Mind-Jam Podcast: Pet Health & Longevity

Rodney Habib & Dr. Karen Becker

Join Rodney Habib and Dr. Karen Becker, DVM as they mind-jam with leading experts, scientists, and thought leaders to help pet parents increase the health and longevity of their dogs and cats. The Mind-Jam Podcast features candid conversations discussing the latest research and ideas on pet nutrition, health, and industry-related news. Rodney Habib and Dr. Karen Becker, DVM are pet parents on a mission to improve animal health and wellbeing.

  1. Avian Flu: Is Your Dog at Risk for H5N1 Influenza

    MAR 4

    Avian Flu: Is Your Dog at Risk for H5N1 Influenza

    With recent news about H5N1 outbreaks across the globe and confirmed cases (and deaths) in pets, it's more important than ever to understand what’s going on, how the virus can spread, and what precautions you can take, especially if you're feeding a raw food diet to your dog or cat. With still no definitive answers on how pet food manufacturers are able to completely avoid H5N1 influenza from infecting pet foods, we went to world leading authority Dr. Scott Weese looking for answers.  Dr. Weese who’s part of the World Veterinary Association, has authored over 400 papers in peer-reviewed journals, and is a Professor in the Department of Pathobiology, Director of the Centre for Public Health and Zoonoses, and Chief of Infection Control in the Health Sciences Centre at the Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph. Today we're taking a closer look at H5N1 Influenza and its potential risks for our dogs and cats. Dr. Weese is at the forefront of understanding infectious diseases that affect both animals and humans and is joining us to cover: The risks of feeding poultry-based raw diets, raw milk, and other proteins to avoid.Why High Pressure Pasteurization (HPP) isn't always effective and the questions you should be asking. The safety of freeze-dried foods, canned, and dry foods. The importance of sourcing meat from reputable companies and having a solid food safety plan.This episode is a replay of the weekly Facebook Live on the Inside Scoop. Original LIVE aired February 28, 2025. To watch video podcasts LIVE plus take part with your comments & questions, subscribe at Inside Scoop. MENTIONED: Dr. Scott Weese's Blog - Worms & GermsIowa State University Veterinary Diagnostic LaboratoryDISCLAIMERS & DISCLOSURES Any third-party products, brands featured or referred to on the Mind-Jam or Inside Scoop Podcasts are not affiliated with, sponsored by, or endorsed by Dr. Karen Becker, Rodney Habib, Planet Paws Media, or any of their affiliates.The Mind-Jam and Inside Scoop Podcasts are for general informational purposes only and does not constitute the practice of medicine or other professional health care services, including the giving of veterinary advice, and no doctor/patient relationship is formed. The use of information on this podcast or materials linked from this podcast is at the user’s own risk. The content of this podcast is not intended to be a substitute for professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Users should not disregard or delay in obtaining medical advice for any medical condition they or their pet may have and should seek the assistance of their doctor or pet's health care professionals for any such conditions.

    47 min
  2. Essential Home Remedies for your Dog or Cat: Hunger pukes, itchy ears, hot spots & more

    FEB 25

    Essential Home Remedies for your Dog or Cat: Hunger pukes, itchy ears, hot spots & more

