler: yes 😅)

If you've ever had questions about heartworm prevention (or you've seen one too many TikToks trying to convince you it's more dangerous than heartworm itself) this episode is for you.

LOVE YOU GUYS 💛

Timestamps:

00:00 Welcome back! Why we're talking about heartworm disease

01:20 What heartworm actually is

03:58 How mosquitoes transmit heartworm

07:18 The heartworm life cycle explained

11:10 What heartworms do inside the body

15:57 Early signs of heartworm disease

17:34 Right-sided heart failure & caval syndrome

20:13 Wolbachia bacteria & why it matters for treatment

22:30 How veterinarians diagnose heartworm disease

25:45 Heartworm treatment explained

30:39 Why treatment is expensive (and dangerous)

31:39 Heartworm prevention myths debunked

32:28 How heartworm preventatives actually work

34:24 Ivermectin, resistance & prevention options

36:30 Why year-round prevention matters

37:43 Why your vet recommends annual heartworm testing

38:31 Indoor dogs still need prevention

39:20 LOVE YOU GUYS 💛

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Listen to the pod on YouTube/Spotify/Apple:

https://www.youtube.com/@drmollysayspod

https://open.spotify.com/show/7xmKqrXGPJXpsbDbtCMgfe?si=17148ddc74604cb1

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-dr-molly-says-podcast/id1800302028

---------------------------------------------------------------

Follow Dr. Molly:

Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/drmollysays/

TikTok | https://www.tiktok.com/@drmollysays

Follow the podcast:

Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/drmollysayspod/

TikTok | https://www.tiktok.com/@drmollysayspod

---------------------------------------------------------------

This week on The Dr. Molly Says Podcast, I’m joined by neurosurgeon, dog mom, and one of my favorite internet friendships to come out of veterinary medicine… Dr. Betsy Grunch.

We talk about everything from spinal cord injuries and pet vs human medicine, to the wild story of how we actually became friends (spoiler: it involved a dog, a scary medical situation, and a social media DM 😅).

Dr. Grunch shares her incredible journey into medicine after her mother suffered a life-changing spinal cord injury when Betsy was a teenager, how becoming a caregiver shaped her career, and what it's been like opening her own independent neurosurgery practice in her hometown.

Then we get into the dog story that brought us together.

We ALSO get into:

• The surprising similarities between human and veterinary medicine
• Why getting a second opinion can save lives
• Cushing’s disease, Addisonian crises & diagnostic challenges
• Navigating cancer diagnoses in beloved pets
• Veterinary specialists, referral medicine & advocating for your animals
• The emotional reality of caring for pets with complex medical conditions

PLUS: Vizsla chaos, private investigator dog stories, rescue dog moms, Napoleon Dynamite references, dog bed mysteries, fast cars, parasocial friendships, and a very important discussion about what dog breed Betsy would be. 😂

LOVE YOU GUYS 💛

Timestamps

00:00 Welcome back! Meet Dr. Betsy Grunch
02:00 Why Betsy became a neurosurgeon
05:20 Her mother's spinal cord injury changed everything
08:33 Opening her own neurosurgery practice
12:00 Human medicine vs veterinary medicine
17:24 How Molly & Betsy became friends
17:45 The chicken-stealing dog story
19:21 Cushing's disease diagnosis & Addisonian crisis
20:20 The social media post that caught Molly's attention
21:30 Why getting a second opinion mattered
22:53 Finding liver cancer & life-saving surgery
30:00 Navigating cancer treatment as a pet owner
39:29 When the second dog had a medical emergency too
49:04 Talking dogs, breeding & pet ownership
50:06 Meet Bobo, the legendary private investigator dog
52:02 Vizsla stories & littermate updates
53:17 What dog breed would Betsy be?
01:06:50 LOVE YOU GUYS 💛

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Listen to the pod on YouTube/Spotify/Apple:

https://www.youtube.com/@drmollysayspod

https://open.spotify.com/show/7xmKqrXGPJXpsbDbtCMgfe?si=17148ddc74604cb1

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-dr-molly-says-podcast/id1800302028

---------------------------------------------------------------

Follow Dr. Molly:

Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/drmollysays/

TikTok | https://www.tiktok.com/@drmollysays

Follow the podcast:

Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/drmollysayspod/

TikTok | https://www.tiktok.com/@drmollysayspod

---------------------------------------------------------------

This week on The Dr. Molly Says Podcast, we're diving deep into everything you need to know about Dachsunds!

