The Tiny Vet Podcast

Foster Pets

Sun, 24 May 2026 20:00:00 GMT

Fostering adoptable pets for a rescue agency is a great way of temporarily having a pet when you don't have the finances or stability to allow you to have your own. It also gives a shelter animal a chance to live in a real household while they are waiting for a permanent home, and opens up more space in the shelter for additional intakes.

Recorded several months ago, Jez talks about the 800 Pound Gorilla Release (that didn't end up happening) for his special, while Nicole and Jez discuss the benefits of becoming a foster carer, and why it can be a win/win situation for everybun involved.

If you'd like to support the podcast please head to www.patreon.com/tinyvetpod to donate - or just rate, review & tell a friend.

Watch Jez's debut special White-Rice Supreme at www.youtube.com/@jezwattscomedy (episodes up there too) and follow Nicole's possum-based instagram account at www.instagram.com/fatpossumacademy

Listen to our sister podcast What's Your Damage with Jez Watts www.linktr.ee/jezwatts

Financing Your Pets

Sun, 01 Feb 2026 19:00:00 GMT

Pets are expensive!

Everything is expensive now. Inflation is out of control. End stage capitalism has destroyed the economy. BUT! There are finance options that can help with the cost of vet care, and we're finding that pet owners are relying more on these options.

Jez complains about editing, while Nicole and Jez discuss veterinary finance options such as memberships and pet insurance; so you can be prepared if your pet needs expensive help.

If you'd like to support the podcast please head to www.patreon.com/tinyvetpod to donate - or just rate, review & tell a friend.

Watch Jez's debut special White-Rice Supreme at www.youtube.com/@jezwattscomedy (episodes up there too) and follow Nicole's possum-based instagram account at www.instagram.com/fatpossumacademy

Listen to our sister podcast What's Your Damage with Jez Watts www.linktr.ee/jezwatts

Feather Plucking

Sun, 18 Jan 2026 19:00:00 GMT

Feather destructive behaviour is commonly misunderstood in parrots, as many assume it is behavioural or stress-related. This confusing syndrome can actually be caused by a long list of physiological illnesses and husbandry issues, and those all have to be ruled out before we can say it is a purely behavioural cause.

Nicole and Jez discuss feather destructive behaviour and the diagnostic pathways we can take to work out the root cause, while Jez plugs his very sexually explicit comedy special (on YouTube and audio streamers now). If you'd like to support the podcast please head to www.patreon.com/tinyvetpod to donate - or just rate, review & tell a friend. Watch Jez's debut special White-Rice Supreme at www.youtube.com/@jezwattscomedy (episodes up there too) and follow Nicole's possum-based instagram account at www.instagram.com/fatpossumacademy

Tasty ≠ Healthy

Sun, 04 Jan 2026 19:00:00 GMT

A common complaint - especially when a pet is switched to a more suitable diet - is that "they don't like the food", which many owners equate to "food is bad." Which is nuts, as WE often don't like the food that is good for us either. For example, despite having a fridge full of various leftovers, Jez ate 4-6 servings of butterscotch self serving pudding over 2 Christmas Days. Which wasn't good for him.

Nicole and Jez discuss why pets (like people!) prefer food that is not necessarily good for them, while Jez accuses Nicole of sabotaging his eyeball while he sleeps.

If you'd like to support the podcast please head to www.patreon.com/tinyvetpod to donate - or just rate, review & tell a friend.

Watch Jez's debut special White-Rice Supreme at www.youtube.com/@jezwattscomedy (episodes up there too) and follow Nicole's possum-based instagram account at www.instagram.com/fatpossumacademy

Dog Boots!

Tue, 23 Dec 2025 05:21:00 GMT

Some clothes can benefit pets, such as e-collars or little jackets to stop them from messing with a surgical site after surgery. However! Dog boots are a commonly overlooked item that can really help with dogs that love to run, or dogs with environmental allergies.

Nicole and Jez discuss who might benefit from little boots, and how to pick appropriate ones for your dog, while Jez makes clear that Nicole's head to toe scratches and wounds are caused by many, many possums and not himself.

If you'd like to support the podcast please head to www.patreon.com/tinyvetpod to donate - or just rate, review & tell a friend.

Watch Jez's debut special White-Rice Supreme at www.youtube.com/@jezwattscomedy (episodes up there too) and follow Nicole's possum-based instagram account at www.instagram.com/fatpossumacademy

What To Do If You Find Wildlife

Sun, 21 Sep 2025 15:06:00 GMT

Finding wild animals in need of help can tug at the heartstrings, but these animals need a trained wildlife carer or are at risk of a horrible death. Any wild animal in need to help should be surrendered to a vet clinic, who will then assess and provide first aid, or if necessary, compassionate euthanasia. If they have a future where a return to the wild is possible, staff go to all sorts of lengths to pair them with a carer that can make that happen.

