Your Natural Dog with Angela Ardolino - Formerly It's A Dog's Life

In this episode of Your Natural Dog with Angela Ardolino, we’re joined by guest Teri DiMarino, award-winning professional groomer of over 50 years, and we’re pulling back the curtain on the pet grooming industry. Angela and Teri talk about why so many pet parents struggle to find a groomer they trust, why the grooming industry is almost completely unregulated, what actually happens when you drop your dog off “for just a few hours,” and how to know if your dog is safe behind those salon doors. They get into hot-button topics like matted doodles, seniors and special-needs dogs, shaving double-coated breeds, anal glands, ear plucking, cage dryers, pricing, tipping, and why honest communication with your groomer can literally protect your dog. Teri also explains the standards of care, safety, and sanitation she’s helped create for groomers, and what questions you should be asking before you book your next grooming appointment.Episode Recap:Angela opens the episode discussing the common struggle to find a pet groomer you trust, and her past experience owning a grooming salon. (00:50)Teri shares her 52-year career in pet grooming and why pet parents often struggle to find a groomer they connect with (02:40)They discuss why licensing doesn’t necessarily stop bad groomers, but regulation and accountability can help protect both groomers and pet parents. (05:40)Teri explains how the Standards of Care, Safety, and Sanitation were developed by multiple grooming organizations to set best practices for safe, clean salons,  and how these standards are now recognized worldwide. (09:30)Teri explains why some dogs have incidents in salons, often due to hidden health conditions or misinformation from owners, and how accountability should work both ways. (13:55)Teri breaks down the difference between licensing, certification, and registration, and the misconceptions pet owners often have about what each means. (17:00)Teri and Angela remind pet parents to always be honest with groomers, explaining that lying about biting, brushing, or matting can cause injuries, legal issues, and unnecessary suffering for the dog. (21:00)Angela and Teri tackle the “to shave or not to shave” debate, explaining why shaving double-coated breeds doesn’t keep them cool and can actually damage the coat (28:40)Teri explains the debate around ear plucking, encouraging groomers to take a conservative approach, only clearing the ear canal when needed, keeping ears clean and dry, and referring severe cases to a vet. (39:57)Teri and Angela emphasize the groomer’s vital role in spotting early health issues, urging pet parents to trust their groomer, and tip generously (46:04)Angela and Teri discuss client misunderstandings, false reviews, and lawsuits in the grooming industry (50:30)They wrap up the episode with a brief touch on responsible vaccination practices, microchipping, and due diligence in animal rescue. (57:26)Episode Resources:Download Angela’s Holistic Groomer Checklist for Pet Parents & more at AngelaArdolino.com/podcast-downloadsThe California Professional Pet Groomers Association, Inc.World Alliance of Grooming Associations Inc.Have a question about your pet that you want answered on the podcast? Email us at Carter@yournaturaldog.com Sign up for episode reminders and updates from Your Natural Dog with Angela ArdolinoVisit Angela Ardolino’s website for more holistic pet health education: www.AngelaArdolino.comFollow Your Natural Dog on Facebook and Instagram and if you want to see what Angela is up to, follow her on Facebook or join our CBD & Holistic Pet Advice Facebook Group.

On this episode of Your Natural Dog, Angela sits down with Dr. Margo Roman, a veterinarian with over 47 years in practice, to talk about what the veterinary oath really means, and what happens when vets try to speak openly about holistic or integrative pet care. Dr. Roman shares how her Massachusetts veterinary license was suspended for two years after she emailed clients about ozone and homeopathic options, which she’s now appealing to the U.S. Supreme Court after losing at the state level. Angela and Dr. Roman also discuss why they believe “do no harm” requires a fuller toolbox: acupuncture, microbiome work, ozone, nutrition, herbs, and the importance of ongoing education after vet school. The conversation looks at how policies, liability fears, and funding ties can discourage open discussion of holistic pet care. They also cover the “spectrum of care” model for real-world budgets, the debate over rabies titers and vaccine exemptions, why gut health is foundational, and practical ways pet parents can stay informed and advocate for more options.Episode Recap:Angela tees up free speech, the veterinarian’s oath, and why Dr. Roman’s case matters to pet parents. (00:08)The Veterinarian’s Oath, and how it extends beyond what’s taught in school. (03:15)Dr. Roman describe the lack of options being offered to pet parents by conventional veterinarians, and they discuss the declining numbers of holistic veterinarians. (04:49)Why continuing your veterinary education, from acupuncture to microbiome science, is essential to the “do no harm” oath, and how ignoring proven alternative modalities amounts to denying care.(07:55)Angela shares her experience getting an FDA letter and the pressure to stay silent about holistic education and testimonials. (10:12)Dr. Roman shares the story of her horse with cancer, Champ, who she was told to euthanize, but instead lived for over 8 more years under her care using homeopathy, acupuncture, nutrition, and later ozone therapy. When she tried to show the university her results, they refused to look. (11:50)The pandemic, recommending ozone therapy,  and the veterinary board’s response. (13:31)Introduction to “Spectrum of Care” for clients who can’t afford gold-standard workups. (15:46)How corporate and government control often limits access to natural options, the vital role of the gut microbiome and the endocannabinoid system, and how mushrooms and hemp have long supported balance in both humans and animals. (17:40)Dr. Roman describes the financial and emotional toll of defending her right to practice integrative medicine, including spending over a million dollars and facing ongoing board harassment. She explains how officials dismiss modalities like acupuncture and ozone therapy without ever studying them, and calls for accountability and open-mindedness among regulators who condemn what they don’t understand. (20:10)Dr. Roman argues that forcing veterinarians to vaccinate animals who are already immune or medically fragile goes against the veterinary oath, and shares her own experience with Rabies vaccination and antibody testing (22:43)Being your pet’s advocate, what Dr. Roman is working on now, plus ways to support her mission (30:09)Episode Resources:Download Angela’s resources & guides at AngelaArdolino.com/podcast-downloadsThe Veterinarian’s OathDr. Roman’s Urgent Call for Veterinarians to Uphold their Oath and her Medical Freedom For Animals Legal FundDr. Margo Roman v. Board of Registration in Veterinary Medicine, Massachusetts Supreme Judicial CourtDr. Roman’s Veterinary Practice Main Street Animal Services of HopkintonFollow Dr. Roman & MASH on Twitter, Facebook,and InstagramHave a question about your pet that you want answered on the podcast? Email us at Carter@yournaturaldog.com Sign up for episode reminders and updates from Your Natural Dog with Angela ArdolinoVisit Angela Ardolino’s website for more holistic pet health education: www.AngelaArdolino.comFollow Your Natural Dog on Facebook and Instagram and if you want to see what Angela is up to, follow her on Facebook or join our CBD & Holistic Pet Advice Facebook Group.

