Pets Are Family

Jessica Abernathy

It is a podcast about pets, all things pets. Tricia Montgomery and Jessica Abernathy share over 25 years in the pet industry. They talk about all things pets, from health, to care, and why Jessica named her cat Bin Laden! Yup, Bin Laden. Listen to these ladies and find out something new. 

  1. JAN 5

    My Divorce and DOG CUSTODY NIGHTMARE What I Learned

    In this heartfelt and lively episode, Jessica Abernathy and Tricia Montgomery dive into the complex, often emotional topic of divorce and how it impacts our pets. From personal stories of shared custody and unforgettable pet-related negotiations, to navigating what happens when two- and four-legged family members all face big changes, Jessica and Tricia deliver insights grounded in both professional experience and everyday life. The hosts openly discuss their own divorces and the challenges of ensuring pets land in the right hands, whether through legal battles, creative “sales” to friends, or family negotiations. They highlight how laws are evolving and how some states—like Illinois and several others—now consider the best interests of pets, not just treating them as property. The episode also explores legal and practical considerations for pet custody in dating relationships and the importance of documentation and planning, including the role of prenuptial agreements and animal trusts. Jessica and Tricia address the emotional toll on pets as they adapt to new routines and environments, reminding listeners that our animals feel the stress of family transitions too. They share anecdotes—including memorable stories about cats, French Bulldogs, and the infamous “man card” scenario—and offer practical advice for navigating both planned and unplanned changes in our pets’ lives. Other episode highlights include: Why routines and stability matter so much during family changes The surprising time people spend choosing appliances versus lifelong pets The need for preparation before adopting pets—spontaneity isn’t always best How to create plans for our pets in case of unexpected life changes Upcoming special guests and bonus episodes, plus the launch of Moose’s March! Tune in for real talk, laughter, and helpful tips on how to treat your pets like the family members they are. Subscribe so you won’t miss future episodes and special segments! Support the show

    22 min
  2. 07/19/2025

    What Happens When Dogs Get Exposed to Weed?

    Join Tricia and Jessica on the Pets Are Family podcast as they dive into a true story from Tricia’s home: her dog Frank’s unexpected encounter with a mysterious household substance. This episode combines real-life pet parenting challenges, honest conversations, and helpful tips for keeping your pets safe, all with the relatable humor and insights that regular listeners have come to love. What You'll Love in This Episode: Frank’s Unexpected Symptoms: Tricia and Jessica walk you through the first signs that something wasn’t quite right with their four-legged family member, from sudden, strange behaviors to the anxious moments that followed. The Power of Honesty with Your Vet: Discover why telling your veterinarian the whole truth, no matter how silly or embarrassing, could mean the difference between confusion and a quick diagnosis. How to Respond to Pet Intoxication: Learn the signs of pet intoxication and simple, actionable steps you can take right away to keep your fur babies safe. Household Dangers for Dogs and Cats: From edibles to everyday items we all have at home, find out what to watch for and how to pet-proof your space for ultimate pet safety. Laughter & Lessons: With plenty of laughs, a peek at Jessica’s famous dog wall, and touching personal anecdotes, you’ll feel right at home like you’re curled up on the couch with lifelong friends (and their pets!). Whether you’re a new pet parent or a seasoned animal lover, this episode is packed with love, learning, and laughter to make your day brighter and your home safer. Don’t Miss: Frank’s hilarious (and a little scary!) journey from uncertainty to diagnosis. Tips for building trust with your veterinarian. Heartfelt moments and genuine advice from two passionate pet moms. Bonus mentions of the legendary dog wall and a fan-favorite dog ball—bringing a family-friendly, joy-filled vibe from start to finish. Pour yourself a warm drink, grab your pet, and press play on the podcast that feels like a big hug. Because here, pets aren’t just animals—they’re family. #petsafety #doghealth #petsarefamily #petparents  Show Notes: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1YOs14UrcqzpUs-f7LgjzuIfBSR9PeRcHYFNWoZLlZR4/edit?usp=sharing Support the show

    26 min
  3. 07/16/2025

    Funny Pet Stories You Need To Hear!

    In this conversation, Tricia and Jessica discuss their experiences with pets during the summer heat, focusing on the importance of vaccinations, the unique needs of smush-faced breeds, and the challenges of socializing intact dogs in public spaces. They share personal anecdotes about their pets, emphasizing the significance of understanding pet health and behavior. In this conversation, Tricia Montgomery and Jessica Abernathy delve into various aspects of dog behavior, including socialization, leash aggression, and the effects of remote work on pets. They discuss the importance of understanding dog behavior patterns, the risks of over-exercising dogs, and the need for pet parents to be aware of their pets' needs and behaviors. The conversation also touches on the emotional bond between dogs and their owners, highlighting the significance of communication and understanding in fostering a healthy relationship with pets. Chapters 00:00 Summer Heat and Pet Adventures 03:04 Pet Health: Vaccinations and Neutering 06:00 Understanding Smush-Faced Breeds 08:55 Navigating Dog Parks with Intact Dogs 11:55 Socialization and Separation Anxiety in Pets 17:11 Understanding Dog Behavior and Socialization 20:20 The Impact of Remote Work on Dog Behavior 24:01 The Risks of Over-Exercising Your Dog 27:15 The Importance of Pet Parent Awareness 30:01 The Bond Between Dogs and Their Owners Instagram petsarefamilypodcast Facebook https://bit.ly/3PC9wbx TikTok @Petsarefamilypodcast Support the show

    31 min

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
3 Ratings

About

It is a podcast about pets, all things pets. Tricia Montgomery and Jessica Abernathy share over 25 years in the pet industry. They talk about all things pets, from health, to care, and why Jessica named her cat Bin Laden! Yup, Bin Laden. Listen to these ladies and find out something new.