Healing Tails

Episode SummaryIn this deeply moving episode, Dr. Ruth Roberts sits down with Scott Colby to explore one of the most challenging aspects of pet parenthood - loss and grief. Scott shares his profound journey caring for his beloved cats Nomar and Mia through their senior years, navigating sudden loss, chronic illness, and the overwhelming grief that followed.What makes this conversation truly special is how Scott transformed his deepest pain into purpose, creating resources and support systems for other pet parents facing similar challenges. From sleeping on the floor for six months to care for his declining cat, to establishing an endowment fund that will help pet families forever - this is a story of love, loss, and the healing power of helping others.Guest: Scott ColbyWriter, speaker, lifelong cat dad, and founder of Golden Whiskers podcast and newsletterKey Topics DiscussedThe Love Story: How Scott unexpectedly adopted Nomar and Mia in 2003 and their 20-year journey togetherSudden vs. Gradual Loss: Experiencing both rapid decline (Nomar) and long-term care (Mia with kidney disease)Pet Grief Reality: The overwhelming emotions, guilt, and isolation that come with pet lossAnticipatory Grief: Living with the constant awareness of a pet's declining healthHealing Through Purpose: How Scott channeled his grief into helping othersNew Beginnings: Adopting Nico and Milo and learning to love againResources MentionedUniversity of Tennessee Veterinary Social Work Program (free grief counseling)Pet loss support groups on FacebookGolden Whiskers newsletter and podcastConnect with Scott ColbyWebsite: goldenwhiskerslove.comInstagram: @goldenwhiskerslovePodcast: Golden Whiskers (available on all platforms)Dr. Ruth Roberts — Your go‑to integrative veterinarian for natural pet care: DrRuthRoberts.comFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheOriginalHolisticPetHealthCoachInstagram: @dr.ruthrobertsYouTube: @drruthrobertsTikTok:@dr.ruthroberts *DISCLAIMER: The purpose of this video is to educate and to inform. It is no substitute for professional care by a veterinarian, licensed nutritionist or other qualified professional. You‘re encouraged to do your own research and should not rely on this information as professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Dr. Ruth and her guests express their own opinions, experience and conclusions, and Dr. Ruth Roberts neither endorses or opposes any particular views discussed here. 🐾 FIND a Holistic Vet ► https://www.ahvma.org/ 

In this episode of Healing Tails, Dr. Ruth Roberts talks with David Hartigan, an ex-consultant turned hemp and mushroom wellness pioneer. They unpack what makes cold-pressed CBD different (and better), why most pet products are just marketing fluff, and how David is setting a new bar for transparency and quality—backed by clinical studies and B Corp values.💚 Learn why hemp and mushrooms really matter in holistic pet care—and how to separate hype from healing.Resources:HempHeros.comFollow @hempheros on InstagramShop Mush & Co mushroom tinctures on ChewyAdditional ResourcesDr. Ruth Roberts — Your go‑to integrative veterinarian for natural pet care: DrRuthRoberts.comFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheOriginalHolisticPetHealthCoachInstagram: @dr.ruthrobertsYouTube: @drruthrobertsTikTok:@dr.ruthroberts Enjoyed the episode? Please rate, follow, and review Healing Tails wherever you get your podcasts. Share it with a fellow pet parent who wants to help their fur baby thrive!*DISCLAIMER: The purpose of this video is to educate and to inform. It is no substitute for professional care by a veterinarian, licensed nutritionist or other qualified professional. You‘re encouraged to do your own research and should not rely on this information as professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Dr. Ruth and her guests express their own opinions, experience and conclusions, and Dr. Ruth Roberts neither endorses or opposes any particular views discussed here. 🐾 FIND a Holistic Vet ► https://www.ahvma.org/ 