    If you’ve been a pet parent long enough, you’ve faced unexpected problems with your dog or cat, such as morning “hunger” pukes, loose stools or minor scrapes. Unfortunately, many pet parents reach for over-the-counter (OTC) human medications to try and help their pets find relief. And though prescription and OTC meds have their place when used under the direction of a veterinarian, there are effective, science-based alternatives to help your dog or cat feel better! On this Inside Scoop episode, we’re sharing our favorite at-home remedies you should have in your pantry for these unexpected everyday illnesses. We’ll be covering common ailments, including:-Upset stomach and “bile pukes”-Loose stool and diarrhea-Yeasty, itchy ears-Wounds, hot spots, eye infections…and more! This episode is a replay of our weekly Facebook Live on the Inside Scoop. Original LIVE aired February 16, 2025. To watch video podcasts LIVE plus take part with your comments & questions, subscribe at Inside Scoop. TIMESTAMPS(00:04:48) Subscribers - make sure you join the group inside the Subscriber Hub and the basics of navigating it.(00:07:27) A few words on the series of Pet Food Reviews(00:13:44) Announcement: SuperZoo Tradeshow (August, Vegas) - we've been invited to speak. There will also be another Inside Scoop Meet-and-Greet with details to come.  (00:19:09) Periodic cooking of eggs  (00:26:56) Yogurt, Kefir(00:37:20) Activated Charcoal(00:44:42) Psyllium (00:53:15) Pumpkin(01:02:32) Ginger(01:12:48) Randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial measuring the effect of a dietetic food on dermatologic scoring and pruritus in dogs with atopic dermatitis  (01:14:50) Green Tea Poultice (brand featured WeeTee)(01:28:48) Colloidal Silver(01:45:55) Manuka HoneyGrab the Manuka Honey Cheat Sheet in the Files inside the group. LINKS Long-term yogurt consumption tied to decreased incidence of certain types of colorectal cancerEffects of kefir addition on apparent digestibility of dry complete food of healthy dogsComplications & Controversies of Decontamination: Activated CharcoalAltered Intestinal Production of Volatile Fatty Acids in Dogs Triggered by Lactulose and Psyllium Treatment -The use of soluble fibre for the management of chronic idiopathic large-bowel diarrhoea in police working dogs -Randomized controlled trial demonstrates nutritional management is superior to metronidazole for treatment of acute colitis in dogsMedicinal and biological potential of pumpkin: an updated review Can Dogs Eat Pumpkin? Roles of plant-based ingredients and phytonutrients in canine nutrition and healthActivity of Colloidal Silver Solution against Microorganisms Implicated in Ocular Infections   Silver Nanoparticles as Antimicrobial Agents in Veterinary Medicine: Current Applications and Future Perspectives   Medical-grade honey has superior antibacterial properties against common bacterial isolates in wound cultures of dogs and cats in comparison to non–medical-grade honey types Antibacterial and Antivirulence Activity of Manuka Honey against Genetically Diverse Staphylococcus pseudintermedius StrainsSilicone Foam Dressing Silver Sterile Wound BandagesDISCLAIMERS & DISCLOSURES Any third-party products, brands featured or referred to on the Mind-Jam or Inside Scoop Podcasts are not affiliated with, sponsored by, or endorsed by Dr. Karen Becker, Rodney Habib, Planet Paws Media, or any of their affiliates.The Mind-Jam and Inside Scoop Podcasts are for general informational purposes only and does not constitute the practice of medicine or other professional health care services, including the giving of veterinary advice, and no doctor/patient relationship is formed. The use of information on this podcast or materials linked from this podcast is at the user’s own risk. The content of this podcast is not intended to be a substitute for professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Users should not disregard or delay in obtaining medical advice for any medical condition they or their pet may have and should seek the assistance of their doctor or pet's health care professionals for any such conditions.

    2h 21m
  3. Preventing Acute & Chronic Pancreatitis in Dogs & Cats

    FEB 18

    Preventing Acute & Chronic Pancreatitis in Dogs & Cats

    Pancreatitis ranges from subclinical to fatal, and is usually blamed on dietary fat, yet so many animals on ultra low-fat diets live with chronic pancreatitis. On this Inside Scoop episode we're talking all things pancreatitis AND why all raw diets aren't equal. This episode is a replay of our weekly Facebook Live on the Inside Scoop. Original LIVE aired September 29, 2024. To watch video podcasts LIVE plus take part with your comments & questions, subscribe at Inside Scoop. DISCLAIMERS & DISCLOSURES Any third-party products, brands featured or referred to on the Mind-Jam or Inside Scoop Podcasts are not affiliated with, sponsored by, or endorsed by Dr. Karen Becker, Rodney Habib, Planet Paws Media, or any of their affiliates.The Mind-Jam and Inside Scoop Podcasts are for general informational purposes only and does not constitute the practice of medicine or other professional health care services, including the giving of veterinary advice, and no doctor/patient relationship is formed. The use of information on this podcast or materials linked from this podcast is at the user’s own risk. The content of this podcast is not intended to be a substitute for professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Users should not disregard or delay in obtaining medical advice for any medical condition they or their pet may have and should seek the assistance of their doctor or pet's health care professionals for any such conditions.

