Paws and Effect

Dr Carra Walters

Welcome to Paws and Effect, the ultimate Podcast for pet lovers and veterinarians alike! Join renowned veterinarian Dr Carra as they explore the captivating world of pets. With expert knowledge and a passion for animals, Dr Carra brings engaging content, interviews with veterinary professionals, and valuable insights. From expert veterinary advice to tips on pet-life balance, Paws and Effect is your go-to podcast. Subscribe now and join our vibrant community dedicated to celebrating the bond we share with our furry friends and the impact of pets on your mental health.

  1. 2D AGO

    Decoding Pet Neuro: Seizures, Spines, & Solutions

    Step into the fascinating, and often misunderstood, world of veterinary neurology with this essential episode of the Paws & Effect Podcast. We’re privileged to welcome Dr Ane Uriarte, EBVS® European Specialist in Veterinary Neurology and Neurosurgery, whose expertise spans continents and clinics alike. Veterinary neurology is a rare and highly specialised discipline, shrouded in complexity and too often overlooked by pet owners. Yet, serious neurological conditions can strike without warning, leaving even experienced vets racing against time. In this eye-opening discussion, Dr Uriarte reveals: Why neurological disorders are so much more than “just a seizure”The warning signs that every responsible pet owner should recogniseThe crucial difference between urgent action and unnecessary panicThe immense skill required to diagnose and treat brain and spinal diseases in animals If you’re devoted to your pet’s wellbeing, understanding the risks and realities of neurological problems is not optional, it’s essential. Join us for a revealing conversation that demystifies a hidden world and empowers you with the knowledge that could one day save your pet’s life. SPONSOR: Ultra Pet Check out Ultra Pets New range here: https://ultra-pet.co.za/product/optimal-balance-adult/ Connect with Dr Carra: Website: https://drcarra.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ultrapetvet/ LinkedIN: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drcarra/ Hillcrest Veterinary Hospital: https://hillcrestvets.co.za/ Connect with Dr Ane Uriarte Website: https://www.instagram.com/neuronavet_/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ane.neuro/ Podcast Production: This Podcast is produced by Kythe Creative and filmed onsite at Hillcrest Veterinary Hospital. Kythe Creative : https://kythecreative.co.za/ THIS EPISODES SPONSORS: Ultra Pet: This episode is sponsored by Ultra Pet, who has been scientifically formulating premium pet food for over 25 years. If you want to take the guesswork out of feeding your furry friends, give Ultra Pet a try. Check them out here at www.ultra-pet.co.za Just For Pets: Justforpets.co.za is proud to sponsor this episode of the Paws and Effect podcast. Visit their website for all your pet needs and find everything from toys to food and much more. The team over at Just For Pets believe that every pet deserves the best care possible, and that's why we offer a wide range of products to help keep your furry friend happy and healthy - Check them out at https://www.justforpets.co.za/ FOR SPONSORSHIPS AND GUEST APPEARANCES, Email us at drcarra@pawsandeffect.co.za and we'll get in touch with you. Don't forget to LIKE this if you found it helpful, SUBSCRIBE for more episodes and content like this. ------------------------------------------------- 00:00 Veterinary Neurology and Surgery 04:59 Educational Vet Content Online 09:48 Seizures vs Cardiac Collapse Insight 10:45 Seizure Observation Tips for Pets 14:51 Symptoms of Animal Intoxication 19:24 Dogs Detecting Seizures and Behaviour 20:54 Responding to Your Dog's Seizure 25:08 When to Treat Pet Seizures 29:22 Prioritising Context in Neurology 31:44 Critical Canine Health Emergencies 36:08 Dog Health Assessment Timeline 38:18 Neurological Insights

    40 min
  2. 12/30/2025

    Holiday Hazards: Top Pet Trauma & Accident Risks (And How to Prevent Them!)

