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

Big dogs aren’t entering shelters at a higher rate than smaller dogs, yet they wait the longest and make up the smallest share of adoptions. Why?

In this episode, Donie and Dr. Amber Da Silva, DVM, unpack the 2026 State of Shelter Pet Adoption Report and what it reveals about large dog adoption. The answer isn’t what most people expect. It isn’t about loving big dogs less. It’s about confidence, cost, and housing rules stacking up in the way.

What you’ll hear:

• Why large dogs wait longest in U.S. shelters
• The confidence gap: almost 90% of likely adopters feel ready for a big dog, compared with about a third of those unlikely to adopt
• What would actually help: lower adoption fees, training access, and financial help with startup costs
• Why Gen Z and millennials are the most open to adopting a big dog and the most likely to run into rental restrictions

If you’ve ever scrolled past a big dog’s shelter profile and talked yourself out of it, this one is for you. Naming the real barrier is the first step toward solving it.

❤️ Connect with us:

ᐧ Check out our website: http://www.unleashedcuriosity.com/

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ᐧ Check out our website: http://www.vitalpetlife.com

🎧 You may also enjoy: Beyond the Bowl: How Keepsakes Help Pet Parents Hold On ft. Scott Meier https://smartlink.ausha.co/unleashedcuriosity/beyond-the-bowl-how-keepsakes-help-pet-parents-hold-on-ft-scott-meier

Music: Life of Riley by Kevin MacLeod (CC BY 4.0)

Don't forget to follow us or send us your questions at hello@unleashedcuriosity.com. Thank you for tuning in!

#LargeDogAdoption #BigDogs #ShelterDogs #AdoptDontShop #DogAdoption #RescueDogs #PetAdoption #FirstTimeDogOwner #PetParents #PetPodcast #UnleashedCuriosity #VitalPetLife

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Beyond the Bowl: How Keepsakes Help Pet Parents Hold On ft. Scott Meier

Most pet parents think of the bond in terms of daily life. Scott Meier thinks of it in terms of what's left after. As the owner of Budsies, Petsies, and Stuffed Animal Pros, he turns that bond into custom plush keepsakes. Donie Yamamoto and Dr. Amber Da Silva, DVM, talk with Scott about why pets become central to our lives, what customer stories taught him about comfort and connection, and his mission flying 100 rescued dogs and cats from Puerto Rico with The Sato Project and Wings of Rescue.

Topics covered:

🎬 From film and television to the pet keepsake business

🐾 Why pets become part of our identity and daily routines

🧸 How custom plush keepsakes are made from a pet's own photos

💙 What thousands of customer stories reveal about comfort and connection

🎨 Why personalization matters and how artists capture every detail

✈️ Flying 100 rescued dogs and cats with The Sato Project and Wings of Rescue

💙 Connect with our guest, Scott Meier:

ᐧ Website: http://mypetsies.com

ᐧ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Petsies

ᐧ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/petsies

❤️ Connect with us:

ᐧ Check out our website: http://www.unleashedcuriosity.com/

ᐧ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/unleashed-curiosity-podcast

ᐧ Facebook -http://facebook.com/vitalpetlife

ᐧ TikTok:@vitalpetlife

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ᐧ X:@vitalpetlife

ᐧ YouTube:@vitalpetlife

ᐧ Check out our website: http://www.vitalpetlife.com

🎧 You may also enjoy: Why Nearly Half of Pet Parents Say Their Dog Is Their Soulmate

https://smartlink.ausha.co/unleashedcuriosity/why-nearly-half-of-pet-parents-say-their-dog-is-their-soulmate

Music: Life of Riley by Kevin MacLeod (CC BY 4.0)

Don't forget to follow us or send us your questions at hello@unleashedcuriosity.com. Thank you for tuning in!

#UnleashedCuriosity #VitalPetLife #HumanAnimalBond #PetKeepsakes #Petsies #Budsies #ScottMeier #RescueDogs #PetCare #PetPodcast

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Half of dog owners say their dog, not a romantic partner, is their soulmate. Donie and Dr. Amber Da Silva, DVM break down a new survey on the pet-owner bond, and the science that explains why it might not be an exaggeration at all.

🐕 The stats: 88% call it a soul-level connection, and half turn to their dog first for comfort, even before friends and family

✨ Why so many owners even know their dog's astrological sign

🧠 The oxytocin research behind mutual eye contact between dogs and their people

❤️ What this bond means for how we care for our dogs day to day

The takeaway: this connection is real and measurable, and it deserves the same level of care you would give any relationship that means this much to you.

❤️ Connect with us:

ᐧ Check out our website: http://www.unleashedcuriosity.com/

ᐧ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/unleashed-curiosity-podcast

ᐧ Facebook -http://facebook.com/vitalpetlife

ᐧ TikTok:@vitalpetlife

ᐧ Instagram:@vitalpetlife

ᐧ X:@vitalpetlife

ᐧ YouTube:@vitalpetlife

ᐧ Check out our website: http://www.vitalpetlife.com

🎧 You may also enjoy:

Music: Life of Riley by Kevin MacLeod (CC BY 4.0)

Don't forget to follow us or send us your questions at hello@unleashedcuriosity.com. Thank you for tuning in!

