Ted The Vet : Expert Advice and Insightful Tips to Care for your Pets

Dr. Ted Burhardt D.V.M.
  • 5.0 (4)
  • PETS & ANIMALS
  • UPDATED SEMIWEEKLY

Welcome to "Ted the Vet" a veterinarian podcast designed to educate and empower pet owners with insightful tips, expert advice, and real life cases to help you provide the best care for your furry companion. Join Dr. Ted Burghardt, an experienced veterinarian and owner of Companion Pet Care Veterinary-located in San Diego, as we explore a wide range of topics from preventive care, common health issues, frequently asked questions, to discussing real life cases that he encounters at his practice. Subscribe now and become part of our community dedicated to the well-being of all pets!You can connect with Dr. Ted Burghardt on his instagram at @companionpetcare and learn more at his clinic in Encinitas, California at https://www.companionpcvet.com/

Episodes

  1. Episode 11: Bringing Home a Puppy - First Steps & Common Issues

    12/16/2025

    Episode 11: Bringing Home a Puppy - First Steps & Common Issues

    Summary In this episode of Ted the Vet, Dr. Ted Burghardt and his wife Wynn, founder of Wynn's Kitchen share their experiences and insights on bringing home a new puppy. They discuss essential topics such as health checks, parasite awareness, puppy-proofing the home, establishing a routine, choosing safe toys, potty training, and nutrition. With practical tips and personal anecdotes, they aim to empower new pet owners to provide the best care for their furry companions. Takeaways It's important to take your new puppy to the veterinarian for a health check.Fecal exams can help identify parasites like Giardia, which is common in puppies.Puppy-proofing your home is crucial to prevent accidents and damage.Positive reinforcement is key in training and behavior correction.Establishing a consistent schedule for feeding and bathroom breaks is essential for puppies.Accidents during potty training are normal and should be handled with patience.Choosing safe toys is important to prevent choking hazards and foreign body ingestion.Home-cooked meals can supplement a puppy's diet but should be balanced with kibble.Puppies need a diet rich in calories and nutrients for their growth.Regular veterinary check-ups are important for maintaining a puppy's health. Support the show Subscribe now and become part of our community dedicated to the well-being of all pets! If you found this episode useful, please share with your friends and leave us a 5 star review on Apple Podcast! You can connect with Dr. Ted Burghardt on his instagram at @companionpetcare and learn more at his clinic in Encinitas, California at https://www.companionpcvet.com/

    16 min

  2. 12/09/2025

    Episode 10: Understanding Pet Cancer Statistics, Prevention, and Treatment

    Summary In this conversation, Ted The Vet discusses the alarming statistics surrounding pet cancer, highlighting that cancer is the leading cause of death in pets, particularly in dogs. He emphasizes the prevalence of cancer in older dogs and the various types of cancers that can affect domestic animals. Additionally, he addresses the significant impact of euthanasia in shelters on pet mortality rates, shedding light on the broader issues of animal welfare and health. Takeaways Cancer is the leading cause of death in our pets.Statistically, one in four dogs will develop cancer.In dogs over 10 years old, one out of every two are likely to get cancer.There are around 200 types of recognized cancers in our domestic dogs.Euthanasia of pets in shelters accounts for a high number of domestic animal deaths.Other leading causes of death in pets include trauma and infectious disease.Heart disease and kidney disease are also significant causes of death in pets.Understanding these statistics is crucial for pet owners.Awareness can lead to better preventive care for pets.Veterinary care plays a vital role in managing pet health. Support the show Subscribe now and become part of our community dedicated to the well-being of all pets! If you found this episode useful, please share with your friends and leave us a 5 star review on Apple Podcast! You can connect with Dr. Ted Burghardt on his instagram at @companionpetcare and learn more at his clinic in Encinitas, California at https://www.companionpcvet.com/

    13 min
  3. Episode 9: Understanding Cat Behavior: Inappropriate Urination Explained

