Irreplaceable Tails

Pacific Lens Studios
  • 5.0 (1)
  • PETS & ANIMALS

Every Pet Has a Story. We Make Sure It’s Heard. Ever wondered what your vet really thinks about that pet health tip you saw on TikTok? Or why your cat sprints across the house at 2 a.m.? Welcome to Irreplaceable Tails, the interactive podcast where science meets pet parenthood—no judgment, no fluff, just real talk for real pet lovers. Join hosts Dr. Gershon Alaluf (34-year veterinary veteran) and Mallory Dickinson, RVT, as they answer listener-submitted questions, bust pet care myths, and invite expert guests to dive deep into everything from allergies to zoo medicine, poop problems, training tips, nutrition, and more. Whether it’s a mystery rash, a surprise pet escape, or the weirdest thing your dog has ever eaten—this is your safe space to ask, learn, and laugh. What to expect: Unfiltered advice straight from veterinarians & RVTsWeird pet stories (think lions, lingerie, and loose collars)Myth-busting facts about meds, foods, and home remediesTips to prepare for vet visits, save on costs, and prevent emergenciesListener Q&A, educational insights, and entertaining debates Who this podcast is for: Responsible pet owners who want real answersPeople who trust vets more than search enginesAnimal lovers of all breeds, sizes, and speciesParents of dogs, cats, bunnies, birds, reptiles—you name itAnyone who believes every tail deserves to be told Available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and all major platforms. Follow us: @Pacific.Lens.Studios Contact: info@pacificlensstudios.com

  1. Choosing the Right Doggy Daycare | Red Flags, Safety & Transparency Tips | Irreplaceable Tails

    09/11/2025

    Choosing the Right Doggy Daycare | Red Flags, Safety & Transparency Tips | Irreplaceable Tails

    What should you look for in a safe, trustworthy dog daycare? How can you spot red flags before it’s too late? Join hosts Dr. Gershon Alaluf and Mallory Dickinson, RVT with returning special guest Marti from Ruff House Pet Resort as they break down the must-have qualities of a top-tier daycare, how to prepare your pup for boarding, and the importance of transparency, structure, and safety protocols. This episode is perfect for pet lovers, responsible pet owners, and animal enthusiasts who want the best for their furry companions. What you'll discover: – Key questions to ask before choosing a dog daycare or boarding facility – Why separating dogs by size, temperament, and play style matters for safety – The role of live web cameras in building trust and transparency with pet owners – How facilities handle medical issues, emergencies, and vaccination protocols – When daycare isn’t the right fit and alternative care options to consider – Tips for trial days, tours, and preparing your dog for their first stay Who will love this episode: – Pet owners passionate about animal care – Veterinary professionals and students – Dog owners considering daycare or boarding – Animal lovers who value safety, structure, and enrichment Timestamps: 00:00 – Intro + Marti from Ruff House Pet Resort returns 01:46 – Red flags and must-haves when choosing a daycare 04:44 – Why size and temperament separation keeps dogs safe 06:58 – Live cameras: transparency and peace of mind for owners 10:52 – Medical protocols, emergency planning, and staff training 18:20 – Preparing your dog for daycare: trials, tours, and scheduling tips 33:53 – When daycare isn’t the best option and alternative care ideas 46:17 – Closing thoughts and how to connect with Ruff House Pet Resort Resources Mentioned: Ruff House Pet Resort – www.ruffhousepetresort.com Stay Connected: Like this video if you learned something new Drop your pet questions or stories in the comments below Subscribe & hit the bell icon for updates Irreplaceable Tails: Because every pet's story mattersAvailable on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and all major platforms. 📸 Follow us: @Pacific.Lens.Studios 📥 Contact: info@pacificlensstudios.com Ep. 17 #IrreplaceableTails #DogDaycare #PetBoarding

    47 min
  2. Doggy Daycare Done Right | Pools, Playgroups & Pet Safety with Marti | Irreplaceable Tails

    09/11/2025

    Doggy Daycare Done Right | Pools, Playgroups & Pet Safety with Marti | Irreplaceable Tails

