Pet Parents Pod

So, about coming back...we are here for a one time special series finale. Sorry, folks, we did intend to lower our posting schedule and continue, but soul-searching made us realize our free time for this wonderful experience has passed. Join us for our last catch up, a full explanation of why we're ending, and, of course, the tangents. We love you all and are happy you have listened. Join us in the Discord and on the Instagram, those are staying up. One last note: we talk about this at the end of the episode, but Wolfie's Wish reached out to us. We were originally going to schedule an episode to interview the creator, but that is no longer in the cards. Please check out their lovely grieving card set to help you thoughtfully work through your grief with a reflection question each day. Check Wolfie's Wish at: https://wolfieswish.com/

Pet Parents Pod is taking a 4 week break! See you back in March!

Happy Galentine's/Palentine's Day! We are on the eve of the lovey dovey day of love so we are talking about animal symbols of love. There are a lot birds, but Danielle didn't mean to make it a bird-focused episode. She swears. Enjoy our weird conversation. Sources: https://college.unc.edu/2020/02/chaucer-valentines/ https://featuredcreature.com/5-valentines-day-inspired-animals/ https://www.livescience.com/33001-why-do-doves-represent-love.html https://blog.ferplast.com/en/why-are-lovebirds-called-that/ And some live Googling

This week we discuss what has been going on in our lives with emergency vet visits, machismo, and dogs on vacation. Join us for the exciting life of travel dogs and tall skeletor dogs!

This week we give you a long awaited Allergy Watch Update. Discover the list of things Mishka is allergic to, hear about the trials of Mishka and Atopica, and what lengths he has driven Danielle to in order to get him to eat. A normal dish to prepare for your dog is soaking the prescription dry food and blended wet prescription food into a mousse. Yes...normal.

Happy Lunar New Year! We are now in the year of the rabbit as of January 22nd, the water rabbit specifically. Join us as we tell the tale of the Chinese Zodiac myth and talk about their animals meaning. Sources: Liao, Sabrina.(2001) Chinese Astrology: Ancient Secret for Modern Life. Warner Books.

This week we follow up our dog sled adventure with the 1925 Serum Run. This story isn't about Balto--he was a good dog, but there were many other good dogs in the story. One particularly important team was led by Togo. Join us on this gripping and crazy real story of community, sacrifice and bravery. Sources: https://www.seppalakennels.com/ https://mynyddsleddogadventures.com/news/the-great-serum-run/ https://www.si.com/more-sports/2021/01/13/alaska-serum-run-1925-togo-not-balto https://archives.alaska.gov/education/serum.html

This week we hit the trail to learn about dog sledding and we're discussing the Iditarod Race! Learn about this interesting tradition and the history of dog sled racing. Sources: https://iditarod.com/race-history/ https://iditarod.com/edu/origin-of-the-iditarod-how-did-it-all-begin/ http://www.inquiriesjournal.com/articles/288/sled-dogs-cultural-legacy-and-forgotten-history https://www.military.com/history/alaska-enlisted-help-of-eskimo-scouts-protect-itself-during-world-war-ii.html https://www.pethealthnetwork.com/news-blogs/a-vets-life/how-sled-dogs-helped-win-world-war-i https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/dog-breeds/sled-dog-breeds-history-future/ https://www.hurtigruten.com/destinations/norway/inspiration/attractions/history-of-dog-sledding/ https://alifeofdogs.com/history-of-the-iditarod/#:~:text=Dick%20Wilmarth%20won%20the%20first,by%20local%20newspapers%20in%20Alaska

We have some updates from the Kipp household. Rosie and Charlie know more about their origins. Warning: we have some sad news as well as we are discussing that Boy (Ribbon) has crossed the rainbow bridge. Join us for some fun and serious updates.

Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays. This week we have a short treat of Kipp reading us the Cajun Night before Christmas by "TROSCLAIR", Illustrated by James Rice. It is a fun treasure from Kipp and Danielle's childhood. Enjoy this Cajun Classic. Song: The Holly and the Ivy from Uncle Dave's Free Christmas Music at https://www.mp3forkidz.com/xmas/

This week finally we discuss the long-awaited topic of Mishka and Roux's dermatology appointment. They went, we learned things, and now we're sharing the results so far. As always, Roux is a dog-shaped medical Rubik's cube.

