Off Leash with Dr. Pete

Off Leash Podcast
  • 5.0 (7)
  • Pets & Animals
  • Updated Daily

Presented by Voyager Dog Food Co. Dr. Pete Vanvranken gives us a deep dive into dog related health topics. From how to help your dog if they’ve eaten something they shouldn’t have to new and exciting treatments for your best friends, we cover many different dog related topics on the Off Leash Podcast. As a vet of 49 years, Dr. Pete has what he calls “the privilege and duty” to help animals lead their best lives. Ask him his favorite part of the job and he’ll tell you it’s two-fold - partnering with his clients to solve their pets’ health challenges and striving to provide those same pets with long, healthy lives. And that’s our goal with the Off Leash Podcast: to educate dog owners and to advocate for your pet. Listen along with us and leave us a review!

  1. 4d ago

    Q&A: Puppy Food, Allergies & Myths

    On this episode of Off Leash with Dr. Pete, Molly brings your questions straight to Dr. Pete for another listener Q&A covering everything from puppy nutrition and food allergies to probiotics, pork-based diets, and some of the biggest myths circulating on social media. If you've ever wondered how to sort good pet advice from misinformation, this episode is for you.   The conversation begins with choosing the right food for large breed puppies and why slower, steady growth is often healthier than trying to grow puppies as quickly as possible. Dr. Pete also answers questions about managing chicken and beef allergies, selecting appropriate treats, and whether supplements are necessary for dogs eating a complete and balanced diet. Dr. Pete explains the difference between digestive health and allergic skin disease, discusses when probiotics may have a role, and why understanding the underlying cause of itching is far more important than relying on a marketing claim.   The episode also tackles a viral social media video claiming pork is unsafe for dogs, separating internet myths from current veterinary science and explaining why context matters when evaluating pet nutrition advice online.   Whether you're raising a puppy, managing food allergies, or trying to make sense of the endless stream of pet advice online, this episode offers practical, science-based answers to some of the questions dog owners ask most often. Thanks so much for listening, and be sure to subscribe and review!

    Q&A: Puppy Food, Allergies & Myths

  2. Aug 5

    Should You Breed Your Dog?

    On this episode of Off Leash with Dr. Pete, Molly and Dr. Pete tackle a question many dog owners eventually ask themselves: Should you breed your dog? While the idea of raising a litter of puppies can sound exciting, responsible breeding involves far more than pairing two dogs together. From health testing and genetics to temperament and the financial realities of raising puppies, they explain why ethical breeding starts long before the first puppy is born. Along the way, Molly and Dr. Pete talk about the hidden costs of breeding, from emergency C-sections and veterinary care to the time, effort, and emotional investment required to properly raise a healthy litter. The conversation also explores the difference between ethical breeders and backyard breeders, common warning signs to look for when purchasing a puppy, and the questions every prospective dog owner should ask before supporting a breeder. Whether you're thinking about breeding your dog, looking for a reputable breeder, or simply want to better understand what responsible dog breeding really involves, this episode provides valuable insight into making decisions that benefit both dogs and the future of their breed. Thanks so much for listening, and be sure to subscribe and review!

    Should You Breed Your Dog?

  3. Jul 29

    Looking Beyond The Symptoms

    On this episode of Off Leash with Dr. Pete, Molly and Dr. Pete share the story of Ellie, a Labrador whose persistent diarrhea and weight loss left multiple veterinarians searching for answers. Dr. Pete explains why chronic diarrhea isn't always caused by parasites or a simple stomach upset. He walks through the importance of bloodwork, what low albumin levels can reveal, and why distinguishing between conditions like Addison's disease and intestinal lymphangiectasia can make all the difference. Along the way, Molly and Dr. Pete discuss the challenges of managing complex medical cases from a distance, how veterinary medicine continues to evolve, and why every patient deserves an individualized approach rather than a one-size-fits-all treatment plan. Whether your dog has experienced chronic diarrhea, unexplained weight loss, or ongoing digestive issues, this episode offers valuable insight into why finding the right diagnosis matters—and how asking the right questions can sometimes save a dog's life. Thanks so much for listening, and be sure to subscribe and review!

    Looking Beyond The Symptoms

  4. Jul 22

    Are Dog Breed Stereotypes True?

    On this episode of Off Leash with Dr. Pete, Molly and Dr. Pete tackle one of the biggest myths in the dog world: how much does breed actually determine a dog's personality? From Golden Retrievers and Chihuahuas to Dobermans, Pit Bulls, and Border Collies, they discuss which stereotypes have some truth behind them-and which ones deserve to be left behind. Dr. Pete explains why genetics can influence certain behaviors, but don't determine whether a dog will be friendly, aggressive, or well-mannered. The conversation covers the importance of early socialization, proper training, matching a dog's energy level to your lifestyle, and why environment often plays a much larger role than breed alone. Along the way, Dr. Pete shares memorable stories from his years in practice that challenge many of the assumptions dog owners make about different breeds. Whether you're thinking about bringing home your first puppy or simply want a better understanding of canine behavior, this episode offers practical advice to help you choose, train, and care for your dog with confidence. Thanks so much for listening, and be sure to subscribe and review!

    Are Dog Breed Stereotypes True?

