Step into the unpredictable world of emergency veterinary medicine with Brooke Schampers, a vet who has taken social media by storm by sharing the raw, unfiltered realities of her high-stakes career.

In this episode of the Paws and Effect podcast, Brooke pulls back the curtain on what really happens after hours: from pattern recognition and life-saving split-second decisions to the emotional and physical toll of night shifts.

Discover why mentorship matters, how to avoid burnout and compassion fatigue, and the practical tips every young vet (and pet owner) should know.

We also talk about dealing with client expectations and finances, navigating the pressures of veterinary social media, and building a fulfilling identity outside the clinic.

Whether you’re a vet, a student, an animal lover, or simply curious about a life lived on the edge of chaos and compassion, this episode is packed with real talk, actionable wisdom, and inspiration for anyone passionate about the world of animals and the humans who care for them.

Don’t miss Brooke’s honest reflections on resilience, recognising red flags, and why preserving joy is the ultimate key to surviving and thriving in veterinary medicine.

Connect with Dr Brooke Schampers:

Instagram: @doctor_brooke
Website: drbrookeschampers.com

Connect with Dr Carra:

Website: drcarra.com
Instagram: @dr_carra
LinkedIn: /drcarra
Hillcrest Veterinary Hospital: hillcrestvets.co.za

THIS EPISODES SPONSORS:

Ultra Pet: This episode is sponsored by Ultra Pet premium pet food, 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 premium pet food a try.
Check out Ultra Pets’ new range here: https://ultra-pet.co.za/

Just for Pets 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 ran.

In this episode of the Paws and Effect podcast, Dr Carra discovers the much-celebrated memoir, Unleashed by Dr Caitlin Venniker.

The two chat about the realities behind the veterinary profession, balancing heartache, hope, and share plenty of laughs! Caity shares the story behind writing her book, her journey through vet school, the emotional highs and lows of clinical work, and the challenges of motherhood and identity while living abroad.

Discover what truly happens behind the scenes in a vet’s world: the cases that haunt you, the clients who challenge you, and the sheer vulnerability of practicing medicine on creatures who can’t speak for themselves.

From candid insights into the mental health crisis facing vets, to hilarious and touching stories from practice, to the process of bringing a deeply personal book into the world, this episode is an unmissable window into the profession everyone thinks they know, but few truly understand.

Whether you’re an animal lover, future vet, or just curious about the extraordinary lives of those who care for our pets, this episode will make you laugh, reflect, and see the world of veterinary medicine in a whole new light.

Connect with Dr Caity:

caitygunthorpvenniker.substack
Instagram: @caityvenniker

Connect with Dr Carra:

Website: drcarra.com
Instagram: @dr_carra
LinkedIn: /drcarra
Hillcrest Veterinary Hospital: hillcrestvets.co.za

THIS EPISODES SPONSORS:

Ultra Pet: This episode is sponsored by Ultra Pet premium pet food, 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 premium pet food a try.

Just for Pets 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 ran.

When the words “pet surgery” come up, pet owners often picture scary risks, high costs, and worst-case scenarios. But what REALLY happens when your pet needs an operation? In this episode of the Paws and Effect Podcast, Dr Emma Brown of Hillcrest Veterinary Hospital joins Dr Carra to dispel fears and unpack every step, from the initial consultation to recovery after surgery.

You’ll get insider insights on:

• ⁠ ⁠How vets assess risks and tailor anaesthetic plans
• ⁠ ⁠Why pre-surgery testing (like blood work and heart scans) matters
• ⁠ ⁠What to expect in the admission and operating process
• ⁠ ⁠How the surgical team works together behind the scenes
• ⁠ ⁠Essential aftercare tips for a safe, smooth recovery at home
• ⁠ ⁠The emotional and financial challenges of emergency cases (including tough decisions and honest conversations)
• ⁠ ⁠What quality of life really means when your pet faces repeat surgeries or chronic issues

Whether your pet needs an elective surgery or you’re facing a midnight emergency, this episode is designed to replace anxiety with understanding. Plus, you’ll hear real-life examples and practical advice to make you feel more confident and prepared.