In this powerful episode, Dr. Ruth chats with Marketa Jefferson, founder of Paws Balance, holistic pet health coach, and recent contestant on The Blox business reality show. Marketa shares her inspiring path from grooming tables to the front lines of natural pet care advocacy.From rescuing shelter pets and questioning outdated vet protocols to self-educating through heartbreak and healing, Marketa’s story is every passionate pet parent’s wake-up call.You’ll hear:How her sick hairless cat became the catalyst for her career changeWhy she took sick dogs home from the clinic and what she learnedHer surprising experience on The Blox and what it taught her about purposeReal talk about the limits of 15-minute vet visits and how pet parents can do betterOne simple tip you can act on today? Flip that kibble bag and read the ingredients. The truth is often hiding in plain sight.Links & ResourcesLearn more about Marketa: Paws-Balance.comReach out: holisticpetcoach@gmail.comDr. Ruth Roberts — Your go‑to integrative veterinarian for natural pet care: DrRuthRoberts.comFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheOriginalHolisticPetHealthCoachInstagram: @dr.ruthrobertsYouTube: @drruthrobertsTikTok:@dr.ruthroberts Enjoyed the episode? Please rate, follow, and review Healing Tails wherever you get your podcasts. Share it with a fellow pet parent who wants to help their fur baby thrive!*DISCLAIMER: The purpose of this video is to educate and to inform. It is no substitute for professional care by a veterinarian, licensed nutritionist or other qualified professional. You‘re encouraged to do your own research and should not rely on this information as professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Dr. Ruth and her guests express their own opinions, experience and conclusions, and Dr. Ruth Roberts neither endorses or opposes any particular views discussed here. 🐾 FIND a Holistic Vet ► https://www.ahvma.org/ 

In this deeply insightful episode of Healing Tails, Dr. Ruth Roberts is joined by renowned holistic veterinarian Dr. Odette Suter to unpack the widening gap in holistic veterinary care. As chronic illness in pets becomes more complex, Dr. Suter shares why outdated approaches—even within holistic medicine—are failing, and what needs to shift for true healing to take place.From symptom-chasing to spiritual growth, they dive into the root causes of illness, the need for deeper knowledge and support, and how pet parents can begin to navigate overwhelm with compassion. If you're feeling frustrated by "trying everything" and getting nowhere, this episode is a must-listen.Topics covered include:Why symptom-based care (even with herbs and supplements) is falling shortThe hidden impact of environmental toxicity and hormone imbalanceHow deeper self-examination ties into your pet’s healing journeyWhat "integrative" really means—and why sometimes pharmaceuticals are necessaryPractical advice for pet parents navigating guilt and overwhelmResources mentioned:Dr. Odette Suter’s book: What Your Vet Never Told You (available on Amazon)Pet Health Accelerator Program & MasterclassConnect with Dr. Ruth Roberts:Website: DrRuthRoberts.comInstagram: @DrRuthRobertsFacebook: @DrRuthRobertsDon't forget to subscribe and like! Thank you for listening! *DISCLAIMER: The purpose of this video is to educate and to inform. It is no substitute for professional care by a veterinarian, licensed nutritionist or other qualified professional. You‘re encouraged to do your own research and should not rely on this information as professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Dr. Ruth and her guests express their own opinions, experience and conclusions, and Dr. Ruth Roberts neither endorses or opposes any particular views discussed here. 🐾 FIND a Holistic Vet ► https://www.ahvma.org/ 

