My Dog Is Better Than Your Dog

What happens when “Dr. Google” meets ChatGPT in the vet’s office? In this episode, I sit down with veterinary leader and neuro-inclusive coach Ron Sosa to unpack how artificial intelligence is already reshaping the way pet parents seek answers about their pets’ health. Instead of fighting against it, what if vets helped pet parents to ask their Chat GPT better questions? Ron and I dive into what this shift means for pet parents: from how to prompt ChatGPT so you get helpful (not panic-inducing) answers, to why keeping simple notes on your AI tool at home can make all the difference, to how sharing what’s been “ruled out” can completely change the way you and your vet move forward together. This is a conversation about embracing technology without losing the human touch. If you’ve ever wondered how AI could help you become a more empowered, confident advocate for your pet’s health, this episode is for you.KEY INSIGHTS:✨ Why ChatGPT is quickly becoming the new “Dr. Google” for pet parents.✨ How asking clear, detailed prompts (age, breed, sex, symptoms, timing) leads to more accurate answers.✨ Why vague questions like “why is my dog vomiting?” often bring up scary, unhelpful results.✨ How AI can save time in the exam room by preparing pet parents with background info.✨ Why your vet may not know every answer in the moment and why that’s okay.✨ How AI can lighten the education load so vets have more time for hands-on healing.✨ How journaling with AI could one day help diagnose conditions like Addison’s more accurately.✨ How misusing AI for DIY treatments or dosing can be risky, and why your vet must stay involved.✨ Why future care may depend less on having every answer and more on asking better questions.✨ And how embracing AI as part of the care team helps both pets and people.RESOURCES:🐾 Learn more about the ⁠Uncharted Veterinary Conference⁠🐾 Explore ⁠Synap Neuro-Inclusive Leadership⁠FOLLOW:Ron Sosa on Instagram: ⁠@ron.sosa84⁠Ron Sosa on Linked In: Ronald Sosa, CVPM, CCFP, PgD-CLDIntegrative Pet Wellness Center: ⁠https://integrativepet.com/⁠Integrative Pet Wellness Center on Instagram: ⁠@integrativepet⁠Dr. Lily Chen on Instagram: ⁠@dr.lilychen⁠⁠@the.unicorn.vet⁠⁠Sign up for our newsletter to get more pet health tips and behind-the-scenes insights.

This week, we’re tackling one of the hardest—and most emotional—parts of being a pet parent: the money talk at the vet’s office. I’m joined by Ron Sosa, Executive Director of the Uncharted Veterinary Conference and founder of Synap Neuro-Inclusive Leadership, for a candid conversation about why vet bills feel so stressful and what you can actually do to feel more prepared. We talk about setting a clear budget, asking about follow-ups upfront, and preparing for emergencies—whether that’s with a dedicated credit card, a savings fund, or simply knowing your options. We also explore why choosing a vet who fits your values and communication style makes money talks feel easier. If you’ve ever panicked over an estimate, wondered how to afford care without cutting corners, or wished vet bills felt less overwhelming, this episode is for you.KEY INSIGHTS:Why money conversations at the vet are so emotionally charged for pet parents. The hidden factors behind rising vet costs, from wages to overhead. How setting a budget upfront helps your vet prioritize care within your means.The importance of asking about follow-ups so you’re not blindsided later.Simple ways to prepare for emergencies—like a pet savings fund or a dedicated credit card. Why choosing a vet who aligns with your values can make all the difference. How transparency and collaboration can transform stressful conversations into empowering ones.RESOURCES:🐾 Learn more about the Uncharted Veterinary Conference🐾 Explore Synap Neuro-Inclusive Leadership🐾 Listen to our podcast episode with Vet Billing to learn more about this payment plan option. Ron Sosa on Instagram: @ron.sosa84FOLLOW:Integrative Pet Wellness Center: https://integrativepet.com/Integrative Pet Wellness Center on Instagram: @integrativepetDr. Lily Chen on Instagram: @dr.lilychen@the.unicorn.vetSign up for our newsletter to get more pet health tips and behind-the-scenes insights.

So many pet parents want to do the right thing and so they vaccinate on schedule, give monthly parasite prevention, and follow the “standard” advice from their vet. But what if those very routines are putting your dog (or cat) at risk? In this episode, I’m joined by veterinarian Dr. Laurie Coger to unpack the hidden risks of routine care and what’s actually safe for your pup. We talk about vaccines, flea and tick medications, heartworm prevention, and how to make decisions that protect your dog’s long-term health.This conversation is full of practical takeaways you can use right away, like the questions to ask your vet, when titer testing makes sense, how to know if parasite prevention is really necessary, and why building your dog’s microbiome may be the best defense of all.If you’ve ever felt confused about what your dog really needs (and what they don’t), this episode will give you clarity and confidence to make the best choices for your pet.KEY INSIGHTS:✨ The crucial difference between vaccination (giving a shot) and immunization (achieving immunity), and why titer testing matters.✨ Why protocols are designed for the weakest pets, and how that can mean overdosing the strongest.✨ The hidden risks of long-acting parasite preventives (and why convenience can sometimes come at a cost).✨ Safer, smarter ways to approach flea, tick, and heartworm prevention based on region, lifestyle, and your dog’s health history.✨ How the microbiome is your dog’s first line of defense, and why antibiotics and kibble diets can undermine resilience.✨ The environmental ripple effects of vaccines and parasite medications we rarely consider.✨ Why building a veterinary dream team—integrative vets, conventional vets, specialists, and emergency care—is the best way to cover every stage of your dog’s life.✨ How to approach conversations with your vet with respect, even when you disagree, and find practitioners who align with your values.RESOURCES:🐾 Dr. Laurie Coger’s book 👇 Vaccines Explained:The Wholistic Vet’s Guide to Vaccinationing Your Dog FOLLOW:Dr. Laurie Coger Website: https://healthydogworkshop.com/Dr. Laurie Coger on Instagram: @healthydogworkshopIntegrative Pet Wellness Center: https://integrativepet.com/Integrative Pet Wellness Center on Instagram: @integrativepetDr. Lily Chen on Instagram: @dr.lilychen@the.unicorn.vetSign up for our newsletter to get more pet health tips and behind-the-scenes insights.