Nicole and Jez discuss what to do if you find a wild animal in need of help, while Jez reveals he does not have cancer.

If you'd like to support the podcast please head to www.patreon.com/tinyvetpod to donate - or just rate, review & tell a friend. Give Jez a follow on Youtube at www.youtube.com/@jezwattscomedy (episodes are up there too) and follow Nicole on Instagram at www.instagram.com/fatpossumacademy (the new class is in)

Vaccination Reactions

Tue, 09 Sep 2025 13:37:00 GMT

Risk of vaccination reaction is TINY compared to risk of the disease it's vaccinating for, especially given the result of some of the diseases. Rabies? 100% fatal. Vaccines? Get em.

Nicole and Jez discuss what vaccination reactions are and why they happen, plus Jez reveals the possibilty that Nicole has Double Muscle Disease.

Droughts & Hay

Sun, 24 Aug 2025 20:00:00 GMT

Hay production is rarely top of mind for herbivore owners, but understanding the process can help them understand when & why hay shortages and quality changes happen. It's not something that's made in a factory!

Nicole and Jez discuss the impact of droughts and other weather events on hay, and what hay shortages can mean for pet owners, while Jez announces his wedding availabilities & rants about guinea pigs.

If you'd like to support the podcast please head to www.patreon.com/tinyvetpod to donate (or rate, review & tell a friend) Give Jez a follow on Youtube at https://www.youtube.com/@jezwattscomedy (episodes are up there too) and follow Nicole on instagram at https://www.instagram.com/fatpossumacademy/ (the new class is in)

Reptiles as Pets

Tue, 12 Aug 2025 14:21:00 GMT

Reptiles make fantastic pets! It is, however, incredibly important to ensure that their husbandry and enclosure are meeting their sometimes tricky requirements, as they rely 100% on their environment for digestion, heart rate, locomotion, metabolism and almost everything else!

Jez and Nicole discuss reptile keeping and these amazing animals, and Jez reveals Nicole's secret medical taste tests. The easiest reptile to keep might surprise you!

If you'd like to support the podcast please head to www.patreon.com/tinyvetpod to donate (or rate, review & tell a friend)

Puppy School

Mon, 28 Jul 2025 12:28:00 GMT

Puppy school is more important than simply teaching them to sit, but that training does offer structure to a session.

The misconception that puppy school is just about training causes lots of dogs to miss out on crucial socialisation and exposure during a narrow ideal window.

Nicole and Jez discuss the importance of puppy school for canine mental and social development.

If you'd like to support the podcast please head to www.patreon.com/tinyvetpod to donate (or rate, review & tell a friend).

Vaccinating Indoor Pets

Mon, 14 Jul 2025 02:30:00 GMT

Indoor pets really should be vaccinated.

"But they don't go anywhere!" Well...they might. You can't predict the future. Also, there are situations where the 100% indoor pet does in fact leave the house and come right into the building in which you are having that argument A building FAMOUS for nosocomial infections!

Nicole and Jez discuss the importance of vaccinating even indoor pets, and how the benefits do outweigh the risks (unless that pet has had a severe anaphylactic reaction to a vaccination in the past which is very very very uncommon).

If you'd like to support the podcast please head to www.patreon.com/tinyvetpod to donate (or simply rate and review, and tell a friend).

Watch Jez's special White-Rice Supreme www.youtube.com/@jezwattscomedy

Tick Prevention

Sun, 29 Jun 2025 20:00:00 GMT

Pet owners are spoiled for choice nowadays with parasite preventatives, with several options for monthly dosing. However! As with any preventative: fear mongering and misinformation runs rife.

Nicole and Jez discuss the benefits and risks of tick prevention, and why the benefits almost always outweigh the risks. If you'd like to support the podcast please head to www.patreon.com/tinyvetpod to donate, rate and review, or tell a friend.

"But He's Still Eating!"

Sun, 15 Jun 2025 20:00:02 GMT

It's a little strange that a common clapback to a vet telling an owner that their pet is sick and needs diagnostics and treatment is "but he's still eating" (especially when it comes to dental disease).

He's probably still eating because if not he'll die!

Nicole and Jez discuss some markers of quality of life and discomfort that could use a bit more thought. If you'd like to support the podcast please head to www.patreon.com/tinyvetpod or just rate, subscribe and tell a friend.

Food Allergies in Dogs & Cats

Sun, 01 Jun 2025 20:00:00 GMT

The topic of food allergies is rife with misconceptions, and these can be exceptionally frustrating to pet owners as they lead them down blind ends. Faddish marketing that plays into these misconceptions doesn't help but sadly the march of late-stage capitalism is inexorable.

Nicole and Jez discuss what food allergies actually involve, as well as the process in which you can identify your pet's dietary allergies.