    2h 6m
  4. What's the best mushroom to feed your dog?

    FEB 12

    What's the best mushroom to feed your dog?

    Are you feeding the right type of mushroom to your dog or cat? On this Inside Scoop episode, Dr. Robert Silver, DVM and medical herbalist Lee Carroll are sharing the essential medicinal mushrooms every pet parent needs to build a home remedy kit!  They’re putting together your must-have’s to help common issues like:· Allergies· GI upset· Kidney & liver support· Joint health· Stress & noise phobias· Cognitive decline Plus, learn the right amounts to give mushrooms for wellness and therapeutic benefits! This episode is a replay of our weekly Facebook Live on the Inside Scoop. Original LIVE aired Feb, 2, 205. To watch video podcasts LIVE plus take part with your comments & questions, subscribe at Inside Scoop. TIMESTAMPS:Intro – (5:00) What are the benefits of mushrooms? – (11:00) Mushrooms and behavior – (32:00) Rodney’s fav mushroom – Lions Mane – (41:00) Liquid vs Powder / Cooked vs Raw – (46:00) Mushrooms for yeast – (54:00) Lions Mane and Vx titers benefits –(57:00) Turkey Tail – (1:05:00) Golden Oyster – (1:20:00) Vit D – (1:42:37) Mold – (1:46:00) Cordyceps – (1:49:00) Reishi – (2:01:00) Dosages – (2:05:00) Giveaway: (3 winners) There’s a Mushroom for That by Dr Rob Silver - #shrooms(2:16:00) LINKS: Real Mushrooms Dr. Rob Silver's new book Dr. Rob Silver's website Lee Carrol's website Ergothioneine promotes longevity and healthy aging The biology of ergothioneine, an antioxidant nutraceutical Are age-related neurodegenerative diseases caused by a lack of the diet-derived compound ergothioneine Ergothioneine boosts mitochondrial respiration and exercise performance Modulatory effects of ergothioneine on behavioral responses of Arabian stallions Ergothioneine improves health span of aged animals by enhancing DISCLAIMERS & DISCLOSURES Any third-party products, brands featured or referred to on the Mind-Jam or Inside Scoop Podcasts are not affiliated with, sponsored by, or endorsed by Dr. Karen Becker, Rodney Habib, Planet Paws Media, or any of their affiliates.The Mind-Jam and Inside Scoop Podcasts are for general informational purposes only and does not constitute the practice of medicine or other professional health care services, including the giving of veterinary advice, and no doctor/patient relationship is formed. The use of information on this podcast or materials linked from this podcast is at the user’s own risk. The content of this podcast is not intended to be a substitute for professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Users should not disregard or delay in obtaining medical advice for any medical condition they or their pet may have and should seek the assistance of their doctor or pet's health care professionals for any such conditions.