On this episode of Your Natural Dog with Angela Ardolino, Angela chats with Lauren Becks, founder of Girls Gone Raw, about the bones and chews showing up on “raw bars” everywhere and how to tell the clean from the questionable. Lauren shares what real, species-appropriate chews should look and smell like, why bright white bones and bright colors raise flags, and how vague labels can hide flavor sprays and bleaching. We dig into sourcing that actually means something, from small farms and traceable supply to why organs like liver and kidney require extra care and modest portions. Lauren explains bone safety in plain terms, including raw versus cooked, temps that change collagen, and why heavy weight-bearing bones can break teeth or splinter. We also cover smoked bones, whole-prey benefits, and matching chews to your dog’s style so power chewers stay safe. Join Angela and Lauren for practical shopping tips, smarter choices at the treat bar, and a straightforward way to feed closer to nature without the junk.Episode Recap:The overwhelming amount of options we have when it comes to dog chews and pet treats, and how to recognize additives, preservatives, and misleading appearances. (02:33)Loopholes in labeling regulations when it comes to chews, and why pet parents must look deeper than just the ingredient list. (04:07)The critical role of sourcing and why integrity in choosing farms and suppliers makes or breaks a product. (07:04)The challenges small pet businesses face, balancing ethical sourcing, costs, and sustainability. (09:15)How personal experiences with their pet’s diagnoses led both Angela and Lauren to dig deeper into ingredients, sourcing, and natural approaches to restore balance and support long-term wellness. (14:04)Shortcuts and additives may look cheaper upfront, but investing in clean, biologically appropriate food and holistic care saves pets (and people) from bigger costs and health struggles later. (21:30)Why biologically appropriate diets matter: from whole prey to raw bones, dogs and cats thrive on food closer to what they’d eat in nature. (24:49)Why whole food, whole plant, and whole prey approaches always outperform isolates or overly processed products. (32:34)Safe, minimally processed chews and bones (like meaty or fur-on options) not only avoid the risks of bleached or smoked products but also give dogs natural enrichment that engages their senses and instincts. (39:12)Episode Resources:Download Angela’s Additives to Avoid and other resources at AngelaArdolino.com/podcast-downloadsSign up for the Girls Gone Raw Carnivore Crate - Don’t miss our collaboration with GGR for their October Box!Shop Girls Gone Raw with code YND10 for 10% OffFollow Girls Gone Raw on TikTok, Facebook,and InstagramHave a question about your pet that you want answered on the podcast? Email us at Carter@yournaturaldog.com Sign up for episode reminders and updates from Your Natural Dog with Angela ArdolinoVisit Angela Ardolino’s website for more holistic pet health education: www.AngelaArdolino.comFollow Your Natural Dog on Facebook and Instagram and if you want to see what Angela is up to, follow her on Facebook or join our CBD & Holistic Pet Advice Facebook Group.