We get into where Dachshunds came from, what they were originally bred to do (spoiler: they were literally bred to hunt badgers underground 😳), why they've become one of the most popular dog breeds in the country, and what makes them such a unique mix of hilarious, stubborn, loyal, opinionated little dogs.

But of course, we're not just talking about their personalities. We're also talking about the medical stuff every current or future Dachshund owner should know.

We get into:

• The different types of Dachshunds (smooth, long-haired & wire-haired)
• Standard vs. miniature Dachshunds
• Why these dogs have SUCH big personalities
• Prey drive, barking, training challenges & "selective hearing" 😅
• The truth about IVDD (intervertebral disc disease) and why Dachshunds are so prone to it
• Signs of back pain and when it's a veterinary emergency
• Whether stairs, jumping and exercise actually increase IVDD risk
• Why maintaining a lean body weight is one of the most important things you can do for your Dachshund
• Pet insurance and why I'm a huge advocate for it in this breed
• Dental disease, anesthesia myths & why small dogs need dental care earlier than most owners realize
• Heart disease, patellar luxation and other common health concerns
• What to look for in a responsible Dachshund breeder
• The major red flags everyone should know about before buying a puppy

Whether you already have a Dachshund, you're thinking about getting one, or you just love learning about dogs, this episode is your complete veterinarian's guide to one of the most iconic breeds out there.

LOVE YOU GUYS 💛

Timestamps

00:00 Welcome back + life updates
00:00:52 Building The Local Vet & rabbit medicine updates 🏥🐰
00:02:06 Meet the Dachshund: history, origins & why they're so popular
00:03:32 Standard vs. Miniature Dachshunds
00:04:22 Smooth, Long-Haired & Wire-Haired Dachshunds
00:06:08 Common Dachshund colors & the dangers of Double Dapple breeding
00:08:05 Dachshund personality: stubborn, loyal & VERY opinionated
00:10:22 Why Dachshunds love to bark, chase & ignore your commands 😅
00:12:03 The #1 health issue in Dachshunds: IVDD explained
00:14:42 Signs of IVDD & when it's an emergency
00:16:25 Preventing back problems: exercise, weight & muscle mass
00:18:15 Why every Dachshund owner should consider pet insurance
00:18:55 Dental disease: the health problem nobody talks about
00:20:18 Why brushing your Dachshund's teeth matters so much
00:22:00 Heart disease & mitral valve disease in Dachshunds
00:23:15 Patellar luxation, arthritis & mobility concerns
00:24:42 Allergies, cancer risks & mammary tumors
00:26:08 Finding an ethical Dachshund breeder: what to look for
00:27:08 Red flags, coat colors & breeding practices to avoid 🚩
00:28:05 Are Dachshunds right for your family? Final thoughts
00:28:55 LOVE YOU GUYS 💛

---------------------------------------------------------------

Listen to the pod on YouTube/Spotify/Apple:

https://www.youtube.com/@drmollysayspod

https://open.spotify.com/show/7xmKqrXGPJXpsbDbtCMgfe?si=17148ddc74604cb1

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-dr-molly-says-podcast/id1800302028

---------------------------------------------------------------

Follow Dr. Molly:

Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/drmollysays/

TikTok | https://www.tiktok.com/@drmollysays

Follow the podcast:

Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/drmollysayspod/

TikTok | https://www.tiktok.com/@drmollysayspod

---------------------------------------------------------------

This week on Dr. Molly Says, I’m joined by one of my real-life friends (and current work buddy 😅), Dr. Kristen Frevert VMD! Kristen is a veterinarian here in Franklin, TN who recently added a HUGE new credential to her résumé: she officially became a Certified Canine Rehabilitation Practitioner (CCRP) through the University of Tennessee, aka the birthplace of canine rehab.

We start with Kristen’s journey from traditional general practice into integrative medicine, how she became certified in medical acupuncture during COVID, and why she felt called to develop skills that could help pets in ways many owners don’t even realize exist. We also settle the very important question: if Kristen were a dog breed, would she actually be a Border Collie? (Spoiler: absolutely.)

Then we get into Kristen’s HOT TAKE: age is NOT a disease. Just because your dog is slowing down doesn’t mean it’s “just getting old.” We talk about chronic pain, arthritis, muscle loss, why limping always matters, and the subtle signs pet owners often miss in senior dogs and cats.