If you’ve ever wished you could be a fly on the wall for a totally unfiltered, heart-to-heart between a leading pet health educator and an integrative vet… this is your episode. In this conversation with the incredible Rodney Habib, we go deep into what it really means to be a Pet Parent 2.0, one who’s informed, empowered, and unafraid to ask the hard questions about their pet’s health. From over-vaccination to new spay/neuter research, from longevity drugs to nutrition myths, this isn’t a “here’s the protocol, just follow it” kind of talk. It’s a raw, nuanced exchange about evolving science, emotional truths, and how to navigate the overwhelming amount of information out there as a devoted pet parent. We also open up about the moments that changed the trajectory of our lives, the heartbreaks, the mistakes, and the lessons that shape how we care for pets today. If you’re ready to move beyond “basic pet care” and into the next level of advocacy for your pet, this conversation is for you.KEY INSIGHTS:✨ What it means to be a “Pet Parent 2.0” and why curiosity, openness, and self-advocacy are your superpowers.✨ Why “over-vaccination” doesn’t mean anti-vaccination — and how to make personalized vaccine decisions with your vet.✨ The new spay/neuter research pet parents need to know about, including hormone-sparing options and why timing matters.✨ Why ultra-processed food is still the default in vet med, and how even small changes toward fresh food can have big health impacts.✨ How to navigate polarizing topics without burning bridges (and why finding a vet you trust matters more than ever).✨ The truth about emerging longevity drugs —what’s unknown and the questions to ask before saying yes. ✨ Why the most important thing you can do for your pet’s health is to trust your intuition, even when it goes against the norm.🐾 Explore the Planet Paws community for pet parents: https://www.planetpaws.ca🐾 Rodney Habib and Dr. Karen Becker’s Dog Cancer Series:  https://www.dogcancerseries.com/Rodney Habib: @rodneyhabibRESOURCES:FOLLOW:Integrative Pet Wellness Center on Instagram: @integrativepetDr. Lily Chen on Instagram: @dr.lilychen @the.unicorn.vet Sign up for our newsletter to get more pet health tips and behind-the-scenes insights.

In this episode, I sit down with Ruby Balaram, CEO of Real Dog Box and founder of the Feed Real Institute, for a heart-to-heart about one of the most overwhelming—and important—topics in pet care: food. From her start as a paralegal to becoming a bold voice in the fresh food movement, Ruby shares how a deeply personal journey with her partner’s 12 year old dog lit a fire to bring truly nourishing, species-appropriate ancestral food back to dogs’ bowls. We dive into what’s actually in commercial pet food, why you need to read the labels carefully, the biggest debates shaking the industry, and how pet parents can cut through the noise to make feeding choices they feel proud of. If you’ve ever stood in the pet food aisle feeling lost, or felt side-eyed for wanting to feed differently, this is the conversation your heart (and your dog!) needs. KEY INSIGHTS:✨ How adding even one fresh, whole ingredient can start transforming your dog’s health.✨ Why ingredient quality matters more than the marketing on the bag (and why “human grade” is a non-negotiable).✨ The difference between real preventive care and the “wellness” most pets get at annual checkups.✨ How transparency from pet food companies should look and the red flags when it’s missing.✨ Why feeding variety is key to a healthy microbiome, nutrient balance, and resilience against disease.✨ The surprising emotional benefits of mealtime joy for your dog. ✨ How intolerance testing can help take the guesswork out of diet decisions.✨ Why the raw food bacteria debate is more nuanced than it seems and what the research really says.✨ How the Feed Real Summit is bringing together pet parents, vets, and industry leaders for practical, immersive learning on canine longevity.RESOURCES:🐾 The Feed Real Summit (Oct 11–12, 2025 in San Diego)DM us on Instagram @integrativepet if you want 20% off your ticket (we have a limited number of coupon codes so come grab yours). 🐾 Real Dog Box Follow Ruby on Instagram: @realdogboxFollow the Feed Real Summit: @feedrealsummitFOLLOW:Follow Dr. Lily: @dr.lilychen@the.unicorn.vetFollow Integrative Pet Wellness Center: @integrativepetSign up for our newsletter for more holistic pet care tips