Connect with Dr Emma Brown:

Hillcrest Veterinary Hospital: hillcrestvets.co.za

Connect with Dr Carra:

Website: drcarra.com
Instagram: @dr_carra
LinkedIn: /drcarra
Hillcrest Veterinary Hospital: hillcrestvets.co.za

THIS EPISODES SPONSORS:

Ultra Pet: This episode is sponsored by Ultra Pet premium pet food, 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 premium pet food a try.

Just for Pets 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 ran.

Step inside the vet ER, the high-stakes world of veterinary emergency medicine where chaos, emotion, and unexpected moments of laughter collide.

In this episode of the Paws and Effect Podcast, Dr Carra sits down with ER veterinary technician and viral content creator Geoffrey van Zjil, for an unfiltered, honest look at life in the emergency room.

Discover what REALLY walks through those ER doors, what pet owners get wrong about emergencies, and the hidden costs, physical, emotional, and financial, that staff and owners alike face during urgent care.

Geoffrey van Zjil opens up about managing burnout, mental health, and why humour is often the lifeline that gets teams through tough cases.

Learn how social media can be used to educate (not just sensationalise) the public, hear stories that will change your perspective, and get practical advice on navigating critical situations with your pet.

Whether you’re a veterinary professional, pet owner, or just curious about the realities behind the scenes, this episode will make you laugh, think, and appreciate the unsung heroes who keep the ER running.

THIS EPISODES SPONSORS:

Ultra Pet: This episode is sponsored by Ultra Pet premium pet food, 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 premium pet food a try.

Just for Pets 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 ran.

In this episode of the Paws and Effect Podcast, Dr Carra welcomes back Dr Nic Stirk, much-loved local vet. Together they bring a wealth of practical advice and real-life stories straight from the veterinary floor around the subject of top pet trauma and accident risks.

In this unmissable episode, Dr Stirk unpacks:

• Why accidents and trauma cases spike during the holiday season.
• The “iceberg effect” of puncture wounds and why even tiny injuries can turn disastrous.
• The dangers of fireworks, storms, and overwhelmed pets during festive gatherings.
• Crucial do’s and don’ts for wildlife encounters, snakebites, and fishing trip mishaps.
• Expert tips for preventing pet fights when guests bring their animals.

From monkey bites and crowned eagles, to stick injuries and the perils of festive braais, discover how to keep your pets safe and sound, all while still enjoying a laugh and learning something new.

Whether you’re a pet parent or a pro in the industry, you won’t want to miss these insider stories and practical pointers from Dr Nic Stirk and Dr Carra.

Connect with Dr Nic:

Website: watercrestvet.co.za
Instagram: @watercrestvet

Connect with Dr Carra:

Website: drcarra.com
Instagram: @UltraPetVet
LinkedIn: /drcarra
Hillcrest Veterinary Hospital: hillcrestvets.co.za

THIS EPISODES SPONSORS:

Ultra Pet: This episode is sponsored by Ultra Pet premium pet food, 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 premium pet food a try.

Just for Pets 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 ran.

In this episode of the Paws and Effect podcast Dr Carra is joined by Sr Kat, a very experienced Veterinary Nurse from Hillcrest Veterinary Hospital. Sr Kat brings us valuable advice an top tips for post procedure pet care that could save your pet's life.

Discussed in this episode:

• Identifying the signs of wound complications and the importance of prompt intervention.
• The critical role of physio and bandage care in your pet’s recovery journey.
• Top-notch advice on keeping your pet comfortable and preventing self-harm post-surgery

Listen to real-world insights and practical tips to ensure the smooth recovery of your beloved pets. From anti-inflammatory medication management to the vital importance of communication with veterinary experts, get ready to empower yourself with knowledge for your pet’s wellbeing. Discover why maintaining detailed communication and following tailored post-op care instructions is the ultimate key to recovery.

