Healing Tails

What We've Learned in 70+ Years in Veterinary Medicinewith Dr. Judy Morgan & Dr. Ruth Roberts | Healing Tales, Season 2Season 2 opens with a conversation Dr. Ruth has wanted for years. She sits down with Dr. Judy Morgan — nationally recognized integrative veterinarian, best-selling author of nine books, and host of the Naturally Healthy Pets podcast — for an honest look at what vet school taught them, what practice actually demanded, and why they both rebuilt their clinical models from the ground up.Dr. Judy speaks candidly about being trained at the University of Illinois in the 1980s, when kidney disease meant "feed KD" and neurology meant "steroids for everybody." She shares the moment she learned KD was called "killer diet" in integrative circles, what happened at her first AAFCO meeting, and the 95-pound shepherd carried in by a 95-year-old man that turned her toward chiropractic — and everything after.She names what's squeezing compassion out of veterinary medicine — corporate consolidation, private-equity profit targets, understaffing, and rigid "gold standard" protocols — and why real change will come from informed pet parents. "It's the mothers and fathers of the pets we love who are going to drive the change."A practical, hopeful episode about food as the foundation, root-cause thinking, and how to walk into your next vet appointment ready to be your pet's real advocate.WHAT YOU'LL LEARN• Why change comes from informed pet parents, not pharma or pet-food companies• The nutrition gap vet school leaves behind• Why whole foods and "hot" vs. "cooling" energetics transform health in weeks• How to treat the root cause instead of chasing symptoms• How to prepare for a vet visit and ask for a second opinion without making it adversarialTIMESTAMPS00:00 Welcome to Healing Tales — Season 200:29 Meet Dr. Judy Morgan03:05 Amplifying the message: this year's mission05:49 Change is driven by pet parents06:36 Updating "From Needles to Natural"09:13 None of this was in the vet-school syllabus10:34 "Feed KD" and "steroids for everybody"13:43 How little nutrition training vets receive17:24 "See one, do one, teach one" emergency medicine19:51 How the profession lost its compassion24:10 "Gold standard" vs. caring for the animal28:22 The case that changed everything: chiropractic37:20 The case against one-size-fits-all medicine39:34 Food as the foundation, discovering "killer diet"44:05 The beagle puppy and "hot" vs. "cooling" foods47:16 Corporate vs. independent staffing54:48 How pet parents can prepare for a vet visit1:01:07 Getting a second opinion1:05:45 Supporting independent practices1:09:40 Be your pet's advocate1:11:18 What keeps Dr. Judy going: faith and calling1:13:31 Listener gift: 50% off books with code DRRUTH50RESOURCES & LINKSFREE quiz — find your perfect coach: https://drruthroberts.com/pages/find-your-perfect-coachHome-cook for your pet — recipe eBook: https://drruthroberts.com/products/the-original-crockpet-diet-recipeBecome a coach: https://drruthroberts.com/pages/coachSubscribe and turn on notifications for more holistic pet health.LET'S CONNECTHolistic Pet Health Community: https://facebook.com/groups/holisticpethealthsupportFacebook: https://facebook.com/crockpetdietInstagram: https://instagram.com/dr.ruthrobertsDr. Judy Morgan — Naturally Healthy Pets: https://naturallyhealthypets.comLISTENER GIFTHung with us to the end? Use code DRRUTH50 at naturallyhealthypets.com for 50% off Dr. Judy's books.

In this episode of Healing Tails, Dr. Ruth Roberts welcomes Dr. Chris Bessent back to the podcast for a fascinating conversation about Chinese herbal medicine and how it can transform the way we care for our animals.Dr. Bessent shares the inspiration behind her book, Two Paths to the Summit, which explores how both Western medicine and Traditional Chinese Medicine are simply different paths toward the same goal: helping animals achieve better health. While the language may sound very different, many of the concepts in Chinese medicine align closely with what we understand in modern biomedical science.Together, Dr. Ruth and Dr. Bessent talk about why Chinese herbal medicine can be such a powerful tool, especially when working with chronic conditions in pets. From digestive issues and anxiety to inflammation and aging-related concerns, herbal formulas can offer gentle but effective support when used thoughtfully.They also discuss why Chinese medicine can feel overwhelming at first. The terminology, the patterns, and the philosophy can seem unfamiliar, but once you start to understand the foundations, it becomes a powerful way to think about health and disease.This conversation also introduces The Herbal Blueprint, a new course designed to help veterinarians, vet techs, and holistic pet health professionals build confidence using Chinese herbs in practice. The course walks practitioners through foundational concepts, practical case examples, and a structured way to begin adding herbal tools to their clinical toolbox.If you've ever been curious about Chinese herbal medicine but weren’t sure where to start, this episode is a great introduction to the possibilities.About Healing Tails:Join Dr. Ruth Roberts as she interviews leading experts in holistic pet health, empowering pet parents to become healers for their beloved companions through natural, effective approaches that work for real life, real budgets, and real pets.👍 If this episode helped you, please:Like and subscribe for more holistic pet health contentShare with other pet parents who need hopeComment with your ozone therapy questionsRing the notification bell for new episodesConnect with Dr. Ruth Roberts:Website: DrRuthRoberts.comHolistic Pet Health Coach Certification: HolisticPetHealthCoach.comDisclaimer: This podcast is for educational purposes only and is not intended to replace professional veterinary advice. Color therapy is a complementary modality that works alongside conventional veterinary care. Always consult with your veterinarian before making changes to your pet's health care routine.