    Join us for the last of our festive season episodes as we welcome back Dr Nic Stirk, much-loved local vet. Together with me, Dr Stirk brings a wealth of practical advice and real-life stories straight from the clinic floor. In this unmissable episode, Dr Stirk unpacks: Why accidents and trauma cases spike during the holiday seasonThe “iceberg effect” of puncture wounds and why even tiny injuries can turn disastrousThe dangers of fireworks, storms, and overwhelmed pets during festive gatheringsCrucial do’s and don’ts for wildlife encounters, snakebites, and fishing trip mishapsExpert tips for preventing pet fights when guests bring their animals From monkey bites and crowned eagles, to stick injuries and the perils of festive braais, discover how to keep your pets safe and sound, all while still enjoying a laugh and learning something new. Whether you’re a pet parent or a pro in the industry, you won’t want to miss these insider stories and practical pointers from Dr Nic Stirk and Dr Carra! Hit play and make this holiday season a happy (and injury-free) one for every paw in your home! SPONSOR: Ultra Pet Check out Ultra Pets New range here: https://ultra-pet.co.za/product/premium-recipe-adult/ Connect with Dr Carra: Website: https://drcarra.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ultrapetvet/ LinkedIN: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drcarra/ Hillcrest Veterinary Hospital: https://hillcrestvets.co.za/ Connect with Dr Nic: Website: https://watercrestvet.co.za/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/watercrestvet/ Podcast Production: This Podcast is produced by Kythe Creative and filmed onsite at Hillcrest Veterinary Hospital. Kythe Creative : https://kythecreative.co.za/ THIS EPISODES SPONSORS: Ultra Pet: This episode is sponsored by Ultra Pet, who has been scientifically formulating premium pet food for over 25 years. If you want to take the guesswork out of feeding your furry friends, give Ultra Pet a try. Check them out here at www.ultra-pet.co.za Just For Pets: Justforpets.co.za is proud to sponsor this episode of the Paws and Effect podcast. Visit their website for all your pet needs and find everything from toys to food and much more. The team over at Just For Pets believe that every pet deserves the best care possible, and that's why we offer a wide range of products to help keep your furry friend happy and healthy - Check them out at https://www.justforpets.co.za/ FOR SPONSORSHIPS AND GUEST APPEARANCES, Email us at drcarra@pawsandeffect.co.za and we'll get in touch with you. Don't forget to LIKE this if you found it helpful, SUBSCRIBE for more episodes and content like this.

    37 min
  3. 12/23/2025

    Holiday Food Hazards That Could Land Your Pet in the Emergency Room!

    Get ready for a festive deep-dive into holiday pet safety! Dr Nic Stirk, founder of Watercrest Vets and veterinary dynamo joins us again as we continue our festive season series. In this fun, insightful episode, Dr Stirk and I unpack the festive season’s most common pet emergencies and answer the burning question: What’s really risky for our pets when the holiday treats start to flow? Why pancreatitis spikes over Christmas (and how to spot it early)The truth about toxic treats, grapes, raisins, chocolate, xylitol and more!Vaccination 101: Keeping puppies safe from parvovirusBones, bins, and braais: The surprising dangers lurking in your summer gardenExpert advice on what to do if your pet eats something they shouldn’t. Whether you’re a pet professional or a devoted animal lover, this episode delivers must-know tips to keep tails wagging and disaster at bay. Protect your pets this festive season, press play and join the Paws & Effect community! SPONSOR: Ultra Pet Check out Ultra Pets New range here: https://ultra-pet.co.za/product/premium-recipe-adult/ Connect with Dr Carra: Website: https://drcarra.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ultrapetvet/ LinkedIN: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drcarra/ Hillcrest Veterinary Hospital: https://hillcrestvets.co.za/ Connect with Dr Nic Stirk: Website: https://watercrestvet.co.za/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/watercrestvet/ Podcast Production: This Podcast is produced by Kythe Creative and filmed onsite at Hillcrest Veterinary Hospital. Kythe Creative : https://kythecreative.co.za/ THIS EPISODES SPONSORS: Ultra Pet: This episode is sponsored by Ultra Pet, who has been scientifically formulating premium pet food for over 25 years. If you want to take the guesswork out of feeding your furry friends, give Ultra Pet a try. Check them out here at www.ultra-pet.co.za Just For Pets: Justforpets.co.za is proud to sponsor this episode of the Paws and Effect podcast. Visit their website for all your pet needs and find everything from toys to food and much more. The team over at Just For Pets believe that every pet deserves the best care possible, and that's why we offer a wide range of products to help keep your furry friend happy and healthy - Check them out at https://www.justforpets.co.za/ FOR SPONSORSHIPS AND GUEST APPEARANCES, Email us at drcarra@pawsandeffect.co.za and we'll get in touch with you. Don't forget to LIKE this if you found it helpful, SUBSCRIBE for more episodes and content like this.