From there, we dive into the world of veterinary rehab—underwater treadmills, laser therapy, shockwave therapy, regenerative medicine, post-surgery recovery, and all the ways these tools are helping pets stay active and comfortable longer.

We also tackle acupuncture myths, what it actually does (hint: it's not just for pain), and some of the surprising conditions it can help treat.

If you have a senior pet, a dog recovering from surgery, or you've ever wondered whether acupuncture and rehab are actually worth considering, this episode is packed with practical information you can start using right away.

LOVE YOU GUYS! 💛

Timestamps:

00:00:00 Welcome + introducing Dr. Kristen Frevert
00:07:14 Why Kristen pursued acupuncture & integrative medicine
00:11:23 If Kristen were a dog breed… 🐾
00:13:11 Hot Take: Age Is NOT a Disease
00:16:32 What is an integrative veterinarian?
00:17:23 What does a Certified Canine Rehabilitation Practitioner actually do?
00:23:00 Which pets are the best candidates for rehab?
00:27:00 What a rehab treatment plan looks like
00:28:00 Underwater treadmills: why they're so effective
00:30:58 Shockwave therapy, lasers, PRP & regenerative medicine
00:34:32 Cost, insurance coverage & barriers to rehab
00:43:07 Acupuncture Explained: The science behind the needles
00:47:58 Surprising conditions acupuncture can help treat
00:52:05 How often should pets receive acupuncture?
00:55:55 When should pet owners consider rehab or acupuncture?
00:57:30 The most underrated rehab tool
01:01:08 Tennessee's chiropractic legislation & why veterinarians are concerned
01:12:46 Weight, muscle mass & protecting your pet's future
01:13:58 Final thoughts + where to find Dr. Frevert
01:15:02 See you next week! 🐶🐱

---------------------------------------------------------------

Listen to the pod on YouTube/Spotify/Apple:

https://www.youtube.com/@drmollysayspod

https://open.spotify.com/show/7xmKqrXGPJXpsbDbtCMgfe?si=17148ddc74604cb1

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-dr-molly-says-podcast/id1800302028

---------------------------------------------------------------

Follow Dr. Molly:

Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/drmollysays/

TikTok | https://www.tiktok.com/@drmollysays

Follow the podcast:

Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/drmollysayspod/

TikTok | https://www.tiktok.com/@drmollysayspod

---------------------------------------------------------------

Keywords:

dog arthritis, senior dog health, dog pain symptoms, signs your dog is in pain, canine rehabilitation, veterinary rehabilitation, dog acupuncture, acupuncture for dogs, pet mobility, aging dogs, senior dog care, dog limping, arthritis in dogs, integrative veterinary medicine, regenerative medicine for dogs, underwater treadmill for dogs, laser therapy for dogs, pet wellness, veterinary podcast, dog health podcast, pet health, canine health

This week on The Dr. Molly Says Podcast, it’s just me… and we are getting into one of the biggest conversations happening in pet health online right now: flea & tick prevention misinformation.

But first… life update because YES, I’m building a veterinary clinic!!! I give you a sneak peakreal behind-the-scenes update on buying a building, construction chaos, leaving my previous role, and what it’s actually been like creating the practice I’ve dreamed about for years.

(We also do a quick follow-up on last week’s cat scruffing discourse because apparently veterinary restraint debates are thriving on the interne!!)

THEN… we get into the big one.

We talk flea & tick preventatives, internet fear-mongering, “natural” wellness marketing, and the class of medications everyone seems to be panicking about right now: isoxazolines.

We get into:

• Why fleas & ticks are WAY more than just annoying bugs
• The diseases veterinarians are actually trying to protect pets from (Lyme disease, ehrlichia, flea allergy dermatitis, bobcat fever & more)
• How flea & tick preventatives really work (yes… including the “neurotoxin” conversation)
• The truth about oral preventatives, tick transmission, and the “they poison your dog’s blood” myth
• FDA label updates, seizures, neurologic side effects & what we actually know about risk
• Correlation vs causation, medication safety studies & how these products are tested
• “Natural” preventatives, essential oils, detox protocols & the business of pet wellness misinformation

PLUS: hot takes on internet grifters, why “natural” doesn’t automatically mean safer, pharmaceutical nuance, veterinary transparency, and a very honest conversation about how confusing all of this can be for pet owners just trying to do right by their animals.