We discuss taking photos of pets this week. Why pet photography such a challenge? There's gotta be a better way! Fear not, there is! We discuss tips and tricks to get that perfect picture of your pet. Sources: https://www.aspcapetinsurance.com/resources/how-to-photograph-pets/ https://expertphotography.com/11-tips-improving-cat-photography-skills/ https://www.angierose.com/what-to-look-for-in-a-pet-photographer/ https://www.k9ofmine.com/how-to-become-pet-photographer/

This week Danielle had everyone watch a documentary about service dogs in order to better discuss them. We all had emotions and learned about the cycles and training that go into different types of service dogs. Join us as we talk about the important and hard work to aid these dogs in helping others live their best lives. Sources: Pick of the Litter Puppy Prep https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/training/service-dog-training-101/

This week we discuss a heavy but very important topic. The struggles with executive dysfunction and being responsible for the needs of pets. This is mostly from personal perspective, but Danielle did get some definitions. Obviously this is a very wide topic with lots of nuance and this doesn't capture everyone's experience. We did our best, please enjoy. Sources: https://research.library.fordham.edu/dissertations/AAI3629239/ https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/symptoms/23224-executive-dysfunction

This week we discuss the weird skin bumps and lumps that our dogs have developed. Heath and Danielle learned about abscesses from Mishka and Kipp learned about histiocytomas from Charlie. Let us explain what these things are. Sources: https://www.queensparkpethospital.ca/does-your-pet-have-an-abscess/ https://www.petmd.com/dog/conditions/skin/c_dg_histiocytoma

Trigger Warning: gross topics such as poop eating and dogs being disgusting. Roux ate wild rabbit droppings. This sent us on a strange spiral of what animals shouldn't eat in the backyard. Sources: Four zero woof...the dogs ate our sources. You will have to trust us or just do your own research. Sorry. Honestly you could Google backyard threats to your pets and find them but Heath did not feel like relocating them all over again a couple weeks later.

This week we discuss enriching your cats' lives. What do they need to fuel their apex predator needs? Should you get a cat TV? Spend millions on cat trees and wall furniture? Build a Catio? Join us to find out.

Happy al Halloween! We watch 'Pet Sematary' for the final spooky season episode. Warning: this movie's main theme is death including animal and child death. Join us on this morbid journey with a lot less pets than originally guessed based on the title. Sources: https://youtu.be/k6ULlnM7sxg

Okay, folks, Producer Dan messed up on which weeks we were recording for and there will be no episode this week. We are doing a Pet Parents Go to the Movies next week on Pet Sematary, the original from 1989. Warning: movie contains animal and child death. If you are brave enough, come back next week to hear us discuss the film. In the meantime, continue to enjoy autumn and be sure to keep yourself and your pets warm if you too have a cold snap or otherwise freezing or near freezing weather.

This week we discuss Cryptids! What is a cryptid? What are their spooky tales? What real life animals could they actually be? Enjoy another spooky season episode with us. Also all Danielle's research is her memory and Wikipedia, so no real sources this type.... because spoiler - Cryptids aren't real...But let's have some fun!

This week we get caught up with Halloween decorations, doggone hikes, medical and doggie playdate updates. There is a giant spider and lots of chaos with this fun check-in.

This week to ring in the spooky season we are discussing Witches' Familiars. We have our number one fan, April, who also happens to be witch and therefore an expert on witchcraft and magic. What is a familiar? Is it a black cat or was it a word used by the establishment to kill someone they didn't like. Or is it a bit of both? Also check out April's Tarot Readings on Instagram @mojobymoonsage If you are going to AWA check out our friend Aimee's Jewelry Booth Witchy Wish. April will be there helping out there! Check the cute shop out on Instagram @witchywishshop Sources: https://docs.google.com/document/d/13GLeQt4FzMLQWD6_sb-Ew7fWa6o3GMdQG9Rdv5WNMw0/edit

