Rooted Tails by Rooted Owl

Jeffrey Mendelsohn
  • 5.0 (2)
  • PETS & ANIMALS

Rooted Tails by Rooted Owl is a show where veterinarians, pet wellness experts, rescue leaders, and pet industry professionals share their real-world insights on what it takes to help pets live longer, healthier lives. From canine longevity and nutrition tips to heartfelt rescue stories and innovative wellness practices, each episode delivers practical advice and inspiring conversations for passionate pet owners and professionals alike. If you love your pets like family—and want to help them thrive—this show is for you.

  1. 09/05/2025

    From Loss to Legacy: Dr. Nicole Leibman on Redefining Veterinary Care at Home

    In this episode of Rooted Tales by Rooted Owl, host Jeffrey Mendelson sits down with Dr. Nicole Leibman, DVM, MS, DACVIM (Oncology)—veterinary oncologist and Chief Medical Officer of PAD—to explore how her personal journey of loss and compassion led to creating a new model of in-home veterinary nursing and hospice care. Dr. Nicole shares how the heartbreaking loss of her childhood dog on Christmas day inspired her career in veterinary oncology and, ultimately, her mission to help pets and families face illness and end-of-life with dignity. Together, Jeffrey and Nicole dive into the realities of pet cancer, the myths around diagnostics, and how PAD is bridging critical gaps in modern veterinary care. Through stories of post-surgical recoveries, families navigating tough decisions, and pets finding peace in their final days, this conversation reveals the power of empathy, innovation, and home-centered care. Key Lessons Covered in This Episode:Why Fine-Needle Aspirates Don’t Spread Cancer: Dr. Nicole debunks one of the most common and damaging myths in veterinary oncology. The Role of PAD in Veterinary Care: How in-home nursing supports pets, relieves overburdened clinics, and gives families peace of mind. Facing End-of-Life Decisions with Compassion: Why dignity in dying is one of the greatest gifts pet parents can give—and how PAD helps them through it. The Power of Veterinary Technicians: PAD empowers nurses and technicians to practice at the top of their skill set, strengthening the entire care ecosystem. COVID’s Lasting Impact on Veterinary Medicine: The pandemic revealed deep cracks in accessibility and burnout—PAD is one solution offering relief. Exploring CBD and Telehealth in Oncology: Where alternative modalities fit today, and where more research is needed. Key Takeaways:✅ Misdiagnosis myths can harm pets—education saves lives ✅ In-home nursing bridges the gap between clinics and families ✅ Veterinary technicians are the backbone of compassionate care ✅ Dignity in death is just as important as quality in life ✅ Innovation in vet med starts with empathy and real-world need Listen Now:If you’ve ever faced a pet’s cancer diagnosis, struggled with end-of-life decisions, or wondered how veterinary medicine can better support families, this episode is essential listening. Dr. Nicole brings warmth, honesty, and forward-thinking solutions to some of the hardest moments pet parents face. Spotify | Apple Podcasts Connect with Dr. Nicole Leibman & PAD:LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/nicole-leibman Know a pet parent, vet, or animal care professional? Share this episode and help normalize safe, science-backed cannabis education in animal wellness.

    32 min

  2. 07/24/2025

    From Vet Oncology to Cannabis Advocacy: Dr. Trina Hazzah’s Mission to Educate and Empower