In this week’s episode, I have the absolute joy of chatting with Dr. Madeleine Browne, a fellow integrative veterinarian and sports medicine expert who’s just as passionate as I am about helping our pets thrive at every stage of life. We dive into one of my favorite topics: how to protect your dog’s joints, starting long before you ever see signs of stiffness or pain. Because here’s the truth… the way your pup plays, moves, and exercises from those wiggly puppy days can shape their mobility for years to come. Dr. Browne shares simple, practical steps you can start right away, from gentle play modifications to fun at-home strengthening exercises, all designed to help your dog avoid heartbreaking conditions like arthritis, cruciate ligament tears, and IVDD (herniated discs). If you’ve ever dreamed of your fur baby trotting happily by your side well into their golden years, this episode is filled with the tools to make that dream a reality. Let’s keep those tails wagging for life 🐶 KEY INSIGHTS:✨ Why mobility matters at every age — and how prevention in puppyhood sets the stage for lifelong joint health.✨ How everyday activities like stairs, zoomies, and jumping off the couch can impact growing joints, and how to make them safer.✨ Why keeping your dog lean is one of the most powerful ways to prevent arthritis and other mobility problems.✨ How “prehab” (rehabilitation exercises started before injury) can strengthen your dog’s core, improve coordination, and lower injury risk.✨ Breed-specific risks you should know — and what to ask your vet about preventing common issues like IVDD or cruciate ligament tears.✨ Simple at-home strengthening exercises, including the “doggy crunch,” to build core stability and protect the spine.✨ How to safely prepare puppies for high-impact activities like hiking, jogging, or agility — and why starting too soon can backfire.✨ And home environment changes (like raised food bowls and non-slip flooring) that can make a big difference for joint protection.RESOURCES:Check out Dr. Madeleine’s educational blog posts on her website for more joint health and mobility tips: Balanced Paws VetFOLLOW:Dr. Madeleine Browne: @balancedpawsvetIntegrative Pet Wellness Center: integrativepet.comIntegrative Pet Wellness Center on Instagram: @integrativepetDr. Lily Chen on Instagram: @dr.lilychen @the.unicorn.vetSign up to our newsletter to get more holistic pet care tips

When Melissa Boland’s dog Henry Clay was diagnosed with cancer, and then she was diagnosed with cancer as well, her world cracked open. What she discovered next lit a fire in her that would change the grooming industry forever. In this episode, I sit down with her to talk about founding 4-Legger, a USDA-certified organic dog shampoo brand, and we dive into a powerful conversation about what’s really hiding in your pet’s grooming products, and how it could be affecting their long-term health. We talk about everything from misleading marketing terms to hidden carcinogens that never even show up on the label. Melissa breaks down what you really need to know about ingredients like “coconut-based” and why most “natural” dog shampoos… aren’t. If you’ve ever assumed that what you’re putting on your dog’s skin is safe, this episode is a must-listen because your dog’s skin is their largest organ. And what goes on it… goes in it. KEY INSIGHTS:✨ How Melissa’s deep soul relationship with her heart dog Henry Clay started her on a mission to change the pet shampoo industry. ✨ How companies like 4-Legger that go through the USDA organic program are required to list all their ingredients giving pet parents real transparency. ✨ How the toxins found in a lot of conventional shampoos build up in our pets bodies and over time can contribute to liver or kidney failure.✨ Are pets with seizures being chronically exposed to neurotoxins through shampoos?✨ The rescue dog whose hair grew back after he got many many therapeutic baths with 4-Legger healing shampoos.✨ How the pet grooming industry is shockingly unregulated and what that means for your dog.✨ What terms like “coconut-derived” or “natural surfactant” really mean (and why they’re a red flag).✨ How a single fragrance on the label can contain up to 500 undisclosed chemicals. ✨ How conventional ingredients like formaldehyde-releasing preservatives can accumulate in your dog’s body over time..✨ How 4-Legger peppermint and tea tree oil shampoo can sometimes be used as a natural alternative to medicated shampoos.✨ And Melissa tells us all about the Pet Shampoo Ingredient Database she created.  RESOURCES:✨Check out the Pet Shampoo Ingredient Database by 4-Legger 👇The Pet Shampoo Database ✨ Download our FREE holistic pet care guides 👇Itchy Pet Action PlanFOLLOW:4-Legger: https://www.4-legger.com/Integrative Pet Wellness Center: https://integrativepet.com/4-Legger: @4leggerzIntegrative Pet Wellness Center: @integrativepetDr. Lily Chen: @dr.lilychen@the.unicorn.vet💌 Sign up for our newsletter to get holistic pet care tips straight to your inbox

In this episode, Shari, a cherished Concierge Member and founder of the Shari's Daycare, and I explore what it really looks like to offer the highest level of care. Shari shares how her daycare model flipped the script on what a day care can be. Think luxury concierge-style services, individualized enrichment, personalized meals, and even a pickup school bus for dogs. Basically it’s like a kindergarten for pets! Shari takes the happiness of each dog seriously—carefully observing their needs, guiding social play, and making sure every pup is an energy match with their friends so everyone’s having a good time. But Shari and I also go deeper into what happens behind the scenes when caretakers are running on empty. We both think back to our experience with a corporate vet practice model that lacked compassion and how we saw firsthand how so many brilliant vet professionals are undervalued. This episode is a beautiful reminder that raising the standard for pets starts by raising our standard for self-care and team care 💫 KEY INSIGHTS:✨ How Shari’s concierge-style daycare model creates emotional safety through individualized support, personalized meals, and carefully curated playgroups.✨ How delivering high-level care means charging in a way that honors the team's time, energy, and expertise.✨ The importance of guiding social play and watching for energy matches—so every dog feels safe and genuinely happy.✨ What both Shari and Lily witnessed working in corporate vet clinics that made them realize something had to change. ✨ And how filling up your own cup and taking a proper break is essential for anyone in a caregiving role. RESOURCES:If you’d like to apply to join Shari’s amazing dog care in South Bay, Los Angeles, just send her an email sharidaycare@icloud.com Please note: The Integrative Pet Wellness Center does offer payment plans through Vet Billing 💸INTRODUCING THE EXCLUSIVE CONCIERGE MEMBERSHIP WITH DR. LILY AND VET TECH DIANNEAre you a pet parent who expects nothing less than exceptional care for your fur baby? Do you want to keep them healthy rather than waiting for them to get sick?And is having access to advanced integrative treatments and both western and holistic options a non-negotiable for you?If that sounds like you, you're exactly who this membership was designed for 💖Doors are now open. Apply to join: https://www.theunicornvet.com/Concierge ✨FOLLOW:Integrative Pet Wellness Center on Instagram: @integrativepetDr. Lily Chen on Instagram: @dr.lilychen@the.unicorn.vetSign up for our newsletter to get pet health care tips & updates