This week we discuss the history of brachycephalic dogs and cats. The problems with this trait, why we bred it into them, and hopefully we can inform folks to make more responsible decisions for these animals going forward. Sources: https://www.smithsonianmag.com/science-nature/evolution-petface-180967987/ https://pugfactsguide.com/what-did-pugs-originally-look-like/ https://dogtime.com/advocacy/60835-problem-breeding-brachycephalic-short-faced-dogs https://vcahospitals.com/know-your-pet/brachycephalic-airway-syndrome-in-dog

This week we take a trip down memory lane to the film that deluded children into thinking owning over 100 dogs was a feasible task. Little do most know this film was a ground breaking film that saved Disney as an animation studio. Danielle puts on her animation hat and brings us through a cool and spicy part of animation history. Sources: https://www.smithsonianmag.com/innovation/how-one-hundred-and-one-dalmatians-saved-disney-180977869/ https://tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pmwiki.php/Literature/TheHundredAndOneDalmatians https://youtu.be/RZRm67FJH3Q

Happy 100th Episode of Pet Parents Pod! In honor of that, we finally did it--Heath and Danielle pulled the trigger on the Dog DNA tests! We discuss Roux and Mishka as well as Kipp's experience with PetSmart's Puppy Plan DNA test. Enjoy our fun episode! Mishka's profile: http://embk.me/mishka369?utm_campaign=cns_ref_dog_pub_profile&utm_medium=other&utm_source=embark Roux's profile: http://embk.me/roux457?utm_campaign=cns_ref_dog_pub_profile&utm_medium=other&utm_source=embark

This week we do fun and exciting world of travel Cats. Trucker cats, hiker cats, stroller cats, harness cats and car cats. Let's talk about how some take their cats on the road with them and what you can look for if you're interested in the same. Sources: https://catexplorer.co/discussion-topics-about-cats https://www.whyanimalsdothething.com/harness-train-your-cat https://catexplorer.co/stories-posts/travel-cat-litter-tray-ideas https://catexplorer.co/stories-posts/what-to-include-in-your-cats-first-aid-kit https://www.gopetfriendly.com/blog/personality-traits-traveling-cats/ https://www.moaa.org/content/publications-and-media/news-articles/2022-news-articles/how-to-find-good-veterinary-care-when-traveling-with-pets/ https://ezfreightfactoring.com/blog/trucking-with-cats/ https://www.mprnews.org/story/2017/03/15/percy-lost-and-found

This week on Pet Parents Pod, we enter the world of games. Danielle has played a bittersweet animal game about a cute fox family in the end of days of a dying planet. Join us for an adventure in the game Endling: Extinction is Forever. Sources: https://www.linkedin.com/company/herobeat-studios https://jgeekstudies.org/2022/01/24/facing-extinction-in-endling/ https://unwinnable.com/2020/06/10/endling-extinction-is-forever/

This week at the movies we watch and discuss a 1993 hit about three house pets and their Incredible Journey through the wilderness. Homeward Bound, a classic from our childhoods. Sources: https://screenrant.com/homeward-bound-incredible-journey-remake-changes-1963/ https://d23.com/did-you-know-8-incredible-facts-about-homeward-bound-the-incredible-journey/ https://oregonconfluence.com/2020/04/07/adventures-on-set-bruce-lawson-on-homeward-bound-the-incredible-journey/ https://sites.google.com/site/theincrediblejourneylis514/sheila-burnford

Hear! Hear! Hear all about it! We have happy and uplifting stories of cats saving a restaurant, everyone's favorite Star Trek captain helping pittbulls, a hero cat that saves a baby, and many more Pawsitive Animal Stories. Check out the Cat Train Ramen shop @diorama_syokudou on Instagram Sources: https://www.boredpanda.com/stray-cats-saved-diorama-restaurant-japan-naoki-teraoka/?utm_source=com.google.android&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=organic https://www.today.com/pets/patrick-stewart-can-t-adopt-pit-bull-because-uk-bans-t110069 https://edition.cnn.com/2020/03/01/us/new-york-pizza-dog-adoption-boxes-trnd/index.html https://people.com/pets/stray-dog-adopted-by-brazil-car-dealership-given-job/ https://bestfriends.org/stories/features/love-unforgettable-cat-leads-family-foster-dozens-kittens https://nypost.com/2015/01/15/hero-cat-saves-baby-from-freezing-to-death/?utm_source=reddit.com https://www.readersdigest.ca/culture/funny-stories-casey-parrot/ https://www.cnnturk.com/yasam/avm-girisi-sokak-hayvanlarina-barinak-oldu?page=10 https://www.cesarsway.com/zoo-gave-shy-cheetah-cubs-their-own-emotional-support-dogs-to-overcome-anxiety/ https://www.hepper.com/emotional-support-dogs-for-cheetahs/