In this episode of Your Natural Dog with Angela Ardolino, Angela and Carter sit down with Dr. Joel Ehrenzweig, veterinarian, researcher, and founder of Veterinary Health Research Centers — to talk about the groundbreaking Senior Dog Study they’ve been running together for the past year. Dr. Ehrenzweig shares why he shifted from a strictly pharmaceutical approach to fully embracing natural medicine late in his career. Angela, Carter and Dr. Ehrenzweig discuss how the Senior Dog Study is helping to validate what holistic practitioners have known for years: that functional mushrooms and natural adaptogens can potentially make a real difference in cognitive health, quality of life, and emotional connection for senior dogs.If you have an aging pup and have ever been told “there’s nothing we can do,” this episode will give you hope, real data, and real-life stories showing that there are options. Learn more about the Senior Dog Study. Episode RecapLaunching the Senior Dog Study – Carter shares how they recruited a diverse group of senior dogs experiencing cognitive decline—many from families who believed they had no options left—then tracked behavior, activity, and sleep to build a data-backed picture of progress over the course of the study. (00:31)Validating Centuries of Natural Medicine – Angela shares how rescuing senior dogs inspired her to prove that natural approaches—real food, hemp, mushrooms, and adaptogens—can help aging pets thrive without relying on pharmaceutical “longevity drugs.” Dr. Ehrenzweig reflects on his shift from a strictly pharmaceutical mindset, describing how client feedback opened his eyes to alternative options and why he was intrigued to join this groundbreaking study. (02:46)Rethinking Canine Cognitive Decline – Dr. Ehrenzweig explains why a CCD diagnosis shouldn’t be seen as “the end” for senior dogs, noting that it develops gradually and shares many similarities with human dementia and Alzheimer’s. He describes the challenge of studying such a complex condition and the promise of finding better options beyond pharmaceuticals. Dr. Joel expresses hope that demonstrating improvement in dogs could pave the way for better, more natural options for humans facing cognitive decline in the future. (08:10)The Power of Whole-Plant Medicine & Synergy – Angela shares why her mission is to create pure, whole-plant and mushroom formulas rather than isolated compounds, emphasizing that nature’s ingredients work best together. Combining adaptogens like Lion’s Mane, Reishi, Cordyceps, Ashwagandha, and Bacopa Monnieri creates a synergistic effect—targeting multiple aspects of cognitive decline and delivering the results seen in the Senior Dog Study. (11:55)Measuring the Impact of Mushrooms & Adaptogens on CCD – Carter explains how the synergistic blend of Lion’s Mane, Reishi, Cordyceps, Ashwagandha, and Bacopa Monnieri for dogs was designed to address multiple aspects of cognitive decline, from calming the nervous system to supporting neuroprotection and brain oxygenation. To capture these effects, the team used detailed questionnaires and scoring systems to track behaviors like nighttime waking, disorientation, and social engagement—finding that while every dog’s response is different, the combination consistently improved quality of life across a wide range of cases.(14:44)Recognizing the First Signs of CCD – Dr. Joel explains that one of the earliest and most telling signs of canine cognitive decline is a shift in sleep patterns—dogs sleeping more during the day, then pacing or appearing restless at night. With wearable collars, pet parents, and researchers, can now track movement and sleep 24/7, giving an objective view of these changes. (20:01)Real-Life Transformations from Mushrooms & Adaptogens – Angela shares moving stories of senior dogs who were scheduled for euthanasia but experienced dramatic turnarounds after starting on these mushrooms & adaptogens—regaining mobility, focus, and connection with their families in just days. Dr. Joel, a seasoned veterinary researcher with over 15 years of experience, admits he had never seen natural ingredients work this quickly and effectively, reinforcing just how extraordinary these study results have been. (26:22)Beyond Anecdotes, Real Evidence from the Senior Dog Study – Carter and Dr. Joel emphasize that the Senior Dog Study is more than just testimonials. By combining real-time collar data that tracks sleep, wake cycles, and activity with caregiver questionnaires and even blood biomarkers like BDNF and CRP, they’ve created an objective, data-backed picture of how dogs are responding. Dr. Joel notes that even when improvements vary, simply slowing decline can be a meaningful win for families — and in many cases, the results are dramatic, with dogs showing better engagement, calmer behavior, and restored quality of life. (32:42)Episode Resources:The Study: Prospective Evaluation of a Mushroom Derived Nutraceutical in Dogs with Cognitive DeclineLearn more about the Senior Dog StudyWant to be a part of the Senior Dog Study? More on Mushrooms & Adaptogens for Canine Cognitive DysfunctionVeterinary Health Research CentersDownload Angela’s Resources at AngelaArdolino.com/podcast-downloadsHave a question about your pet that you want answered on the podcast? Email us at Carter@yournaturaldog.com Visit Angela Ardolino’s website for more holistic pet health education: www.AngelaArdolino.comFollow Your Natural Dog on Facebook and Instagram and if you want to see what Angela is up to, follow her on Facebook or join our CBD & Holistic Pet Advice Facebook Group.

On this episode of Your Natural Dog with Angela Ardolino, Angela sits down with Kim Rogers, CEO and co-founder of RogersHood Apothecary—better known online as the Worm Queen. After decades in Western medicine and a personal health spiral, Kim built a gentle, herb-forward cleansing protocol that went viral. We dig into how parasites are picked up, the real-world pet ↔ human connection (shared environments and microbiomes), and why effective detox is more than “kill”—it’s open drainage, support organs, then bind. Kim breaks down common culprits (roundworm, tapeworm, giardia, pinworm), the role of biofilms, and why tinctures can be cleaner and more bioavailable than powders with fillers. Join Angela and Kim for a practical, non-alarmist guide to keeping both you and your animals safer with smart hygiene, cleaner products, and periodic, thoughtful cleansing.Episode Recap:Kim Rogers - the Worm Queen, and going viral on TikTok (00:46)Kim’s backstory: Western medicine → holistic detox (04:00)Nature knows best - Reconnecting with nature as the original medicine (08:06)Kim’s journey in creating the ParaFy Kit (14:25)Deworming yourself & your pets - How pets & humans share exposures (17:43) Toxoplasma gondii & other common cat & dog parasites (19:06) Parasite cleanse: protocols for humans & pets (25:24)Tinctures vs. powders: unnecessary additives, absorption & label literacy (28:10)The prevalence of synthetics and isolates, even in the holistic world (33:10)Advocate for yourself and your animals (37:43)Kim’s Detox Protocol with her ParaFy Kit (41:30)Diatomaceous Earth for Parasites (47:06)Where to learn more about Kim Rogers, Worm Queen (51:17)Episode Resources:Download Angela’s Pet Wellness Guides & Resources at AngelaArdolino.com/downloadsGet 10% OFF The ParaFy Kit & more at RogersHood Apothecary with code NATURALDOGFollow Kim Rogers on TikTok, Facebook, Instagram, and YouTubeHave a question about your pet that you want answered on the podcast? Email us at Carter@yournaturaldog.com Sign up for episode reminders and updates from Your Natural Dog with Angela ArdolinoVisit Angela Ardolino’s website for more holistic pet health education: www.AngelaArdolino.comFollow Your Natural Dog on Facebook and Instagram and if you want to see what Angela is up to, follow her on Facebook 