    2h 23m
  5. Anti-aging and Stress Relieving Supplements for Your Dog

    FEB 4

    Anti-aging and Stress Relieving Supplements for Your Dog

    We discuss a variety of anti-aging studies and supplements on this Science Sunday episode. Rodney & Dr. Becker discuss the latest research on nutrition and health in this replay of their weekly Facebook Live on the Inside Scoop. Plus they answer listener questions. Original LIVE aired August 4, 2024  • To watch video podcasts LIVE plus take part with your comments & questions, subscribe at Inside Scoop. TIMESTAMPS00:05:59 Inside Scoop Meet Up - Las Vegas [previously recorded]00:07:23 Next Forever Dog LIFE Lecture - Woof Life Event, Indiana [previously recorded]00:21:10 Science Talk: Headlines of the Week 00:23:18 Supplements slow disease progression during late stage of 'dry' age-related macular degeneration00:41:09 Benefits of Ashwagandha for senior dogs and aging00:56:34 Benefits of Rosemary & Basil, diabetes01:08:34 Later-age Neutering & Urinary Incontinence01:27:39 Essential Oils & anxiety - Dose-Dependent Responses MENTIONED Supplements slow disease progression during late stage of 'dry' age-related macular degenerationAntioxidant supplementation increases retinal responses and decreases refractive error changes in dogs Effects of ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) root extract on aging-related changes in healthy geriatric dogs: A randomized, double-blinded placebo-controlled studyHypoglycemic efficacy of Rosmarinus officinalisand/or Ocimum basilicum leaves powder as a promising clinico-nutritional management tool for diabetes mellitus in Rottweiler dogsTherapeutic effects of rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis L.) and its active constituents on nervous system disorders Later-age neutering causes lower risk of early-onset urinary incontinence than early neutering-a VetCompass target trial emulation study Neutering Causes Behavior Problems in Male DogsMentioned:  Spay / Neuter PetitionDose-dependent responses: a preliminary investigation into the olfactory effects of essential oil concentrations on canine behavior  DISCLAIMERS & DISCLOSURES Any third-party products, brands featured or referred to on the Mind-Jam or Inside Scoop Podcasts are not affiliated with, sponsored by, or endorsed by Dr. Karen Becker, Rodney Habib, Planet Paws Media, or any of their affiliates.The Mind-Jam and Inside Scoop Podcasts are for general informational purposes only and does not constitute the practice of medicine or other professional health care services, including the giving of veterinary advice, and no doctor/patient relationship is formed. The use of information on this podcast or materials linked from this podcast is at the user’s own risk. The content of this podcast is not intended to be a substitute for professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Users should not disregard or delay in obtaining medical advice for any medical condition they or their pet may have and should seek the assistance of their doctor or pet's health care professionals for any such conditions.

    1h 40m
  6. Can MCT Oil Improve Your Dog or Cat's Health...even if they're fat-sensitive.

    JAN 21

    Can MCT Oil Improve Your Dog or Cat's Health...even if they're fat-sensitive.

    Today we're discussing some exciting new studies, including the potential benefits of medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs) in pets. Most commonly found in coconut oil, MCTs are not only beneficial for general energy but also have therapeutic potential for various health issues such as epilepsy, heart disease, and cognitive decline due to aging. In fact, one of the most notable benefits of MCTs is that they are the one type of fat that can be safely fed to pets without the risk of exacerbating pancreatitis, making them an excellent option for fat-sensitive dogs and cats. The most recent study has found found that dietary MCTs "rewire both the metabolome and the lipidome of the serum, which has the capacity to influence organ function. While the impact of MCT supplementation has been investigated as a therapeutic option for diseases such as cognitive decline, the results of our work suggest that dietary MCTs may also have other beneficial effects on the general health of dogs.“ On today's episode we discuss:🥥 Safely adding MCT oil to your pet's diet🦴 Using chondroitin to support joint health in dogs & cats💊 Two essential supplements for pets on antibioticsPlus, we'll be answering your questions live in this special "Ask Us Anything" episode!  Original LIVE aired Jan 12, 2026. To watch video podcasts LIVE plus take part with your comments & questions, subscribe at Inside Scoop. TIMESTAMPSIntro Chit Chat - (00:04:25)Science Headlines of the week – (00:016:00) Green Tea for Oral HealthProbiotics for gut dysbiosisAntibiotic-induced dysbiosisEffects of MCT oil LINKS Impact of Saccharomyces cerevisiae on the intestinal microbiota of dogs with antibiotic-induced dysbiosisChondroitin sulfate alleviated lipopolysaccharide-induced arthritis in feline and canine articular chondrocytes through regulation of neurotrophic signaling pathways and apoptosisPreliminary report: Protective effects of probiotics on cefovecin-induced gut dysbiosis in dogsOral treatment with catechin isolated from Japanese green tea significantly inhibits the growth of periodontal pathogen Porphyromonas gulae and ameliorates the gingivitis and halitosis caused by periodontal disease in cats and dogsEffects of Dietary Medium-Chain Triglyceride Supplementation on the Serum Metabolome of Young Adult and Senior CaninesDISCLAIMERS & DISCLOSURES Any products, brands featured or referred to on the Mind-Jam or Inside Scoop Podcasts are not affiliated with, sponsored by, or endorsed by Dr. Karen Becker, Rodney Habib, Planet Paws Media, or any of their affiliates. The Mind-Jam and Inside Scoop Podcasts are for general informational purposes only and does not constitute the practice of medicine or other professional health care services, including the giving of veterinary advice, and no doctor/patient relationship is formed. The use of information on this podcast or materials linked from this podcast is at the user’s own risk. The content of this podcast is not intended to be a substitute for professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Users should not disregard or delay in obtaining medical advice for any medical condition they or their pet may have and should seek the assistance of their doctor or pet's health care professionals for any such conditions.