    31 min
  4. 12/16/2025

    Why Your Dog Might Collapse This Holiday & How To Save Them

    Get ready for a sizzling episode because this week, we’re absolutely delighted to welcome back Dr Nic Stirk (BVSc), who joins me for an action-packed festive season collab. Dr Stirk brings a wealth of know-how and sparkle to our summer pet care survival guide! In this lively and informative episode, Dr Nic Stirk reveals: Life-saving tips to prevent and treat heatstroke in dogs (learn which breeds are most at risk!)How to identify and respond to bee stings and dangerous snake bitesWhy skin issues soar in warmer weather, and what you can do about themThe lowdown on nasty parasites: ticks, fleas, ear infections & moreEssential advice on summer walks, sun safety, pool time, and recognising critical emergencies. Whether you’re a doting pet parent or a seasoned animal pro, this episode is packed with practical strategies, expert insights, and a splash of humour to keep your pets safe and thriving this holiday season. Don’t miss these must-know tips from two passionate vets, perfect for sharing! Hit play, join the conversation, and give your pets the happiest, healthiest summer ever. SPONSOR: Ultra Pet Check out Ultra Pets New range here: https://ultra-pet.co.za/product/optimal-balance-adult/ Connect with Dr Carra: Website: https://drcarra.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ultrapetvet/ LinkedIN: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drcarra/ Hillcrest Veterinary Hospital: https://hillcrestvets.co.za/ Connect with Dr Nic Stirk: Website: https://watercrestvet.co.za/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/watercrestvet/ Podcast Production: This Podcast is produced by Kythe Creative and filmed onsite at Hillcrest Veterinary Hospital.Kythe Creative : https://kythecreative.co.za/ THIS EPISODES SPONSORS: Ultra Pet: This episode is sponsored by Ultra Pet, who has been scientifically formulating premium pet food for over 25 years. If you want to take the guesswork out of feeding your furry friends, give Ultra Pet a try. Check them out here at www.ultra-pet.co.za Just For Pets: Justforpets.co.za is proud to sponsor this episode of the Paws and Effect podcast. Visit their website for all your pet needs and find everything from toys to food and much more. The team over at Just For Pets believe that every pet deserves the best care possible, and that's why we offer a wide range of products to help keep your furry friend happy and healthy - Check them out at https://www.justforpets.co.za/ FOR SPONSORSHIPS AND GUEST APPEARANCES, Email us at drcarra@pawsandeffect.co.za and we'll get in touch with you. Don't forget to LIKE this if you found it helpful, SUBSCRIBE for more episodes and content like this. ------------------------------------------------------- 00:00 Parvovirus Vaccination Importance 05:26 KZN Skin Conditions & Humidity 08:55 Sun Safety Tips for White Dogs 10:26 Children's Sun Protection Advice 15:25 Cooling Pets in Emergencies 17:45 Exercise Heat and Muscular Dogs 20:23 Severe Allergic Reactions Explained 26:12 Tick and Flea Medication Explained 28:21 Ehrlichia: Elusive Tick-borne Disease 31:33 Flea Dirt: Identifying Infestations 33:57 Can Your Dog Swim Safely? 36:43 Hypoallergenic Diet for Pets