    In this episode of Rooted Tales by Rooted Owl, host Jeffrey Mendelson sits down with Dr. Trina Hazzah—integrative veterinarian, cannabis educator, and founder of Green Nile and the Veterinary Cannabis Society. Together, they unpack the evolving science, stigma, and incredible healing potential of cannabis in animal care. Dr. Trina shares how her pivot from conventional veterinary oncology led her into the world of plant medicine, where she now helps pets—and their people—navigate cannabis safely and effectively. From formulating Rooted Owl’s CBD oil to advocating for national policy change, Dr. Trina’s mission is rooted in science, compassion, and responsible education. Through real stories of anxious dogs transformed, chihuahuas finding peace, and rescues finally adopted, this episode makes one thing clear: cannabis, when used wisely, can be a powerful bridge to healing. Key Lessons Covered in This Episode:Why You Shouldn’t Just Walk Into a Dispensary: Dr. Trina explains why human-grade cannabis products can be dangerous for pets—and why bartenders shouldn’t be giving veterinary advice. The Science Behind Cannabis Formulation: From terpenes to cannabinoids, Dr. Trina breaks down how she developed Rooted Owl’s CBD formula based on scientific research and holistic safety. The Transformational Stories of Walter and Ruben: Hear how two rescue dogs overcame anxiety and trauma through a combination of cannabis and compassionate care—and eventually no longer needed it. The Birth of the Veterinary Cannabis Society: Created out of frustration with legal gray areas and lack of education, Dr. Trina’s nonprofit offers unbiased resources, advocacy, and practitioner directories for vets and pet parents alike. How Cannabis Can Be Used Preventatively: Cannabis isn’t just for emergencies—Dr. Trina shares when and how it can help regulate inflammation, anxiety, and neurological imbalance before serious issues arise. Balancing East and West in Pet Care: From vaccines to nutrition to cannabis, Dr. Trina emphasizes the power of integrative medicine—where science meets soul, and prevention meets purpose. Key Takeaways:✅ Cannabis is powerful—but must be used under expert guidance ✅ Anxiety, trauma, and pain can all be addressed holistically ✅ Healing is possible—even for pets with tough pasts ✅ Education is the bridge between fear and informed care ✅ The future of veterinary medicine includes balance, integration, and compassion Listen Now: If you’ve ever been curious about cannabis for pets—or want to hear from one of the most respected voices in the space—this episode is essential listening. Dr. Trina Hazzah brings humor, heart, and unmatched knowledge to a misunderstood field. Spotify | Apple Podcasts Connect with Dr. Trina Hazzah: Website: greennile.orgVeterinary Cannabis Society: veterinarycannabissociety.orgInstagram: @dr.trinahazzah Email: contact@greennile.org Know a pet parent, vet, or animal care professional? Share this episode and help normalize safe, science-backed cannabis education in animal wellness.

    41 min

  3. 07/22/2025

    From Pet Resort Pressure to Considerably Bold with Alex Varney

    In this episode of Rooted Tales by Rooted Owl, host Jeffrey Mendelson sits down with Alex Varney, Vice President of Operations at Pinnacle Pets and founder of Considerably Bold. Together, they dive into the emotional toll of running a pet care facility, navigating client red flags, and the burnout that comes when your heart outpaces your limits. Alex opens up about the realities behind the front desk—from managing anxious dogs and difficult owners to the impossible expectations placed on small teams. She shares a raw story of having to turn away a dog for safety reasons—only to be accused of lacking faith. That turning point led her to reimagine how she could stay in the industry without sacrificing her wellbeing. What started as a conference talk submission became Considerably Bold, a budding community-driven initiative that helps pet care professionals avoid burnout, create healthier operations, and find purpose through support—not isolation. From firm boundaries to heartfelt business, this conversation is for anyone who’s ever loved animals so much it hurt. Key Lessons Covered in This Episode:When Compassion Isn’t Enough: Alex walks through a high-stakes situation where kindness toward an aggressive dog wasn’t enough—and why ethical care sometimes means saying “no.” The Burnout Behind the Business: Long hours, emotional labor, and leadership without support led Alex to a breaking point—and ultimately a new way forward. Why Boundaries Are an Act of Care: Saying no to unsafe clients or situations isn’t failure—it’s protection for staff, pets, and the integrity of care. The Birth of Considerably Bold: Alex shares how her burnout turned into a mission to help others thrive—through conference speaking, peer resources, and community connection. Building Pet Care Community Beyond Facebook Groups: From veterinarians to local treat makers, Alex explains how real-world partnerships keep her business resilient and community-first. Helping Others Step Out of the Day-to-Day: Alex shares why owners working every shift aren’t building a business—they’re building exhaustion. And how stepping back can mean moving forward. Key Takeaways:✅ Pet care burnout is real—and often invisible ✅ Ethical care sometimes requires difficult conversations ✅ Saying no can be the most compassionate choice ✅ Community over competition is how the industry grows ✅ Small businesses thrive when supported by local partnerships ✅ You don’t have to run the business and be the business Listen Now: If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by the pressure to do it all—or want a more sustainable path in the pet care world—this episode offers honesty, hope, and practical insight. Alex Varney is here to say: you’re not alone, and it doesn’t have to be this hard. Spotify | Apple Podcasts Connect with Alex Varney: LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/alex-m-varney-72a02a70 Email: alex@pinnaclets.comWebsite: https://pinnaclepets.com/ Know someone in the pet care industry? Share this episode to help normalize healthy boundaries, emotional support, and peer...