In this episode of Healing Tails, I welcome the incredible Joni Kamlet, RVT, CCRA, ACN, a registered veterinary technician and holistic practitioner whose journey began with a life‑changing cancer diagnosis that transformed her approach to healing. We explore how raw feeding, homeopathy, herbs, and therapeutic mushrooms played pivotal roles in rescuing both her and her beloved dog, Waffles. Our conversation weaves through Joni’s transition from conventional medicine to holistic veterinary care—highlighting the power of nutrition, rehabilitation therapies like acupuncture and laser, and the emerging magic of mushrooms in pet health. Whether you're curious about shifting your pet-care methods or finding your niche in holistic healing, this conversation offers warmth, wisdom, and real-life inspiration.Links & ResourcesWhole Pet Con (Sept 13, Overland Park Convention Center) — event details and tickets: wholepetcon.comDr. Ruth Roberts — Your go‑to integrative veterinarian for natural pet care: DrRuthRoberts.comJoni Real Mushrooms Website: realmushrooms.comhttps://www.facebook.com/realmushroomsIG: @real_mushroomsHighlighted speakers at Whole Pet Con:Rita Hogan – The Canine Herbalist (herbal approaches for dogs)Amy Renz – Goodness Gracious (human‑quality gently cooked pet diets)Joni Kamlett – Real Mushrooms (functional mushrooms for pet health)Linda Loudon – Emergency Vet with Dog Moms Club (emergency preparedness tips)Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheOriginalHolisticPetHealthCoachInstagram: @dr.ruthrobertsYouTube: @drruthrobertsTikTok:@dr.ruthroberts *DISCLAIMER: The purpose of this video is to educate and to inform. It is no substitute for professional care by a veterinarian, licensed nutritionist or other qualified professional. You‘re encouraged to do your own research and should not rely on this information as professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Dr. Ruth and her guests express their own opinions, experience and conclusions, and Dr. Ruth Roberts neither endorses or opposes any particular views discussed here. 🐾 FIND a Holistic Vet ► https://www.ahvma.org/ 

In this episode, I talk with some wonderful Kansas City locals about the community that is welcoming us for WholePetCon in September! Catherine, Lisa, and Adriana share what it really means to be a pet parent in Kansas City. From dog-friendly patios to wellness tips that actually fit real lives, we explore the growing movement toward holistic pet care—and why it’s not just a coastal thing anymore. We also dive into Whole Pet Con, coming to Overland Park on Sept 13th! It’s more than just another pet expo—it’s a hands-on experience with real answers, practical advice, and some of the top voices in integrative care. If you’ve ever wondered whether acupuncture, fresh food, or mushrooms could help your pet live better, this one’s for you.[1:00] — Welcome to KC: pets, pride, and why our city’s made for four-legged family [9:33] — Why Whole Pet Con is coming to the Midwest (and what makes it different) [11:47] — Integrative care: what it really means to combine Western + natural medicine [13:36] — Lisa’s hospice rescue story: how holistic care gave pets years back [25:02] — VIP perks + goodie bags + cocktail hour? Yes please. [40:57] — Nail trim hacks: CBD, one nail at a time, and patienceLinks & ResourcesWhole Pet Con (Sept 13, Overland Park Convention Center) — event details and tickets: wholepetcon.comDr. Ruth Roberts — Your go‑to integrative veterinarian for natural pet care: DrRuthRoberts.comHighlighted speakers at Whole Pet Con:Rita Hogan – The Canine Herbalist (herbal approaches for dogs)Amy Renz – Goodness Gracious (human‑quality gently cooked pet diets)Joni Kamlett – Real Mushrooms (functional mushrooms for pet health)Linda Loudon – Emergency Vet with Dog Moms Club (emergency preparedness tips)Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheOriginalHolisticPetHealthCoachInstagram: @dr.ruthrobertsYouTube: @drruthrobertsTikTok:@dr.ruthroberts Enjoyed the episode? Please rate, follow, and review Healing Tails wherever you get your podcasts. Share it with a fellow pet parent who wants to help their fur baby thrive!*DISCLAIMER: The purpose of this video is to educate and to inform. It is no substitute for professional care by a veterinarian, licensed nutritionist or other qualified professional. You‘re encouraged to do your own research and should not rely on this information as professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Dr. Ruth and her guests express their own opinions, experience and conclusions, and Dr. Ruth Roberts neither endorses or opposes any particular views discussed here. 🐾 FIND a Holistic Vet ► https://www.ahvma.org/ 