    What makes a doggy daycare truly safe, enriching, and fun? How do you know if it’s the right fit for your pup? Join hosts Dr. Gershon Alaluf and Mallory Dickinson, RVT with special guest Marti from Ruff House Pet Resort as they dive into the world of pet resorts, daycare structure, and unique amenities like dog swimming pools. Marti shares her 17 years of expertise on building a safe, engaging environment for dogs while balancing fun, structure, and individualized care. This episode is perfect for pet lovers, responsible pet owners, and animal enthusiasts looking to learn more about pet health and well-being. What you'll discover: – How structured play and rest keep dogs safe and happy in daycare – Why meet-and-greets and trials are essential before boarding or daycare stays – The benefits of small group socials, private play, and breed-specific considerations – How dog swimming pools and enrichment activities can boost your pet’s well-being – Tips for building your dog’s confidence and social skills Who will love this episode: – Pet owners passionate about animal care – Veterinary professionals and students – Dog owners considering daycare or boarding – Animal lovers looking for enrichment ideas Timestamps: 00:00 – Intro + Meet Marti from Ruff House Pet Resort 01:09 – Marti's journey from corporate life to running a pet resort 04:55 – Inside a 43,000 sq ft doggy paradise 06:28 – Pool time: Swim lessons, safety, and enrichment for dogs 10:03 – Handwritten report cards and tracking your pet’s progress 14:46 – Why structured play and meet-and-greet trials matter 20:57 – Choosing between private play, small groups, or full playgroups 31:24 – Closing thoughts and invitation to visit Ruff House Pet Resort Resources Mentioned: Ruff House Pet Resort – www.ruffhousepetresort.com Stay Connected: Like this video if you learned something new Drop your pet questions or stories in the comments below Subscribe & hit the bell icon for updates Irreplaceable Tails: Because every pet's story mattersAvailable on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and all major platforms. 📸 Follow us: @Pacific.Lens.Studios 📥 Contact: info@pacificlensstudios.com Ep. 16 #IrreplaceableTails #DogDaycare #PetBoarding

    32 min
  3. Seizures, Vaccines & a Hippo?! | Neurology Truths with Dr. Pettigrew | Irreplaceable Tails

    09/11/2025

    Seizures, Vaccines & a Hippo?! | Neurology Truths with Dr. Pettigrew | Irreplaceable Tails

    Do seizures mean your pet has a brain tumor? Can vaccines really trigger neurological disease? In this episode of Irreplaceable Tails, hosts Dr. Gershon Alaluf and Mallory Dickinson, RVT welcome Dr. Rodger Pettigrew, board-certified veterinary neurologist, to bust myths about seizures, vaccines, aging, and what a “board-certified specialist” actually means. Bonus: His wildest case involved a pygmy hippo. What you'll learn: – What seizure control actually looks like (hint: not zero) – The “kindling” effect and why seizure frequency matters – How to tell if a limp is neurological, not orthopedic – Why distemper still matters—and when it turns deadly – Do vaccines cause seizures? What over-vaccination really means – What you can do at home to protect your pet’s brain – How to prep pets on seizure meds for bloodwork – Dr. Pettigrew’s craziest patient? A privately owned pygmy hippo 🦛 – What’s coming next: intervertebral disc disease in Frenchies Who should listen: – Pet owners dealing with seizures, limping, or odd behavior – Clients confused by Dr. Google and neurological diagnoses – Vet professionals referring out neurology cases – Frenchie and small breed dog owners – Animal lovers who geek out on wild patient stories Timestamps: 00:00 – Intro + Meet Dr. Pettigrew 01:00 – Seizure frequency, goals & the “kindling” effect 03:30 – What seizures actually are (fireworks in the brain?) 05:00 – Can you prevent neurological issues at home? 06:00 – Vaccines, over-vaccination & immune system risks 09:00 – Distemper: when it’s deadly and why to vaccinate 11:00 – Neuro vs. orthopedic: how to tell the difference 13:00 – What board-certified neurologist really means 14:30 – Dr. Pettigrew’s most unusual case: a pygmy hippo 16:00 – Final thoughts & upcoming episode: disc disease deep dive Stay Connected: Like if you’ve ever Googled your pet’s symptoms Drop your questions or stories about seizures or strange behaviors Subscribe so you never miss an expert conversation Irreplaceable Tails: Because every pet’s story matters.Available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts & all major platforms 📸 Follow: @Pacific.Lens.Studios 📥 Contact: info@pacificlensstudios.com Ep. 15 #IrreplaceableTails #PetSeizures #NeurologyForPets

    18 min
  4. Pet Insurance & Evacuation Prep | Dr. Hawk on Microchips, Storms & More | Irreplaceable Tails

    09/11/2025

    Pet Insurance & Evacuation Prep | Dr. Hawk on Microchips, Storms & More | Irreplaceable Tails