    38 min
  5. 12/09/2025

    The Multi-Cat Life. Feline Friends or Foes

    Curious about adding another cat to your family? This week on the Paws & Effect Podcast, we’re delighted to welcome the fabulous Tabitha Kucera, RVT, CCBC, KPA-CTP, an acclaimed feline behaviour consultant, veterinary technician, and certified cat (and human!) whisperer! In this must-watch episode, Tabitha spills the beans on: The truth behind common multi-cat myths (is your cat really “lonely”?)Essential steps for harmonious introductions between catsSpotting the red flags of feline stress before tensions escalateClever home setup tips to keep the peace (hello, vertical space & resource hacks!)How to manage cat fights, house soiling, and tricky integration moments Whether you’re a long-time cat lover or new to the world of whiskers, Tabitha’s insights, practical guidance, and infectious passion will leave you feeling inspired and equipped to make every paw in your home feel right at home. Tune in for a fun, professional, and genuinely insightful chat that could transform your multi-cat household forever. Hit play, your cats will thank you! SPONSOR: Ultra Pet Check out Ultra Pets New range here: https://ultra-pet.co.za/product/optimal-balance-adult/ Connect with Dr Carra: Website: https://drcarra.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ultrapetvet/ LinkedIN: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drcarra/ Hillcrest Veterinary Hospital: https://hillcrestvets.co.za/ Connect with Tabitha: Website: https://chirrupsandchatter.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chirrupsandchatter/ Podcast Production: This Podcast is produced by Kythe Creative and filmed onsite at Hillcrest Veterinary Hospital. Kythe Creative : https://kythecreative.co.za/ THIS EPISODES SPONSORS: Ultra Pet: This episode is sponsored by Ultra Pet, who has been scientifically formulating premium pet food for over 25 years. If you want to take the guesswork out of feeding your furry friends, give Ultra Pet a try. Check them out here at www.ultra-pet.co.za Just For Pets: Justforpets.co.za is proud to sponsor this episode of the Paws and Effect podcast. Visit their website for all your pet needs and find everything from toys to food and much more. The team over at Just For Pets believe that every pet deserves the best care possible, and that's why we offer a wide range of products to help keep your furry friend happy and healthy - Check them out at https://www.justforpets.co.za/ FOR SPONSORSHIPS AND GUEST APPEARANCES, Email us at drcarra@pawsandeffect.co.za and we'll get in touch with you. Don't forget to LIKE this if you found it helpful, SUBSCRIBE for more episodes and content like this. ------------------------------------------------------ 00:00 Striving for Growth and Improvement 06:17 Cats Are Social Individuals 11:02 Kitten Socialisation and Behaviour Insights 18:09 Cat Care and Shared Spaces 24:29 Cat Resources: Accessibility and Safety 29:44 Recognising Animal Tension Signs 32:48 Understanding Intracat Behaviour Signs 39:02 Cat Behaviour Redirection Tips 46:39 Empathy in Veterinary Behaviour Care 49:25 Optimal Litter Box Setup Importance 55:30 Improving Pet Scent Continuity 01:02:17 Building Professional Referral Networks 01:10:33 Support for Struggling Pet Owners 01:11:48 Global Events and Consultations

    1h 14m
  6. 12/02/2025

    How to Choose a Purr-fect Cattery for Your Cat When You Go Away!

    The festive season is around the corner and every cat parent wants their sweet kitty to have the best care while they’re off making merry! On this episode of Paws & Effect Podcast, we welcome the wonderful Sister Zoe from Hillcrest Veterinary Hospital, home of the Hillcrest Luxury Cattery. With her years of experience making feline holiday stays as cuddly and stress-free as possible, Sister Zoe spills the secrets every pet parent needs to know. Tune in to discover: How to spot a truly meow-nificent cattery for your kitty over Christmas and New YearSigns your chosen cattery is more than just a comfy nap spot, it’s a second homeThe importance of professional, loving care and enrichment while you’re awayTips to ensure your cat is pampered, safe, and happy throughout the holidaysWhy Hillcrest Luxury Cattery is the cat’s whiskers for superior boarding, with vet-trained staff and daily pet parent updates Curious about making your cat’s holiday stay a whisker-twitching delight? This episode is filled with expert advice, festive cheer, and loads of feline fun. Perfect listening for every caring cat owner! SPONSOR: Ultra Pet Check out Ultra Pets New range here: https://ultra-pet.co.za/product/premium-recipe-adult/ Connect with Dr Carra: Website: https://drcarra.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ultrapetvet/ LinkedIN: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drcarra/ Hillcrest Veterinary Hospital: https://hillcrestvets.co.za/ Podcast Production: This Podcast is produced by Kythe Creative and filmed onsite at Hillcrest Veterinary Hospital. Kythe Creative : https://kythecreative.co.za/ THIS EPISODES SPONSORS: Ultra Pet: This episode is sponsored by Ultra Pet, who has been scientifically formulating premium pet food for over 25 years. If you want to take the guesswork out of feeding your furry friends, give Ultra Pet a try. Check them out here at www.ultra-pet.co.za Just For Pets: Justforpets.co.za is proud to sponsor this episode of the Paws and Effect podcast. Visit their website for all your pet needs and find everything from toys to food and much more. The team over at Just For Pets believe that every pet deserves the best care possible, and that's why we offer a wide range of products to help keep your furry friend happy and healthy - Check them out at https://www.justforpets.co.za/ FOR SPONSORSHIPS AND GUEST APPEARANCES, Email us at drcarra@pawsandeffect.co.za and we'll get in touch with you. Don't forget to LIKE this if you found it helpful, SUBSCRIBE for more episodes and content like this.