    39 min

  4. 07/21/2025

    From Rescue to Revelation: Dr. Kim Bloomer on Holistic Pet Health, Vaccine Risks & Healing Beyond the System

    In this eye-opening episode of Rooted Tales by Rooted Owl, host Jeffrey Mendelson sits down with animal naturopath Dr. Kim Bloomer—founder of Aspen Bloom Pet Care—to explore a radically different path in pet wellness. What began with the adoption of a Great Dane-Shar Pei mix named Shadrach became a mission: to challenge the conventional model of veterinary care and return to nature-based healing. Dr. Kim shares her journey from corporate veterinary support to outspoken natural health advocate, tackling everything from gut health and over-vaccination to the dangers of antibiotics and processed pet foods. This isn’t just a conversation about holistic remedies—it’s a call for conscious, educated pet parenting. Together, they uncover the systems that are failing both pets and people and offer a grounded alternative rooted in nutritional integrity, informed decision-making, and interprofessional collaboration between veterinarians and wellness practitioners. Key Lessons Covered in This Episode:The Wake-Up Call Named Shadrach: Dr. Kim opens up about the dog who changed everything—and how his health struggles inspired her deep dive into naturopathy. The Pandemic Pet Crisis: A surge in adoptions, followed by a wave of surrenders, is overwhelming shelters. Dr. Kim explores the root causes and why labeling dogs as “aggressive” often misses the point. Gut Health Is Ground Zero: From probiotics and enzymes to raw feeding and detoxification, Dr. Kim breaks down how the gut is connected to behavior, immunity, and overall well-being. Antibiotics and Over-Vaccination: Why quick-fix medicine can have long-term consequences—and what tighter testing and informed protocols could offer instead. Prevention Is the Best Cure: Dr. Kim shares daily, natural strategies pet owners can adopt to prevent chronic issues—without waiting for symptoms to spiral. The Call for Collaboration: Rather than pitting holistic care against conventional medicine, Dr. Kim makes the case for dialogue, openness, and working together for the good of the animal. Key Takeaways:✅ Natural wellness is rooted in prevention, not reaction ✅ The microbiome matters—what’s in your pet’s gut shapes their life ✅ Vaccines and meds have a place—but so does discernment ✅ Shelter dogs are not broken—they’re often misunderstood ✅ Healing starts with education, intuition, and whole-body care Listen Now: If you’ve ever questioned the mainstream model of pet care—or want to raise healthier animals from the inside out—this episode delivers truth, tools, and transformation with one of the boldest voices in natural wellness. Spotify | Apple Podcasts Connect with Dr. Kim Bloomer: Dr. Kim’s Profile:linkedin.com/in/drkimWebsites: AspenbloomPetCare.com (Personal), Bark-N-Blog.com (Blog), AnimalNaturopathy.org (Council) Know a pet parent exploring holistic options? Share this episode and help shift the conversation from symptom-chasing to root-cause healing.