In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Katie Woodley—aka The Natural Pet Doctor—for a heart-opening, science-rich chat on gut health, food sensitivities, chronic skin issues (because the skin always tells a deeper story), and what to do if your dog keeps having diarrhea. Dr. Katie's shift from conventional vet med to holistic gut expert began when her husband was diagnosed with ulcerative colitis, and she realized just how much was missing from the traditional toolbox. That moment sparked a deep dive into holistic healing, and today, she's one of the most sought-after gut health vets in the field. Together, we explore how true healing begins with restoring the gut terrain before big diet changes and how functional testing can finally offer the deeper answers you’ve been searching for (the ones we just can't find with conventional testing alone). So if your pet has been struggling with itchy skin, chronic vomiting, or ongoing diarrhea, and you've tried different diets and supplements and seen multiple vets, and your pup still isn't getting better then this heartfelt, practical episode is for you.KEY INSIGHTS:✨ Why some pets react to even the best fresh food diets—and what that reveals about the underlying gut terrain.✨ The exact tests Dr. Katie runs in every chronic diarrhea or itchy skin case. ✨ Why functional medicine testing speeds up healing and helps avoid burnout from trying the wrong things in the wrong order. ✨ How a study showed puppies fed fresh food early had a lower risk of allergies and itchy skin later in life. ✨ Why digestive enzymes are often the key first step for pets with poor digestion. ✨ How herbs like slippery elm and marshmallow root soothe an inflamed gut and reduce food reactivity. ✨ What “binders” are and how they help detox gently without stressing the body. ✨ Why detoxing too early can backfire when drainage pathways aren’t open—and how to know if your pet is ready. ✨ How to rotate food in a way that strengthens the gut when your pet is ready. ✨ The connection between chronic gut and skin symptoms and deeper issues like heavy metals, mycotoxins (aka mold), and leaky gut. ✨ Why prescription diets weren’t meant to be long-term and how they can lead to nutrient deficiencies. ✨ What it really means to “restore instead of strip” the body and how this flips conventional veterinary thinking. ✨ Why things haven’t worked in the past and how understanding your pet’s gut terrain can change everything. ✨ How emotional stress in humans impacts pets and why you soothing your nervous system is part of their healing too. ✨ And the power of community and support when navigating chronic illness because you don’t have to do this alone. RESOURCES:Dr. Katie’s Gut & Skin Healing Program 👇Better Gut Health BlueprintFREE Masterclass with Dr. Katie 👇Transform Your Pet's Health Naturally: The Blueprint to End Chronic Gut and Skin IssuesFOLLOW:Dr. Katie Woodley:  https://www.thenaturalpetdoctor.com/Dr. Katie’s YouTube: The Natural Pet DoctorDr. Katie Woodley Instagram: @thenaturalpetdoctor Integrative Pet Wellness Center: integrativepet.comIntegrative Pet Wellness Center Instagram: @integrativepetDr. Lily Chen: @dr.lilychen @the.unicorn.vetSign up to our newsletter to get more pet health care tips

It’s our 1-year podcast anniversary! 🎉 And what better way to celebrate than with a real, unfiltered Q&A answering the exact questions pet parents are asking right now. In this special episode, I’m joined by two amazing guests and Concierge Members—Janet and Shari—who open up about their journeys with chronic pet conditions, shifting from a conventional to integrative vet model, and the healing breakthroughs they’ve experienced through holistic care. From cysts that closed without surgery to UTIs resolved without antibiotics to cancer that dissolved without chemo, this episode is filled with the kind of stories that remind you healing is possible. We cover some of the most important questions I hear in practice and online—from flea meds to senior care to vaccine protocols to yeast infections, and whether rectal ozone therapy is really worth the drive (spoiler: it is). Whether you're brand new to holistic care or just want to go deeper, this episode is packed with practical insight, lived experience, and a whole lot of heart.KEY INSIGHTS:✨Why I started this podcast and what shifted for me along the way.✨What holistic medicine actually means and why it’s rooted in science.✨What rectal ozone therapy is, how it works, and why I recommend it weekly.✨How a senior dog healed her cancer without surgery or chemo.✨How a chihuahua, Jinju’s, chronic UTIs cleared up naturally without antibiotics.✨What to do if your pet has Giardia or tapeworms and why you sometimes want to avoid dewormers.✨The rise of parasite resistance and why conventional flea meds might be doing more harm than good.✨Safer, holistic flea prevention strategies that actually work.✨Is once-a-day feeding ideal for large dogs?✨When GI issues mimic Addison’s disease and how to avoid misdiagnosis.✨What it means when your dog has chronic diarrhea but all their tests are “normal”.✨Why yeast overgrowth is often a gut problem, not just a skin issue.✨How I handle rabies vaccine laws, titer testing, and exemption requests.✨How to prioritize care for your senior pet when you’re on a tight budget.✨Why preventative care is more powerful than treating symptoms after the fact. RESOURCES:Ozone therapy, microbiome testing, natural flea treatments, and holistic UTI care:✨ Learn more at Integrative Pet Wellness CenterToppers & fresh food brands I trust:✨Green Juju✨ Solutions Pet Products✨Susan Thixton’s The List (a curated list comparing the top pet food brands)INTRODUCING THE EXCLUSIVE CONCIERGE MEMBERSHIP WITH DR. LILY AND VET TECH DIANNE Are you a pet parent who expects nothing less than exceptional care for your fur baby? Do you want to keep them healthy rather than waiting for them to get sick? And is having access to advanced integrative treatments and both western and holistic options a non-negotiable for you? If that sounds like you, you're exactly who this membership was designed for 💖Doors are now open. Apply to join ✨👇https://www.theunicornvet.com/ConciergeFOLLOW:Integrative Pet Wellness Center on Instagram: @integrativepetDr. Lily Chen on Instagram: @dr.lilychen @the.unicorn.vetSign up for our newsletter to get pet health care tips & updates