When it comes to keeping our dogs safe, collars are often the last thing pet parents question — but they can pose hidden dangers. This week on Your Natural Dog, Angela Ardolino is joined by Hilda Castillo-Landrum, founder of Fauna in the Foothills, pet boutique owner, blogger, and passionate advocate for dog breakaway collars. After a terrifying incident with her own Rottweiler, Cooper, Hilda discovered just how common collar strangulation accidents are — and why breakaway collars can truly be lifesaving. In this conversation, Angela and Hilda share their personal stories, explore the risks of traditional collars, and discuss how pet parents can protect their dogs with safer options.Episode Recap:Hilda shares how her Rottweiler Cooper nearly lost his life when his heavy-duty collar got caught on a fence. (00:37)Why collar strangulation incidents happen more often than most pet parents realize, and how they can be fatal without warning. (05:12)How breakaway collars work, why they’re different from cat collars, and how Hilda designed hers for both safety and style. (08:48)The pros and cons of harnesses, martingale collars, and what pet parents should know about pressure on a dog’s neck. (12:55)26,000 cases per year – The staggering number of collar strangulation incidents reported annually in the U.S., and why many more likely go unreported. (16:16) Common causes of collar strangulation in dogs, from catching on kennels, fences, and furniture to playing with other dogs,  (19:36) How Hilda turned her painful experience into a mission to educate others and create safer, customizable breakaway collars. (21:19)Episode Resources:Sign up for Angela’s tips & downloads at AngelaArdolino.com/podcast-downloadsLearn more about Hilda & breakaway collars at Fauna in the Foothills Follow Hilda, and Fauna in the Foothills on Instagram Have a question about your pet that you want answered on the podcast? Email us at Carter@yournaturaldog.com Visit Angela Ardolino’s website for more holistic pet health education: www.AngelaArdolino.comFollow Your Natural Dog on Facebook and Instagram and if you want to see what Angela is up to, follow her on Facebook 

We often focus on food and supplements for our pets—but what about their water? In this episode of Your Natural Dog, Angela Ardolino is joined by holistic pet health coach & educator Bre Drake to dive into an overlooked but essential part of your pet’s wellness: water quality. From filtering contaminants to remineralizing filtered water, Bre and Angela share what pet parents need to know to keep their dogs truly hydrated and healthy. They explore why bottled water isn’t a safe solution, what’s lurking in tap water, and how small changes to your dog’s hydration can make a big difference. Along the way, they discuss how toxin exposure from water—as well as everyday sources including synthetic additives in food, supplements, and grooming products, along with environmental chemicals—can accumulate in pets over time, and share practical tips for supporting your pet naturally.Episode Recap:The shocking number of contaminants in U.S. water systems (01:14)The importance of filtering your home’s water (4:30)Reverse osmosis water filtration, (and why remineralizing is key) (05:09)Hidden risks in “clean” city water and how to avoid them (08:25)Why hydration from food is more natural and effective (11:42)The link between cumulative toxin exposure and rising cancer rates in pets (14:11) Ditching plastic water bottles, bowls and containers for your pet’s health (19:15)How to safely let your dog drink from streams and natural water sources (22:38)Tips for responding to toxin exposure in pets (25:30)Episode Resources:Download Angela’s Tips on Water Filtration & Remineralization and other resources at AngelaArdolino.com/podcast-downloadsLearn more about Bre Drake & Tailswell Health Follow Bre Drake & Tailswell Health on Instagram and YouTube, Have a question about your pet that you want answered on the podcast? Email us at Carter@yournaturaldog.com Visit Angela Ardolino’s website for more holistic pet health education: www.AngelaArdolino.comFollow Your Natural Dog on Facebook and Instagram and if you want to see what Angela is up to, follow her on Facebook 

In this episode of Your Natural Dog with Angela Ardolino, Angela is joined by Kate Mahoney, food-first dietary supplement expert and functional nutrition practitioner, for a deep dive into the pet supplement industry. They explore how even "natural" products often rely on synthetic ingredients and lab-made nutrients that don’t work with the body the way real food and herbs do. Angela and Kate break down how to spot red flags on supplement labels, why quality and sourcing can shift over time, and how trends and shortcuts dilute product effectiveness. From the risks of synthetic isolates to how transparency and education empower pet parents, this episode is your guide to making smarter choices for your pet’s long-term wellness.Episode Recap:Becoming a supplement expert out of necessity (00:53)Turning to traditional medicine after conventional medicine failed (5:37)Supplement quality can vary, even within the same brand, how to spot red flags (12:57)How trends, shortcuts, and synthetic ingredients dilute supplement quality (22:39)Synthetic supplements and drugs can overwhelm the body, especially in older pets (31:44)Cannabis and mushrooms impact multiple cancer pathways (36:00) Less than 15% of supplements worldwide are worth taking (44:08)Companies repackaging human supplements as pet products.(49:05)Always do your due diligence—even trusted brands can shift without warning (54:18)Transparency is the #1 sign of a trustworthy supplement company (58:17)Educating yourself is the only way to protect your pets and yourself (1:03:18)Episode Resources:Download Angela’s Pet Supplement Buying Checklist and other resources at AngelaArdolino.com/podcast-downloadsSupplement Quality Specialist Certification Waitlist Learn more about The Supplement AcademyFollow Kate & the Supplement Academy on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube, Have a question about your pet that you want answered on the podcast? Email us at Carter@yournaturaldog.com Visit Angela Ardolino’s website for more holistic pet health education: www.AngelaArdolino.comFollow Your Natural Dog on Facebook and Instagram and if you want to see what Angela is up to, follow her on Facebook