    39 min

  5. 07/17/2025

    From Childhood Instincts to Global Impact with Irith Bloom

    In this episode of Rooted Tales by Rooted Owl, host Jeffrey Mendelson sits down with Irith Bloom, internationally certified dog trainer, behavior consultant, and founder of The Sophisticated Dog. Together, they unpack Irith’s lifelong resistance to harsh training methods and how that early instinct evolved into a professional mission to transform how we relate to our pets. Irith shares her journey from training a Rottweiler at age 10 using kindness and intuition, to discovering positive reinforcement after rescuing a high-energy English Shepherd in urban Los Angeles. That experience led her to pursue professional credentials, eventually becoming an educator, mentor, and co-founder of Carefree Companion, a platform advancing stress resilience in animals. From dog training to cultural analysis, this conversation explores how empathy, science, and global collaboration are reshaping animal care. Key Lessons Covered in This Episode:Understanding Negative Reinforcement vs. Positive Reinforcement Irith breaks down the difference and why she moved away from physical cues and pressure-based training toward methods that center agency, motivation, and mutual trust. The Rescue Dog That Changed Everything Her experience rehabilitating a behaviorally challenged English Shepherd opened the door to modern training science—and a new career. Global Attitudes Toward Animal Welfare From Scandinavia’s gold standard to cultures still rooted in traditional dominance-based methods, Irith explores how societal values shape the treatment of animals. The Link Between Gender Equity and Humane Training Drawing from cultural studies and field experience, Irith connects more progressive animal welfare practices with societies that prioritize human rights and gender equity. How Carefree Companion Is Teaching Stress Resilience Co-founded with animal behaviorist Dr. Christina Spalding, this professional-facing platform trains trainers to reduce animal stress, the key to long-term behavior change. Certifications That Set the Standard Irith discusses her commitment to ongoing education and why regulation, ethics, and credentials matter in an unregulated field. Key Takeaways:✅ Positive reinforcement builds trust—and it's effective ✅ Culture plays a major role in how animals are treated ✅ Stress resilience is foundational to behavior success ✅ Empathy is a strength, not a soft skill—in both humans and animals ✅ True progress blends science, compassion, and lived experience Listen Now: If you’ve ever questioned traditional training methods—or are curious how culture, kindness, and science can come together for better pet outcomes—this episode is full of insight. Irith Bloom brings wisdom, warmth, and real-world experience to the mic. Spotify | Apple Podcasts Connect with Irith Bloom: LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/irith-bloom-25a6428 Website: TheSophisticatedDog.com Book: Your Puppy and You on Amazon or Dogwise Professional Resource: CarefreeCompanion.com Know someone with a reactive...