Hosted on Ausha. See https://ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

The Vet Who Goes Anywhere: Dr. Cliff Redford on a Life of International Rescue

In this episode of Unleashed Curiosity, Donie Yamamoto and Dr. Amber Da Silva, DVM, sit down with Dr. Cliff Redford, veterinarian, author, filmmaker, and owner of Wellington Veterinary Hospital in Toronto. A three-week volunteer trip to Jamaica became a global mission, taking him to disaster zones, jungle clinics, and remote Arctic communities. Dr. Cliff also gives a first look at his memoir, Far and Wild: The Adventures of the Worldwide Vet.

Topics covered:

🌍 How a Jamaica trip became a global mission

🐾 Caring for pets in remote communities

💙 Why animals connect people across cultures

📖 Inside Far and Wild, Dr. Cliff's memoir

💙 Connect with our guest, Dr. Cliff Redford:

ᐧ Book "Far and Wild": http://farandwild.ca

ᐧ Website: http://drcliff.ca

ᐧ Instagram: @drcliffworldwidevet

ᐧ Facebook: http://facebook.com/cliff.redford

Publishing dates for Far and Wild:

ᐧ Canada: September 29, 2026 (already sold out on http://Amazon.ca and a best-seller)

ᐧ U.S.: October 13, 2026

ᐧ Australia/New Zealand: November 10, 2026

ᐧ UK: November 12, 2026

❤️ Connect with us:

ᐧ Check out our website: http://www.unleashedcuriosity.com/

ᐧ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/unleashed-curiosity-podcast

ᐧ Facebook -http://facebook.com/vitalpetlife

ᐧ TikTok:@vitalpetlife

ᐧ Instagram:@vitalpetlife

ᐧ X:@vitalpetlife

ᐧ YouTube:@vitalpetlife

ᐧ Check out our website: http://www.vitalpetlife.com

🎧 You may also enjoy:

Music: Life of Riley by Kevin MacLeod (CC BY 4.0)

Don't forget to follow us or send us your questions at hello@unleashedcuriosity.com. Thank you for tuning in!

Hosted on Ausha. See https://ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Your dog stops on the trail, tail down, and won't take another step. Would you know what they're trying to tell you?

In this episode, Dr. Amber Da Silva sits down with Gina Gables, owner of Ma and Paw Kennel - Canine Training Services. Gina has spent 17 years training thousands of dogs to recognize and avoid rattlesnakes. She walks through what really happens on a rattlesnake avoidance course, and why she blends shaping and positive reinforcement instead of relying on one-trial learning. She also explains how a dog that knows the sight, sound, and smell of a rattlesnake can alert the whole family to danger.

What you'll learn:

• How a multi-station course teaches dogs to recognize adult and baby rattlesnakes by sight, sound, and smell
• Positive reinforcement vs. one-trial learning, and why a stressed dog can't learn
• Why rattlesnake season can be any season in Southern California
• Simple safety habits for trails, hikes, and the backyard
• Gina's take on the rattlesnake vaccine and where avoidance training fits
• How to build a snakebite emergency plan before you ever need one

Missed Part 1? Go back to Episode 103 for Dr. Amber's deep dive on snake season. https://vitalpet.life/unleashed-curiosity-episode-103

Connect with our guest, Gina Gables:

🌐 http://SnakeSafeDog.com

❤️ Connect with us:

ᐧ Check out our website: UnleashedcuriosityUnleashed Curiosity: Dog & Cat Health, Nutrition & Vet Advice by Vital Pet Life

ᐧ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/unleashed-curiosity-podcast

ᐧ Facebook -http://facebook.com/vitalpetlife

ᐧ TikTok:@vitalpetlife

ᐧ Instagram:@vitalpetlife

ᐧ X:@vitalpetlife

ᐧ YouTube:@vitalpetlife

ᐧ Check out our website: http://www.vitalpetlife.com

🎧 You may also enjoy: https://smartlink.ausha.co/unleashedcuriosity/new-state-laws-are-reshaping-pet-sales-vet-care-animal-welfare

Music: Life of Riley by Kevin MacLeod (CC BY 4.0)

Don't forget to follow us or send us your questions at hello@unleashedcuriosity.com. Thank you for tuning in!

#UnleashedCuriosity #RattlesnakeAvoidanceTraining #RattlesnakeSafety #SnakeSafeDog #SnakeSeason #DogSafety

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🐾 Four states just passed real laws touching pet sales, vet care, and animal welfare, and most pet parents have no idea any of it happened.

In this episode, Donie and Dr. Amber break down four new state laws reshaping how pets are sourced, treated, and cared for, and what each one actually means for you.

📹 Washington expands telehealth access for vets, and redefines what counts as a valid vet-client relationship

🐶 Colorado bans pet store sales of dogs and cats starting 2028, with exceptions for adoption events, shelters, and breeders

⛓️ Alabama sets its first statewide standards for tethering and outdoor shelter, with real penalties for violations

🌿 Maryland clarifies that vets can't be disciplined just for discussing CBD with pet owners

Four states, four different angles, but one theme: access is opening up in some places, and accountability is tightening in others.