If you'd like to support the podcast please head to www.patreon.com/tinyvetpod or just like & subscribe.

Emergency Rooms

Sun, 18 May 2025 20:00:00 GMT

How much extra would you need to be paid to work from 10pm to 8am whilst also not knowing how your shift will pan out? That's why some of the thoughtless criticism thrown around regarding emergency veterinary services is kind of wild.

Nicole and Jez discuss how emergency vet services work, as well as the unseen efforts behind the scenes that, very justifiably, takes money and time.

If you'd like to support the podcast please head to www.patreon.com/tinyvetpod

Cats with FIV

Sun, 04 May 2025 20:00:00 GMT

FIV, feline immunodeficiency virus (sometimes known as "Cat AIDS") isn't necessarily a major barrier to a healthy, happy cat - and certainly isn't a dealbreaker if you're looking at an adoptable cat.

Dr Nicole and Jez discuss the ramifications of FIV, as well as what you can do to prevent your cat from getting it, and managing an FIV positive household.

If you'd like to support the podcast please head to www.patreon.com/tinyvetpod

Dogs on Vacation

Sun, 20 Apr 2025 20:00:00 GMT

The various holiday seasons have food and gatherings in common, and it can be easy to forget to prep your pet for them while also picking up the party food, making sure there's enough ice, and informing everyone of the plan to stop Uncle Murray from passing out in the neighbour's tomato patch again.

Dr Nicole and Jez talk about some of the common dangers that pets can get into during holiday periods, and how to reduce the risk of a public holiday emergency vet visit.

If you'd like to support the podcast please head to www.patreon.com/tinyvetpod

Rats: Our Fat Little Friends

Mon, 12 Jun 2023 05:22:25 GMT

Cute, fat, sniffy little rats get a bad rap for such friendly little creatures. While feral rats ARE considered pests, domestic rats are sweet animals that make great pets.

Nicole and Jez discuss the joys of having rats as friends.

If you'd like to support the podcast please head to www.patreon.com/tinyvetpod or just rate, review & subscribe.

Catnip!

Mon, 05 Jun 2023 01:44:21 GMT

What is catnip?? Is it drugs for cats?? Kind of, but they don't need a lighter - which is great as they don't have thumbs.

Nicole and Jez discuss what exactly catnip is and how it works (it's safe) If you'd like to support the podcast please head to www.patreon.com/tinyvetpod

Supermarket Pet Foods

Sun, 28 May 2023 22:00:00 GMT

Is the cheap stuff at the supermarket okay to feed your pet? Yes! (as long as you know your pet's requirements) but they may not be suitable for young pets, old animals, or those with issues like food allergies.

Nicole and Jez discuss the difference between supermarket and premium pet foods.

If you'd like to support the podcast please head to www.patreon.com/tinyvetpod

What Human Food CAN My Dog Eat?

Mon, 22 May 2023 07:59:07 GMT

Dogs love to eat! Dogs love to eat ANYTHING, and so they're really poor judges of what they should and shouldn't. That is our job as pet owners sometimes we don't do that job well either.

Nicole and Jez discuss what human foods dogs can eat, and how that balances with their regular dog food. Our first episode of Season 2! If you'd like to support the podcast please head to www.patreon.com/tinyvetpod

Parasite Prevention In Dogs & Cats

Mon, 28 Nov 2022 18:17:14 GMT

There's a lot of misinformation about the dangers of parasite preventatives circulating on the internet, but parasite infestation is the far greater risk.

Nicole & Jez discuss risk management with regards to parasite prevention, and why it's almost always the lower risk option.

Human Food For Human (Dog Food For Dog)

Mon, 14 Nov 2022 21:30:00 GMT

Dogs love human food. Humans love human food. Humans just have the ability to manipulate foods for their palatability, but tastiness doesn't always mean it's healthy! (sadly it's kind of the opposite).

Nicole and Jez discuss dogs eating too much human food.

High Protein Dog Food Is A Marketing Trick

Mon, 07 Nov 2022 07:20:33 GMT

If some protein is good, then more is better, right? Not always! While there are applications for higher protein levels in dog food, there is a limit to how much dietary protein can be processed and metabolised in a day, so "high protein" food might not be any better for your pet.

Nicole and Jez discuss why there are optimal levels of protein in foods, and why more protein isn't always useful.

Let The Right Horse In

Tue, 01 Nov 2022 21:30:00 GMT

It's easy to get carried away when planning to buy a horse. Going with a flashy colour, impressive CV, or pretty face instead of focusing on what you need as a rider are common traps. You need to be realistic about what you can do, and what you want to do.

Nicole and Jez discuss some common problems people make when buying horses, and why some horses pick up bad habits once they go to their new homes.