LOVE YOU GUYS 💛

Timestamps:

00:00 Welcome back! Real life updates + recording in the future vet clinic 👀

00:00:52 Follow-up on the cat scruffing debate (because the internet had thoughts…)

00:05:22 I’M BUILDING A VETERINARY CLINIC?! Behind-the-scenes update

00:08:24 Flea & tick prevention misinformation is EVERYWHERE right now

00:12:05 Why vets take fleas & ticks so seriously

00:13:02 Fleas: allergies, anemia, tapeworms & yes… plague

00:16:28 Tick-borne diseases explained: Lyme, ehrlichia, bobcat fever & more

00:23:17 How flea & tick medications actually work

00:24:23 “They’re neurotoxins?!” — let’s talk about that

00:31:36 The “they poison your dog’s blood” myth

00:34:18 How flea & tick meds are safety tested before approval

00:37:21 Isoxazolines, seizures & the FDA warning conversation

00:39:28 Correlation vs causation: are these medications actually causing problems?

00:43:40 Which dogs may be more sensitive to these preventatives?

00:47:08 Risk vs benefit: how veterinarians actually think about prevention

00:49:52 “Vets push meds for money” — myth vs reality

00:51:04 Are flea meds causing cancer in dogs?!

00:52:15 Natural preventatives, essential oils & pet wellness influencers

00:56:14 Final thoughts: nuance, integrative medicine & protecting your pets

00:57:06 LOVE YOU GUYS 💛

---------------------------------------------------------------

Listen to the pod on YouTube/Spotify/Apple:

https://www.youtube.com/@drmollysayspod

https://open.spotify.com/show/7xmKqrXGPJXpsbDbtCMgfe?si=17148ddc74604cb1

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-dr-molly-says-podcast/id1800302028

---------------------------------------------------------------

Follow Dr. Molly:

Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/drmollysays/

TikTok | https://www.tiktok.com/@drmollysays

Follow the podcast:

Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/drmollysayspod/

TikTok | https://www.tiktok.com/@drmollysayspod

---------------------------------------------------------------

This week on Dr. Molly Says, I’m joined by veterinarian, feline medicine enthusiast, industry leader, and fellow “we have a lot of opinions about vet med” human… Dr. Jason Epstein.

We get into everything from cat-only hospitals, corporate veterinary medicine, the future of feline care, and one of the biggest debates happening in veterinary medicine right now.

Dr. Epstein shares his journey through general practice, leadership roles, startups, vaccine clinics, and why he’s now building cat-focused veterinary hospitals, because according to him… cats don’t belong in dog hospitals. (Yes, he said it.)

We also get into:

• Why feline medicine deserves its own approach
• The surprising problem with traditional mixed animal hospitals
• Corporate vet med, leadership, and what happens when practices collapse overnight
• Accessibility, affordability, and the realities of modern veterinary care
• The future of veterinary technicians and why they deserve WAY more support
• The controversial Veterinary Professional Associate (VPA) conversation happening in the U.S.
• Whether mid-level veterinary providers could help… or create bigger problems

PLUS: hot takes, conference friend lore, cat behavior misunderstandings, “spicy cats” vs moody monarchs 👑, and a surprisingly passionate discussion about veterinary education, legislation, and who should actually be writing healthcare policy.

LOVE YOU GUYS 💛

Timestamps:
00:00:00 Welcome + meet Dr. Jason Epstein
00:01:00 Marching band, clarinet discourse & veterinary origin story
00:05:00 Early career, GP life & leadership transitions
00:06:30 Corporate veterinary medicine + what happened with My Pets Wellness
00:08:50 Affordable care, vaccine clinics & community medicine
00:10:20 Why Dr. Epstein is building cat-only hospitals
00:11:30 HOT TAKE: “Cats don’t belong in dog hospitals”
00:13:00 Species-specific veterinary care: future or fantasy?
00:15:00 What cats actually experience at the vet (and why it matters)
00:20:00 Feline medicine gaps in veterinary education
00:30:00 Cat-friendly care, environment & understanding feline behavior
00:40:00 “Spicy cats” aren’t spicy… they’re cats
00:41:30 The VPA conversation explained (without assuming you’ve been living on vet internet)
00:44:00 Colorado, legislation & why this debate got very real, very fast
00:50:00 Education pathways, supervision rules & big concerns about implementation
00:57:00 Access to care vs quality of care — can both exist?
01:00:00 Vet tech utilization, title protection & workforce challenges
01:05:00 Where veterinary medicine might be headed next
01:07:00 Final thoughts + why this is definitely not the last conversation we’re having about this