Connect with Dr Carra:
Website: drcarra.com
Instagram: @UltraPetVet
LinkedIn: /drcarra
Hillcrest Veterinary Hospital: hillcrestvets.co.za

THIS EPISODES SPONSORS:

Is your cat overweight? Extra weight can harm your cat's health, increasing the risk of illnesses like diabetes and heart disease. Ultra Pets Metabo-lite diet food is expertly formulated for weight management while maintaining lean muscle mass. It contains lean fresh meat for protein. Ideally, it should be used with a weight-reduction plan that includes exercise.

Ultra Pet: This episode is sponsored by Ultra Pet premium pet food, 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 premium pet food a try.

Just for Pets 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 ran.

In this episode of the Paws and Effect Podcast, Dr Carra welcomes Dr Kenneth Joubert, a renowned authority in veterinary anaesthesia.

With years of expertise and a deep passion for animal care, Dr Joubert sheds light on the fascinating world of pet anaesthesia, ensuring your pet's stay safe and stress-free during medical procedures.

In this episode, Dr. Joubert breaks down:

• The vital benefits and potential risks of anaesthesia for pets.
• Essential post-operative recovery tips to keep your pet on the mend.
• The myths versus realities of sedation and anaesthesia.
• How to create positive, low-stress veterinary visits for your animals.

From practical advice to heartwarming success stories, discover how understanding anaesthesia can dramatically improve your pet’s health and happiness. Whether you’re a pet owner or a professional in the pet care industry, this episode is packed with invaluable insights that you won't want to miss.

Follow Dr Kenneth:
Instagram: @kennethjoubert

Connect with Dr Carra:
Website: drcarra.com
Instagram: @UltraPetVet
LinkedIn: /drcarra
Hillcrest Veterinary Hospital: hillcrestvets.co.za

THIS EPISODES SPONSORS:

Discover Ultra’s Pet SuperWoof Large Puppy, the essential nutrition solution tailored for your growing large breed pup! Packed with high-quality protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals, this formula supports healthy digestion, strong bones, a shiny coat, and more. Give your puppy the best start with Ultra Pet SuperWoof Large Puppy, ensuring a vibrant and active future.

Ultra Pet: This episode is sponsored by Ultra Pet premium pet food, 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 premium pet food a try.

Just for Pets 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 ran.

In this episode of the Paws and Effect podcast, Dr Carra is joined by expert guest Dr Derisha Reddy. They explore crucial aspects of pregnancy in pets and give valuable insights for pet owners and enthusiasts.

Highlights of the discussion include:

• Understanding post-birth behaviours in mother dogs, such as umbilical cord care and placenta consumption.
• The importance of minimal interference during the birthing process to reduce stress and trauma.
• Recognising and managing pyometra in older female dogs, a potentially life-threatening condition.
• Safe spaying practices, including the ideal time to spay and the benefits of early spaying in reducing mammary tumours.
• Effective deworming strategies for pregnant and lactating pets to ensure the health of both mother and offspring.
• Nutritional needs during pregnancy to prevent complications like milk fever and calcium deficiency.
• Handling common birthing complications, such as umbilical hernias and excessive bleeding, and ensuring smooth weaning for puppies and kittens.

Whether you're a seasoned pet owner or a new pet parent, this episode is filled with practical tips and expert advice to help you navigate pregnancy, delivery, and lactation in cats and dogs.

Connect with Dr Carra:
Website: drcarra.com
Instagram: @UltraPetVet
LinkedIn: /drcarra
Hillcrest Veterinary Hospital: hillcrestvets.co.za

THIS EPISODES SPONSORS:

Ultra Pet's Special Diet Metabo-Lite: Is your cat overweight? Extra weight can harm your cat's health, increasing the risk of illnesses like diabetes and heart disease. Ultra Pets Special Diet Metabo-lite diet food is expertly formulated for weight management while maintaining lean muscle mass. It contains lean fresh meat for protein. Ideally, it should be used with a weight-reduction plan that includes exercise. Learn more about UltraPet’s Metabo-Lite here:

Ultra Pet: This episode is sponsored by Ultra Pet premium pet food, 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 premium pet food a try.

Just for Pets 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 ran.