❤️ Connect with us:

ᐧ Check out our website: http://www.unleashedcuriosity.com/

ᐧ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/unleashed-curiosity-podcast

ᐧ Facebook -http://facebook.com/vitalpetlife

ᐧ TikTok:@vitalpetlife

ᐧ Instagram:@vitalpetlife

ᐧ X:@vitalpetlife

ᐧ YouTube:@vitalpetlife

ᐧ Check out our website: http://www.vitalpetlife.com

🎧 You may also enjoy: The Human-Canine Bond: Relationship-First Pet Care with Shauna Vidueira https://smartlink.ausha.co/unleashedcuriosity/the-human-canine-bond-relationship-first-pet-care-with-shauna-vidueira

Music: Life of Riley by Kevin MacLeod (CC BY 4.0)

Don't forget to follow us or send us your questions at hello@unleashedcuriosity.com. Thank you for tuning in!

#PetHealth #PetCare #PetLaw #AnimalWelfare #PetOwnerTips #VetCare #UnleashedCuriosity

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Is Good Pet Care Something You Buy? with Shauna Vidueira What if the most important thing you could give your dog costs nothing at all?

Donie Yamamoto and Dr. Amber Da Silva sit down with Shauna Vidueira - founder of The Pup Scholar, certified dog trainer, and researcher at the Social Relationships Lab at the University of South Florida - for a conversation that reframes what caring for your dog truly means.

She brings nearly two decades of experience and one belief: the bond between you and your dog is a relationship. And like any relationship, it evolves.

In this episode:
🐾 How psychology gave Shauna a language for patterns she had observed for years
🐾 What changes between puppyhood, adolescence, adulthood, and senior years - and how to care for the dog in front of you, not the dog you remember
🐾 The one free action every pet parent can take this week to know their dog better

If you have ever felt pressure to buy your way to better pet care, this episode is for you.

Connect with our guest, Shauna Vidueira:

ᐧ 🌐 http://thepupscholar.com

ᐧ Instagram: @thepupscholar

ᐧ Facebook: @ThePupScholar

❤️ Connect with us:

ᐧ Website: http://www.unleashedcuriosity.com/

ᐧ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/unleashed-curiosity-podcast

ᐧ Facebook: @vitalpetlife

ᐧ TikTok:@vitalpetlife

ᐧ Instagram:@vitalpetlife

ᐧ X:@vitalpetlife

ᐧ YouTube:@vitalpetlife

ᐧ Check out our website: http://www.vitalpetlife.com

🎧 You may also enjoy: Keeping Your Pets Safe During Wildfire Season https://smartlink.ausha.co/unleashedcuriosity/keeping-your-pets-safe-during-wildfire-season

Music: Life of Riley by Kevin MacLeod (CC BY 4.0)

Don't forget to follow us or send us your questions at hello@unleashedcuriosity.com. Thank you for tuning in!

#UnleashedCuriosity #VitalPetLife #HumanCanineBond #PetParenting #DogBehavior #RelationshipFirstPetCare #ThePupScholar #DogTraining #PetPsychology #AnimalBehavior #SeniorDog #AdolescentDog #PetCare #DogMom #DogParent #CaregiverGuilt #PetWellbeing #ConsciousPetParenting #DogLife #KnowYourDog

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🐾 Wildfire smoke can affect your pet long before the flames are anywhere close to your home.

In this episode, Dr. Amber Da Silva joins Donie to cover two wildfire scenarios every pet parent should know: smoky air with no evacuation, and an actual evacuation order.

🔥 How to protect your pet when outdoor air quality drops, even if the fire itself is far away

🧩 Indoor enrichment ideas to keep pets from getting restless when walks and yard time aren't an option

🎒 What actually belongs in a pet emergency go bag, and why packing it before fire season starts matters

🏷️ Why an out-of-date microchip can keep families from reuniting with a pet during an evacuation

🏠 What to check for once you're allowed back home after a fire passes

A little preparation now can make an incredibly stressful day far more manageable.

❤️ Connect with us:

ᐧ Check out our website: UnleashedcuriosityUnleashed Curiosity: Dog & Cat Health, Nutrition & Vet Advice by Vital Pet Life

ᐧ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/unleashed-curiosity-podcast

ᐧ Facebook -http://facebook.com/vitalpetlife

ᐧ TikTok:@vitalpetlife

ᐧ Instagram:@vitalpetlife

ᐧ X:@vitalpetlife

ᐧ YouTube:@vitalpetlife

ᐧ Check out our website: http://www.vitalpetlife.com

🎧 You may also enjoy: Why Grooming Matters More in the Summer https://smartlink.ausha.co/unleashedcuriosity/why-grooming-matters-more-in-the-summer

Music: Life of Riley by Kevin MacLeod (CC BY 4.0)

Don't forget to follow us or send us your questions at hello@unleashedcuriosity.com. Thank you for tuning in!

#PetHealth #PetCare #WildfireSafety #PetEvacuation #PetEmergencyKit #PetParents #UnleashedCuriosity

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🐾 Tick season and wildfire smoke have more in common than you'd think, and it all shows up on your pet's skin and coat.

In this episode, Dr. Amber Da Silva joins Donie to break down why summer is the season to pay closer attention to grooming, even when nothing looks obviously wrong on the surface.

