Tails of Truth: The Truth about Veterinary Medicine

Dr. Angie Krause, DVM CVA CCRT
  • 5.0 (4)
  • PETS & ANIMALS
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

Welcome to Tails of Truth – the podcast where holistic veterinarian Dr. Angie Krause and vet nurse JoJo pull back the curtain on the world of veterinary medicine. Whether you’re a cat lover or dog devotee this show will empower you to become a confident medical advocate for your four legged bestie. From common diseases and holistic treatments to hot topics, tough truths, and the emotional journey of pet parenting—nothing is off-limits. Expect real talk, expert insights, and zero judgment. Tune in for eye-opening conversations, compassionate guidance, and a fresh perspective on what it really means to care for your pets.

  1. 5D AGO

    Caring for Spicy Cats: Reducing Fear and Stress During Vet Visits

    Tell Us What You Think In this practical, honest, and judgment-free episode of Tails of Truth, Dr. Angie Krause and veterinary nurse JoJo talk openly about fractious cats — lovingly known as “spicy kitties.” These are the cats who may be sweet at home but become anxious, aggressive, or terrified at the veterinary clinic. They break down the many types of fractious cats, why fear — not “bad behavior” — drives these reactions, and how stress escalates when cats feel trapped or unsafe. Dr. Angie explains why chemical restraint is often the kindest option, how gabapentin and trazodone can dramatically reduce fear responses, and why skipping pre-visit meds makes veterinary care harder for everyone — especially the cat. The conversation also covers modern low-stress handling techniques, the controversy around scruffing, carrier tips that actually help, and why avoiding vet visits altogether can quietly harm cats who still need preventative medicine, dental care, and bloodwork. This episode is for every cat guardian who’s ever been told their cat is “difficult" or who has avoided seeking veterinary care for their kitty. You’ll leave feeling reassured, empowered, and reminded: your cat isn’t bad — they’re scared, and there are better ways to help. 💡 KEY TAKEAWAYS 🌶️ “Fractious” doesn’t mean aggressive — it usually means terrified 🧠 Fear activates fight-or-flight, especially in veterinary settings 💊 Gabapentin and trazodone together can be game-changing for anxious cats 🐾 Chemical restraint is often the most compassionate choice 🚫 Skipping pre-visit meds increases stress and negative memory formation 🧺 Carriers that open from the top or fully detach reduce fear immediately 🩺 Avoiding vet care leads to missed dental disease, pain, and chronic illness ❤️ Holistic care includes pharmaceuticals when they protect emotional wellbeing  💬 SOUND BITES   “We never blame you if your kitty is violent or aggressive with us. And we actually don’t really blame your kitty.”  ~ Dr Angie   “I have admiration for those kitties. I mean, their boundaries are so clear.”  ~ JoJo  “Chemical restraint is really the nicest thing for everybody involved, including your kitty.”  ~ Dr Angie   “All that cortisol is not good for your kitty — and it’s also not good for your kitty to not get veterinary care.”  ~ Dr Angie   “I think people are really resistant to using chemical restraint.” ~ JoJo  “Every time we try to push through care that a cat is resistant to, I feel like we’re creating a negative memory.”  ~ JoJo Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, TikTok and YouTube Schedule your personalized one-on-one consultation with Dr. Angie Shop my favorite CBD. Please subscribe and review! xoxo Dr. Angie & JoJo