  5. Jul 15

    The Truth About Toy Breed Puppies

    On this episode of Off Leash with Dr. Pete, Molly and Dr. Pete dive into one of the biggest challenges facing owners of tiny breed puppies: hypoglycemia. Using a real-life case involving a young Yorkie, Dr. Pete explains why very small puppies can suddenly become weak, lethargic, or unresponsive, what causes dangerous drops in blood sugar, and the simple steps that can help stabilize them before they receive veterinary care.
   The conversation also covers the unique needs of toy breed dogs. Dr. Pete shares practical advice for new dog owners and explains why understanding normal puppy development can prevent emergencies.
   Dr. Pete also breaks down the differences between ear mites, ear infections, and food allergies, explains why cats and dogs experience ear problems differently, and shares what veterinarians look for during an ear exam.   Whether you've recently welcomed a tiny puppy into your home, own a toy breed dog, or simply want to better understand common ear conditions in dogs and cats, this episode is packed with practical advice to help you keep your pets healthy and safe. Thanks so much for listening, and be sure to subscribe and leave a review!

    The Truth About Toy Breed Puppies

  6. Jul 8

    The Raw Food Debate

    On this episode of Off Leash with Dr. Pete, Molly and Dr. Pete take on one of the most controversial topics in pet nutrition: raw diets versus kibble. After Molly returns from Global Pet Expo, where raw and fresh pet foods dominated the conversation, she and Dr. Pete break down the claims behind these diets and discuss what every dog owner should know before making the switch.
   Dr. Pete explains why a dog that suddenly stops eating may have an underlying medical problem rather than simply becoming "picky," and why changing foods can sometimes delay an important diagnosis. They also explore the potential risks associated with raw feeding, including bacterial contamination from Salmonella and E. coli, food safety concerns, and the challenges of balancing a complete diet at home.

   Molly also shares her experience speaking with pet food companies at Global Pet Expo, where she found that many representatives couldn't answer basic questions about ingredients, minerals, or nutrient levels. 

   Whether you feed kibble, fresh food, a raw diet, or are simply trying to choose the best option for your dog, this episode offers practical, science-based insight to help you make informed decisions about your pet's nutrition. Thanks so much for listening, and be sure to subscribe and review!

    The Raw Food Debate

  7. Jul 1

    Firework Fright

    Fireworks, thunderstorms, road trips, and summer celebrations can be exciting for us—but for many dogs, they can be some of the most stressful days of the year.   In this episode of Off Leash, Dr. Pete and Molly discuss why so many dogs struggle with noise anxiety and travel stress, and what pet owners can do before the panic starts. They break down the importance of planning ahead, how the "Chill Protocol" works, when medications like gabapentin and trazodone may be appropriate, and why waiting until your dog is already terrified is often too late.   The conversation also covers practical training techniques for helping dogs become more comfortable with loud noises, travel, and unfamiliar situations, along with the common mistakes owners make when trying to comfort an anxious pet.   Whether your dog hides during thunderstorms, panics during fireworks, or gets anxious on road trips, this episode is packed with practical advice to help make the busy summer season safer and less stressful for both you and your four-legged family members.   Thanks so much for listening and be sure to subscribe and review! Wishing all of our listeners and clients a very happy 4th of July weekend!

    Firework Fright

  8. Jun 16

    Jaime Simpson: Saved by Dogs

    In this heartfelt episode of Off Leash, Molly sits down with service dog trainer, advocate, and disability educator Jaime Simpson to share a story of resilience, purpose, and the life-changing bond between humans and dogs.   Jaime opens up about living with epilepsy, Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome, vision challenges, and other complex medical conditions—and how her service dogs have become essential partners in helping her navigate daily life. From seizure alerts and medication retrieval to mobility support and emotional healing, Jaime's dogs do far more than provide assistance—they've helped save her life. The conversation explores the incredible world of service dog training, the science behind medical alert dogs, and Jaime’s mission to help others through her organization, New Life Working Dogs. She also shares how a near-death hospitalization transformed her outlook on life, inspiring her to focus on connection, kindness, and helping others find support through both dogs and community.   This inspiring episode is a reminder of the extraordinary things dogs are capable of, the power of perseverance, and the beauty of finding purpose through service. Thanks so much for listening to Off Leash and be sure to subscribe and review!   Follow Jaime: Instagram & Socials: @EmbracingEcho Website: embraceeveryday.org

    Jaime Simpson: Saved by Dogs
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Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
7 Ratings

About

Presented by Voyager Dog Food Co. Dr. Pete Vanvranken gives us a deep dive into dog related health topics. From how to help your dog if they’ve eaten something they shouldn’t have to new and exciting treatments for your best friends, we cover many different dog related topics on the Off Leash Podcast. As a vet of 49 years, Dr. Pete has what he calls “the privilege and duty” to help animals lead their best lives. Ask him his favorite part of the job and he’ll tell you it’s two-fold - partnering with his clients to solve their pets’ health challenges and striving to provide those same pets with long, healthy lives. And that’s our goal with the Off Leash Podcast: to educate dog owners and to advocate for your pet. Listen along with us and leave us a review!

Information

  • Creator
    Off Leash Podcast
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2026
  • Episodes
    121
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2023 All rights reserved.
  • Show Website
    Off Leash with Dr. Pete

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