In this episode of Your Natural Dog with Angela Ardolino, Angela is joined by Koco Garcia, founder of Handover Rover, a rescue organization dedicated to saving dogs most shelters overlook—those with behavior challenges, complex medical issues, and histories of neglect or abandonment. Koco shares the deeply personal journey that led her from dog lover to trainer to full-time rescuer, including how one misunderstood dog named Harrison changed the course of her life and became the foundation of her training philosophy. Together, Angela and Koco discuss the emotional resilience required to run a rescue, why behavioral euthanasia must be challenged, and how holistic care—including fresh food and plant-based medicine—has transformed the lives of dogs like Mary Katherine and Scarlett. Episode Recap:Koco’s unexpected journey from dog mom to behavior-focused rescue founder (1:03)Why she refuses to give up on dogs with complex behavioral needs (4:52)Koco’s life-changing bond with Harrison, the dog “experts” told her to euthanize (6:41)Embracing accountability and emotional growth through rescue work (11:19)You have to be your pet’s advocate, you have to read the labels (16:42)Why it’s vital to question veterinary protocols and take ownership of your pet’s care (20:35)The story of Mary Katherine, a senior street dog with a collapsed trachea (24:23)How a mushroom extract blend for collapsed trachea helped Mary Katherine breathe again (38:47)Why sourcing and formulation matter, when it comes to real results (47:08)How full spectrum hemp extract gave senior rescue dog Scarlett a second chance at pain-free living (51:47)Episode Resources:What Helped Mary Katherine: Mushrooms & Adaptogens for Collapsed Trachea in DogsWhat Helped Scarlett: CBD with Turmeric and Frankincense for Dogs with Joint PainCheck out Angela’s Essential Holistic Toolkit for Pets Diamond and Scarlett are still looking for their forever home, learn more or meet the other adoptables at Handover Rover. Visit Handover Rover to adopt, sponsor or donate. Follow Koco & Handover Rover on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube, Have a question about your pet that you want answered on the podcast? Email us at Carter@yournaturaldog.com For Angela’s Free Educational Downloads & Resources, visit: AngelaArdolino.com/podcast-downloadsVisit Angela Ardolino’s website for more holistic pet health education: www.AngelaArdolino.comFollow Your Natural Dog on Facebook and Instagram and if you want to see what Angela is up to, follow her on Facebook.

In this episode of Your Natural Dog with Angela Ardolino, Angela is joined by renowned herbalist Greg Tilford, CEO and formulator of Animal Essentials. With over three decades of experience, Greg joins Angela to unpack the confusion around glycerin and alcohol in pet tinctures—explaining why glycerin is often misunderstood, how alcohol is sometimes necessary for proper extraction but is not the best option for finished pet products, and why palatability is key to effectiveness. Together, they explore the evolution of herbalism for pets, the importance of clean, simple formulations, and how truly holistic remedies support the body’s natural healing process. Learn why quality and intent matter when choosing herbal supplements for your pets.Episode Recap:The confusion surrounding glycerin as a preservative in pet products (1:10)Clarifying glycerin grades: pharmaceutical (USP) vs. industrial (2:36)Benefits of glycerin-based tinctures for pets over alcohol-based tinctures (7:00)Understanding herbal remedies beyond chemicals: the importance of plant energetics (9:19)Debunking tincture myths: glycerin, alcohol, and proper extraction explained (12:32)Why alcohol in tinctures can be problematic for pets (16:57)Holistic herbalism: supporting rather than forcing the body (19:28)Misunderstanding the role of fevers and symptoms in natural healing (21:57)The rise of informed, discerning pet parents in the holistic pet care market (22:50)Hidden additives and inactive ingredients sabotaging pet wellness (26:56)Synthetic additives in supplements are often for human appeal, not pet health (29:20)How misleading labeling in pet products can harm pets (30:38)Prioritizing purity and integrity over profits leads to lasting success (31:26)Episode Resources:Download Angela’s Glycerin Guide and more resources at: AngelaArdolino.com/podcast-downloadsVisit Animal EssentialsGreg Tilford’s Mentioned Book: Herbs for Pets: The Natural Way to Enhance Your Pet's LifeFollow Animal Essentials on Facebook and Instagram,Have a question about your pet that you want answered on the podcast? Email us at Carter@yournaturaldog.com Visit Angela Ardolino’s website for more holistic pet health resources & education: www.AngelaArdolino.comFollow Your Natural Dog on Facebook and Instagram and if you want to see what Angela is up to, follow her on Facebook 