Cat Pee Problems

Mon, 24 Oct 2022 09:30:00 GMT

Cats are prone to developing urinary problems, and they can be frustrating to manage. Partly, this is because urinary issues often have multiple causes, involving several different triggers. Symptoms can also be nonspecific, or difficult to monitor. Nicole and Jez discuss some ways to help kitties with urinary problems, and what to watch out for.

57: Bird Seed Is Junk Food

Mon, 17 Oct 2022 09:30:00 GMT

Birds love seed like humans love Snickers, and the analogy doesn't stop there. Foods high in fat and sugars trigger similar neural pathways to addictive drugs, but like drugs of addiction they are not good for you (or birds).

Nicole and Jez discuss seed addiction in parrots and how to help them eat healthier.

56: Axolotls

Sun, 09 Oct 2022 21:30:00 GMT

You can't get much weirder than the axolotl, a completely aquatic amphibian (kind of an oxymoron). Despite being common as pets, they're endangered in the wild due to habitat destruction.

Nicole and Jez discuss the intricacies of the axolotl.

55: Helping Fat Pets (reducing your hungus)

Sun, 25 Sep 2022 22:30:00 GMT

Fat animals are very cute but are prone to lots of health problems. Weight loss can be challenging as the fatter they are, the more difficult it is for them to move around and keep active. Plus, it is incredibly hard to resist when they ask for a snack!

Nicole and Jez discuss some methods for successful weight loss in pets.

54: SNAKES ARE COOL! (Nicole loves snakes)

Sun, 18 Sep 2022 22:30:00 GMT

Snakes get a bad rap sometimes, but they're actually very nice animals, and because of their anatomy and physiology, NOT SLIMY. They also make great pets when proper attention is paid to their husbandry.

Nicole and Jez discuss the nice things about snakes and why they are our friends.

53: The Right Way To Feed Your Horse

Sun, 11 Sep 2022 22:30:00 GMT

It can be tempting to feed your horse a performance feed they may not need, or load them up with lots of supplements. Just like people, it's important to feed your horse according to the amount of physical work they're doing.

Nicole and Jez discuss the basics of horse feeding, and what to increase first when looking to add more to your horse's feed regime.

52: How To Pick A Good Breeder

Sun, 04 Sep 2022 22:30:00 GMT

Post-COVID, loads of people have taken advantage of the increase in puppy demand to make more puppies & it's sometimes difficult to tell a good, ethical breeder from a someone more concerned with turning a profit than providing healthy animals. Nicole and Jez discuss some hallmarks of both good and bad breeders, and why going to a breeder CAN be an ethical thing to do.

51: Invasive Species

Sun, 28 Aug 2022 22:30:00 GMT

It certainly seems a bit mean to classify whole species as invasive, especially when it wasn't their choice to be introduced to delicate ecosystems, but it can be one of the biggest threats to ecology, life and wildlife health in our global society. Nicole and Jez discuss why some species are so good at invading new habitats, and why controlling them is important for native wildlife.

50: Pets & Wildlife Danger

Sun, 21 Aug 2022 22:30:59 GMT

Our pets can run afoul of several species of wildlife, especially here in Australia (there are venomous snake avoidance courses for dogs).

While venomous snakes can be life-threatening, there are lots of other wildlife that can cause grief for our pets.

Nicole and Jez go through some common types of wildlife that can cause injury or misadventure.

49: The Great Horseshoe Debate

Sun, 14 Aug 2022 22:30:00 GMT

There's a strong push currently for keeping horses barefoot, as it is the way they naturally live. However, the reality for most of our horses is that they aren't really living in a wild-type environment, eating wild-type feed, or doing wild-type work. So, is barefoot really best for all horses?

Nicole and Jez discuss which horses can benefit from going barefoot, and which horses are likely to require shoeing or other hoof care options to remain sound.

48: Securing Your Horse's Future

Sun, 07 Aug 2022 22:30:00 GMT

Horses bring immeasurable joy to riders around the world, but we can't avoid the truth that they are EXPENSIVE to keep. Situations can change, and re-homing a large (potentially lethal) animal is fraught with pitfalls. Nicole and Jez discuss the best way to safeguard your horse's future against sudden change of circumstances.

47: Anxious Cats

Sun, 31 Jul 2022 22:30:01 GMT

Cats get anxious too, and they can also show it in ways where it may not be apparent anxiety; they often toilet outside the litterbox or change their daily routine. There's lots that can be done for anxious cats! While many tools can be bought online, it's also important to get a vet checkup to make sure that medical problems like pain or infection aren't causing the problem.

Nicole and Jez discuss methods to help your kitty feel comfortable and at ease.

46: Fighting Fish

Sun, 24 Jul 2022 22:30:00 GMT

Siamese fighting fish, or bettas, are a commonly misunderstood little fish. They need a much bigger tank than most people think! While the males can't be housed together, there are lots of invertebrates that cohabit happily with bettas, and a larger tank containing one fish need not be a waste of space.