This week’s guest is someone I absolutely adore, Shari! 💜 She’s a longtime client, a rockstar in our Concierge Membership, and one of the most open-hearted learners I know. Shari’s story is a reminder that when you stay curious and say yes to growth, amazing things can happen. She started her journey in vet med in the 80s as a kennel assistant. From there? She soaked up everything she could—learning lab work, radiology, even assisting with dentals—and eventually became a veterinary technician, then a beloved practice manager known for her leadership and compassion. But it wasn’t until her dad got sick that she discovered the world of holistic healing. That experience opened her eyes… and later, her heart, to integrative care for pets too. Now she runs a thriving doggy daycare, is deeply committed to her own cat’s preventative care, and brings so much wisdom to everything she does. We talk about the power of saying yes to the next right step, how integrative medicine found her when she was ready, and why being a lifelong learner might be the most magical trait of all. This episode will leave you feeling hopeful, inspired, and totally in love with Shari’s story 💫KEY INSIGHTS:✨ Why taking care of your vet team is the real secret to a thriving practice and how Shari’s leadership style led to a standing ovation from a roundtable of vets.✨ The moment she realized conventional protocols weren’t enough for her own pet, and why she started searching for deeper answers. ✨ How our pets mirror our own physical and emotional health more than we realize.✨ A few ways vet practices can take care of their teams at a deeper level and create a culture of kindness and belonging. ✨ Why meditation and stress reduction is so powerful for healing. ✨ And how the Concierge Membership inspired Shari not only to support Miley’s health on another level... but start prioritizing her own well-being too.RESOURCES:If you’d like to apply to join Shari’s amazing dog care in South Bay, Los Angeles, just send her an email sharidaycare@icloud.com INTRODUCING THE EXCLUSIVE CONCIERGE MEMBERSHIP WITH DR. LILY AND VET TECH DIANNE Are you a pet parent who expects nothing less than exceptional care for your fur baby? Do you want to keep them healthy rather than waiting for them to get sick? And is having access to advanced integrative treatments and both western and holistic options a non-negotiable for you? If that sounds like you, you're exactly who this membership was designed for 💖Doors are now open. Apply to join ✨👇https://www.theunicornvet.com/ConciergeFOLLOW:Integrative Pet Wellness Center on Instagram: @integrativepetDr. Lily Chen on Instagram: @dr.lilychen @the.unicorn.vetSign up for our newsletter to get pet health care tips & updates

Could this be what’s been missing in your pet’s healing journey? Okay, pet parents… this might be the most unexpectedly fascinating episode we’ve ever recorded. Yes, we’re talking about poop 💩. But not just any poop. We're talking about fecal microbiota transplants (FMT), a powerful healing therapy that’s helping pets recover from chronic disease, regulate their immune system, and even change their behavior. If your dog struggles with chronic vomiting, diarrhea, allergies, or itching and nothing seems to work this episode might open a whole new door. In this episode, I sit down with our incredible vet assistant Mickie for part two of our candid conversation on holistic healing. We dive deep into how I got started with fecal transplants and where we think this is going. Imagine a future where we can select specific strains of bacteria to target specific diseases. Where you can personalize a transplant like you would a supplement blend, mixing and matching strains to target a specific health challenge. Come along as we explore where the fascinating world of microbiome healing is heading, because this might just be the future of medicine, and your pet deserves to be at the forefront of it. KEY INSIGHTS:✨ How a pet parent’s research led to Dr. Lily’s very first fecal transplant and the results that blew her mind. ✨ The origin of Dr. Lily’s now-trademarked Balanced Biome protocol (hint: it involved a lot of trial and error). ✨ Why poop from the right donor can reset a pet’s immune system, behavior, and digestion. ✨ The real reason fresh poop works better than powder and how we're thinking of building our own poop bank of super-donors.✨ What the future of microbiome therapy could look like: personalized blends of specific strains to treat disease. ✨ And why you shouldn’t wait until your pet is sick—microbiome therapy is a powerful preventive tool too. Download any of our free resources: ⁠Itchy Pet Action Plan ⁠⁠The Preventative Testing Guide That Can Help Your Pet Live (Almost) Forever⁠⁠The Step-By-Step Pet Detox Guide ⁠FOLLOW:Mickie's IG: ⁠@mickiecurtice⁠Integrative Pet Wellness Center: ⁠https://integrativepet.com⁠Integrative Pet Wellness Center on Instagram: ⁠@integrativepet⁠Dr. Lily Chen on Instagram: ⁠@dr.lilychen⁠ ⁠@the.unicorn.vet ⁠⁠Sign up⁠ to our newsletter to get more holistic pet care tips