This week on Healing Tails, I’m joined by two visionary voices in pet wellness—Penny Wood (aka Dr. Zoolittle), a longevity zoologist and creator of Raw 360, and Mark Parsekian, co-founder of Go Natural Pets and co-formulator of the groundbreaking supplement, PetREGEN.We’re diving deep into the cutting-edge world of regenerative medicine and how blending wild animal wisdom, species-appropriate nutrition, and innovative supplements can radically improve your pet’s healthspan not just their lifespan. If you're curious about how to extend the vibrancy and vitality of your pet’s life, this conversation will blow your mind.🕒 Episode Highlights:[2:22] - Penny shares what inspired her to bridge zoo animal science with pet longevity.[10:44] - Why chronic diseases in captive animals sparked a red-alert “aha moment.”[16:03] - Mark’s personal journey from severe allergies to pet nutrition innovator.[27:40] - What stem cells really do and how regenerative healing rewrites the rules.[34:00] - When pets stop naturally making stem cells and how to help them now.[45:21] - The secret power of species-appropriate diets in cellular regeneration.[58:15] - Why proactive care always beats reactive and how PetREGEN bridges the gap.🔗 Links & Resources:Learn more about PetREGEN: petregen.comExplore Penny Wood’s programs: drzoolittlel.coFollow Penny on Instagram: @drzoolittlelGrab your tickets to WholePetCon (Sponsored by PetREGEN!): wholepetcon.comMore tools & support from me: DrRuthRoberts.comFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheOriginalHolisticPetHealthCoachInstagram: @dr.ruthrobertsYouTube: @drruthrobertsTikTok:@dr.ruthroberts Enjoyed the episode? Please rate, follow, and review Healing Tails wherever you get your podcasts. Share it with a fellow pet parent who wants to help their fur baby thrive!*DISCLAIMER: The purpose of this video is to educate and to inform. It is no substitute for professional care by a veterinarian, licensed nutritionist or other qualified professional. You‘re encouraged to do your own research and should not rely on this information as professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Dr. Ruth and her guests express their own opinions, experience and conclusions, and Dr. Ruth Roberts neither endorses or opposes any particular views discussed here. 🐾 FIND a Holistic Vet ► https://www.ahvma.org/ 

What if you could help your dog’s arthritis, your cat’s eye condition, or even a colicky horse—without a vet trip or a needle in sight? In this episode of Healing Tails, Dr. Ruth Roberts sits down with Donna Woods, co-founder and CEO of Photonic Health, to explore the power of red light therapy for pets.From a life-changing first experience with a colicking horse to years of refining safe, easy-to-use devices, Donna shares the science, the success stories, and the surprising ways light therapy can fit into your holistic pet care toolkit.Whether you’ve got a senior dog, a competition horse, or a curious kitten, you’ll discover why photonic therapy is more than a gadget—it’s a gateway to supporting your pet’s well-being at home.📌 Bonus: Photonic Health is a proud sponsor of WholePetCon—your front-row seat to the best in holistic pet health education.What You’ll Learn:How red light therapy stimulates healing from the inside outThe difference between cold laser and Photonic Health’s medical-grade LED devicesWhy inflammation is the #1 target for photonic therapyReal-life success stories that will make you a “red light junkie” tooHow light therapy complements acupuncture, chiropractic, and other holistic modalitiesLinks & Resources:Learn more about Photonic Health: PhotonicHealth.comWholePetCon 2025 info: WholePetCon.comLinks & ResourcesGet your tickets to WholePetCon: https://wholepetcon.com/Want more support? Visit 👉 https://drruthroberts.com/ to learn moreFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheOriginalHolisticPetHealthCoachInstagram: @dr.ruthrobertsYouTube: @drruthrobertsTikTok:@dr.ruthroberts Pinterest: @drruthroberts*DISCLAIMER: The purpose of this video is to educate and to inform. It is no substitute for professional care by a veterinarian, licensed nutritionist or other qualified professional. You‘re encouraged to do your own research and should not rely on this information as professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Dr. Ruth and her guests express their own opinions, experience and conclusions, and Dr. Ruth Roberts neither endorses or opposes any particular views discussed here. 🐾 FIND a Holistic Vet ► https://www.ahvma.org/