---------------------------------------------------------------

Listen to the pod on YouTube/Spotify/Apple:

https://www.youtube.com/@drmollysayspod

https://open.spotify.com/show/7xmKqrXGPJXpsbDbtCMgfe?si=17148ddc74604cb1

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-dr-molly-says-podcast/id1800302028

---------------------------------------------------------------

Follow Dr. Molly:

Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/drmollysays/

TikTok | https://www.tiktok.com/@drmollysays

Follow the podcast:

Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/drmollysayspod/

TikTok | https://www.tiktok.com/@drmollysayspod

---------------------------------------------------------------

This week on Dr. Molly Says… it’s just us!!! New season, new podcast setup, new vet clinic building (!!)… and an uncomfortable conversation we probably need to have about pet obesity.

Because… statistically? A LOT of our dogs and cats are overweight. And before you get defensive — hear me out. This isn’t about aesthetics. We’re talking about real health consequences, chronic disease, arthritis, diabetes, mobility loss, and yes… shorter lifespans.

We’re breaking down how veterinarians actually evaluate weight (hello body condition score), why so many pets gain weight without owners realizing it, and some hot takes about treats, free feeding, “active lifestyles,” and why your dog maybe doesn’t need a snack every time they pee.

We also get into:

• How to tell if your dog or cat is actually overweight
• Why body condition score matters more than the number on the scale
• The surprising diseases linked to obesity in dogs and cats
• Why labs, beagles, and indoor cats can be especially prone to weight gain
• Free feeding vs meal feeding (yes… we’re doing this debate)
• Why treat calories count WAY more than you think
• How spay/neuter changes metabolism
• The real math behind feeding recommendations
• Weight loss strategies that actually work in real life

PLUS: we discuss Solo cup measurements pretending to be “one cup,” chunky cat culture, why your veterinarian is not trying to offend you, and my slightly controversial opinion about potty treats.

LOVE YOU GUYS 💛

Timestamps:
00:00:00 Welcome back! Season 2, podcast updates & the new clinic build
00:02:45 Why pet obesity is uncomfortable to talk about
00:04:00 Hot take: your dog doesn’t need a potty treat forever
00:05:00 The shocking number of overweight pets in the U.S.
00:06:00 Why weight matters beyond “looking chunky”
00:07:00 Body Condition Score explained (4–5/9 is the goal)
00:09:00 How to actually tell if your pet is overweight
00:13:00 Diseases linked to obesity in cats
00:15:00 Arthritis, mobility & obesity in dogs
00:17:00 How pets become overweight in the first place
00:18:00 Labs, beagles & genetics of appetite
00:19:00 Why your pet probably isn’t as “active” as you think
00:20:00 Feeding guides vs actual calorie calculations
00:21:00 Free feeding vs meal feeding debate
00:23:00 Treat calories add up FAST
00:26:00 Spay/neuter, hormones & metabolism changes
00:28:00 Helping pets lose weight realistically
00:30:00 Measuring food correctly (the Solo cup problem 💀)
00:32:00 Treat rules, exercise & muscle mass
00:34:00 When weight loss isn’t working: thyroid & medical causes
00:35:00 Multi-pet household struggles
00:36:00 Exercise ideas for indoor cats
00:38:00 Why vets keep bringing up weight (even when owners hate hearing it)
00:39:00 Fresh food, calorie density & marketing myths
00:42:00 Weight loss diets, supplements & final thoughts
00:43:00 Outro

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Listen to the pod on YouTube/Spotify/Apple:

https://www.youtube.com/@drmollysayspod

https://open.spotify.com/show/7xmKqrXGPJXpsbDbtCMgfe?si=17148ddc74604cb1

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-dr-molly-says-podcast/id1800302028

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Follow Dr. Molly:

Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/drmollysays/

TikTok | https://www.tiktok.com/@drmollysays

Follow the podcast:

Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/drmollysayspod/

TikTok | https://www.tiktok.com/@drmollysayspod