Nicole and Jez discuss the needs of fighting fish and how to set up an appropriate tank.

45: Crate Training for Dogs

Sun, 17 Jul 2022 22:30:00 GMT

Crates and kennels are easily misunderstood as restrictive caging, but they have a great use for giving dogs a safe, comfortable space that is their own. Plus it helps with future vet visits & other transport because it teaches them that confinement is temporary and okay.

Nicole and Jez discuss crate training and why it is so useful for anxious dogs.

44: VegeTales (Debunking 'Scary' Veges For Herbivores)

Sun, 10 Jul 2022 22:30:00 GMT

Owners of small herbivores often get concerned about the calcium levels of vegetables like kale and spinach. Does this mean that they shouldn't be feeding any of those at all?

Nicole and Jez discuss where this concern came from, and what it means on a practical, day to day basis.

43: Dogs Off Lead

Sun, 03 Jul 2022 22:30:35 GMT

Designated off-lead areas like dog parks are a great way to let your dog stretch their legs and interact with other dogs. BUT! Dogs should be kept on lead on sidewalks and in nature reserves.

Nicole and Jez discuss the reasons why.

42: Toothbrushing

Sun, 19 Jun 2022 22:30:00 GMT

We've spoken about why pets need dental scale and polishes under anesthesia before, and we're warning you about the trap of "anesthesia-free dentals." It seems too good to be true - coz it is.

BUT! Teaching your pet to accept toothbrushing at home is an effective, safe (and cheap!) way to maintain their dental health, and there's no downside.

Nicole and Jez discuss the benefits of toothbrushing and why anesthesia-free dentals are a marketing ploy that makes dental issues worse.

41: Pure Breeds Can Be Healthy Too

Sun, 12 Jun 2022 22:30:00 GMT

"Oh, that's just normal for the breed," is a phrase that's thrown out about dyspneic bulldogs, nostril-less Pekingese, and Chihuahuas with eyes bigger than their sockets, but should it be considered normal, even if the trait is common?

Nicole and Jez discuss how the perception of "normal" harms the ongoing development of phenotypic health in purebreds, and how to approach the problems in pure breeds.

40: Medication Training

Sun, 05 Jun 2022 22:30:00 GMT

Getting your pet to take their medication can be a major stressor for everyone involved, but it doesn't need to be. Training your pet to accept medication BEFORE they ever get sick can make your life much easier in the future.

Nicole and Jez discuss some methods of medication training and how they work.

39: Little Dogs: Bad To The Bone?

Sun, 29 May 2022 22:30:42 GMT

Little dogs aren't born mean.

Small dogs have a reputation for being little land sharks, and lots of people think that's just how little dogs are. BUT! Little dogs can be well behaved if they are taught manners and proper boundaries from puppyhood (just like big dogs).

Nicole and Jez discuss why small dogs have a bitey reputation.

38: (Don't) Lie To Me

Sun, 22 May 2022 22:30:14 GMT

Pets sometimes get into their owner's things! And those things aren't always legal, which can lead to some hesitation at the vet clinic when a history is being taken.

Nicole and Jez discuss why a vet will never turn you in for your dog eating marijuana, and why you should just tell us up front what they got into.

37: Buns! (Rabbits R Complicated)

Sun, 15 May 2022 22:30:34 GMT

Rabbits are complex little animals and are sadly often misunderstood, leading to many pet rabbits kept in suboptimal conditions, not receiving proper care or attention.

Nicole and Jez discuss some bunny basics and why they can be one of the more challenging pets to have.

36: Positive Reinforcement Training

Sun, 08 May 2022 22:30:44 GMT

Training your pets doesn't have to be a huge mystery, and it all has to do with positive reinforcement of good behaviour. This training method can be used to train almost any animal in a welfare-friendly way.

Nicole and Jez discuss the benefits of positive reinforcement training.

35: Prescription Diets

Sun, 01 May 2022 22:30:11 GMT

Prescription diets are useful to help manage pets with chronic illness, but they come with a higher price tag.

Nicole and Jez discuss tips and tricks to ensure you make the most out of a bag of prescription food.

34: What Happens In "The Back"?

Mon, 25 Apr 2022 10:55:27 GMT

Vets often take pets out to "the back" (treatment room) for minor procedures like blood draws. Pet owners often don't understand why vets do this, and may suspect that there's something we don't want them to see. However, taking pets through to the treatment room is often the best option for everyone involved - pet, owner, and vet.

Nicole and Jez discuss the reasons why we do this, and what happens behind the door.

33: Money Talks

Sun, 17 Apr 2022 22:30:56 GMT

Nobody enjoys talking money in a conversation about health and welfare, but it needs to be discussed so that expectations and plans can be managed from the beginning.

