182: Should you deworm your dog regularly, or only when it's actually necessary? In this episode, I break down why routine deworming without testing may not always be the best approach and explain the importance of fecal testing before treatment. I also discuss how parasites affect your dog's health, the role they play in the immune system, why heavy parasite burdens should always be addressed, and how to take a more informed, balanced approach to deworming.

Topics discussed:

→ Fecal Testing Before Deworming

→ Parasites & Your Dog's Immune System

→ Common Intestinal Worms in Dogs

→ Risks of Routine Deworming

→ Natural Support for Parasite Management

Sponsored By:

→ Animal Essentials

→ Pug & Hound Apothecary

Check Out Rita:

→ The Herbal Dog (Book)

→ Rita’s Instagram

→ Facebook Group

→ My Courses

→ My Website and Store

Produced By: Drake Peterson

181: Wildfire smoke can be hard on both you and your dog. In this episode, I share simple ways to reduce smoke exposure, how to recognize when your dog may need extra support, and the herbs I reach for most during wildfire season, including mullein, plantain, marshmallow root, licorice, and New England aster. As always, it's about supporting the individual in front of you with herbs that soothe, nourish, and work with the body.

Topics Discussed:

→ Wildfire Smoke & Dogs

→ Smoke Inhalation Remedies

→ Herbs for Lung Support

→ Mullein & Plantain Benefits

→ Air Quality & Smoke Safety

Sponsored By:

→ Green Juju

→ Animal Essentials

→ Real Mushrooms

Check Out Rita:

→ The Herbal Dog (Book)

→ Rita’s Instagram

→ Facebook Group

→ My Courses

→ My Website and Store

Produced By: Drake Peterson

180: Comfrey is one of herbalism's most beloved plants but it's also one of the most misunderstood. While it's known for supporting the healing of bones, ligaments, tendons, and skin, it deserves a healthy dose of respect. In this episode, I share how I use comfrey in my practice, why it's one of my favorite herbs for external healing, and why I'm much more cautious when it comes to internal use. We'll talk about the compounds that make comfrey controversial, when it may be appropriate to use, and the safer alternatives I often reach for instead. As always, it's about understanding the whole plant, honoring its strengths, and using it thoughtfully for the dogs we love.

Topics Discussed:

→ Is comfrey safe for dogs?
→ What does comfrey help heal in dogs?
→ Can dogs take comfrey internally?
→ When should you avoid using comfrey?
→ What herbs are safer than comfrey?

Sponsored By:

→ Green Juju

→ Animal Essentials

→ Pug & Hound Apothecary

Check Out Rita:

→ The Herbal Dog (Book)

→ Rita’s Instagram

→ Facebook Group

→ My Courses

→ My Website and Store

Produced By: Drake Peterson