    11/18/2025

    Episode 9: Understanding Cat Behavior: Inappropriate Urination Explained

    In this episode of Ted the Vet, Dr. Ted Burghardt discusses the common issue of inappropriate urination in cats, exploring both medical and behavioral causes. He emphasizes the importance of understanding the underlying reasons for this behavior, including urinary tract infections, stress-related conditions, and the impact of environmental changes. The episode also highlights the significance of open-mindedness in diagnosing feline health issues and offers solutions such as pheromone therapy to help manage behavioral problems. Takeaways Cats are naturally inclined to use the litter box.Inappropriate urination can be due to medical or behavioral issues.Common medical causes include urinary tract infections and bladder stones.Stress can lead to feline idiopathic cystitis, causing bladder inflammation.Behavioral issues may arise from changes in the household environment.Pheromone products can help calm cats and encourage litter box use.Urinary obstruction is an emergency situation requiring immediate care.Open-mindedness is crucial when diagnosing feline health problems.Regular veterinary check-ups can help identify underlying issues early.Understanding your cat's behavior is key to effective pet care.Resource: Feliway Diffuser: https://us.feliway.com/ Support the show Subscribe now and become part of our community dedicated to the well-being of all pets! If you found this episode useful, please share with your friends and leave us a 5 star review on Apple Podcast! You can connect with Dr. Ted Burghardt on his instagram at @companionpetcare and learn more at his clinic in Encinitas, California at https://www.companionpcvet.com/

    11 min
  4. Episode 8: Why Yearly Fecal Exams Matter for Your Pet

    06/24/2025

    Episode 8: Why Yearly Fecal Exams Matter for Your Pet

    In this episode of Ted the Vet, Dr. Ted Burghardt discusses the significance of yearly fecal exams for pets, emphasizing their role in early detection of gastrointestinal parasites and overall pet wellness. He explains the types of parasites that can be found, their transmission, and the importance of proper treatment. The conversation also highlights that fecal exams can reveal other health issues and the necessity of maintaining regular wellness checks for pets. Takeaways Fecal exams are crucial for pet wellness.Early detection of problems reduces morbidity.Gastrointestinal parasites can cause serious health issues.Parasites are often spread in public areas.Giardia can be transmitted to humans.Different parasites require specific treatments.Fecal exams can reveal non-pathogenic organisms.Regular wellness checks are essential for pets.Fecal exams can indicate other health issues.Maintaining hygiene is important to prevent parasite transmission. Support the show Subscribe now and become part of our community dedicated to the well-being of all pets! If you found this episode useful, please share with your friends and leave us a 5 star review on Apple Podcast! You can connect with Dr. Ted Burghardt on his instagram at @companionpetcare and learn more at his clinic in Encinitas, California at https://www.companionpcvet.com/

    8 min
  5. Episode 7: Paws and Policies: Navigating Pet Insurance for Better Care

    06/08/2025

    Episode 7: Paws and Policies: Navigating Pet Insurance for Better Care

    In this episode of Ted the Vet, Dr. Ted Burghardt discusses the intricacies of pet insurance, including how it differs from human insurance, its value for pet owners, and the rising costs associated with veterinary care. He emphasizes the importance of understanding policy details, the implications of pre-existing conditions, and the potential benefits of new legislation aimed at easing financial burdens for pet owners. Takeaways Pet insurance requires upfront payment and reimbursement submission.It does not cover pre-existing conditions unlike human insurance.Veterinarians recommend pet insurance for better care decisions.Wellness plans are not the same as pet insurance.Pre-approval for surgeries can help with reimbursement issues.Insurance costs vary based on breed, age, and location.Veterinary costs are rising due to inflation and corporate consolidation.New legislation could help offset veterinary costs for pet owners.Reading the fine print of insurance policies is crucial.Veterinary practices can provide recommendations for pet insurance.Support the show Subscribe now and become part of our community dedicated to the well-being of all pets! If you found this episode useful, please share with your friends and leave us a 5 star review on Apple Podcast! You can connect with Dr. Ted Burghardt on his instagram at @companionpetcare and learn more at his clinic in Encinitas, California at https://www.companionpcvet.com/