🧴 How often to brush, bathe, and check your pet depending on coat type and climate

🌿 What to actually look for on a shampoo label (oatmeal, aloe vera, fragrance-free formulas)

🐟 Why omega-3 fatty acids support healthy skin and a glossy coat from the inside out

🐾 Simple paw checks that catch cuts, burns, and irritation before they become bigger issues

A few extra minutes of grooming each week does double duty, keeping pets comfortable while helping pet parents catch small issues early.

🧴Previous episode on fragrances and chemicals: https://vitalpet.life/unleashed-curiosity-episode-83

🥵Previous episode guide on heat and hot paws: https://vitalpet.life/unleashed-curiosity-episode-106

❤️ Connect with us:

ᐧ Check out our website: http://www.unleashedcuriosity.com/

ᐧ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/unleashed-curiosity-podcast

ᐧ Facebook -http://facebook.com/vitalpetlife

ᐧ TikTok:@vitalpetlife

ᐧ Instagram:@vitalpetlife

ᐧ X:@vitalpetlife

ᐧ YouTube:@vitalpetlife

ᐧ Check out our website: http://www.vitalpetlife.com

🎧 You may also enjoy: Why Your Pet's Bad Behavior Is Actually Boredom And How to Fix It Today

https://smartlink.ausha.co/unleashedcuriosity/why-your-pet-s-bad-behavior-is-actually-boredom-and-how-to-fix-it-today

Music: Life of Riley by Kevin MacLeod (CC BY 4.0)

Don't forget to follow us or send us your questions at hello@unleashedcuriosity.com. Thank you for tuning in!

#PetHealth #DogGrooming #CatGrooming #PetCare #SkinAndCoat #TickSeason #PetParents #UnleashedCuriosity

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Most pet parents know the signs when something's physically wrong - limping, vomiting, a dull coat. Far fewer recognize the signs of a bored pet, even though boredom is one of the most common (and most overlooked) drivers of "bad behavior" in dogs, cats, and even birds.

In this episode, Donie and Dr. Amber Da Silva, DVM unpack what boredom actually looks like across species, why it's becoming more common in modern pet households, and what pet parents can do about it today - no special equipment required.

🐾 What a bored dog, cat, or bird actually looks like day to day

🏠 Why boredom is becoming more common in modern pet households

🎯 Simple, no-equipment ways to add enrichment starting today

The throughline: a bored pet isn't a badly behaved pet, and a bored-behaving pet isn't a sign of a bad pet parent. It's a signal, and it's fixable.

❤️ Connect with us:

ᐧ Check out our website: http://www.unleashedcuriosity.com/

ᐧ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/unleashed-curiosity-podcast

ᐧ Facebook -http://facebook.com/vitalpetlife

ᐧ TikTok:@vitalpetlife

ᐧ Instagram:@vitalpetlife

ᐧ X:@vitalpetlife

ᐧ YouTube:@vitalpetlife

ᐧ Check out our website: http://www.vitalpetlife.com

🎧 You may also enjoy: Tick & Flea Season: What's Actually Happening to Your Dog This Summer

https://smartlink.ausha.co/unleashedcuriosity/tick-flea-season-what-s-actually-happening-to-your-dog-this-summer

Music: "Life of Riley" by Kevin MacLeod (CC BY 4.0)

Don't forget to follow us or send us your questions at hello@unleashedcuriosity.com. Thank you for tuning in!

#UnleashedCuriosity #VitalPetLife #DogBehavior #CatBehavior #PetEnrichment #PetHealth #DogCare #CatCare #PetParent #PetPodcast

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"I found a tick on my dog and I feel terrible" - if that's you every summer, Dr. Amber Da Silva has good news: it's not on you. She joins Donie Yamamoto to explain what actually drives tick and flea activity this time of year, why it has almost nothing to do with how careful you've been, and the two-minute daily habit that catches problems before they become vet visits.

In this episode:

• Why tick and flea activity ramps up every summer, and why it's not a parenting failure
• Where ticks and fleas actually come from, even on a short walk around the block
• What a real, thorough tick check looks like, and the areas that matter most
• The safest way to remove an attached tick
• What to watch for with fleas, and how to confirm it fast
• The three-part proactive routine that catches problems early

❤️ Connect with us:

ᐧ Check out our website: http://www.unleashedcuriosity.com/

ᐧ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/unleashed-curiosity-podcast

ᐧ Facebook -http://facebook.com/vitalpetlife

ᐧ TikTok:@vitalpetlife

ᐧ Instagram:@vitalpetlife

ᐧ X:@vitalpetlife

ᐧ YouTube:@vitalpetlife

ᐧ Check out our website: http://www.vitalpetlife.com

🎧 You may also enjoy: The Science of Animal Consciousness: Do Dogs and Cats Really Feel Emotions?

https://smartlink.ausha.co/unleashedcuriosity/the-science-of-animal-consciousness-do-dogs-and-cats-really-feel-emotions

Music: "Life of Riley" by Kevin MacLeod (CC BY 4.0)

Don't forget to follow us or send us your questions at hello@unleashedcuriosity.com. Thank you for tuning in!