    43 min

  6. 07/16/2025

    From Veterinary Burnout to Bucket-List Healing with Tiana Crane

    In this episode of Rooted Tales by Rooted Owl, host Jeffrey Mendelson sits down with Tiana Crane, registered veterinary technician, wildlife enthusiast, and founder of Wayward Wings Travel. Together, they explore how burnout in veterinary medicine led Tiana to create a unique travel business focused on helping fellow vet professionals unwind, reconnect, and heal in the wildest corners of the world. Tiana opens up about her 20+ years in the veterinary field, the emotional exhaustion she witnessed (and lived through), and how a layoff turned into a calling. From whale watching in the Arctic to chasing the Northern Lights, her trips are more than getaways—they’re a form of self-care and professional preservation. They also dive into her advocacy work with the Colorado Association of Certified Veterinary Technicians, the rise of mid-level veterinary practitioners, and how she’s shaping future leaders through advisory roles in vet tech programs. Key Lessons Covered in This Episode:Veterinary Burnout Is Real—and Overlooked: Tiana shares the emotional cost of vet work and how common it is for professionals to feel guilty about taking time off. Travel as Therapy: With a deep love for nature and adventure, Tiana explains how wildlife travel helps caregivers truly unplug and return recharged. Wildlife Wonders: Hear about her favorite Arctic sightings—like orcas, humpbacks, reindeer, and the elusive Northern Lights—and why Antarctica is next on her list. The Reality of Pet Travel: Tiana offers expert tips on traveling with pets, understanding health requirements, and navigating airline rules—without the stress. Advocacy & Education: From helping pass laws to mentoring students, Tiana is shaping the future of veterinary medicine beyond the clinic floor. Key Takeaways: ✅ Veterinary professionals deserve real time off—and nature can help heal ✅ Burnout prevention requires cultural and systemic change ✅ Wildlife travel offers awe, perspective, and restoration ✅ There’s a growing movement to elevate vet techs and their career paths ✅ Supporting those who care for animals starts with caring for them, too Listen Now: If you’ve ever felt stuck, stressed, or stretched thin in animal care—or just need an excuse to finally chase the Northern Lights—this episode is your sign. Tiana Crane brings wisdom, wanderlust, and heart to a conversation that’s as empowering as it is adventurous. Spotify | Apple Podcasts Connect with Tiana Crane: 🌐 Website: waywardwingstravel.com 📧 Email: waywardwingstravel@gmail.com 💼 LinkedIn: Tiana Crane Know someone in veterinary medicine who needs a break? Share this episode and remind them: it’s okay to get away—and come back better.

    13 min

  7. 07/15/2025

    From Starfish to Tigers: A Zoo Vet’s Wild Calling with Dr. Tamara Kruse

    In this episode of Rooted Tales by Rooted Owl, host Jeffrey Mendelson sits down with Dr. Tamara Kruse,  Director of Veterinary Care at the San Antonio Zoo. Together, they explore the unseen world of zoo veterinary medicine—from morning rounds with jaguars to reproductive programs and enrichment strategies designed to keep animals both physically and mentally thriving. Dr. Kruse opens up about her journey—from bottle-feeding rescue puppies as a child to helping Komodo dragons hatch in Texas. With compassion, humor, and deep knowledge, she shares what it takes to care for everything from tiny pygmy falcons to 300-pound tigers—and how her adoptive parents and a deep-rooted love for wildlife set her on this path. From the science behind zoo breeding programs to why starfish are her unlikely favorite animal, this episode offers a heartfelt look at what it means to love, protect, and learn from the animal kingdom—every single day. Key Lessons Covered in This Episode:A Day in the Life of a Zoo Veterinarian: Dr. Kruse walks us through her unpredictable workday—from early team rounds to sedating lemurs, doing full-body exams on lions, and ensuring animals recover with minimal stress. Behind the Scenes of Species Survival Plans: Discover how genetics drive zoo breeding strategies—and why many animals aren’t spayed or neutered but given temporary birth control to preserve species diversity. Releasing Animals Back into the Wild: Learn how institutions like the San Antonio Zoo are working to reintroduce threatened native species like the Texas horned lizard and desert pupfish into their natural habitats. Enrichment Over Easy Meals: Feeding time isn’t just tossing meat in a pan—Dr. Kruse describes the pulley systems and puzzles that mimic wild hunting behaviors, keeping predators like Komodo dragons mentally stimulated. The Power of a Childhood Dream: From watching Wild America to missing her own college graduation to intern in Alaska, Dr. Kruse shares how her calling was shaped by early influences—and how her dad once saved a bag of puppies from drowning. Key Takeaways: ✅ Veterinary care in zoos is complex, collaborative, and built on deep trust ✅ Breeding and conservation programs are carefully managed for genetic health ✅ Enrichment is vital to preserving natural behaviors—even in captivity ✅ Adopted or not, the right support can launch a lifetime of compassion and purpose ✅ Even chocolate chip sea stars deserve a place in your heart Listen Now: If you’ve ever wondered what it’s really like to be a zoo vet—or how compassion, conservation, and science come together in one of the wildest jobs on earth—this episode is a must-listen. Dr. Kruse brings warmth, wisdom, and wonder to every minute. Spotify | Apple Podcasts Connect with Dr. Tamara Kruse: Visit: San Antonio ZooLinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/tamara-kruse-26308165 Know someone who loves animals—or dreams of being a vet? Share this episode to inspire the next generation of compassionate caretakers and conservation champions.