Nicole and Jez discuss how to speak about finances with your vet in a way that is positive, as well as helpful for ensuring that we can give you the best plan for your budget

32: Big Dog Big Joint Pain

Sun, 10 Apr 2022 22:30:14 GMT

We all love our big, cuddly dogs! But it's important prepare for the cost and logistics of having a big dog, and to be up-to-date with preventatives.

Nicole and Jez discuss The Big Problem With Big Dogs: Osteoarthritis (and why it is so important to look after their joints from day one).

31: Age Is Just A Number

Sun, 03 Apr 2022 22:30:00 GMT

Health issues come with age, but age isn't a reason to ignore them. Age-related issues can be managed well with proper care.

Nicole and Jez discuss why age shouldn't matter when deciding on care for older pets.

30: The Great Vet Shortage of 2022

Sun, 27 Mar 2022 21:30:00 GMT

Taking longer than usual to get an appointment at your local vet clinic? Vets are suddenly in short supply (partly because of the pandemic).

Nicole and Jez discuss some of the reasons why we're experiencing a global vet shortage

29: Something Wrong? Bring It In!

Sun, 20 Mar 2022 21:30:14 GMT

People get frustrated when they send in photos of their animal or describe their pet's symptoms on the phone, and are told that they need to come in for a consultation.

Far from being a strange kind of upselling technique, this recommendation ensures that the right advice and treatment is given.

Nicole and Jez discuss why a diagnosis can't be given remotely, and why it can be dangerous to do so.

28: All Cats Should Be Indoor Cats

Sun, 13 Mar 2022 21:30:02 GMT

While many cats enjoy the outdoors, unconstrained access has dangers for both the cats and native wildlife. There are solutions to square the circle: including cat runs and secure fencing.

Nicole and Jez discuss the dangers of free roaming cats, and how it's now much easier to provide safe outdoor access.

27: Small Parrots

Sun, 06 Mar 2022 21:45:06 GMT

Small parrots like budgies and cockatiels have a reputation for being "starter" or easy birds to keep, but despite this they are intelligent, complex animals that still require space and enrichment.

Nicole and Jez discuss why we need to do better for our small parrots.

26: Sick & Injured Wildlife [Trigger Warning]

Sun, 27 Feb 2022 21:30:00 GMT

Sick and injured wildlife are brought into vet clinics every day, and many members of the public find it confronting to learn that the animal may be euthanised.

Nicole and Jez discuss the challenges that face wildlife patients, and why euthanasia is a common outcome.

[Trigger Warning] References to suicide & animal euthanasia

25: Dog Anxiety

Sun, 20 Feb 2022 21:30:00 GMT

For dogs, as in humans, anxiety is an illness that needs management. Just as with human anxiety medication, the treatments have advanced dramatically, but still suffer from outdated misconceptions by the public.

Nicole and Jez discuss canine anxiety and its treatment modalities.

24: Not All Vets Are Vegetarian

Sun, 13 Feb 2022 21:30:07 GMT

People unfamiliar with veterinarians often assume that most are vegetarian. However, caring for production animals is an integral part of veterinary training, and many vets do important work in farms and abattoirs around the world; contributing the most of anyone to production animal welfare. Nicole and Jez discuss the production animal side of veterinary medicine, and why production animal vets need more recognition for the vital roles they play.

23: No General Anaesthetic Is 100% Safe

Sun, 06 Feb 2022 21:30:00 GMT

General anaesthesia is almost taken for granted now, but many forget it still carries risk. Every animal (and human) that undergoes general anaesthesia has a chance of complication (or even death). Nicole and Jez discuss what general anaesthesia actually is, and why nobody can guarantee a risk-free anaesthetic.

22: Vets Pay For Vet Care Too

Sun, 30 Jan 2022 21:30:18 GMT

Online communities are rife with comments stating that veterinary care should be free. While that would be ideal, even human healthcare isn't free or even subsidized for many people around the world. Nicole and Jez discuss why veterinary services cost as much as they do, and explain why vets have big vet bills to pay off sometimes too.

21: Pets Are For Parents

Sun, 23 Jan 2022 21:00:00 GMT

Childhood pets are a source of happy memories for many people, but children should never be the *main* caretaker of any pet. Yes, pets can help to show children what responsibility looks like, but they simply lack the ability to care for a pet in full (especially when it comes to financial decisions).

Nicole and Jez discuss why a pet is ultimately the parent's responsibility, and how a parent caring correctly for a pet (or collaborating with the child) can be the best way to teach responsibility.