#UnleashedCuriosity #VitalPetLife #TickSeason #FleaSeason #DogHealth #PetHealth #DogCare #SummerPetCare #VetAdvice #PetPodcast

Hosted on Ausha. See https://ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Do animals really feel things — or are we just projecting? In this episode of Unleashed Curiosity, Donie and Dr. Amber dig into a new philosophy framework out of Michigan State University that's helping scientists figure out which animals are actually conscious.

🧠 The "marker" debate — what scientists look for to judge whether a creature can feel

🦀 Why hermit crabs are the surprising test case researchers keep coming back to

🐕🐈 What the science says about dogs and cats specifically (spoiler: it's good news)

❤️ Why trusting what you see in your own pet is backed by more science than you'd think

Not a philosophy lecture — a grounded, real-talk look at why the science keeps landing closer to "yes, they feel more than we assumed."

❤️ Connect with us:

ᐧ Facebook -http://facebook.com/vitalpetlife

ᐧ TikTok:@vitalpetlife

ᐧ Instagram:@vitalpetlife

ᐧ X:@vitalpetlife

ᐧ YouTube:@vitalpetlife

ᐧ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/unleashed-curiosity-podcast

ᐧ Check out our website -http://www.vitalpetlife.com

🎧 You may also enjoy: Therapy Dogs, Mental Health & Community Impact with Jody Williams

https://smartlink.ausha.co/unleashedcuriosity/therapy-dogs-mental-health-community-impact-with-jody-williams

Music: "Life of Riley" by Kevin MacLeod (CC BY 4.0)

Don't forget to follow us or send us your questions at hello@unleashedcuriosity.com. Thank you for tuning in!

#UnleashedCuriosity #VitalPetLife #AnimalConsciousness #PetHealth #DogBehavior #CatBehavior #PetScience #DogsOfInstagram #CatsOfInstagram #PetPodcast

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Therapy Dogs in Jails, Clinics & Airports: The Human-Animal Bond in Action

In this episode of Unleashed Curiosity, Donie and Dr. Amber sit down with Jody Williams, Executive Director of Therapy Dogs of America and Therapy Dogs of Santa Barbara. Jody shares how her organization has taken the human-animal bond into places most people wouldn't expect - county jails, behavioral health clinics, airport terminals, and classrooms - and what she's seen change as a result.

From a young man who hadn't left his jail cell in two months stepping out to meet a labrador, to clinic patients who show up because they know the dog will be there, Jody's stories from the front lines of animal-assisted support make the case better than any research paper.

Topics covered:

🐾 How Therapy Dogs of Santa Barbara grew from a library reading program to a multi-site behavioral health partner

🏥 What the jail-based competency treatment program is and why therapy dogs fit in

✈️ The Santa Barbara Airport therapy dog program and the unexpected moments it creates

🐕 What makes a dog (and a handler) suited for this kind of work

💙 How to get involved if your dog has what it takes

💙 Connect with our guest, Jody Williams of Therapy Dogs America:

ᐧ Website: TherapydogssbTherapy Dogs of America

ᐧ Instagram: @therapydogssb and @therapydogsofamerica

ᐧ Facebook: FacebookTherapy Dogs of Santa Barbara | Santa Barbara CA

❤️ Connect with us:

ᐧ Facebook -http://facebook.com/vitalpetlife

ᐧ TikTok:@vitalpetlife

ᐧ Instagram:@vitalpetlife

ᐧ X:@vitalpetlife

ᐧ YouTube:@vitalpetlife

ᐧ LinkedIn:http://linkedin.com/company/vitalpetlife

ᐧ Check out our website -http://www.vitalpetlife.com

You may also enjoy: Is Your Dog or Cat Overweight? The 2-Year Difference Pet Parents Miss

https://smartlink.ausha.co/unleashedcuriosity/is-your-dog-or-cat-overweight-the-2-year-difference-pet-parents-miss

Music: "Life of Riley" by Kevin MacLeod (CC BY 4.0)

Don't forget to follow us or send us your questions at podcast@vitalpetlife.com. Thank you for tuning in!

#UnleashedCuriosity #VitalPetLife #PetHealth #TherapyDogs #HumanAnimalBond #DogMom #AnimalAssistedTherapy #DogTraining #PetPodcast #JodyWilliams

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Donie kicks things off with a confession: after a few weeks of extra treats and fewer walks in the heat, she's pretty sure her dogs Tuxedo and Jean Martin have put on some weight. Dr. Amber's in the same boat with her recently adopted dog Willow, who's on her own weight loss journey. It's perfect timing, because nearly 60% of pets in this country are overweight or obese right now, and pets at a healthy weight live an average of two years longer than those who aren't.

Dr. Amber explains why this is almost never on the pet parent - it's a mix of highly palatable commercial food, treat marketing, spaying and neutering's effect on metabolism, and increasingly indoor, sedentary lifestyles for both dogs and cats.