In this episode of Your Natural Dog with Angela Ardolino, we dive deep into the hidden dangers of synthetic vitamins and minerals in pet supplements and food. Angela is joined by holistic health practitioner Kara Rose, founder of Raw Paw Adventures, who shares her personal journey from critical care medicine to natural healing for both pets and people. Together, they explore how synthetic additives can wreak havoc on your pet’s health, how to recognize misleading ingredient labels, and why “complete and balanced” pet food often isn’t what it seems. Get ready to question what’s really in your pet’s bowl — and learn how to choose nutrient-rich, species-appropriate foods and supplements that truly nourish from the inside out.Episode Recap:2:50 - Why “complete and balanced” is a misleading standard in pet food 5:00 - How synthetic nutrients can overwhelm the liver, disrupt mineral balance, and even lead to toxicity6:00 - The difference between whole food nutrition vs. lab-created isolates8:19 - How synthetic vitamins can cause vitamin deficiencies10:15 - Real food sources of key nutrients like Vitamin A, D, E, and K13:00 - Vitamin D toxicity in pet food 16:10 - Why sourcing matters19:50 - How to evaluate brands, ingredients, and what companies aren’t telling you21:10 - Natural sources of Vitamin D23:00 - Why it’s important to always read the label26:35 - Sourcing organ meat, and how that influences nutrients30:25 - Why pet parents must be their own advocates in an under-regulated pet industry35:00 - Kara and Angela’s resources to help pet parents avoid synthetic additivesEpisode Resources:Want to download the Synthetic Vitamins & Minerals chart and the Additives to Avoid in Pet Supplements chart? Visit AngelaArdolino.com/podcast-downloadsVisit Kara’s Website - Raw Paw AdventuresKara’s Podcast - Raw RemediesFollow Kara & Raw Paw Adventures on FB, IG, TT, and YTHave a question about your pet that you want answered on the podcast? Email us at Carter@yournaturaldog.com Visit Angela Ardolino’s website for more holistic pet health resources & education: www.AngelaArdolino.comFollow Your Natural Dog on Facebook and Instagram and if you want to see what Angela is up to, follow her on Facebook 

In this episode of Your Natural Dog with Angela Ardolino, Dr. Jeff Grognet joins us to shine a light on the hidden risks of over-vaccinating our pets. Together, we explore what many conventional vets don’t talk about—how certain vaccine ingredients can accumulate in the body, why adverse reactions are underreported, and what vaccine-related conditions often get dismissed or misdiagnosed. Dr. Jeff explains the science behind titer testing, how long vaccine protection really lasts, and why one-size-fits-all vaccine schedules may do more harm than good. With over 40 years of experience in both conventional and holistic veterinary medicine, Dr. Jeff shares empowering insights to help pet parents make safer, more informed choices.Episode Recap:Why annual vaccinations are still being pushed—despite outdated scienceWhat the vaccine guidelines actually say about immunityThe risks of over-vaccination, including autoimmune reactions and tumorsHow to interpret titer tests correctlyHow to detox your pet after a required vaccineWhy more vets don’t talk about long-term immunityThe role of education (and pharma funding) in veterinary medicineDr. Grognet’s updated vaccine guidelines for 2025Episode Resources:Visit Dr. Jeff Grognet’s Website New Earth VetDr. Grognet’s Vaccine Guidelines for 2025Want to download the Synthetic Vitamins & Minerals chart and the Additives to Avoid in Pet Supplements chart? Visit AngelaArdolino.com/podcast-downloadsHave a question about your pet that you want answered on the podcast? Email us at Carter@yournaturaldog.com Visit Angela Ardolino’s website for more holistic pet health resources & education: www.AngelaArdolino.comFollow Your Natural Dog on Facebook and Instagram and if you want to see what Angela is up to, follow her on Facebook 

In this episode of Your Natural Dog with Angela Ardolino, we’re joined by Dr. Judy Morgan, renowned holistic veterinarian, best-selling author, and passionate advocate for natural pet wellness. Angela and Dr. Judy dive deep into one of the most pressing issues in both human and animal medicine: the rampant overuse of antibiotics. They discuss how this widespread problem is harming pets, the dangers of prescribing antibiotics and steroids without clear need, and what pet parents can do to protect their animals. From sharing real-life case studies to offering natural alternatives and gut healing strategies, this candid conversation is a must-listen for anyone who wants to make more informed decisions about their pet’s health.Episode Recap:Why antibiotic overprescription is a growing concern in veterinary careDr. Judy’s personal stories of advocating against unnecessary prescriptionsWhat to consider before giving your pet antibioticsUnderstanding when antibiotics and steroids are appropriateThe lasting impact of pharmaceuticals on the gut microbiomeWhy “inactive” ingredients in supplements matterThe truth about FortiFlora and other common probioticsNatural alternatives for diarrhea and gut healthUsing food energetics and TCVM to address digestive issuesCoptis, Saccharomyces Boulardii, and other natural gut helpersHow synthetic additives quietly harm sensitive petsTips for reading labels and spotting greenwashed productsEmpowering pet parents to question, research, and advocateEpisode Resources:Visit Dr. Judy Morgan’s Website Referenced Studies: Bacteremia in Dogs Undergoing Dental Procedure Study and Nutritional Management over Metronidazole for Acute Colitis in DogsCoptis for Diarrhea, Saccharomyces Boulardii & more Supplements for GI Distress Follow Dr. Judy Morgan on Facebook and Instagram Have a question about your pet that you want answered on the podcast? Email us at Carter@yournaturaldog.com Visit Angela Ardolino's WebsiteWant to download the Synthetic Vitamins & Minerals chart and the Additives to Avoid in Pet Supplements chart? Visit AngelaArdolino.com/podcast-downloads/Follow Your Natural Dog on Facebook and Instagram and if you want to see what Angela (our founder) is up to, follow her on Facebook 