20: It's A Hard-Vet Life

Sun, 16 Jan 2022 21:00:00 GMT

Meeting puppies and kittens and baby rabbits are a huge perk of being a vet but there are massive downsides which can take away the joy of the job's good parts, and make the bad parts extra awful. Nicole and Jez discuss the harsh reality of being a vet, and why the veterinary industry is so punishing.

(subtext: pls be nice to your vet)

19: Raw Feeding

Sun, 09 Jan 2022 21:00:00 GMT

Feeding dogs and cats raw food is touted as the best way to feed pets, and the proponents say that veterinary pushback is because of a grand conspiracy to keep pets unhealthy. Nicole and Jez discuss raw diets, the manipulative marketing behind them, but also why they can have a place in the right situation.

18: Pet Dental

Sun, 02 Jan 2022 21:00:00 GMT

Why does a scale and polish for a person cost $100 when a scale and polish for a cat or dog costs $400-600? Part of the reason comes down to the language barrier between people and dogs & cats, which means that vets can't say - "Okay, Fluffy, open up and be still - this is totally completely fine, and you have nothing to worry about." Nicole and Jez discuss the major differences between a scale and polish for a human vs a pet, why a general anaesthetic is required for pet dentals, and how to reduce the frequency of dentals for dogs.

17: Microchipping

Sun, 26 Dec 2021 21:00:00 GMT

Microchipping isn't as scary as the tin foil brigade makes it out to be, and microchips don't actually work how most people think they do. BUT! They *are* an excellent, cheap, safe, and reliable way to permanently identify your pet should the worst happen, and microchipping is mandatory for cats and dogs in many parts of the world. Nicole and Jez discuss how microchips work, and what they actually do to help lost pets get home. And spend more than a minute at the top yelling about how they aren't in vaccines.

16: Pet Insurance!

Sun, 19 Dec 2021 21:08:33 GMT

Many people don't use pet insurance to their advantage, and a common, catastrophic mistake is signing up for insurance far too late. When pet insurance is used properly, and started before any potential pre-existing conditions can be recorded, it can save pet owners not only thousands of dollars, but also from heartbreak. Nicole and Jez discuss the important things to do and look out for when getting your pet insured.

15: Fish Keeping & Tank Maintenance

Sun, 12 Dec 2021 21:00:00 GMT

Fish keeping! Usually thought of as a low maintenance, easy pet. Sadly, many new fish keepers lose their new fish to poor water quality. Fish keeping requires close attention to detail, as well as patience.

Nicole and Jez discuss the work involved with setting up a new fish tank, and common reasons why new tanks can fail.

14: Veterinary Specialties

Sun, 05 Dec 2021 21:00:00 GMT

Why is a boarded orthopedic surgeon so much more expensive than a general practice vet? Do you really get what you pay for? (Spoilers: Yes, 100%). Nicole and Jez discuss the various veterinary specialties, and why they to cost more, and are able to offer different (more successful) procedures, than general practices.

13: Stranger Danger (Advice On The Internet)

Sun, 28 Nov 2021 21:00:00 GMT

Many pet owners participate in online groups where they can discuss and share their experiences with their pets, as well as ask for advice from other pet owners. However, advice from strangers on the internet can have serious consequences, especially because they don't know what's really going on with your pet. Nicole and Jez discuss the dangers that come with seeking advice from other laymen online.

12: Flat Faces (Brachycephaly)

Sun, 21 Nov 2021 21:00:00 GMT

Squishy-faced animals are super cute! Sadly, flat-faced animals, or brachycephalics, come with a range of health issues that require lots of extra care.

Nicole and Jez discuss the various issues brachycephalics can have, and the most important thing to do if you have a flat-faced pet.

11: X-Rays

Sun, 14 Nov 2021 21:00:00 GMT

X-rays are an amazing, non-invasive diagnostic procedure that literally allows us to see inside a body. However, they still require a lot of expertise to perform and interpret, and there are limitations that affect their use in pets.

Nicole and Jez discuss how x-rays work, and why we take the precautions that we do when taking x-rays in animals.

Dr Nicole Su is a veterinarian, Jez Watts is a comedian-biotechnologist, and together they discuss commonly misunderstood topics in the pet and vet world. They live with three rabbits who are their children.

10: Realistic Guinea Pig Ownership

Sun, 31 Oct 2021 23:00:00 GMT

Guinea pigs are a popular but misunderstood pet (which is why we wrote an app for them!), and a lot of their behaviour stems from their evolutionary history. They also have unique husbandry requirements that are important for keeping them healthy.

Nicole and Jez discuss the most important things to know with pet guinea pigs, as well as why they behave like they do.

Dr Nicole Su is a veterinarian, Jez Watts is a comedian-biotechnologist, and together they discuss commonly misunderstood topics in the pet and vet world. They live with three rabbits who are their children.