In this episode, we cover:

•

Why overweight pets are the norm, not the exception - and why that's not your fault

•

The 4 things every pet parent should know: daily calories, calories in current food, calories from treats, and body condition score

•

The 3-point at-home check: rib, waist, and side profile

•

Why it works across every breed and body type, from lean greyhounds to stout Frenchies

•

Why keeping joints moving matters as a pet's weight comes down

Whether you've got a dog, a cat, or both, tune in for a simple, no-guilt way to help your pet feel their best. 🐾

❤️ Connect with us:

ᐧ Facebook -http://facebook.com/vitalpetlife

ᐧ TikTok:@vitalpetlife

ᐧ Instagram:@vitalpetlife

ᐧ X:@vitalpetlife

ᐧ YouTube:@vitalpetlife

ᐧ LinkedIn:http://linkedin.com/company/vitalpetlife

ᐧ Check out our website -http://www.vitalpetlife.com

You may also enjoy: Your Pet in Bed: The Real Science on Sleep Disruption, Health Risks, and What a Vet Wants You to Know

https://smartlink.ausha.co/unleashedcuriosity/your-pet-in-bed-the-real-science-on-sleep-disruption-health-risks-and-what-a-vet-wants-you-to-know

Music: "Life of Riley" by Kevin MacLeod (CC BY 4.0)

Don't forget to follow us or send us your questions at podcast@vitalpetlife.com. Thank you for tuning in!

#PetHealth #DogHealth #PetWeightLoss #UnleashedCuriosity #VitalPetLife

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Should Your Pet Sleep in Your Bed?

In this episode of Unleashed Curiosity, Donie and Dr. Amber Da Silva break down what the science actually says about co-sleeping with your pet - and why the headlines on this topic keep leaving out the most important variable.

A 2022 study from Utrecht University confirmed that sharing a bed with a healthy pet does increase exposure to certain pathogens. But increased exposure is not the same as getting sick. For healthy adults with healthy pets on a routine prevention schedule, the actual transmission risk is low. Dr. Amber walks through who the real risk conversation is for, what a responsible co-sleeping setup actually looks like from a vet standpoint, and why the study called for better owner education - not a ban on pets in the bedroom.

The conversation shifts to the sleep disruption side of the story. A 2024 study found that co-sleeping with dogs was associated with poorer perceived sleep quality and greater insomnia severity - more so for dog owners than cat owners, and more pronounced in households with multiple pets. Donie and Dr. Amber unpack why both things can be true at once: the comfort is real, and so is the disruption. Dr. Amber shares a practical trial approach for anyone who suspects their dog may be affecting their sleep.

Topics covered:

🐾 Who is actually at risk and what the research says

🐕 Why dogs disrupt sleep more than cats

😴 The middle-path fix and Dr. Amber's practical recommendation

❤️ Connect with us:

ᐧ Facebook -http://facebook.com/vitalpetlife

ᐧ TikTok:@vitalpetlife

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ᐧ LinkedIn:http://linkedin.com/company/vitalpetlife

ᐧ Check out our website -http://www.vitalpetlife.com

You may also enjoy: Should You Take Your Dog Out in This Heat? What the Research Actually Says

https://smartlink.ausha.co/unleashedcuriosity/should-you-take-your-dog-out-in-this-heat-what-the-research-actually-says

Music: "Life of Riley" by Kevin MacLeod (CC BY 4.0)

Don't forget to follow us or send us your questions at podcast@vitalpetlife.com. Thank you for tuning in!

#UnleashedCuriosity #VitalPetLife #DogHealth #PetHealth #CosleepingPets #DogParents #PetPodcast #VeterinaryAdvice #PetCare #DogBehavior

Hosted on Ausha. See https://ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Should You Take Your Dog Out in This Heat? What the Research Actually Says

In this episode of Unleashed Curiosity, Donie and Dr. Amber Da Silva break down why the number on your weather app isn't the one that actually matters for your dog outdoors. On a 75-degree sunny day, pavement can reach 125 degrees, hot enough to burn paw pads in under a minute, especially for puppies who haven't built up calluses yet. Dr. Amber walks through the simple hand test that tells you if the ground is too hot to walk on, boots or not.

The conversation moves into the heat index, why humidity changes how effectively a dog can cool down through panting, and the rule of thumb for knowing when it's time to skip outdoor exercise altogether. Donie and Dr. Amber also cover which dogs need extra caution in warm weather, from flat-faced breeds to seniors, puppies, and dogs with thick double coats, plus the surprising risk of dogs who are too ball-driven to self-regulate.

Dr. Amber closes out with the early signs your dog may be overheating, what to do the moment you notice them, and why walk timing, hydration, and a shorter, smarter walk can make all the difference during the hottest months.

Topics covered:

🌡️ Why pavement temperature matters more than air temperature

✋ The 10-second hand test for checking if the ground is too hot

💧 How the heat index factors in humidity, not just temperature

🐾 Which dogs are most at risk in warm weather

⚠️ Early signs your dog may be overheating and what to do next

🌤️ Walk timing, hydration, and simple habits for summer safety

❤️ Connect with us:

ᐧ Facebook -http://facebook.com/vitalpetlife

ᐧ TikTok:@vitalpetlife

ᐧ Instagram:@vitalpetlife

ᐧ X:@vitalpetlife

ᐧ YouTube:@vitalpetlife

ᐧ LinkedIn:http://linkedin.com/company/vitalpetlife

ᐧ Check out our website -http://www.vitalpetlife.com

You may also enjoy: The Healing Power of Dogs: Therapy Dog Training, Caregiving & the Bond That Saves Us with Susan Hartzler

https://smartlink.ausha.co/unleashedcuriosity/the-healing-power-of-dogs-therapy-dog-training-caregiving-the-bond-that-saves-us-with-susan-hartzler

Music: "Life of Riley" by Kevin MacLeod (CC BY 4.0)

Don't forget to follow us or send us your questions at podcast@vitalpetlife.com. Thank you for tuning in!