In this episode, I sit down with one of our incredible vet assistants, Mickie, for a fun and refreshingly candid conversation about what it really looks like to go from total skeptic to full on believer in holistic medicine. When Mickie first joined us as an extern, she didn’t hold back—she was questioning everything from acupuncture to fecal transplants to crystals (especially the unicorn one 😅). But what she experienced behind the scenes changed everything. Mickie opens up about the pet patient that cracked her heart wide open and why she now believes that we’ve been conditioned to trust pharmaceuticals without questioning side effects—while dismissing holistic care that’s been used for thousands of years. This episode is about unlearning what we’ve been taught. About realizing that suppressing symptoms isn’t the same as healing. And about the power of keeping an open mind—because when we do, we just might witness something miraculous. This is a must-listen for any pet parent who’s been curious about  holistic medicine but isn’t sure what to believe.✨ Why Mickie was completely against holistic medicine at first and what finally changed her mind.✨ What happened when she watched a dog with Cushings fully heal with microbiome therapy, nanolight therapy, and acupuncture. ✨ Why she thought acupuncture was nonsense… until she saw it work. ✨ How we can use a pendulum to figure out where an animal is holding pain is when we can’t pick it up on an exam. ✨ What conventional vet training gets wrong about healing, and why so many good techs and vets feel stuck in a system that doesn’t fix the root cause. ✨ The emotional toll of working in veterinary care and how our team culture at Integrative Pet Wellness Centre helps us show up with empathy and presence. ✨ What pet parents should look for when choosing a veterinary team and why team dynamic matters more than you think. ✨ Why individualized care will always create greater results than “standard” protocols (even the “gold standard” ones).  Download any of our free resources: Itchy Pet Action Plan The Preventative Testing Guide That Can Help Your Pet Live (Almost) ForeverThe Step-By-Step Pet Detox Guide FOLLOW:Mickie's IG: @mickiecurticeIntegrative Pet Wellness Center: https://integrativepet.comIntegrative Pet Wellness Center on Instagram: @integrativepetDr. Lily Chen on Instagram: @dr.lilychen @the.unicorn.vet Sign up to our newsletter to get more holistic pet care tips

This week, I’m joined by Dr. Tina Hansen (aka the Purple Vet), an integrative veterinarian from Norway with a global perspective and a huge heart for real nutrition. She’s worked with animals all over the world, from the UK to South Africa to the Caribbean to Argentina to Zimbabwe, and what she’s seen will make you rethink everything you thought you knew about pet food. In this episode, we dive into why some of the healthiest animals she’s treated aren’t eating premium kibble at all… and why ultra-processed food may be contributing to the chronic issues we see in pets today. Tina breaks down how to start feeding fresh without overwhelm, when raw food makes sense (and when it might not), and how nutrition can literally transform allergy, autoimmune, and gut cases…sometimes when nothing else has worked. This conversation is packed with insights that simplify pet care. Let’s jump in! KEY INSIGHTS:Dr. Tina shares her incredible experiences treating pets and wildlife across the globe from South Africa to Argentina to remote Caribbean islands. Why chronic disease was practically nonexistent in certain parts of lower income countries where kibble prices were super high. Why feeding fresh food (even scraps!) often creates better health outcomes than expensive ultra-processed diets. How pets might have a harder time absorbing synthetic vitamins in kibble than nutrients from whole food. Why medications like steroids and antibiotics should be a last resort not the first line of care and how it makes it much harder for the pet to heal in the long term. How nutrition can be the single most powerful healing tool (when used correctly!)How raw feeding can be done safely and simply even for beginners. Why we need to rethink the “standard of care” in conventional vet medicine and how ignoring the root cause can cause more harm than good. How a hair mineral analysis can give you deeper insight into your pet’s health.  Why early nutrition and lifestyle support can prevent years of struggle. And a gentle reminder: Vets are under huge pressure to do it all and they really are trying their best. RESOURCES:You can access Dr. Tina (aka the Purple Vet’s) amazing free resources and courses for pet parents 💜👇Purple Vet CoursesFOLLOW:Dr. Tina: @purple.vet Purple Vet: https://www.purple.vet/Integrative Pet Wellness Center: https://integrativepet.comIntegrative Pet Wellness Center on Instagram: @integrativepetDr. Lily Chen on Instagram: @dr.lilychen @the.unicorn.vet Sign up to our newsletter to get more holistic pet care tips

In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Edward Bassingthwaighte, aka The Healing Vet, to explore one of the most fascinating (and sometimes misunderstood) topics in animal care: energy healing. Dr. Edward shares his deeply personal journey from working in conventional vet hospitals to creating his own method of intuitive bodywork and energy healing to being forced to heal himself from Lyme disease and chronic fatigue when western medicine failed. We talk about how therapeutic touch helped him relieve pain and trauma in animals, and why your emotional state directly affects your pet’s well-being, something I know many of us have felt in our bones. He opens up about telepathic communication with animals (yep, it's a thing), what it’s like to connect with pets across the globe via Zoom, and how every single one of us can tap into our own healing abilities to help our pets. If you've ever wondered if your pet would benefit from energy healing or body work this episode is for you. KEY INSIGHTS:How Dr. Edward’s own health crisis led him to develop the Whole Energy Body Balance Method. How animals taught him how to heal with touch. How you can support your pet with anxiety, trauma, or pain through bodywork. A wild story about a rescue dog who kept running away… until one energy healing session changed everything. The truth about pets “mirroring” your emotions (and how to help them by healing yourself). The one daily grounding practice every pet parent should do, for their sake and their pets. How Dr. Edward learnt a technique to help horses who are lame walk again. How to spot common signs of stress in your cat or dog.What it means if your pet doesn’t seem to have the ability to learn. And how you can take Dr. Edward’s course and learn to do energy work on your own pet. RESOURCES:Want to learn Dr. Edward’s healing techniques? Check out his courses WholeEnergyBodyBalance.com FOLLOW:Dr. Edward: @the_healing_vetDr. Edward’s holistic vet practice TheHealingVet.com Integrative Pet Wellness Center: https://integrativepet.comIntegrative Pet Wellness Center on Instagram: @integrativepetDr. Lily Chen on Instagram: @dr.lilychen @the.unicorn.vet Sign up to our newsletter to get more holistic pet care tips

