This week we’re delighted to welcome the inspiring Dr Skylar Duck, DVM, a passionate Emergency Veterinarian and content creator making waves in veterinary medicine, both online and in the ER.

In this refreshingly honest episode, Dr Duck shares:

• The real reasons behind essential vet recommendations, spaying, vaccinations, and parvo prevention
• How her early experiences as the daughter of a vet shaped her resilient, compassionate approach
• The modern pressures vets face, and behind-the-scenes stories from the emergency room
• How to navigate the sea of online pet advice and choose healthy, happy animals from the start
• Combating common pet parent myths (including the truth about nutrition and breed choices)
• The financial realities of pet care, practical budgeting advice, and the benefits of planning ahead

Whether you’re a fellow professional or a devoted pet parent, you’ll love Dr Duck’s heartfelt advice and easy-to-follow tips for setting yourself (and your pet) up for a lifetime of thriving together.

Don’t miss this empowering episode packed with insider insights on everything from emergency care to building a sustainable, joyful veterinary career.

Tune in for a fresh perspective that might just change the way you care for your pets!

SPONSOR: Ultra Pet

Check out Ultra Pets New range for Brachy breeds here: https://ultra-pet.co.za/product/premium-recipe-for-short-muzzled-adult-dogs/

Connect with Dr Carra:

Website: https://drcarra.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ultrapetvet/

LinkedIN: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drcarra/

Hillcrest Veterinary Hospital: https://hillcrestvets.co.za/

Connect with Dr Duck:

Website: https://drskylarduck.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drduckvet?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==

Podcast Production:

This Podcast is produced by Kythe Creative and filmed onsite at Hillcrest Veterinary Hospital.

Kythe Creative : https://kythecreative.co.za/

THIS EPISODES SPONSORS:

Ultra Pet:

This episode is sponsored by Ultra Pet, who has been scientifically formulating premium pet food for over 25 years. If you want to take the guesswork out of feeding your furry friends, give Ultra Pet a try. Check them out here at www.ultra-pet.co.za

Just For Pets:

Justforpets.co.za is proud to sponsor this episode of the Paws and Effect podcast. Visit their website for all your pet needs and find everything from toys to food and much more. The team over at Just For Pets believe that every pet deserves the best care possible, and that's why we offer a wide range of products to help keep your furry friend happy and healthy - Check them out at https://www.justforpets.co.za/

FOR SPONSORSHIPS AND GUEST APPEARANCES, Email us at drcarra@pawsandeffect.co.za and we'll get in touch with you.

Don't forget to LIKE this if you found it helpful, SUBSCRIBE for more episodes and content like this.

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00:00 Emergency Medicine: A Vet’s Passion

05:15 Veterinarian’s Childhood: Early Veterinary Exposure

07:22 Relentless Pursuit of Vet School

10:11 Understanding Veterinary Challenges Early

13:57 Shifting Roles in Veterinary Care

18:05 Essential Pet Care Information Online

20:20 Prioritising Healthy Pet Breeding

23:30 Understanding Dog Health & Behaviour

28:08 Preparing for Canine Success

29:47 Understanding Pet Vaccine Decisions

32:59 Arthritis Treatment Controversy Highlighted

37:18 “Beyond the Vet Identity”

42:00 Long-term Pet Care Decisions

43:55 Essential Pet Ownership Planning

48:34 Assessing Sources for Credibility

51:42 Gratitude for Informative Conversation