In this episode of Your Natural Dog with Angela Ardolino, we’re joined by Dr. Erin Holder, founder of the Veterinary Compassion Project. After experiencing compassion fatigue firsthand, Dr. Holder transitioned her career to focus on supporting veterinarians and animal care professionals struggling with burnout and compassion fatigue. A 2019 Centers for Disease Control study revealed that veterinarians are between two to four times more likely to die by suicide than the general population, highlighting a growing crisis in the veterinary community. Dr. Holder discusses the emotional toll faced by veterinarians and how her project provides resources, tools, and restorative retreats to foster well-being in this vital profession.Episode Recap:The Veterinary Compassion Project and its missionUnderstanding compassion fatigue and burnout in veterinariansWhy veterinary schools should address mental health early in educationRecognizing the signs of compassion fatigue and burnoutThe importance of having compassion for ourselves as veterinary professionalsBurnout and suicide in the veterinary community and its impact on the professionHow the veterinarian shortage affects not only pets but also food productionTools and resources from the Veterinary Compassion Project to empower veterinariansHow pet parents can support their veterinariansTips for dealing with compassion fatigue and burnoutAnnouncing the VCP Restorative Retreat 2025The critical role of boundaries in avoiding compassion fatigue and burnoutEpisode Resources:Veterinary Compassion ProjectVCP Restorative Retreat 2025VCP Resources for VeterinariansHave a question about your pet that you want answered on the podcast? Email us at Info@AngelaArdolino.com Angela ArdolinoCBD Dog HealthFollow Your Natural Dog on Facebook and Instagram and if you want to see what Angela (our founder) is up to, follow her on Facebook 

In this episode of Your Natural Dog with Angela Ardolino, we’re joined by Michelle Thomas, an expert in animal communication and holistic pet care. Michelle, founder of Magical Mutts, has dedicated her life to understanding the deep emotional and energetic connections we share with our pets. With a background in veterinary medicine and a personal journey of healing, Michelle brings a unique perspective on the importance of communicating with our pets on a deeper level. Angela and Michelle delve into the significance of this emotional bond, how it impacts both our pets and ourselves, and why addressing these connections is crucial for overall well-being.Episode Recap: What is animal communication?Discovering her gift and how Michelle harnessed itImportance of emotional connections with petsIntegrating veterinary medicine with energetic workIntuitive biofeedback sessions and their impactAddressing skepticism and the role of evidenceHealing together: the connection between pets and their ownersNervous system resets and the importance of holistic nutritionEpisode Resources:Magical Mutts with Michelle ThomasFollow Magical Mutts with Michelle Thomas on Instagram and Facebook Follow CBD Dog Health on Facebook and InstagramHave a question about your pet that you want answered on the podcast? Email us at Carter@yournaturaldog.com Angela ArdolinoCBD Dog HealthFollow Your Natural Dog on Facebook and Instagram and if you want to see what Angie (our founder) is up to, follow her on Facebook 

In this episode of Your Natural Dog, Angela Ardolino and Carter Easler, CBD Dog Health's Director of Education, delve into the complexities of CBD industry regulation and the role of the National Animal Supplement Council (NASC). Angela and Carter dive into the NASC’s stance on broad spectrum CBD and how their funded research is not up to date with the hemp industry, highlighting how full spectrum hemp has already been proven through long-term studies to be both safer and more potent. The conversation also covers the NASC’s attempts to change industry standard definitions, the therapeutic potential and safety of THC for pets, and the impact of rescheduling cannabis on the CBD industry. Tune in to learn about the ongoing debate over CBD standards and regulations in the pet supplement industry, and why nature’s own remedies, like full spectrum hemp, can’t be patented, and can’t be beat.Episode Recap: What is the NASC?FDA doesn’t regulate pet supplementsBroad Spectrum vs Full SpectrumNASC trying to change industry standard definitionsEntourage effectThe Problem with the NASC’s CBD ResearchNASC is far behind the hemp industry’s expertiseStudies show Full Spectrum Hemp is safer & more potentTherapeutic potential & safety of THC for petsThe impact of rescheduling cannabis on the CBD industryYou can’t patent natureCBD COAs - Certificates of AnalysisEpisode Resources:More on Full Spectrum Hemp ExtractIs THC safe for pets?NASC Broad Spectrum StudyStudies on Full Spectrum HempFollow CBD Dog Health on Facebook and InstagramHave a question about your pet that you want answered on the podcast? Email us at Carter@yournaturaldog.com Angela ArdolinoCBD Dog HealthFollow Your Natural Dog on Facebook and Instagram and if you want to see what Angie (our founder) is up to, follow her on Facebook 

In this episode of Your Natural Dog with Angela Ardolino, we’re joined by Flo Mason, founder of Crude Carnivore and a passionate advocate for pet health. Flo holds a master's degree in companion animal nutrition and has helped hundreds of pet parents transform their dogs' diets and lifestyles. Angela and Flo dive into topics like the evolution of education on animal nutrition, and the benefits of locally sourced, pasture-fed ingredients and the consequences of factory farming. Flo shares her journey of creating Crude Carnivore’s herb-infused bone broths and discusses the importance of supporting local farmers over profit. They also explore managing gut health naturally, including the role of probiotics, mushrooms, CBD, and adaptogens. Tune in to learn about the many benefits of bone broth and how Crude Carnivore is revolutionizing pet nutrition.Episode Recap: Specializing in animal nutritionStability of Omega-3 fatty acids in dog foodHow education on animal nutrition has evolvedBringing her experience to natural pet storesCreating Crude Carnivore herb-infused bone brothsBenefits of locally sourced, pasture-fed Factory-farming and how it affects your petCrude Carnivore was built on supporting local farmersPrioritizing sourcing over profitDiarrhea is a necessary step in healing, managing it naturallyProbiotics for gut healthMushrooms, CBD & Adaptogens for DigestionBenefits of Bone Broths & Mushroom Broth Benefits of infusing herbs into Crude Carnivore’s bone brothsEpisode Resources:Crude Carnivore - Use Code YND10 Follow Crude Carnivore on Instagram and Facebook Have a question about your pet that you want answered on the podcast? Email us at Carter@yournaturaldog.com Angela ArdolinoCBD Dog HealthFollow Your Natural Dog on Facebook and Instagram and if you want to see what Angie (our founder) is up to, follow her on Facebook