    23 min

  8. 07/10/2025

    From Obedience to Understanding with Dr. Christopher Pachel

    In this episode of Rooted Tales by Rooted Owl, host Jeffrey Mendelson sits down with veterinary behaviorist Dr. Christopher Pachel, founder of Animal Behavior Clinic and co-owner of Instinct Dog Behavior & Training. Together, they explore a paradigm shift in dog training: from dominance and discipline to curiosity, empathy, and communication. Dr. Pachel shares his journey from traditional training methods to a more compassionate, science-informed framework grounded in behavior, biology, and trust. Through powerful insights and real-life examples, he reveals why dogs don’t operate on rigid pack structures—and how “alpha dog” myths often do more harm than good. From reshaping how we approach separation anxiety to rethinking the role of medication in training, this conversation dives deep into the emotional lives of animals and what it truly means to be a facilitator of “aha” moments for both pets and their people. Key Lessons Covered in This Episode:Why Pack Leader Thinking Is Outdated: Dr. Pachel explains how domestic dogs don't live in strict social hierarchies—and why traditional dominance-based approaches often fail to meet a dog's actual needs. The Empathy-First Framework That Works: Rather than jumping to control or correction, Dr. Pachel teaches us to lead with empathy, educate with intention, and use correction sparingly—if at all. Separation Anxiety & the Science of Comfort: From short departures to remote-controlled treat dispensers, Dr. Pachel breaks down how to teach dogs to feel safe when home alone—without relying on fear or guesswork. When—and Why—Medication Matters: Whether it’s pharmaceuticals, pheromones, or supplements, Dr. Pachel outlines how medication can reduce panic and create space for learning—not as a crutch, but as a bridge to better behavior. Why Getting a Second Dog Might Help (But Not Cure): He weighs in on the pros and limitations of adding another dog to the household—and how it may mask, but not resolve, underlying anxiety. Key Takeaways: ✅ Leadership doesn’t mean control—it means communication ✅ Behavior change starts with understanding, not punishment ✅ Dogs aren’t trying to dominate you—they’re trying to feel safe ✅ Emotional support is just as important for pets as it is for people ✅ Modern dog training blends science, heart, and skill Listen Now: If you’ve ever questioned the “alpha dog” mindset—or want to build a more thoughtful, effective relationship with your pet—this episode is a must-listen. Dr. Pachel offers a refreshingly humane and evidence-based path forward. Spotify | Apple Podcasts Connect with Dr. Christopher Pachel: Christopher Pachel’s Profile linkedin.com/in/christopher-pachel-dvm-dacvb-cabc-1017175Websites: animalbehaviorclinic.net (Veterinary Behavior Practice) facebook.com/drpachel (Facebook)www.drpachel.com(company) Know someone with a reactive or anxious dog? Share this episode and help spread a kinder, smarter approach to animal behavior—rooted in trust, not control.

    38 min
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Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
2 Ratings

About

Rooted Tails by Rooted Owl is a show where veterinarians, pet wellness experts, rescue leaders, and pet industry professionals share their real-world insights on what it takes to help pets live longer, healthier lives. From canine longevity and nutrition tips to heartfelt rescue stories and innovative wellness practices, each episode delivers practical advice and inspiring conversations for passionate pet owners and professionals alike. If you love your pets like family—and want to help them thrive—this show is for you.

Information

  • Creator
    Jeffrey Mendelsohn
  • Years Active
    2K
  • Episodes
    23
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2025 Jeffrey Mendelsohn
  • Show Website
    Rooted Tails by Rooted Owl