TRIGGER WARNING! We are discussing pets and animals in active war zones. Danielle thought it would be a good idea to at least discuss the hardships and conviction of people who try to help animals in conflict zones so please join us for this bitter sweet episode. It truly shows that even in the darkest situations, people are good and will risk their lives to take care of animals. If you are able and would like to donate to causes that help support animals in conflict zones, we are plugging Four Paws International because they do a lot of work world wide: https://donate.four-paws.org/s/ Sources: https://apnews.com/article/russia-ukraine-kyiv-animals-pets-dogs-d0cc29d9cadfd85d6e8187e59fe150c6 https://www.ozy.com/good-sht/the-activists-whove-saved-1000-pets-from-syrias-war-zones/260522/ https://www.dw.com/en/amir-khalil-conflict-zone-war-four-paws-animals-zoo/a-52108045 https://www.cdc.gov/healthypets/keeping-pets-and-people-healthy/emergencies/pet-disaster-prep-kit.html?CDC_AA_refVal=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.cdc.gov%2Fhealthypets%2Femergencies%2Fpet-disaster-prep-kit.html https://www.nytimes.com/2022/04/14/us/ukrainian-refugees-dogs-us-border.html

This week, um, trigger warning? We talk about the history of animals in warfare. What animals did we decide were suited for it? What could go wrong? Join us on this history episode! Danielle promises it is not totally depressing. Sources: https://www.thecollector.com/animals-used-in-war/ https://www.iwm.org.uk/history/15-animals-that-went-to-war

This week we talk about our vacations. Kipp and Charlie take a hike and make a small miscalculation. Heath and Danielle take trips with their dogs and learn how versatile dog poop bags can be.

This week we talk about Mishka and Roux's vicious domestics. Time to air out the drama of the how they started beef. Heath and Danielle share their fails at trying to get their dogs to be friends with their family's dogs. Lessons learn and hopefully this will help you make better choices and not have to just sit in it. Source: https://wagurtaildogtraining.com/dominance-in-dogs-recognizing-dominant-behavior/ https://www.thesprucepets.com/how-to-stop-dog-aggression-1118229

Charles has grown into a man and decided he needs to explore the world. Kipp is now in a battle of wits trying to keep him in the yard. Does your dog escape? Would you like to hear about the how, why, and what to do with your Houdini dog? Well then, join us to discuss the next great dog escape. P.S. Charlie is fine and not lost. Sources: https://iheartdogs.com/is-your-dog-an-escape-artist-try-these-tips-to-keep-them-home-safe/ https://topdogtips.com/escape-artist-dog-breeds/

Happy July 4th! We say that for the sake of festivity, but it's okay to have complicated feelings about the US when you want better for it. In honor of our home country's birthday, we are bringing you the story of a true war hero, Cher Ami. She was a proud, fast, courageous and noble Pigeon. Let us dispel the misconception of these rats with wings. Pigeons are smart, tough and speedy birds and their role in WW1 saved so many lives. This is the story of how one bird saved the Lost Battalion Sources: https://youtu.be/2IeiBvx9zOs https://www.history.navy.mil/content/history/museums/nmusn/explore/photography/wwi/wwi-aviation/pigeons.html https://www.si.edu/object/cher-ami%3Anmah_425415

This week we go on the morbid side of life as we discuss the realities of growing older as humans and what it means to care for pets in old age. Join us as we stare into the future. Source: https://petsfortheelderly.org/ https://www.fearfreehappyhomes.com/keeping-pets-with-seniors-who-love-them/?gclid=CjwKCAjwtcCVBhA0EiwAT1fY7wnxKA2piFlg9IF4yJMcT_8CcdbMutMkwIXm9N2m3Yo1ZoFViyM5xRoCVgAQAvD_BwE https://www.techenhancedlife.com/citizen-research/robotic-pets-dementia-patients-our-experiences