    23 min

  2. JAN 16

    Grief After Pet Loss: Navigating Euthanasia, Guilt, and Goodbyes

    Tell Us What You Think In this deeply emotional and unfiltered episode of Tails of Truth, JoJo and Dr. Angie sit with grief in real time as JoJo shares the story of losing her soul dog, Bodhi, over New Year’s. This conversation explores the raw truths of pet loss—anticipatory grief, guilt, anger, tenderness, and the impossible weight of deciding when it’s time to say goodbye. JoJo opens up about Bodhi’s sudden cancer diagnosis, the choice to pursue in-home euthanasia, and the heartbreak of letting go on a “good day.” Together, they talk honestly about the bargaining, self-doubt, and self-blame that so often follow euthanasia decisions—even for veterinary professionals. Dr. Angie offers grounded veterinary insight and compassionate reassurance, reminding listeners that there is no perfect moment, no “right” amount of suffering, and no way to love an animal deeply without eventually experiencing this pain. They also discuss how society minimizes pet grief, why comments like “just get another dog” can be so harmful, and how grief can ripple through families, children, and other animals in the home. This episode is not about answers—it’s about permission. Permission to grieve how you grieve. Permission to feel devastated by the loss of an animal who was your constant companion, your comforter, your witness. And permission to honor the love that made the loss hurt so much in the first place. 💛 Key Takeaways Grief after losing a pet is real, profound, and often minimized by societySaying goodbye on a “good day” can be one of the hardest decisions pet parents faceEuthanasia guilt and self-doubt are common—even among veterinarians and veterinary nursesThere is no perfect time to say goodbye, only a loving decision made with imperfect informationChildren and other pets benefit from being included in end-of-life goodbyes when possibleLoving an animal deeply means eventually grieving them—and that pain reflects the depth of that love 🎙️ Sound Bites   “It’s not so easy to say goodbye on a good day.” ~JoJo  “Your heart can’t understand a terminal diagnosis, even when your medical mind does.” ~ Dr. Angie  “I feel that I lost part of myself with him, but I also loved part of myself with him." ~JoJo  “Grief looks however it’s going to look.”  ~ JoJo  “I feel that I lost part of myself with him, but I also loved part of myself with him.” ~JoJo  “There is no sweet spot. You wrestle with it either way.” ~ Dr. Angie  Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, TikTok and YouTube Schedule your personalized one-on-one consultation with Dr. Angie Shop my favorite CBD. Please subscribe and review! xoxo Dr. Angie & JoJo

    26 min

  3. JAN 9

    Vet Life, Unfiltered: Real Stories from Inside Veterinary Medicine

    Tell Us What You Think 📝 SUMMARY In this fun, behind-the-scenes episode of Tails of Truth, holistic veterinarian Dr. Angie Krause and veterinary nurse JoJo step away from heavy medical topics for a lighthearted, honest look at life inside vet med. This is story time — the kind you won’t find in textbooks or exam rooms — filled with real moments from decades of experience as a holistic vet and vet tech. From relief work surprises and old-school x-ray darkrooms to long surgery days, early career mistakes, and imposter syndrome, this episode captures the very human side of veterinary medicine. Dr. Angie shares a powerful lesson about being wrong in the best possible way, while JoJo brings humor and grit from the veterinary technician perspective — reminding us just how much vet techs carry behind the scenes. This episode is intentionally light, a little cheeky, and deeply relatable for pet parents, vet professionals, and anyone curious about what really happens in veterinary clinics. It’s a reminder that great pet care doesn’t come from perfection — it comes from experience, humility, teamwork, and compassion. 🐾 We’ll be back to medicine next episode. For now, grab a coffee, laugh with us, and enjoy getting to know the people in modern veterinary medicine. ✨ KEY TAKEAWAYS Veterinary medicine is full of unexpected, very human momentsEarly career mistakes can become the most meaningful lessonsImposter syndrome is common — even decades into practiceVet nurses carry immense responsibility, grit, and humorVeterinary medicine has evolved dramatically over the yearsHumor and honesty matter just as much as medical knowledgeThis podcast is about truth, not perfection🗣️ SOUND BITES  If I can bring this information to you at a middle school level, then I’m doing a really good job. ~ Dr. Angie  That was the best news I’ve ever told anyone. I was wrong and you were right.      ~ Dr. Angie  I don’t care. I peed my pants. I peed my pants. ~ JoJo  I was like, ‘I’m a climber and a veterinarian. ~ Dr. Angie   Sometimes it feels like, what am I offering?  ~ JoJo Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, TikTok and YouTube Schedule your personalized one-on-one consultation with Dr. Angie Shop my favorite CBD. Please subscribe and review! xoxo Dr. Angie & JoJo

    25 min

  4. JAN 2

    Lumps and Bumps in Dogs and Cats: Benign or Cancerous?