    1h 33m
  7. Are Behavior Meds Right For Your Dog or Cat?

    JAN 15

    Are Behavior Meds Right For Your Dog or Cat?

    With so many dogs and cats struggling with behavior issues, many pet parents turn to behavior medications. However, underlying physical health problems, like pain or illness, can contribute to these issues. Studies show that up to 83% of dogs referred to veterinary behaviorists have an undiagnosed physical issue. Research found that 73% of dogs with excessive licking behavior had an underlying GI disease, and dogs with atopic dermatitis are more likely to have behavior problems. And it’s not just dogs — research has shown that 38% of cats seen by a behaviorist for urine marking also had a physical problem. This highlights an important point: behavior issues in pets are often more complex than we realize. On this episode of the Inside Scoop we're tackling this crucial topic with Dr. Lisa Radosta, a board-certified veterinary behaviorist, and discussing the often-misunderstood world of behavior medications and answering key questions like: How do you know if your pet needs medication for behavioral issues?When should you reach for meds, supplements, or diet changes?What risks should you consider when using behavior meds long-term?How effective are supplements for managing behavior problems?Original LIVE aired Jan.4 2025. To watch video podcasts LIVE, plus take part with your comments & questions, subscribe at Inside Scoop.TIMESTAMPS Dog Aging Project Behavior Study - 21:00 Intrinsic and Extrinsic Behavior Influences- 25:00 Unsafe Situations - 1:14:00 Trauma - 1:30:00 MENTIONEDDr. Lisa Radosta  Facebook IG: @drlisaradosta YouTube Two novel genomic regions associated with fearfulness in dogs overlap human neuropsychiatric loci Why do pets get behavior problems in the first place?? Medications for pet behavior problems Pet Wellness Hub Why do behavior problems get worse so fast? DISCLAIMERS & DISCLOSURE Any third-party products, brands featured or referred to on the Mind-Jam or Inside Scoop Podcasts are not affiliated with, sponsored by, or endorsed by Dr. Karen Becker, Rodney Habib, Planet Paws Media, or any of their affiliates.The Mind-Jam and Inside Scoop Podcasts are for general informational purposes only and does not constitute the practice of medicine or other professional health care services, including the giving of veterinary advice, and no doctor/patient relationship is formed. The use of information on this podcast or materials linked from this podcast is at the user’s own risk. The content of this podcast is not intended to be a substitute for professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Users should not disregard or delay in obtaining medical advice for any medical condition they or their pet may have and should seek the assistance of their doctor or pet's health care professionals for any such conditions.