This week we prepare for the impending day of horror for animals. The 4th of July approaches and our resident public safety professional is going to give us the do's and don't's of this holiday. Also, small warning - we were recording at Kipp's home during a thunder storm so please excuse the background noise. Consider it ambiance if you personally enjoy a chill day inside during a storm. Sources: https://ssec.si.edu/stemvisions-blog/evolution-fireworks#:~:text=Around%20200%20BC%2C%20the%20Chinese,the%20secret%20to%20eternal%20life. https://www.americanpyro.com/history-of-fireworks https://www.cpsc.gov/Safety-Education/Safety-Education-Centers/Fireworks https://www.nfpa.org/-/media/Files/News-and-Research/Fire-statistics-and-reports/US-Fire-Problem/Fire-causes/osfireworks.pdf https://www.wideopenpets.com/more-dogs-are-lost-july-4th-than-any-other-day-keep-yours-safe/ https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/new-infographic-more-pets-are-lost-on-july-4th-than-any-other-day-of-the-year-300108062.html

Trigger Warning to gross medical stuff because we are talking about Urinary Tract Infections! There will be discussion of urine, blood, bacteria and more. Sources: https://vcahospitals.com/know-your-pet/urinary-tract-infections-utis-in-dogs https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/health/urinary-tract-infections-uti-in-dogs/ https://todaysveterinarypractice.com/urology-renal-medicine/urinary-tract-infections-in-dogs/ https://vcahospitals.com/know-your-pet/struvite-bladder-stones-in-dogs

We are learning about a famous dog, Rin Tin Tin. He was a war orphan from France who made his bones in Hollywood! This good boy was a strong silent thespian of the stage and the first dog star of film! Sources: https://americacomesalive.com/the-story-of-rin-tin-tin-2/ https://www.warhistoryonline.com/instant-articles/rin-tin-tin-the-famous-dog.html https://americanhistory.si.edu/blog/world-war-i-story-n%C3%A9nette-and-rintintin

Trigger Warning of animal abuse and worse. We are discussing animals trainers and animals in film via the history of the good folks at the American Humane Association who work to provide rights to animals used in film. Join us as we learn about how we got to the accurate disclaimer "no animals were harmed in the making of this film". Sources: https://www.usatoday.com/story/money/careers/getting-started/2018/08/14/sled-reynolds-how-became-animal-trainer-film-tv/973306002/ https://www.latimes.com/archives/la-xpm-1987-01-11-me-4007-story.html https://www.americanhumane.org/about-us/history/ https://infocusfilmschool.com/animals-in-film/ https://www.thebalancecareers.com/movie-animal-trainer-125861#:~:text=Movie%20animal%20trainers%20use%20their,roles%20in%20television%20and%20movies.

This week the temperatures are rising so the pet parents discuss how pets handle the heat and cold. That's right, weather safety folks! What do our furry and feathered friends need to beat the heat and bundle up for the winter? Sources: https://www.humanesociety.org/resources/keep-pets-safe heat https://www.animalhumanesociety.org/news/keeping-pets-safe-cold-weather https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/general-pet-care/hot-weather-safety-tips https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/general-pet-care/cold-weather-safety-tips https://bloomingpaws.net/grooming-double-coated-dogs/

This week we walk on the wild side. Kipp takes us on a journey to the Outback for the very cool wild dogs known as Dingos. These animals are very interesting. So interesting, in fact, we turn into a true crime podcast for half an episode. Join us for the Crimanimal Parent's Pod backdoor pilot. Sources: A detailed picture of the origin of the Australian dingo, obtained from the study of mitochondrial DNA - Peter Savolainen, Thomas Leitner, Alan N. Wilton, +1 , Elizabeth Matisoo-Smith, and Joakim Lundeberg - 2004 https://www.pnas.org/doi/10.1073/pnas.0401814101#:~:text=The%20dingo%20originated%20from%20a,but%20only%20A29%20reached%20Australia. https://www.sciencealert.com/we-finally-know-where-dingos-sit-in-dogs-evolutionary-family-tree/amp https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Death_of_Azaria_Chamberlain My Favorite Murder - Eps. 132 - Awful Peanut