This week, we’re having a conversation that doesn’t get nearly enough airtime but impacts almost every pet parent at some point. I’m joined by Suzanne Cannon, founder of VetBilling, for a powerful and honest discussion about the money side of vet care and how we can make it less stressful, less overwhelming, and way more compassionate for everyone involved. Suzanne shares the personal story that inspired her to create VetBilling after experiencing firsthand what it’s like to be a loving, responsible pet parent who suddenly couldn’t afford care. Since then, she’s helped thousands of families access the treatment their pets need by partnering with clinics to offer flexible, judgment-free payment plans. We talk about the big difference between credit-based financing options like CareCredit, Scratchpay, or the All Pet Card and how VetBilling offers a completely different path, one that puts the relationship first and removes the fear of being denied based on a credit score. We also get into how VetBilling compares to pet insurance, and why, despite its growing popularity, insurance alone often isn’t enough to cover emergency or unexpected costs. If you’ve ever worried about how to afford vet care, want to feel prepared for the unexpected, or if you’re a veterinary professional trying to make it easier for your clients then this episode is a must-listen. KEY INSIGHTS:Why so many pet parents stay silent about financial concerns and how subtle hints often go unnoticed in the exam room.The emotional cost of care and why affordability isn’t just about price, it’s about flexibility and dignity.How clinics can create a “financially friendly ethos” with simple passive education (like social posts, brochures, and signage).The difference between someone who can’t afford care and someone who just needs time to pay.The psychology behind how we make financial decisions under stress and how that affects pet parents in emergency situations.Why CareCredit isn’t the right fit for everyone and how VetBilling fills the gap with human-first, clinic-controlled financing.How pet insurance works, why it’s not always enough, and how pairing it with a payment plan can make care much more accessible.Why it’s time to bring the same compassion we show during treatment to the financial side of care too.How VetBilling has helped thousands of families access care they would have otherwise had to decline.How Pumpkin Pet Insurance could be a game changer for pet parents. And we explore how our fur babies really are our babies (and that’s why we’d do anything for them). RESOURCES:We do offer payment plans through VetBilling for our clients at the Integrative Pet Wellness Center 💖And if you’re a vet and you’d like to implement this for your practise or you're a pet parent who wants to suggest this to your vet here is the VetBilling website 👇https://vetbilling.com/You can also find Suzanne’s free CE course on becoming a financially friendly clinic herehttps://www.introvetce.com/overcoming-barriersFOLLOW:VetBilling: @vetbillingIntegrative Pet Wellness Center: https://integrativepet.comIntegrative Pet Wellness Center on Instagram: @integrativepetDr. Lily Chen on Instagram: @dr.lilychen @the.unicorn.vet Sign up to our newsletter to get more holistic pet care tips

This episode is a little woo… and a lot groundbreaking. We’re talking about magic mushrooms for pets. In Part 2 of my conversation with integrative vet and medicinal mushroom expert Dr. Rob Silver, we explore how psilocybin (the compound in psychedelic mushrooms) could offer new hope for pets with anxiety, PTSD, and trauma-based behavioral issues. Dr. Silver shares the story of his own rescue dog Ollie, who struggles with PTSD after early-life trauma, and what happened when he began microdosing him using small amounts of psilocybin. We unpack how this controversial yet promising compound is being used with humans in clinical therapy, and what it might mean for our animal companions. We also dive into the emotional root of chronic illness, how trauma manifests physically, and why being open to the “woo” might actually be the scientific edge we need. If you’ve ever wondered about magic mushrooms for pets this episode is for you. KEY INSIGHTS:What psilocybin is, how it works, and how therapists are using it to help humans with PTSD, anxiety, and depression. The difference between high-dose psychedelic use and microdosing and why Dr. Silver sees potential for microdosing in veterinary care. The story of Ollie, Dr. Silver’s rescue dog, and how he’s taking psilocybin for PTSD. How the Canine Microdosing Project is exploring psilocybin’s potential therapeutic benefits for pets.Why it’s time we take emotional trauma in pets more seriously, and how behavior labeled as “anxiety” could actually be trauma adaptation. How Dr. Silver wants to develop safe dosing protocols before broader use. Why Dr. Lily believes emotional healing is just as important as physical treatment, and how trauma shows up in the body. How an animal communicator could help you get inside your pets mind and understand what they’re thinking. And how your pet could apply to join the Canine Microdosing Project. RESOURCES:Learn more about the canine microdosing project: Canine Microdosing ProjectGrab Dr. Rob Silver’s book: ⁠There's A Mushroom For That!⁠Shop vet-quality mushroom supplements at ⁠Real Mushrooms⁠Use the code DRCHEN at checkout to get 20% off any Real Mushrooms products for pets FOLLOW:Dr. Rob Silver:⁠⁠ @docrobsilver⁠⁠Dr. Rob Silver: ⁠Well Pet Dispensary⁠Integrative Pet Wellness Center: ⁠https://integrativepet.com⁠Integrative Pet Wellness Center on Instagram: ⁠@integrativepet⁠Dr. Lily Chen on Instagram: ⁠@dr.lilychen⁠ ⁠@the.unicorn.vet ⁠⁠Sign up to our newsletter to get more holistic pet care tips