#UnleashedCuriosity #VitalPetLife #DogSafety #PetSafety #SummerPets #DogWalking #PetHealth #DogParents #PetPodcast #VeterinaryAdvice

Hosted on Ausha. See https://ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Dogs, Grief and Caregiving: The Human Animal Bond

In this episode of Unleashed Curiosity, Donie sits down with Susan Hartzler, author and a recognized authority on therapy dogs and the human animal bond. Susan shares the story behind Sit With Me, her guided meditation practice for pet parents and their dogs, and how her own dogs, Blondie, Bliss, and Baldwin, carried her through pivotal moments in her life, from dating in her twenties to caring for her father through his Parkinson's diagnosis.

Susan and Donie also talk about what it takes to train and work with a therapy dog, matching a dog's temperament to the right environment, and practical advice for caregivers and pet parents seeking more calm with their dog.

Topics covered:
🧘 The origin story behind Sit With Me guided meditations
🐾 How dogs support human well-being through everyday connection
📖 Susan's memoir on dating and her dog Blondie
💙 Caregiving for a parent while navigating grief
🐕 What it takes to train and work with a therapy dog
❤️ Practical advice for caregivers and pet parents seeking calm

💙 Connect with our guest, Susan Hartzler:

ᐧ Website: http://susanhartzler.com

ᐧ Instagram: @susanhartzlerauthor

ᐧ Books, blog, and Sit With Me meditations available on Substack: https://blissdog.substack.com/

❤️ Connect with us:

ᐧ Facebook -http://facebook.com/vitalpetlife

ᐧ TikTok:@vitalpetlife

ᐧ Instagram:@vitalpetlife

ᐧ X:@vitalpetlife

ᐧ YouTube:@vitalpetlife

ᐧ LinkedIn:http://linkedin.com/company/vitalpetlife

ᐧ Check out our website -http://www.vitalpetlife.com

You may also enjoy: From Hype to Health: The Science Driving the Next Era of Pet Supplements

https://smartlink.ausha.co/unleashedcuriosity/from-hype-to-health-the-science-driving-the-next-era-of-pet-supplements

Music: "Life of Riley" by Kevin MacLeod (CC BY 4.0)

Don't forget to follow us or send us your questions at podcast@vitalpetlife.com. Thank you for tuning in!

#UnleashedCuriosity #VitalPetLife #PetHealth #TherapyDogs #HumanAnimalBond #DogMom #PetCaregiving #DogTraining #PetPodcast #SusanHartzler

Hosted on Ausha. See https://ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

We don't wait for a cavity to start brushing our teeth, so why wait to support our pets? In this episode, Donie Yamamoto sits down with Dr. Amber Da Silva, DVM, to unpack what's really driving the pet supplement boom - and how pet parents can tell a quality product from marketing noise.

Dr. Amber Da Silva breaks down what separates credible formulation from hype: ingredient-specific research, transparent sourcing, and serving sizes that actually match what the science supports. She and Donie also dig into why format matters as much as formula. A great ingredient does nothing if a pet won't take it or an owner won't stick with it consistently.

The conversation moves into gut health and the microbiome - an area Dr. Amber Da Silva calls "cutting edge" - with connections extending well beyond digestion. They also talk candidly about industry frustrations: overcomplicated labels, serving-size math that doesn't add up, and the gap between marketing claims and what shows up in the exam room.

Looking ahead, Dr. Amber Da Silva shares three trends she's watching: personalized formulations tailored to breed, age, and life stage; strain-level probiotic research; and a shift toward stronger accountability across the supplement category.

This is a conversation about consistency over hype, and about treating pet parents as informed partners in their animals' long-term care.

In this episode:

•

What's really driving the daily-supplement shift for pets

•

The three drivers of product quality: formulation, format, and transparency

•

Why serving-size transparency matters more than ingredient count

•

The microbiome's expanding role in companion animal health

•

Where the supplement category is headed next

#PetHealth #PetCare #UnleashedCuriosity #VitalPetLife #PetSupplements

❤️ Connect with us:

ᐧ Facebook -http://facebook.com/vitalpetlife

ᐧ TikTok:@vitalpetlife

ᐧ Instagram:@vitalpetlife

ᐧ X:@vitalpetlife

ᐧ YouTube:@vitalpetlife

ᐧ LinkedIn:http://linkedin.com/company/vitalpetlife

ᐧ Check out our website -http://www.vitalpetlife.com

You may also enjoy: Snake Season Is Here: What Every Dog Owner Needs to Know Before It's Too Late

https://smartlink.ausha.co/unleashedcuriosity/snake-season-is-here-what-every-dog-owner-needs-to-know-before-it-s-too-late

Music: "Life of Riley" by Kevin MacLeod (CC BY 4.0)

Don't forget to follow us or send us your questions at podcast@vitalpetlife.com. Thank you for tuning in!