    45 min
  7. 11/25/2025

    Beyond the Bite: Revolutionising Dental Care for Wild Animals

    Meet Dr Charles Dyer, Board-Certified Periodontist and President of the Dental Coalition for Conservation! This week on the Paws & Effect Podcast, we dive into the thrilling world where dentistry meets wildlife conservation. Dr Dyer joins us with boundless enthusiasm, sharing: Eye-opening insights on why dental care is vital for exotic animals in zoos and sanctuariesHis inspiring journey from human dentistry to leading game-changing missions for primates, big cats, rhinos and morePractical tips for pet owners to spot dental pain early and champion better oral health for their petsHow global partnerships and hands-on workshops are revolutionising animal welfare and conservation efforts Discover how something as simple as a tooth can shape lives, improve welfare, and empower conservation programmes around the globe. If you’re passionate about pets or wild animal welfare, this episode will open your eyes, and maybe inspire your next adventure! SPONSOR: Ultra Pet Check out Ultra Pets New range here: https://ultra-pet.co.za/product/premium-recipe-adult/ Connect with Dr Carra: Website: https://drcarra.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ultrapetvet/ LinkedIN: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drcarra/ Hillcrest Veterinary Hospital: https://hillcrestvets.co.za/ Connect with Dr Charles Dyer: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thedcc2025/ Podcast Production: This Podcast is produced by Kythe Creative and filmed onsite at Hillcrest Veterinary Hospital. Kythe Creative : https://kythecreative.co.za/ THIS EPISODES SPONSORS: Ultra Pet: This episode is sponsored by Ultra Pet, who has been scientifically formulating premium pet food for over 25 years. If you want to take the guesswork out of feeding your furry friends, give Ultra Pet a try. Check them out here at www.ultra-pet.co.za Just For Pets: Justforpets.co.za is proud to sponsor this episode of the Paws and Effect podcast. Visit their website for all your pet needs and find everything from toys to food and much more. The team over at Just For Pets believe that every pet deserves the best care possible, and that's why we offer a wide range of products to help keep your furry friend happy and healthy - Check them out at https://www.justforpets.co.za/ FOR SPONSORSHIPS AND GUEST APPEARANCES, Email us at drcarra@pawsandeffect.co.za and we'll get in touch with you. Don't forget to LIKE this if you found it helpful, SUBSCRIBE for more episodes and content like this. ---------------------------------------------------------------- 00:00 Dental Conservation Coalition Founded 06:46 Holistic Dental-Veterinary Connection 14:30 Advancing Veterinary Dental Education 15:56 Veterinary Dentistry for Conservation 23:05 Dream Animals in Dental Work 28:12 Detecting Subtle Signs in Animals 34:06 Focusing on Dentistry in Sanctuaries 43:06 Antibiotics in Dentistry: Liability Driven 47:55 Comprehensive Care for Captive Animals 53:45 Global Conservation Mission Expansion 54:48 Building Impactful Conservation Coalition 01:00:20 Pause and Effect Podcast Outro

    1h 2m
  8. 11/18/2025

    Vet Confessions & Pet Zoomies: Dr Nico du Preez Answers Your Funniest Questions!