9: Hay For Guinea Pigs

Sun, 31 Oct 2021 22:00:00 GMT

Guinea pigs should have a diet that is at least 80% hay, which helps to reduce the risk of dental disease and gastrointestinal issues. It can be challenging getting them to eat a healthy diet sometimes, just like us.

Nicole and Jez talk about why hay is so unique as a food, as well as why it can help with normal dental wear and digestion.

Dr Nicole Su is a veterinarian, Jez Watts is a comedian-biotechnologist, and together they discuss commonly misunderstood topics in the pet and vet world. They live with three rabbits who are their children.

8: Knowing When To Say Goodbye [Trigger Warning]

Sun, 31 Oct 2021 21:00:00 GMT

Knowing when to make the decision to let your pet cross the rainbow bridge is one of the hardest things pet owners have to do, and the emotional toll of such a decision never gets easier. However, there are some things that can help reassure pet owners that they are making the right decision for their pet.

Nicole and Jez discuss the concept of "quality of life," and how that can help quantify the amount of joy that a pet still gets out of their life.

Dr Nicole Su is a veterinarian, Jez Watts is a comedian-biotechnologist, and together they discuss commonly misunderstood topics in the pet and vet world. They live with three rabbits who are their children.

7: Blood Testing

Sun, 31 Oct 2021 20:00:00 GMT

Blood testing is one of the first diagnostics options vets reach for, but there are many misconceptions about what a blood test actually tells you.

Nicole and Jez go through the different types of blood tests, as well as what the results look like, and discuss why sometimes blood testing doesn't give us an answer.

Dr Nicole Su is a veterinarian, Jez Watts is a comedian-biotechnologist, and together they discuss commonly misunderstood topics in the pet and vet world. They live with three rabbits who are their children.

6: Meat Meal

Sun, 31 Oct 2021 19:00:00 GMT

Mystery meat! A disgusting idea for a person, but a scrumptious offering for a pet? Meal meal doesn't deserve its scary reputation, and it is actually more balanced than a block of ground beef from the supermarket.

Nicole and Jez talk about what actually is in meat and bone meal, and why that isn't as scary as it sounds.

Dr Nicole Su is a veterinarian, Jez Watts is a comedian-biotechnologist, and together they discuss commonly misunderstood topics in the pet and vet world. They live with three rabbits who are their children.

5: "Fillers"

Sun, 31 Oct 2021 18:00:00 GMT

"Fillers," a commonly used scary word to warn pet owners away from one product, and into the arms of another, but do we really know what that word means? What exactly IS a filler anyway?

Nicole and Jez talk about what a filler ingredient actually is, and why some ingredients that commonly get the "filler" blame are unjustly slandered.

Dr Nicole Su is a veterinarian, Jez Watts is a comedian-biotechnologist, and together they discuss commonly misunderstood topics in the pet and vet world. They live with three rabbits who are their children.

4: Premium Pet Food

Sun, 31 Oct 2021 17:00:00 GMT

If there ever was a minefield of a topic, it is premium pet foods. The huge range of pet foods on the market can be confusing, and marketers prey on pet owners' fears and doubts to sell their products. However, there are great pet foods out there, and no, we are not paid to shill their products. We just like 'em.

Nicole and Jez discuss what constitutes a premium pet food, and what the difference is between a genuinely good product and a product that is just marketed well.

Dr Nicole Su is a veterinarian, Jez Watts is a comedian-biotechnologist, and together they discuss commonly misunderstood topics in the pet and vet world. They live with three rabbits who are their children.

3: Altmed

Sun, 31 Oct 2021 16:00:00 GMT

Why are some medications prescription-only, while others are over the counter (OTC)? Are the OTC equivalents of prescription medications?

Nicole and Jez discuss the classification criteria for medications, and why OTC medications are not always the best choice instead of a vet visit or a prescription.

2: Antibiotics

Sun, 31 Oct 2021 15:00:00 GMT

Antibiotics are one of the most common medications that people recognize, but they are often misunderstood.

Nicole and Jez discuss common misconceptions regarding antibiotics, what they actually do, and why you need a consultation and a prescription for them.

Dr Nicole Su is a veterinarian, Jez Watts is a comedian-biotechnologist, and together they discuss commonly misunderstood topics in the pet and vet world. They live with three rabbits who are their children.

1: Dog Behaviour

Sun, 31 Oct 2021 14:00:00 GMT

It seems that everyone out there has their own idea of how to train a dog, and most of us know that smacking and shock collars are not good methods. However, commonly held beliefs on how dogs' minds work can actually be counterproductive and inaccurate to training and welfare.

Nicole and Jez discuss positive reinforcement training methods, and why some popular ideas on dog psychology are inaccurate.

Dr Nicole Su is a veterinarian, Jez Watts is a comedian-biotechnologist, and together they discuss commonly misunderstood topics in the pet and vet world. They live with three rabbits who are their children.