    8 min
  6. Episode 6: Managing Egg Laying in Pet Birds

    05/18/2025

    Episode 6: Managing Egg Laying in Pet Birds

    In this episode, Dr. Burghardt chats with his associate veterinarian at Companion Pet Care, Dr. Aleks Conseco the reasons behind egg laying in pet birds. Dr. Aleks Conseco is an exotic and small animal veterinarian. She has extensive experience in treating a large variety of animal species; including, but not limited to, dogs, cats, birds, reptiles, rabbits, rodents, ferrets, hedgehogs, pot belly pigs and small ruminants. This topic came up with Dr. Burghardt's family bird, Flutters started laying eggs! The conversation explores various factors influencing egg laying, including sexual maturity, environmental conditions, and human interaction. Dr. Conseco emphasizes the importance of understanding these factors to manage and support the health of pet birds effectively. Key Takeaways Cockatiels can start laying eggs as they reach sexual maturity.Human interaction can influence a bird's reproductive behavior.Environmental factors like light exposure can stimulate egg laying.Providing a stable environment is crucial for pet birds.Diet plays a significant role in a bird's reproductive health.Excessive egg laying can lead to health complications.Foraging opportunities can help distract birds from laying eggs.Proper sleep conditions are important for pet birds.Blood testing is a safer method for determining a bird's sex.Managing nesting materials can help control egg laying. To learn more about Dr. Conseco, you can visit her website: https://www.dralekscanseco.com/ Instagram: Dr. Aleks Conseco Support the show Subscribe now and become part of our community dedicated to the well-being of all pets! If you found this episode useful, please share with your friends and leave us a 5 star review on Apple Podcast! You can connect with Dr. Ted Burghardt on his instagram at @companionpetcare and learn more at his clinic in Encinitas, California at https://www.companionpcvet.com/

    14 min
  7. Episode 5: Prevention and Treatment of Rattlesnake Bites

    10/22/2024

    Episode 5: Prevention and Treatment of Rattlesnake Bites

    In this episode, Dr. Ted Burghardt discusses rattlesnakes, their habitat, and the risks they pose to pets. He explains the nature of rattlesnake bites, their effects on animals, and the importance of prompt treatment. The episode also covers preventive measures pet owners can take, including rattlesnake aversion training and vaccination options. Takeaways Rattlesnakes are active from April to September in San Diego. They are venomous, injecting venom through hollow fangs. Most bites occur when pets provoke the snake. Swelling and pain are key indicators of a rattlesnake bite. Antivenin is critical for treating rattlesnake bites. Rattlesnake aversion training can help protect pets. Vaccination can delay symptoms but is not a cure. Treatment is necessary even if a pet is vaccinated. Rattlesnake bites can lead to long-term health issues. Understanding rattlesnake behavior is crucial for prevention. Keywords rattlesnakes, pet safety, venomous bites, treatment, prevention, rattlesnake vaccine, pet care Support the show Subscribe now and become part of our community dedicated to the well-being of all pets! If you found this episode useful, please share with your friends and leave us a 5 star review on Apple Podcast! You can connect with Dr. Ted Burghardt on his instagram at @companionpetcare and learn more at his clinic in Encinitas, California at https://www.companionpcvet.com/

    10 min
  8. Episode 4: Effective Strategies for Flea Prevention with Megan Stoll of Pet Power Studio

    10/06/2024

    Episode 4: Effective Strategies for Flea Prevention with Megan Stoll of Pet Power Studio

    In this episode of Ted the Vet podcast, Dr. Ted Burghardt and Megan Stoll, a certified canine nutritionist and the owner of Pet Power Studio, an Encinitas pet studio that carries a limited selection of the highest quality of goods,  discuss the challenges of flea prevention and treatment, exploring both holistic and conventional approaches. They emphasize the importance of understanding the flea life cycle, the health risks associated with fleas, and the need for a comprehensive care plan that includes both holistic and veterinary interventions. Megan shares her experiences with holistic treatments and the lessons learned from her own pets, while Dr. Burghardt provides insights into effective medications and preventive measures. The conversation concludes with practical tips for pet owners on managing fleas in their homes and environments. Takeaways Fleas are a year-round problem in San Diego.A holistic approach can complement conventional veterinary care.Understanding the flea life cycle is crucial for prevention.Holistic treatments may not always be sufficient for severe infestations.Regular vacuuming is essential to control flea populations.Flea combs are effective tools for early detection.Tapeworms can be a consequence of flea infestations.Preventive measures are more effective than reactive treatments.Collaboration among pet care professionals enhances pet health.Education about flea treatments can ease pet owners' concerns. You can learn more more about Megan and Pet Power Studio at https://petpowerstudio.com/ Instagram: Pet Power Studio Support the show Subscribe now and become part of our community dedicated to the well-being of all pets! If you found this episode useful, please share with your friends and leave us a 5 star review on Apple Podcast! You can connect with Dr. Ted Burghardt on his instagram at @companionpetcare and learn more at his clinic in Encinitas, California at https://www.companionpcvet.com/