    Ready for big belly laughs and real pet talk? This week, the Paws & Effect Podcast brings you an irresistible dose of veterinary humour and heart as we welcome the ever-entertaining Dr Nico du Preez (BVSc), the creator behind the beloved “Zoomies” online platform! Join us for an episode brimming with light-hearted stories, behind-the-scenes veterinary confessions, and those hilarious ‘did-they-really-ask-that?!’ moments from the consult room. Dr du Preez shares: The top questions pet owners are secretly dying to ask (and vets answer in their sleep!)Outrageous myths and misconceptions… and the truth behind Dr GoogleWhy pets get the zoomies, and what these infectious bursts of energy really meanHealthy ways to show your animal love (with a dash of laughter)Dr du Preez’s take on human foods, pet diets, and how trust is built between vets and families Bursting with joyful banter and genuine advice, this episode is a celebration of the fun, sometimes quirky world of pets and the people who care for them. Whether you’re a pet parent or just in need of a smile, don’t miss this one, your heart, and your pet, will thank you! SPONSOR: Ultra Pet Check out Ultra Pets New range here: https://ultra-pet.co.za/product/premium-recipe-adult/ Connect with Dr Carra: Website: https://drcarra.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ultrapetvet/ LinkedIN: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drcarra/ Hillcrest Veterinary Hospital: https://hillcrestvets.co.za/ Connect with Dr Nico du Preez: Linktree: https://linktr.ee/ZoomiesOfficial?utm_source=linktree_profile_share<sid=be5672d4-b101-484d-9480-de1073fed63f Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr_nic_vet/ Podcast Production: This Podcast is produced by Kythe Creative and filmed onsite at Hillcrest Veterinary Hospital. Kythe Creative : https://kythecreative.co.za/ THIS EPISODES SPONSORS: Ultra Pet: This episode is sponsored by Ultra Pet, who has been scientifically formulating premium pet food for over 25 years. If you want to take the guesswork out of feeding your furry friends, give Ultra Pet a try. Check them out here at www.ultra-pet.co.za Just For Pets: Justforpets.co.za is proud to sponsor this episode of the Paws and Effect podcast. Visit their website for all your pet needs and find everything from toys to food and much more. The team over at Just For Pets believe that every pet deserves the best care possible, and that's why we offer a wide range of products to help keep your furry friend happy and healthy - Check them out at https://www.justforpets.co.za/ FOR SPONSORSHIPS AND GUEST APPEARANCES, Email us at drcarra@pawsandeffect.co.za and we'll get in touch with you. Don't forget to LIKE this if you found it helpful, SUBSCRIBE for more episodes and content like this. ------------------------------------------------------------ 00:00 Zoomies Vet Outreach Initiative 04:20 Advice for Pet Owners 09:41 Pet Care Complexity Online 13:43 Evaluating Pet Food Choices 16:41 Feeding Dogs Fresh Whole Foods 20:33 Dogs Eating Grass: Behavioural or Nausea? 22:38 Pet Vaccination: Why It Matters 25:09 Signs and Variations of Pain 29:25 Discussing Pet Obesity Challenges 32:09 Balancing Medicine Approaches 36:17 Annual Checkups Are Essential 38:56 Laughing Through Life's Moments 41:43 Cat Arm Humping Confusion 45:00 Know Your Pet's Normals 49:23 Hopeful Conversations with AI 51:13 Pause and Effect Podcast

    52 min

About

Welcome to Paws and Effect, the ultimate Podcast for pet lovers and veterinarians alike! Join renowned veterinarian Dr Carra as they explore the captivating world of pets. With expert knowledge and a passion for animals, Dr Carra brings engaging content, interviews with veterinary professionals, and valuable insights. From expert veterinary advice to tips on pet-life balance, Paws and Effect is your go-to podcast. Subscribe now and join our vibrant community dedicated to celebrating the bond we share with our furry friends and the impact of pets on your mental health.