Hosted on Ausha. See https://ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

That dry, sprinkler-like buzz on a trail with your dog. If you've heard it, you know. Rattlesnake season is here - and this year it's already running hot.

Dr. Amber Da Silva, DVM and co-host of Unleashed Curiosity, breaks down what rattlesnake aversion training actually is, why the single-session class often fails, and what every dog owner in rattlesnake territory needs to do before they need it. If you hike or live in rattlesnake country, this episode is for you.

This goes deeper than basic tips - into the canine fear memory science that makes training stick, the hemotoxic reality of pit viper bites, and the emergency prep gap most dog owners don't know they have.

What's covered:
0:00 - Intro: the sound that changes you
0:55 - What is rattlesnake aversion training (RAT)?
1:41 - Why live snakes are essential (not rubber props)
2:30 - The single-session failure problem
3:15 - What a durable multi-station program looks like
4:20 - The emergency reality: hemotoxic venom + the 30-minute window
6:45 - Antivenom locator tool every outdoor dog owner needs
8:10 - The rattlesnake vaccine: pros, cons, and what it doesn't do
10:32 - Final action items

Whether you're looking for rattlesnake tips for dogs, trying to understand if rattlesnake aversion training is worth it, or want to know what to do if your dog gets bitten - this episode covers all of it with real veterinary insight, not just general advice.

Resources:
http://veterinarysnakebite911.com - find your nearest antivenom-equipped vet by ZIP code

🐍🐕 #RattlesnakeSeason #RattlesnakeAversionTraining #DrAmberDVM #VitalPetLife #DogSafety

❤️ Connect with us:
ᐧ Facebook -http://facebook.com/vitalpetlifeᐧ TikTok:@vitalpetlifeᐧ Instagram:@vitalpetlifeᐧ X:@vitalpetlifeᐧ YouTube:@vitalpetlifeᐧ LinkedIn:http://linkedin.com/company/vitalpetlifeᐧ Check out our website -http://www.vitalpetlife.com

You may also enjoy: Dog Nutrition Decoded - Treats, Nutrition & Rescue Truths | Beth Jackson of Oliver P. Toliver's
https://smartlink.ausha.co/unleashedcuriosity/dog-longevity-decoded-treats-nutrition-rescue-truths-beth-jackson-of-oliver-p-toliver-s-thoroughly-tasty-treats

Music: "Life of Riley" by Kevin MacLeod (CC BY 4.0)

Don't forget to follow us or send us your questions at podcast@vitalpetlife.com. Thank you for tuning in!

Hosted on Ausha. See https://ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

What if the treats you give your dog every day are getting in the way of their care?

In this episode of Unleashed Curiosity, Donie Yamamoto and Dr. Amber Da Silva, DVM sit down with Beth Jackson, founder of Oliver P. Toliver's Thoroughly Tasty Treats, for a conversation that will change how you think about every snack you hand your pup.

Beth's brand was born from a 10-week-old rescue puppy who nearly died from Parvo - and one simple rule: every ingredient must earn its place.

In this episode, you'll discover:
🐾 Why "natural" and "grain-free" labels are largely marketing jargon
🦮 Why 15 minutes of sniff-led walking beats a 2-mile run
❤️ How two rescue dogs became UCLA therapy dogs
🍠 Beth's ingredient standard: "If I can't explain why it's in there, it shouldn't be"
📉 How daily treats contribute to pet obesity - and what the calorie math really looks like

Whether your dog is a rescue, a senior, a puzzle-loving genius, or a treat-motivated chaos machine, this episode is for you. 🐾 #OliverPToliver #DogTreats #DogNutrition #BethJackson #VitalPetLife

🎉 GIVEAWAY ALERT - VPL × Oliver P. Toliver!
We've teamed up with Oliver P. Toliver's to give away a prize bundle for your pup!
How to enter: Head to our Instagram 👉 https://vitalpet.life/VPLxOliverPToliverGiveaway
⏰ Giveaway runs June 23 - July 3, 2026 | U.S. residents only.

💙 Connect with our guest, Beth Jackson of Oliver P. Toliver's:
ᐧ Website: http://oliverptoliver.com
ᐧ Instagram: @oliver_p_toliver_dog_treats

❤️ Connect with us:
ᐧ Facebook -http://facebook.com/vitalpetlifeᐧ TikTok:@vitalpetlifeᐧ Instagram:@vitalpetlifeᐧ X:@vitalpetlifeᐧ YouTube:@vitalpetlifeᐧ LinkedIn:http://linkedin.com/company/vitalpetlifeᐧ Check out our website -http://www.vitalpetlife.com

You may also enjoy: Moving Well - The Link Between Mobility and Long-Term Pet Care
https://smartlink.ausha.co/unleashedcuriosity/moving-well-living-longer-the-link-between-mobility-and-pet-longevity

Music: "Life of Riley" by Kevin MacLeod (CC BY 4.0)

Don't forget to follow us or send us your questions at podcast@vitalpetlife.com. Thank you for tuning in!

Hosted on Ausha. See https://ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.