    Tell Us What You Think  🎧 SUMMARY  Finding a lump on your dog or cat can be scary, but it doesn’t always mean cancer. Lumps and bumps are one of the most common and anxiety-provoking reasons pet parents visit the veterinarian. In this episode of Tails of Truth, Dr. Angie Krause and veterinary nurse JoJo break down what those lumps actually mean, how to monitor them, and when it’s time to take action. You’ll learn the key differences between dermal vs subcutaneous masses, why cats are not supposed to be lumpy, and why Dr. Angie follows the rule, “If you see something, do something.” The conversation covers common and concerning diagnoses including lipomas (fatty tumors), mast cell tumors, melanoma, oral tumors, mammary gland tumors, aural hematomas, squamous cell carcinoma, and vaccine- or injection-site sarcomas in cats. Dr. Angie explains how fine needle aspirates work, why eyes and hands alone aren’t enough to diagnose cancer, and how changes in size, texture, or behavior should never be ignored. They also discuss breed predispositions (including boxers), age-related considerations, and how quality of life plays into decision-making. This episode is a compassionate, practical guide to helping pet parents feel empowered — not panicked — when they find something new on their dog or cat. 🧠 KEY TAKEAWAYS Not all lumps are cancer, but you can’t diagnose by touch aloneCats are not supposed to be lumpy — any mass deserves attentionMast cell tumors are one of the most common dermal cancers in dogsLipomas are usually benignFine needle aspirates are a low-risk, high-value diagnostic toolOral tumors are commonly missedInjection-site sarcomas are rare but serious in catsYour eyes are not microscopes — cells matterQuality of life should guide decision-makingPet parents are essential medical advocates 💬 SOUND BITES “Anytime I see a bump on a cat, I do something about it.”  ~ Dr. Angie  “Tumor is a scary word" ~ JoJo  “Your eyes are not microscopes.”  ~ Dr. Angie “Most of the time, fatty tumors that feel like fatty tumors really are fatty tumors.”  ~ Dr. Angie  “Don’t be embarrassed — this happens all the time.”  ~JoJo “Oral tumors are easy to miss.”  ~ Dr. Angie  Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, TikTok and YouTube Schedule your personalized one-on-one consultation with Dr. Angie Shop my favorite CBD. Please subscribe and review! xoxo Dr. Angie & JoJo

    25 min

  5. 12/26/2025

    Why We Started Tails of Truth and Are Excited to Continue

    Tell Us What You Think In this special year-end episode of Tails of Truth, integrative veterinarian Dr. Angie Krause and veterinary nurse JoJo reflect on everything that made 2025 such a meaningful year—for the podcast, for their work in veterinary medicine, and for the pet parents who tune in each week. What started as casual, honest conversations between two veterinary professionals quickly became a trusted space for real talk about pet health, holistic care, and the realities of modern veterinary medicine. In this episode, Angie and JoJo pull back the curtain on what it takes to build a podcast from scratch—without a production team, without a script, and without an agenda beyond sharing useful, compassionate information. They discuss consistency, vulnerability, growth, burnout, learning new skills, launching a new website, navigating change in veterinary careers, and why unscripted conversations matter so much in an industry that often feels rushed. Most importantly, they reaffirm their mission: to empower pet parents, support veterinarians, and make people feel more confident and informed about caring for their animals. This episode is an invitation—to listen, to learn, to subscribe, and to join a growing community that values honesty, curiosity, and better conversations around pet health and veterinary medicine. To close out the year, Dr. Angie and JoJo also share two special gifts for listeners: 10% off a veterinary consultation and free access to any pre-recorded course, as a thank-you for being part of the Tails of Truth community. Listen for your discount codes to be used at www.boulderholisticvet.com ✨ KEY TAKEAWAYS 🐾 Tails of Truth was created to share honest, unscripted conversations about veterinary medicine and pet health 🐾 Consistency—not perfection—is what builds trust and community 🐾 Pet parents deserve clear, empowering information—not rushed explanations 🐾 Veterinary medicine is evolving, and thoughtful conversations matter more than ever 🐾 You don’t need a big production team to create meaningful educational content 🐾 Holistic and integrative care thrives when curiosity, compassion, and context are honored 🐾 2026 will bring guest experts, deeper conversations, and continued growth 🎙️ SOUND BITES   “We do all this because we want it to reach you.” ~ Dr. Angie   “I got up like really happy this morning that it’s Monday because I like my job.”  ~JoJo  “Angie worked her tush off this year.”  ~ Dr. Angie   “Those are my two favorite things. This podcast and the consultations.”  ~ JoJo  “It was the first project I had that wasn’t trying to build anything other than I just wanted to do it with you.”  ~ Dr. Angie   “People want to hear what you’re talking about. And it turns out that’s true. And sometimes I’m still surprised by that.”  ~ Dr. Angie   “People do feel really empowered.” ~JoJo Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, TikTok and YouTube Schedule your personalized one-on-one consultation with Dr. Angie Shop my favorite CBD. Please subscribe and review! xoxo Dr. Angie & JoJo