    Would you spend $10,000 on your cat—and do it again? In this powerful episode of Irreplaceable Tails, hosts Dr. Gershon Alaluf and Mallory Dickinson, RVT are joined once again by Dr. Jennifer Hawkins, Executive Director of the Southern California Veterinary Medical Association (SCVMA) and President of the California Veterinary Medical Association (CVMA). From real-life emergency evacuations to pet insurance realities and natural disaster drills, this episode offers a hard-hitting, honest take on being prepared for anything—and why proactive planning could save your pet’s life. What you'll learn: – The truth about pet insurance (from vets who actually use it) – What to include in your pet’s emergency kit – How to evacuate horses, cats, and hard-to-catch pets – Why microchips fail—and what to do about it – Why collars, tags, and AirTags all matter – Tips for prepping pets who fear storms, fireworks, or travel – What sedatives vets recommend for anxious cats and dogs – The WatchDuty app and how to find pet-friendly shelters – The incredible story of the Compton Cowboys – Why small clinics and shelters step up when disaster strikes – Lessons every pet owner should hear before the next emergency Who should listen: – Every pet owner in a disaster-prone area – Anyone unsure about pet insurance or microchipping – New adopters preparing for worst-case scenarios – Rescue and shelter professionals – Horse owners, ranchers, and animal care providers Timestamps: 00:00 – Pet insurance: worth it or not? 02:30 – A real $10k vet bill (and how insurance helped) 05:00 – What to include in a pet emergency kit 07:00 – How to evacuate with horses or multiple animals 10:00 – The role of microchips, tags & AirTags 12:00 – Sedatives, carriers & storm anxiety 14:00 – How pets sense pressure changes before disasters 15:30 – Finding pet-friendly shelters in emergencies 17:00 – The WatchDuty app + social media tips 18:00 – Why small shelters & clinics are unsung heroes 18:50 – Final thoughts & listener call-to-action Stay Connected: Like if you learned something new about emergency prep Drop your shelter story or disaster tip in the comments Subscribe for more expert episodes Irreplaceable Tails: Because every pet’s story matters.Available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts & all major platforms 📸 Follow: @Pacific.Lens.Studios 📥 Contact: info@pacificlensstudios.com Ep. 14 #IrreplaceableTails #PetInsurance #VetCosts

    20 min
  5. From Shelter to Stealth Mode 🐾 | Dr. Hawk on Adoptions & Training Truths | Irreplaceable Tails

    09/11/2025

    From Shelter to Stealth Mode 🐾 | Dr. Hawk on Adoptions & Training Truths | Irreplaceable Tails

    Thinking about adopting a pet? You need to hear this first. In this insightful episode of Irreplaceable Tails, hosts Dr. Gershon Alaluf and Mallory Dickinson, RVT sit down with Dr. Jennifer Hawkins (aka Dr. Hawk) — UC Davis grad, Executive Director of the Southern California Veterinary Medical Association (SCVMA), and President of the California Veterinary Medical Association (CVMA). Together, they unpack the real work behind successful adoptions, from shelter surprises to medical must-knows. What you'll learn: – Why your new shelter pet might be faking good behavior (at first) – The truth about kennel cough, Giardia, and upper respiratory illness – What “quarantine” actually looks like post-adoption – Why training isn’t optional—and why it trains you, not just your pet – Myths about shelter pets, spay/neuter timing, and “kill vs no-kill” – The truth about Huskies, Frenchies, Dalmatians & the influence of social media – Pet insurance: smart investment or waste of money? – Tips for introducing your new pet to resident pets and kids – Dr. Hawk’s shelter story that changed her mind about Abyssinians forever Who should listen: – New or potential pet adopters – Families with kids considering shelter animals – Veterinary professionals and rescue advocates – Anyone curious about what shelter medicine really involves Timestamps: 00:00 – Intro + Meet Dr. Hawk 01:40 – Most common shelter illnesses 04:00 – What to know before you adopt 07:10 – Training expectations for shelter pets 10:00 – Dr. Hawk’s unexpected love for Abyssinians 12:00 – Why so many purebreds end up in shelters 15:30 – Bringing a new pet home: key dos and don’ts 17:00 – Quarantine guidelines + parasite risks 22:00 – Choosing the right pet for your lifestyle 24:00 – Spay/neuter timing and myths 29:00 – Pet insurance and the cost of waiting too long Stay Connected: Like this if you’ve adopted a pet or plan to Comment with your shelter pet’s story Subscribe for more unfiltered truth from the front lines of vet med Irreplaceable Tails: Because every pet’s story matters. Available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts & all major platforms. 📸 Follow: @Pacific.Lens.Studios 📥 Contact: info@pacificlensstudios.com Ep. 13 #IrreplaceableTails #ShelterPets #PetAdoptionTips

