Your old dog is slowing down. Sleeping more. Taking the stairs carefully. He’s just getting old, right? Maybe. Or maybe he’s in pain, and “he’s just getting old” is one of those pet myths that sounds completely reasonable, right up until it costs your pet something.

Cat the Vet aka Dr Cat Henstridge joins us to take apart the pet advice that sounds sensible but isn’t, the stuff you’ve half-believed for years:

• “Bad breath is normal in dogs and cats”, what it’s actually telling you
• “He’s still eating, so he can’t be in pain”, why that’s not true
• The “natural remedy” trend that’s landing dogs at the emergency vet
• Are vets really paid off by “Big Kibble”? Cat answers straight
• How to tell good pet advice from dangerous advice, before you act on it

Cat the Vet is a practising vet and one of the most trusted voices in UK pet care. This one will change how you read your feed.

Connect with Dr Cat Henstridge:

Instagram: @cat_the_vet
LinkedIn: /cat-henstridge-a5a3a434/

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.

She trained to deliver babies. She ended up delivering goats, treating zebras, and running one of the busiest mixed animal clinics around, and she wouldn’t have it any other way.

In this candid episode of the Paws and Effect podcast, veterinarian Dr Christine Staten shares the unconventional path from aspiring obstetrician to mixed veterinary practice owner, and what it actually takes to build a veterinary business from scratch.

She’s honest about the parts most people don’t talk about: the weight of practice ownership, imposter syndrome, and how she protects work-life balance in a profession known for burnout.

Key topics:

• The leap from obstetrics dreams to large animal medicine.
• What no one tells you about owning a veterinary practice.
• Treating the unusual patients, from goats to zebras.
• Imposter syndrome and protecting your wellbeing in vet med.
• Building and leading a team that lasts.

Whether you’re dreaming of owning a practice, leading a team, or you just love the animals behind the medicine, Dr Staten offers a refreshingly hopeful take on where the veterinary profession is heading, and the flexibility, community, and passion that make it worth it.

Connect with Dr Christine Staten:

Instagram: @dr.christinestaten
LinkedIn: /dr-christine-staten-030bb168/

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.

Is your dog pulling, biting, lunging, or just flat-out not listening? In this raw and honest episode of the Paws and Effect podcast, Dr Carra discusses dog training issues with Tom Davis, dog trainer who tears down the myths keeping owners and their dogs stuck.

Tom exposes why so many “hopeless” and reactive cases land at his door after training failed elsewhere, and reveals the uncomfortable truth: the real breakdown is usually in the human - dog relationship, not the dog.

He doesn’t sugarcoat it. Tom explains why “balanced training”, using clear boundaries and accountability, not just treats and praise, transforms dogs that “positive only” methods leave behind.

He unpacks what socialisation actually means (hint: it isn’t letting your puppy greet every dog in sight), why neutrality beats excitement, and when avoiding a trigger quietly makes things worse instead of better.

Then Tom says the part most trainers won’t: the industry’s egos and tribal warfare are costing dogs their lives. Owners get pushed toward one rigid ideology, the dog doesn’t improve, and the leash gets handed to a shelter. His message cuts through it, no dog is beyond help, but the help you choose matters more than you think.

Whether you’ve got a new puppy or a serious behavioural case you’re on the brink of giving up on, this episode will challenge what you thought you knew and show you how to become the leader your dog actually needs.

Connect with Tom Davis:

Instagram: @tomdavis
You Tube: /AmericasCanineED

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.

Most veterinarians graduate knowing how to save lives. Almost none of them graduate knowing how to manage money, price their services without guilt, or build a business they can actually exit one day. In this episode of the Paws and Effect podcast, financial advisors Tom Seeko and CJ Burnett, from Florida Veterinary Advisors, get honest about the financial realities of veterinary medicine, the guilt, the misconceptions, the vet burnout that isn’t really burnout, and the practice ownership mistakes that are quietly eroding what should be one of the most rewarding careers there is.

This isn’t a conversation about investment products or spreadsheets. It’s about the mindset and habits that either build financial freedom or silently prevent it, and why so many intelligent, dedicated professionals end up on the wrong side of that line.

If you’re a new graduate, a practice owner, or somewhere in between, and money feels like the thing nobody in your profession talks about honestly, this one’s for you.

Connect with Florida Veterinary Advisors:

Website: www.flveterinaryadvisors.com
Tom Seeko LinkedIn: /tomseeko
CJ Burnett LinkedIn: /cj-burnett-0805a02b

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 gets to talk about her favourite topic: cats! Mikel Delgado, author of Play With Your Cat joins an exploration into the mysterious world of cat behaviour.

Are cats truly aloof, or are we just misunderstanding them? Discover why cats can be so perplexing, how their subtle body language differs from dogs', and the emotions they really feel, including love, grief, and anxiety.

The conversation explores what makes cats happy, signs of stress owners often miss, and how to foster a genuine bond with your feline companion, on your cat’s terms.

Learn why play is crucial for cats of all ages, how to enrich your indoor cat’s life, and get expert advice for managing tricky issues like multi-cat households, fighting, and boredom.