    22 min

  6. 12/19/2025

    Hate Mail: Veterinarians Are Only In It For The Money

    Tell Us What You Think 🎙️  Summary Veterinary professionals enter this field because they love animals — not because they’re “in it for the money.” But in today’s episode of Tails of Truth, Dr. Angie and JoJo open up about a growing issue in veterinary medicine: unkindness, disrespect, and the emotional harm it causes behind the scenes. Using a real piece of hate mail they recently received, they unpack why harmful comments about money, motives, or “simple answers” cut so deeply — especially in a profession already battling burnout, compassion fatigue, and some of the highest suicide rates of any medical field. They discuss why email still requires time and expertise, why behavior and medical cases aren’t simple, the financial reality of being a veterinarian or vet nurse, and how kindness truly changes the culture of vet med. This episode is for everyone: pet parents, veterinary teams, practice owners, vet techs, and anyone who wants to help create a safer, kinder veterinary profession. Stay to the end for resources, free courses, and a reminder of how we can all support those caring for the animals we love. 🐾💛 And, if you want to further support mental well-being in veterinary medicine, please donate to Not One More Vet  Key Takeaways 🧡  Kindness in veterinary medicine is not optional. Veterinarians are 2-4x more likely to die by suicide, often due to hostile communication and accusations about money or motives and financial struggles.  🧡 Complex issues like behavior, allergies, or hormone concerns cannot be solved in a “quick email.”  Veterinarians should be compensated for complex email exchanges.  🧡  Most veterinarians and veterinary nurses do not earn high incomes and often struggle with debt and lack of benefits.  🧡  Burned-out or mistreated staff leave the field, leading to less experienced people caring for animals industry-wide.   🧡  Kindness toward your veterinary team helps create a sustainable, supportive profession — for everyone involved.  Sound Bites  “Asking me to consult for free and then calling veterinarians greedy is toxic and harmful behavior.”  ~ Dr. Angie  “I don’t think we give ourselves permission enough to set down toxic customers.” ~JoJo “Veterinarians are rarely making bank… we do it because we love it.”  ~ Dr. Angie “Vet nurses don’t make livable wages. A lot of us are on food stamps.” ~ JoJo  “If you choose to take care of animals, you are choosing to be responsible for their medical care.”  ~ Dr. Angie  Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, TikTok and YouTube Schedule your personalized one-on-one consultation with Dr. Angie Shop my favorite CBD. Please subscribe and review! xoxo Dr. Angie & JoJo

    18 min

  7. 12/12/2025

    The Chonky Cat Episode: Can GLP-1 Help Fat Cats?

    Tell Us What You Think 🐈‍⬛  Summary In this lighthearted but deeply informative episode of Tails of Truth, Dr. Angie and JoJo dive into the surprisingly complex world of chonky cats, feline weight loss, and the emerging science behind GLP-1 medications for cats. From adorable tummy rolls to serious conversations about cat obesity, they explore why so many indoor kitties are overweight, why kibble keeps cats chunky, and how switching to high-protein, low-carb canned food can transform feline metabolism. Dr. Angie shares her real-life struggles with her own overweight cat, Fritz, and the duo breaks down why some kitties experience relentless “food noise” — constant hunger cues that sabotage weight-loss efforts. They also take listeners inside the groundbreaking Meow1 GLP-1 implant study, which may soon help reduce inflammation, improve insulin sensitivity, and support healthy weight loss in cats who can't slim down with diet alone. Packed with relatable stories, veterinary insights, and lots of laughter, this episode is perfect for cat parents wanting practical, compassionate, evidence-based strategies to help their feline friends live longer, healthier, happier lives.  🐈‍⬛  Key Takeaways 🐾 Wet food is an effective tool for feline weight loss  🐾 Free-feeding kibble almost always leads to overweight cats, even when the brand is “high quality” or “grain-free.”  🐾 Activity and enrichment matter — hunting games, food puzzles, and movement-based feeding can increase calories burned and reduce boredom-eating.  🐾 Some cats experience metabolic challenges making weight loss nearly impossible without additional support.  🐾 GLP-1 medications (like exenatide implants) are being studied for cats and may reduce food obsession, improve insulin sensitivity, and prevent diabetes.  🐾 Obesity is an inflammatory condition, increasing risk for arthritis, diabetes, and reduced lifespan.  🐾 Holistic and integrative approaches work best when combined with realistic expectations — not every cat will achieve a perfect body condition score, and that’s okay. 🐈‍⬛ Sound Bites  “The amount of kibble your cat actually needs metabolically is shockingly small.” — Dr. Angie   “Most cats love their kibble because it's like us — they like carbohydrates.”            — Dr. Angie  “Obesity is really a problem.” — JoJo  “The food noise — I didn't realize how often it was on until it was off.” — JoJo   “Most cats love their kibble because it's like us — they like carbohydrates.”            — Dr. Angie  Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, TikTok and YouTube Schedule your personalized one-on-one consultation with Dr. Angie Shop my favorite CBD. Please subscribe and review! xoxo Dr. Angie & JoJo