In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Rob Silver an integrative vet to unpack one of the hottest topics in pet wellness right now: mushrooms. Dr. Rob is a true pioneer when it comes to using medicinal mushrooms to help pets heal and in this episode, we talk about how mushrooms can support pets facing cognitive decline, cancer (in particular hemangiosarcoma), allergies, Cushing’s, and boost overall immunity. We also dive into the red flags to watch out for when choosing a medicinal mushroom product, and what to look for if you want the real deal. If you’ve ever been curious about whether medicinal mushrooms could help your pet, this episode is definitely for you. KEY INSIGHTS:✨ Why you should never feed mushrooms raw and why chopping them small helps your pet absorb all their benefits. ✨ How the medicinal mushroom cordyceps is a beautiful support for kidney health and should be a part of every cat's preventative care. ✨ How lion’s mane mushroom supports both cognitive function and gut health.  ✨ How turkey tail can be a powerful ally for dogs with hemangiosarcoma. ✨ How reishi and chaga mushrooms act like natural antihistamines for pets with allergies.✨ How scientific research shows that button mushrooms (yes, the common kind!) have anti-cancer and brain boosting effects. ✨ Why shiitake mushrooms are so revered and how there are even injectable cancer treatments made from them in Asia.  ✨ Why lion’s mane might be the secret weapon for aging pets with signs of cognitive decline. ✨ How mycelium-based products may look the same on the outside but contain fewer active compounds—and can slow results. ✨ Why giving medicinal mushrooms a few weeks before your puppy or kitten’s titer test can strengthen their immune response. ✨ And we’ll Introduce you to Dr. Rob’s book: There’s A Mushroom For That—your go-to guide for using functional mushrooms to support your pet’s health. RESOURCES:Grab Dr. Rob Silver’s book: There's A Mushroom For That!Shop vet-quality mushroom supplements at Real MushroomsUse the code DRCHEN at checkout to get 20% off any Real Mushrooms products for pets FOLLOW:Integrative Pet Wellness Center: https://integrativepet.comIntegrative Pet Wellness Center on Instagram: @integrativepetDr. Lily Chen on Instagram: @dr.lilychen @the.unicorn.vet Dr. Rob Silver: @docrobsilverSign up to our newsletter to get more holistic pet care tips

In this deeply inspiring episode, I’m joined by the brilliant and truly one-of-a-kind Dr. Meghan Barrett—a holistic veterinarian, sound healer, and musician based in Honolulu, Hawaii. We talk about everything from harp music for horses to how tuning forks can do more than calm the nervous system—they can actually help move fluid, soften tight fascia, and support physical healing when needles aren’t tolerated. Dr. Meghan shares how she uses sound therapy with zoo animals, cows, and anxious dogs alike—and how even small changes in sound and environment can create big shifts in an animal’s healing. We also explore why most vet clinics (though well-intentioned) are often too loud, chaotic, and clinical for true healing to occur—especially for pets dealing with chronic inflammation. Sound, she reminds us, is a nutrient for the nervous system—and when used intentionally, it can elevate every modality we already use, from acupuncture and rehab to simple daily care at home. Whether you’re a devoted pet parent or a fellow vet—this episode will expand how you think about sound as a healing modality. KEY INSIGHTS:How the environment in most vet clinics is noisy, smells like fear, and overwhelms sensitive animals.How pets cannot fully heal if their environment keeps them in fight-or-flight. How acupuncture and other therapies have a totally different level of effectiveness depending on whether the animal feels safe and relaxed or stressed and shut down—and how noise pollution in regular vet clinics can lead to less effective acupuncture sessions.How holistic care isn’t “woo”—it’s whole-body care, supporting both the physical and emotional side, and more pet parents than ever are seeking vets who truly understand that.How a simple “noise audit” in your home can reveal overstimulation you may have tuned out—and allow you to fix that for your pet.How consciously introducing nervous-system-regulating sounds (like ambient music, sound bowls, or gentle lullaby music) can create a healing field at home.The science behind sound as medicine: every cell in the body vibrates, and sound helps return the body to resonance and harmony.How tuning forks aren’t just a professional tool—pet parents can learn to use them at home. And how you can access Dr. Meghan’s calming music for pets on YouTube—designed specifically to soothe and regulate.RESOURCES:Find calming music for your pet on Dr. Meghan’s YouTube channel Learn more about Dr. Meghan’s healing work and upcoming course → www.drbarrettvet.comGet Dr. Meghan’s book From Basic To Bougie: A Blueprint To Upgrade Your Pet’s Diet Safely And Simply FOLLOW:Integrative Pet Wellness Center: https://integrativepet.com/On Instagram: @integrativepetDr. Lily Chen: @dr.lilychen @the.unicorn.vetDr. Meghan Barrett: @drbarrettvet

This week, I’m joined once again by the deeply wise and generous Dr. Nell—veterinarian, beloved teacher, and acupuncture wizard. In Part 2 of our conversation, we explore the magic of acupuncture for our animal patients. From kidney disease and seizures to tummy troubles, diabetes, and even Cushing’s... Dr. Nell gently walks us through how this ancient healing art can offer support when conventional medicine sometimes reaches its limits. If you’ve ever found yourself wondering, Could acupuncture help my pet?—this conversation is such a beautiful place to begin. KEY INSIGHTS:How acupuncture isn’t just for pain—it is powerful medicine for chronic diseases like kidney issues, GI imbalances, seizures, pancreatitis, and hormonal dysregulation.How acupuncture improves circulation, balances the nervous system, and helps regulate complex conditions like diabetes and Cushing’s.Why idiopathic conditions (aka the ones with no clear Western cause) often respond wonderfully to acupuncture and herbal support.The beauty of working with patterns of imbalance instead of waiting on a definitive diagnosis.And how Chinese medicine and conventional care don’t have to compete—they actually work best together.RESOURCES:Finding a vet who does acupuncture: Ask your vet if they know of a vet who does acupuncture you could add to your team. Google.Check out these directories 👇American Academy of Veterinary AcupuncturistsChi University College of Integrative Veterinary Therapies  FOLLOW:Integrative Pet Wellness Center: ⁠https://integrativepet.com/⁠Integrative Pet Wellness Center on Instagram: @integrativepetDr. Lily Chen on Instagram: @dr.lilychenDr. Nell Ostermeier: @people.and.pet