Perfect for cat lovers, pet owners, and anyone wanting to understand the secret lives of their feline friends!

Connect with Mikel Delgado:

LinkedIn: /mikel-delgado
Instagram: @mikel.delgado

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 chats to Adam Wickens, the creator behind Wickens Wicked Reptiles, one of YouTube’s largest reptile education platforms.

Adam shares the must-know facts for anyone considering a bearded dragon, exposes the common myths and mistakes new owners make, and explains the fine line between keeping your reptile alive and helping it truly thrive.

Discover:

• Why bearded dragons are such popular pets, and what makes them unique.
• The real lifespan. (hint: it’s a big commitment!)
• The difference between surviving and thriving, and common welfare issues often overlooked.
• Essential first steps for new owners: set-up, enclosure debates, lighting, temperature, and more.
• The truth about substrates, diet, humidity, handling, and “beardie” personalities.
• Common health pitfalls (and how to avoid them).
• The correct way to handle and bond with your bearded dragon (without stressing them out).
• Myths from pet stores that drive reptile experts crazy.

Whether you’re a first-time reptile owner or a seasoned enthusiast, this episode is packed with practical advice, fascinating insights, and behind-the-scenes stories from one of the hobby’s most respected voices.

Connect with Adam Wickens:

YouTube: /wickenswickedreptiles
Instagram: @wickenswickedreptiles

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.

What happens when a chance pet store encounter transforms not only your life but an entire online community’s understanding of rabbits? In this deeply personal and insight-packed episode of the Paws and Effect podcast, Lorelei Carlson, creator of beloved rabbit care content and champion for responsible pet ownership, shares her extraordinary journey and an insight as to why most people get rabbit ownership wrong.

From adopting her first rabbit, Lennon, on a whim during a low point in her life, to building a vibrant platform that educates millions about proper rabbit care, Lorelei discusses the myths and realities of bunny ownership, why rabbits aren’t easy pets, and the emotional bonds these intelligent animals form with their humans.

Lorelei opens up about the challenges, rewards, and heartbreaks of life with rabbits: the joy of meaningful connection, the importance of bunny-proofing and enrichment, common mistakes new owners make, and how to tell if a rabbit is healthy or unhappy.

She offers practical advice for families, talks candidly about coping with loss, and reminds us that rabbits are anything but low-maintenance pets.

Whether you’re a long-time rabbit lover or simply curious about what makes these unique creatures such compelling companions, this conversation is packed with wisdom, warmth, and moments that will make you rethink everything you thought you knew about bunnies.

Connect with Lorelei Carlson:

YouTube: /LoreleiCarlsonTV
Instagram: @loreleicarlson

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, reptile expert and passionate conservationist Lance Jeffery joins Dr Carra for an eye-opening, heartfelt conversation about shaking up wildlife education and animal care in South Africa.

From wild tales of zoo life and international animal rescue, to the dream of inspiring the next generation of conservation leaders, including nurturing the next generation of Steve Irwins, Lance shares his journey, insights on running a new local conservation centre, and why changing perceptions about snakes (and all animals) is at the heart of true conservation.

Watch the episode as Lance breaks down important topics such as the real reason behind snake fears, what it takes to educate communities “outside the textbook,” and the crucial difference between a zoo and a true conservation centre. Discover thought-provoking debates about exotic pets, illegal wildlife trade, and why knowing your animal’s needs is non-negotiable.

Hands-on moments, behind-the-scenes stories, and unforgettable animal guests make this not just an episode, but an experience you won’t want to miss.

Whether you love wildlife or are just curious, Lance’s energy, real talk, and the team’s supportive mission will leave you inspired to see conservation in a whole new way!

Connect with Lance Jeffery:

YouTube: thejungleza
Instagram: @the_jungle_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.
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.

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.

Are you thinking about bringing a companion bird into your home?

In this episode of the Paws and Effect podcast, Dr Carra sits with avian expert Sophie Barnett (also known as Bird Nerd Sophie) to discuss what life with birds is REALLY like. From fascinating insights into their behaviour, communication, and emotional needs to the behind-the-scenes realities of companion bird care, this episode covers it all.

Discover why birds are some of the most complex, emotionally demanding, and misunderstood pets. Sophie shares her journey from keeping pet ducks as a teenager, to managing a rescue flock of ten quirky, individual birds.

Learn about crucial topics like:

• The myth of “domesticated” parrots.
• Why subtle bird body language is key to healthy relationships.
• The dangers lurking in modern homes (from cookware to candles).
• How to truly enrich your bird’s life both mentally and physically.
• Why wing clipping, common feeding mistakes, and ignoring behaviour can lead to disaster.
• The vital importance of air quality, routine, and proper diet.
• What to consider BEFORE adopting a bird, and why so many end up in rescue.

Whether you’re a seasoned bird owner or a curious animal lover, this is your ultimate guide to understanding what birds really need to thrive. Get ready for honest advice, actionable tips, and a heartfelt exploration of the wild world of companion birds.

Connect with Sophie Barnett:

Instagram: @birdnerdsophie
LinkTree: /birdnerdsophie

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.