    30 min
  6. Surgical Truths Pt. 2 | Dr. Grecco on Limp Diagnosis & Lions on the Table | Irreplaceable Tails

    09/11/2025

    Surgical Truths Pt. 2 | Dr. Grecco on Limp Diagnosis & Lions on the Table | Irreplaceable Tails

    Is it a pulled muscle or a torn ACL? Can cats get luxating patellas? How early can you run with your Lab? In Part 2 of our expert conversation, Irreplaceable Tails hosts Dr. Gershon Alaluf and Mallory Dickinson, RVT welcome back Dr. Justin Grecco, board-certified veterinary surgeon, for an unfiltered dive into the gray areas of orthopedic diagnosis, post-op misconceptions, and wild stories from the surgical front lines (yes, including a lion and a bomb-sniffing dog). What you'll learn: – Muscle strain vs. joint disease: how to actually tell the difference – Why ACLs almost never need an MRI – How to film your dog’s limp like a pro – What’s visible (and not) on X-rays, CTs, and MRIs – The hidden dangers of long-term patella issues – When to operate on luxating patellas—and when to wait – Why bulldogs breathe like they’re using a straw (and how to fix it) – Surgical stories you’ll never forget (lion, bald eagle, bomb dog 🦁🦅🐾) Who should listen: – Pet owners dealing with lameness, breathing, or joint issues – Bulldog and Frenchie lovers – Veterinary professionals and vet tech students – Anyone who loves a wild (but educational) surgery story Timestamps: 00:00 – Intro + How to tell strain vs. joint issue 02:00 – MRI myths & ACL truths 05:00 – Limp videos: helpful or not? 08:00 – X-rays vs. CT vs. MRI explained 13:00 – Luxating patellas: When to treat, when to wait 20:00 – Bulldogs, soft palates & stealth mode recovery 29:00 – Most memorable surgeries: lions, bald eagles & bomb dogs 🦁 Stay Connected: Like if you’ve ever wondered if your dog’s limp was “just a sprain”Comment with your pet’s post-op recovery experience Subscribe so you don’t miss the next animal care deep dive Irreplaceable Tails: Because every pet’s story matters.Available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and all major platforms. 📸 Follow: @Pacific.Lens.Studios 📥 Contact: info@pacificlensstudios.com Ep. 12 #IrreplaceableTails #VetSurgery #VeterinarySurgeon

    36 min
  7. Surgery Myths Busted | Dr. Grecco on Mobile Vets & Recovery Risks | Irreplaceable Tails

    09/10/2025

    Surgery Myths Busted | Dr. Grecco on Mobile Vets & Recovery Risks | Irreplaceable Tails

    Are mobile surgeries really safe? What about recovery complications? In this eye-opening episode of Irreplaceable Tails, hosts Dr. Gershon Alaluf and Mallory Dickinson, RVT sit down with Dr. Justin Grecco, a board-certified veterinary surgeon, to explore what pet owners really need to know before and after surgery. From the truth about pain meds to post-op pitfalls and surgical myths, this episode pulls back the curtain on vet med’s most misunderstood procedures. What you'll discover: – Pros and cons of mobile veterinary surgery – How to know when surgery should happen at a specialty center – Why communication is key to recovery success – What pet owners often misunderstand about post-op care – Minimally invasive surgery options (and when they’re worth it) – The truth about pain control, e-collars, and surgical outcomes – How to tell if your pet’s surgery didn’t go well – Why texting your vet might be smarter than leaving a voicemail – Bonus: Why squirrels are the biggest threat to post-op dogs 🐿️ Who will love this episode: – Pet owners facing upcoming surgeries – Anyone who’s ever worried about post-op complications – Vet techs, vet students, and general practice teams – Pet parents who want more transparency about surgical care – Clients deciding between mobile or specialty surgical options Timestamps: 00:00 – Intro + What is mobile surgery? 03:00 – Cost savings vs. specialty hospital care 07:00 – Facilities, staff, and surgical risk 10:00 – Pain control, communication, and common complications 16:00 – Minimally invasive vs. traditional surgery 22:00 – Wound healing myths and infection prevention 26:00 – Signs your pet’s surgery didn’t go well 30:00 – Text vs. call: How to get answers 33:00 – Can broken bones heal without surgery? Stay Connected: Like this if you’ve ever questioned a discharge sheet Drop your post-op tips or questions in the comments Subscribe & tap the bell so you don’t miss an episode Irreplaceable Tails: Because every pet’s story matters.Available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and all major platforms. 📸 Follow us: @Pacific.Lens.Studios 📥 Contact: info@pacificlensstudios.com Ep. 11 #IrreplaceableTails #PetSurgery #VeterinarySurgeon