In this episode of Your Natural Dog with Angela Ardolino, we're joined by Halle Stene, Owner of Lonestar Pet Treats, specializing in single-ingredient pet treats and natural nutrition for pets. Halle and Angela delve into various topics, including the effects of Valley Fever, the benefits of mushrooms for respiratory distress, and the importance of gut health for a strong immune system. They also explore the differences between dehydrated and freeze-dried treats, the benefits of quail eggs for dogs, and the need for transparency in the pet industry. Tune in to hear Angela and Halle's insightful discussion on the journey of crafting superior treats tailored for our pet’s health.Episode Recap: What is Valley Fever?Mushrooms for respiratory distressGut health for a strong immune systemCreating better treats for dogsDehydrated vs Freeze Dried TreatsQuail eggs for dogsFreeze-drying quail eggsNutritional content & cost effectiveness of freeze-dried treats & foodFinding the best CBD & Mushrooms for her storeThe need for transparency in the pet industryBenefits of quail eggs for petsDehydrated quail feet for petsFeed Real SummitVisit Lonestar Pet Treats in AZEpisode Resources:Lonestar Pet TreatsFollow Lonestar Pet Treats on Instagram, Facebook, and TiktokFeed Real SummitHave a question about your pet that you want answered on the podcast? Email us at Carter@yournaturaldog.com Angela ArdolinoCBD Dog HealthFollow Your Natural Dog on Facebook and Instagram and if you want to see what Angie (our founder) is up to, follow her on Facebook 

In this episode of Your Natural Dog with Angela Ardolino, we’re joined by Amanda Wilbourne, founder of The Nautical Dog, Williamsburg’s only independently owned and operated pet market. Amanda shares her journey of opening The Nautical Dog in 2006 and its evolution into a trusted local pet store known for hand-picked, high-quality products. Angela and Amanda discuss the importance of supporting local independent pet stores, vetting products thoroughly, and educating pet parents on nutrition and wellness. They explore issues within the pet food industry, including recalls and the dominance of big corporations. Additionally, Amanda highlights The Nautical Dog's community involvement, including their partnership with the humane society in their Cat Cove.Episode Recap: Importance of local independent pet storesVetting products for The Nautical DogDoing the research and educating pet parentsThe pet food industry & pet food recallsBig pet corporations owning everything from pet food to veterinary clinicsSchwartzy’s Cat Cove & partnering with the humane societyThe Nautical Dog winning awards in the communityHow The Nautical Dog startedSeeing the impact on pets & their familiesThe More You Know - Pet Wellness SummitThere’s always more to learn when it comes to our petsThe importance of finding the right vet for you and your petEpisode Resources:The Nautical Dog and Schwartzy’s Cat CoveThe More You Know - Pet Wellness SummitFollow The Nautical Dog on Instagram and Facebook Have a question about your pet that you want answered on the podcast? Email us at Carter@yournaturaldog.com Angela ArdolinoCBD Dog HealthFollow Your Natural Dog on Facebook and Instagram and if you want to see what Angie (our founder) is up to, follow her on Facebook 

In this episode of Your Natural Dog with Angela Ardolino, we’re joined by Dr. Sarah Ballantyne, an award-winning public speaker, New York Times bestselling author, and world-renowned health expert. Angela and Dr. Sarah discuss the differences between synthetic and real food sources of nutrients, including the enhanced bioavailability of nutrients from whole sources including animals, plants and mushrooms. They delve into the principles of a Nutrivore diet, the best sources of key vitamins for your pet, the importance of non-essential nutrients, the risks associated with synthetic vitamins and vitamin toxicity, and the potential dangers of taking too many supplements. Tune in for an enlightening discussion on how to nourish your pet effectively and safely.Episode Recap: The difference between synthetic and real sources of nutrientsWhat are non-essential nutrients?Full Spectrum nutrition vs isolated nutrientsEnhanced bioavailability of nutrients from whole food sourcesNutrients from animal sourcesWhat is a nutrivore diet?Nutrients from MushroomsWhat is the longevity vitamin?Vitamin-D enhanced mushroomsRisks of synthetic vitamins & vitamin toxicityRisks of taking too many supplementsMenopause & nutritionThe deal with collagen & collagen supplementsEpisode Resources:NutrivoreNutrivore, the book! By Dr. Sarah BallantyneFollow Dr. Sarah Ballantyne on Instagram, Facebook, TikTok and YouTube Have a question about your pet that you want answered on the podcast? Email us at Carter@yournaturaldog.com Angela ArdolinoCBD Dog HealthFollow Your Natural Dog on Facebook and Instagram and if you want to see what Angie (our founder) is up to, follow her on Facebook