This week we are pawsitive the FIV and FeLV kitties deserve a good home and a chance at a fulfilling life! We answer the hard questions. What is FIV? What is FeLV? Can I catch it from my cat? Is this a death sentence? What can we do to help our kitties live happy, healthy and long lives? Sources: https://www.fotasaiken.org/feline-fiv-is-a-virus-not-a-death-sentence/ https://vcahospitals.com/know-your-pet/feline-immunodeficiency-virus-infection https://vcahospitals.com/know-your-pet/feline-leukemia-virus-disease-complex https://www.petmd.com/cat/conditions/difference-between-felv-and-fiv

This week we are moo-ving into the country, the farmlands full of fowl, bovine and goats! Van comes back to give us an overview of different barnyard animals he has grown up with.

Ever wondered if sibling rivalry was a thing pets experience? Or maybe being an only child always appealed to you. Well, this week we discuss dogs having issues with littermates and cats needing a friend! Sources: https://meowcatrescue.org/resources/adoption-considerations/single-kitten-syndrome/ Humane Society of West Michigan - Single Kitten Syndrome flyer https://www.catsintow.org/single-post/single-kitten-syndrome-what-is-it#:~:text=With%20Single%20Kitten%20Syndrome%2C%20kittens,appropriate%20behavior%20from%20one%20another. https://k9behavioralservices.com/littermate-syndrome/#:~:text=Littermate%20Syndrome%20(also%20knows%20as,age%2C%20when%20puppies%20are%20usually https://peachonaleash.com/littermate-syndrome-dogs/ https://www.petlists.org/dogs/littermate-syndrome

This week we stay totally focused on the topic of pet tech. We definitely don't spend the opening discussing cars....nope. Three fully focused humans on topic all the time. Microchips, tracking devices and cameras! All for the animals.

Okay, folks, we are here with special guest star, April. Danielle's sister is back to provide holiday drama, emergency vet visits and a firsthand experience of a scary but funnily named condition. We are talking about a serious condition called Bloat, or as scientists say - Gastric Dilatation Volvulus or GDV. Check out April on Instagram: @mojobymoonsage Sources: https://www.acvs.org/small-animal/gastric-dilatation-volvulus

We continue in our trip to Costa Rica with a look into the world's largest animal sanctuary, Territorio de Zaguates. The land of the strays was founded by Lya Battle and Alvaro Saumet. We watched a Netflix documentary 'Dogs' which had an episode called, 'Territorio de Zaguates' for most of this episode's information. Run with the dogs and learn about this daunting and impressive undertaking, the least evil option these two compassionate people could make. All Zaguates deserve a loving home and family. No dog should be unwanted. If you want to help, please look into donation or adoption at their website: https://www.territoriodezaguates.com/

This week we journey to the misty mountain tops of Costa Rica called Monteverde, a very special cloud forest that has the magic of nature and more importantly - animals! Many unique and cool creatures call this place home including wild felines, birds and a new trash cat to love! Sources: https://www.monteverdeinfo.com/cloud-forests https://www.monteverdeinfo.com/tours/monteverde-cloud-forest-reserve https://www.thewildlifediaries.com/wildlife-watching-in-monteverde/

This week the pet parents go on vacation to the many islands of cats around the world where cats outnumber humans. Join us as we journey to Japan, Italy and Greece! Sources: https://blog.ferplast.com/en/cat-islands-cat-island-you-cane-visit-around-the-world/ https://blog.ferplast.com/en/su-pallosu-sardinia-cat-beach/amp/ https://allabout-japan.com/en/article/3882/ https://www.catrescuesamos.com/home/

This week we hit the social media to learn how the teens Tick Talk! ...Oh dear, Granny Dan was just informed that is not what TikTok is so instead we discuss fleas and ticks. Do you feel itchy yet? Not sponsored, but Heath and Danielle use this website to get inexpensive flea, tick, and heartworm prevention. We hope it helps you also. https://www.budgetpetcare.com/