    34 min
  8. Elephants, Tug Toys & Training Your Cat | Dr. Ken Ramirez on Reinforcement | Irreplaceable Tails

    09/10/2025

    Elephants, Tug Toys & Training Your Cat | Dr. Ken Ramirez on Reinforcement | Irreplaceable Tails

    Can you really train a butterfly—or an elephant? What about your cat? In this extraordinary episode of Irreplaceable Tails, host Mallory Dickinson, RVT sits down again with renowned behaviorist Dr. Ken Ramirez, Executive Vice President & Chief Training Officer at Karen Pryor Clicker Training. From leash manners to international elephant conservation, this masterclass blends science, heart, and practical tools for building unshakable animal bonds. What you'll discover: – How to train your dog (and cat) using positive reinforcement – Why “just a rub” isn’t always a reward – How treat value changes behavior – The right way to teach “leave it” and recall – Why short training sessions make the biggest impact – Tips for training around distractions like horses or other dogs – Real stories: butterflies on cue & elephants avoiding poachers Who will love this episode: – Pet owners struggling with obedience or leash behavior – Trainers and veterinary staff seeking next-level insights – Families curious about involving kids in training – Animal lovers fascinated by wildlife & conservation – Cat parents wondering if cats really can be trained Timestamps: 00:00 – Welcome Ken Ramirez! + horse trail etiquette & dog manners 02:00 – Don’t just say “she’s a dog”—teach expectations early 04:00 – Are some treats better than others? (Yes!) 06:00 – Reinforcers vs. bribes: the paycheck dogs deserve 08:30 – Toys, tactile reward & tug play as motivators 11:00 – Short sessions, long impact: structuring training time 13:00 – Why Ken avoids shock collars + how he teaches behavior 15:30 – Should the whole family help train the dog? 17:00 – Teaching kids dog safety & boundaries 18:00 – Can you train a cat? Absolutely—here’s how 20:00 – Conservation training: butterflies, elephants & more 27:30 – Final thoughts: reinforcement builds real trust Stay Connected: Like this episode if you learned something new! Drop your pet training questions in the comments. Subscribe & hit the bell icon for updates. Irreplaceable Tails: Because every pet’s story matters.Available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and all major platforms. Follow us: @Pacific.Lens.Studios Contact: info@pacificlensstudios.com Ep. 10 #IrreplaceableTails #KenRamirez #ClickerTraining

    28 min
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About

Every Pet Has a Story. We Make Sure It’s Heard. Ever wondered what your vet really thinks about that pet health tip you saw on TikTok? Or why your cat sprints across the house at 2 a.m.? Welcome to Irreplaceable Tails, the interactive podcast where science meets pet parenthood—no judgment, no fluff, just real talk for real pet lovers. Join hosts Dr. Gershon Alaluf (34-year veterinary veteran) and Mallory Dickinson, RVT, as they answer listener-submitted questions, bust pet care myths, and invite expert guests to dive deep into everything from allergies to zoo medicine, poop problems, training tips, nutrition, and more. Whether it’s a mystery rash, a surprise pet escape, or the weirdest thing your dog has ever eaten—this is your safe space to ask, learn, and laugh. What to expect: Unfiltered advice straight from veterinarians & RVTsWeird pet stories (think lions, lingerie, and loose collars)Myth-busting facts about meds, foods, and home remediesTips to prepare for vet visits, save on costs, and prevent emergenciesListener Q&A, educational insights, and entertaining debates Who this podcast is for: Responsible pet owners who want real answersPeople who trust vets more than search enginesAnimal lovers of all breeds, sizes, and speciesParents of dogs, cats, bunnies, birds, reptiles—you name itAnyone who believes every tail deserves to be told Available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and all major platforms. Follow us: @Pacific.Lens.Studios Contact: info@pacificlensstudios.com

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