    23 min

  9. 09/29/2024

    Episode 3: Exposing the Risks of Non-Anesthesia Dental Cleaning

    Dr. Ted Burghardt discusses the critical importance of dental health for pets, comparing non-anesthesia dental cleanings with those performed under anesthesia. He emphasizes the benefits of anesthesia for thorough cleaning and safety, while also addressing the risks associated with both methods. The conversation highlights the need for regular dental examinations and the role of pet owners in maintaining their pets' dental health. Takeaways Dental health is crucial for pets' longevity.Awake dental cleanings are less effective and riskier.Anesthesia allows for a thorough dental examination.Communication with pet owners is essential during procedures.Regular dental check-ups can prevent serious health issues.Sedation during awake cleanings can lead to complications.Dental disease is often unnoticed until severe.Thorough cleaning under anesthesia addresses hidden problems.Pet owners should prioritize dental health in their care routine.Understanding the risks of both cleaning methods is important.Support the show Subscribe now and become part of our community dedicated to the well-being of all pets! If you found this episode useful, please share with your friends and leave us a 5 star review on Apple Podcast! You can connect with Dr. Ted Burghardt on his instagram at @companionpetcare and learn more at his clinic in Encinitas, California at https://www.companionpcvet.com/

    5 min

  10. 08/03/2024

    French Bulldogs: Important Things to Know

    French Bulldogs are a popular breed known for their alert appearance and hilarious personalities. However, they also have some unique health issues that potential owners should be aware of. Frenchies have brachycephalic features, such as short nostrils and a long soft palate, which can cause breathing difficulties. They may also have inflamed laryngeal saccules, extra skin folds, and misshapen vertebrae, leading to potential skin infections and back problems. Additionally, French Bulldogs are prone to allergies, and having pet insurance is recommended. Overall, Frenchies make great pets but require special care and attention. Takeaways French Bulldogs are the most popular breed in the USA. They have brachycephalic features that can cause breathing difficulties. Frenchies may have extra skin folds and misshapen vertebrae, leading to potential skin infections and back problems. They are prone to allergies, and having pet insurance is recommended. Chapters 00:00 The Popularity of French Bulldogs 01:27 Brachycephalic Features and Breathing Difficulties 03:22 Skin Infections and Back Problems 05:46 Allergies and the Importance of Pet Insurance Support the show Subscribe now and become part of our community dedicated to the well-being of all pets! If you found this episode useful, please share with your friends and leave us a 5 star review on Apple Podcast! You can connect with Dr. Ted Burghardt on his instagram at @companionpetcare and learn more at his clinic in Encinitas, California at https://www.companionpcvet.com/

    7 min

  11. 07/26/2024

    Episode 1: Understanding Pet Allergies - A Veterinarian Perspective

    Dr. Ted Burghardt, also known as Ted the Vet, shares his experiences as a veterinarian and provides insights into the profession. He discusses allergies in pets, categorizing them into dietary and environmental allergies. He explains the different treatment options for each category, including changing the protein or carbohydrate in the diet and using anti-itch medications. He also mentions immunotherapy as an effective therapy for allergies. Overall, Dr. Ted Burghardt provides a starting point for understanding and addressing pet allergies. 00:00 Introduction and Background 03:06 Categorizing Allergies 03:28 Environmental Allergies 04:38 Treatment Options for Allergies 05:29 Immunotherapy for Pet Allergies 06:23 Closing Remarks Support the show Subscribe now and become part of our community dedicated to the well-being of all pets! If you found this episode useful, please share with your friends and leave us a 5 star review on Apple Podcast! You can connect with Dr. Ted Burghardt on his instagram at @companionpetcare and learn more at his clinic in Encinitas, California at https://www.companionpcvet.com/

    7 min
  • 11 Episodes

5
out of 5
4 Ratings

About

Welcome to "Ted the Vet" a veterinarian podcast designed to educate and empower pet owners with insightful tips, expert advice, and real life cases to help you provide the best care for your furry companion. Join Dr. Ted Burghardt, an experienced veterinarian and owner of Companion Pet Care Veterinary-located in San Diego, as we explore a wide range of topics from preventive care, common health issues, frequently asked questions, to discussing real life cases that he encounters at his practice. Subscribe now and become part of our community dedicated to the well-being of all pets!You can connect with Dr. Ted Burghardt on his instagram at @companionpetcare and learn more at his clinic in Encinitas, California at https://www.companionpcvet.com/

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