    1h 56m
  8. Signs of Back Pain & IVDD in Dogs and What You Can Do

    JAN 7

    Signs of Back Pain & IVDD in Dogs and What You Can Do

    Is your dog’s back hurting? The top signs every pet parent should know. Back pain and IVDD (Intervertebral Disc Disease) are some of the most common issues that can affect our canine companions, especially as they age or if they're a predisposed breed. Whether it's a sudden limp, difficulty jumping, or general discomfort, identifying the warning signs early is crucial for helping your dog avoid serious injury and improve their quality of life. IVDD occurs when spinal discs become damaged or degenerate, causing pain, nerve damage, and even paralysis. While breeds like Dachshunds and Cocker Spaniels are especially vulnerable, back pain can affect dogs of any size. Left untreated, it can lead to chronic pain and reduced mobility, making effective management crucial. From supportive bedding and non-slip surfaces to rehab, acupuncture, mobility exercises, and harness support, there are many ways to help manage your dog’s back pain at home. Working closely with a qualified rehab professional and veterinarian will ensure the best approach to managing their condition and improving their quality of life. On this episode, licensed Physiotherapist and Canine Rehab Therapist, Sarah MacKeigan joins us to discuss: How to recognize different types of back pain.The causes and symptoms of IVDD.Practical home care for dogs with back pain or IVDDComparing surgical versus conservative treatments.Original LIVE aired Dec 29, 2024. To watch video podcasts LIVE, plus take part with your comments & questions, subscribe at Inside Scoop. TIMESTAMPS 00:06:52 Northwest Natural Recall 00:011:37 How Often does Back Pain Come Up? 00:17:56 Spinal Cord Anatomy 00:20:24 Types of Diseases 00:28:14 What to do when your Pet is in Pain 00:30:09 Symptoms 00:35:13 When to Take Action 00:49:45 Study of Conservative Management of Acute Thoracolumbar Disk Extrusion 00:55:22 Maintenance for a dog that is down 01:01:00 Urinary Tract Infections 01:06:10 Importance of TeleConsultations 01:11:22 Rehab 01:35:26 Prevention 01:44:57 Things to Avoid MENTIONED Sarah MacKeigan Upward Dog Rehab & WellnessEmerging and Adjunctive Therapies for Spinal Cord Injury Following Acute Canine Intervertebral Disc HerniationConservative Management of Intervertebral Disc Herniations in the paretic dog A review of intervertebral disc disease classification in dogsRecovery of ambulation in small, nonbrachycephalic dogs after conservative management of acute thoracolumbar disk extrusionMechanisms of injury and emergency care of acute spinal cord injuries in dogs and catsClassification of Intervertebral Disc DiseaseACVIM consensus statement on diagnosis and management of acute canine thoracolumbar intervertebral disc extrusionRecurrence rate of intervertebral disc disease in surgically treated French BulldogsImproving Neurological Outcome with Acupuncture and RehabilitationAcupuncture effects on dogs with Intervertebral Disk DiseaseNatural products can modulate inflammation in intervertebral disc degenerationLion's Mane: A potential treatment for neurologic disorders in veterinary medicinePrognostic factors in canine acute intervertebral disc diseaseDachsLife 2015: an investigation of lifestyle associations with the risk of intervertebral disc disease in DachshundsDISCLAIMERS & DISCLOSURES Any third-party products, brands featured or referred to on the Mind-Jam or Inside Scoop Podcasts are not affiliated with, sponsored by, or endorsed by Dr. Karen Becker, Rodney Habib, Planet Paws Media, or any of their affiliates.The Mind-Jam and Inside Scoop Podcasts are for general informational purposes only and does not constitute the practice of medicine or other professional health care services, including the giving of veterinary advice, and no doctor/patient relationship is formed. The use of information on this podcast or materials linked from this podcast is at the user’s own risk. The content of this podcast is not intended to be a substitute for professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Users should not disregard or delay in obtaining medical advice for any medical condition they or their pet may have and should seek the assistance of their doctor or pet's health care professionals for any such conditions.

    1h 49m
4.4
out of 5
19 Ratings

About

Join Rodney Habib and Dr. Karen Becker, DVM as they mind-jam with leading experts, scientists, and thought leaders to help pet parents increase the health and longevity of their dogs and cats. The Mind-Jam Podcast features candid conversations discussing the latest research and ideas on pet nutrition, health, and industry-related news. Rodney Habib and Dr. Karen Becker, DVM are pet parents on a mission to improve animal health and wellbeing.

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