    27 min

  8. 12/05/2025

    Librela, Fish Oil, CBD? What Actually Helps Dogs With Arthritis

    Tell Us What You Think ⭐ Summary  In this episode of Tails of Truth, holistic veterinarian Dr. Angie Krause and veterinary nurse JoJo break down everything dog parents need to know about arthritis in dogs—from early symptoms to diagnosis, natural remedies, pharmaceuticals, and the latest rehabilitation therapies. Dr. Angie explains why modern veterinary medicine has shifted away from relying on x-rays to diagnose canine arthritis, focusing instead on symptoms, physical exams, and response to treatment. The conversation covers the most effective natural supplements such as fish oil and CBD, plus why glucosamine and chondroitin may not always be worth the hype. They explore holistic veterinary medicine approaches, including weight management, muscle strengthening, acupuncture, underwater treadmills, chiropractic care, PEMF therapy, and lifestyle modifications to support aging dogs. Dr. Angie also shares her candid take on pharmaceuticals like NSAIDs, gabapentin, and the injectables Adequan and Librela, including current concerns around safety. If your dog is slowing down, struggling with stairs, stiff after naps, or losing mobility, this episode offers compassionate, practical veterinary advice to support their comfort and quality of life—using a comprehensive, integrative approach to dog health and wellness. ⭐ Key Takeaways Arthritis in dogs is extremely commonDiagnosis relies on symptoms, physical exams, and response to treatmenr.Keeping dogs lean and well-muscled is the #1 way to prevent arthritis and improve comfort.Fish oil is one of the most effective, underrated natural supplements for canine arthritis.CBD can help with inflammation, mobility, and anxiety—especially helpful for multi-symptom dogs.NSAIDs (like carprofen/Rimadyl) are often life-changing and safe for most dogs when monitored.Adequan is safe but inconsistent; Librela shows promise but carries safety concerns.Rehab therapies like acupuncture, underwater treadmills, chiropractic care, laser therapy, PEMF, and Assisi loops can significantly improve mobility.Simple at-home adaptations (rugs, ramps, supportive beds) greatly improve a dog’s confidence and stability.A holistic, multimodal approach creates the best outcomes for dogs with arthritis.⭐ Sound Bites “Sometimes we're literally saving a dog's life with Rimadyl.”  ~ Dr. Angie  “I treat my patients like I would my own animal.” ~ Dr. Angie  “I am so interested in your take on Librela.”  ~ JoJo “Fish oil is the most underrated supplement because not only does it have great anti-inflammatory properties for the joints, but it has anti-inflammatory properties for all the org Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, TikTok and YouTube Schedule your personalized one-on-one consultation with Dr. Angie Shop my favorite CBD. Please subscribe and review! xoxo Dr. Angie & JoJo

    44 min
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About

Welcome to Tails of Truth – the podcast where holistic veterinarian Dr. Angie Krause and vet nurse JoJo pull back the curtain on the world of veterinary medicine. Whether you’re a cat lover or dog devotee this show will empower you to become a confident medical advocate for your four legged bestie. From common diseases and holistic treatments to hot topics, tough truths, and the emotional journey of pet parenting—nothing is off-limits. Expect real talk, expert insights, and zero judgment. Tune in for eye-opening conversations, compassionate guidance, and a fresh perspective on what it really means to care for your pets.

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