About Julie-Anne: Holistic cat therapist, soul activator for cat guardians, and pioneer in feline color therapy with over 20 years of experience. Trained in feline zoopharmacognosy, Reiki mastery, chakra healing, and animal communication.Episode Highlights:[00:00 - 03:08] Introduction & Welcome [03:08 - 06:03] The Yellow T-Shirt That Changed Everything [06:03 - 12:00] The Anxiety Connection [12:00 - 19:14] Understanding Cat Chakras[19:14 - 23:52] Color Therapy in Practice [23:52 - 28:06] The Human-Feline Energy Mirror [28:06 - 31:34] Implementing Color Therapy at Home [31:34 - 34:15] Real-World Success Stories [34:15 - 41:23] Practical Guidance & Resources [41:23 - End] Final Wisdom & How to Connect Key Takeaways:✅ Cats actively seek specific color frequencies (measured in terahertz) for self-healing✅ Each chakra corresponds to physical organs, emotional states, and specific colors✅ Your anxiety and stress directly impact your cat's health and behavior✅ Color therapy is complementary to conventional veterinary care, not a replacement✅ Never force color on cats - always give them choice and safe spaces✅ Even blind cats can benefit from color therapy (they sense frequency, not just visual color)✅ The solar plexus (yellow) is where cats store emotional energy - often linked to digestive issues✅ Multi-cat homes need multiple pieces of the same color to avoid competition✅ Cats may use colors differently: whole body, single paw, or just their head✅ Your cat is already using color therapy - notice where they naturally choose to restResources Mentioned:Books by Julie-Anne Hart:"Cat Chakras" - Complete guide to feline energy centers and color therapy"The Aromatic Cat" (co-authored with Ana Morag) - 40 profiles on zoopharmacognosy with herbs, hydrosols, and essential oilsJulie-Anne's Programs:Become a Soul-Led Cat Guardian (signature program)Chakra Cleansing TreatmentsColor Therapy ConsultationsFeatured In:Your CAT MagazineSpirit and Destiny MagazineConnect with Julie-Anne Hart:Website: NaturallyCats.co.ukEmail: info@naturallycats.co.ukFacebook: Naturally CatsInstagram: @naturallycatsYouTube: Naturally CatsTikTok: @naturallycatsConnect with Dr. Ruth Roberts:Website: DrRuthRoberts.comHolistic Pet Health Coach Certification: HolisticPetHealthCoach.comDisclaimer: This podcast is for educational purposes only and is not intended to replace professional veterinary advice. Color therapy is a complementary modality that works alongside conventional veterinary care. Always consult with your veterinarian before making changes to your pet's health care routine.

Guest: Maggie Shellhammer, Founder of Intune Pets Health CoachingAbout Maggie: Certified dog trainer, groomer, holistic pet health coach, and canine/feline iridologist with over 20 years of experience working with dogs, specializing in brachycephalic breeds.Episode Highlights:[00:00 - 02:00] IntroductionDr. Ruth introduces the podcast and today's topic: hidden health clues in petsMeet Maggie Shellhammer and her holistic approach to pet wellness[02:00 - 07:00] Maggie's Journey to Holistic Pet HealthHow her Pug, Juliette, changed everythingFrom IVDD diagnosis to discovering acupunctureThe moment she realized there was more than conventional medicine[07:00 - 12:00] From Dog Trainer to GroomerWhy training certification didn't lead where expectedHow training knowledge made her a better groomerUnderstanding dog behavior and stress signals[12:00 - 17:00] Spotting Subtle Health ChangesWhat groomers see that pet parents missWhy "they're just getting old" isn't good enoughCommon early warning signs in aging pets[17:00 - 22:00] Hidden Health Clues Pet Parents MissBehavior changes as pain indicatorsFoot chewing: itching vs. pain reliefThe 4-6 week rule: when internal issues show externallyReverse sneezing and collapsing tracheaCoughing and potential heart issues[22:00 - 28:00] Introduction to IridologyWhat is canine/feline iridology?How the eyes reveal internal imbalancesWhy iridology can detect issues before lab workThe 70% organ damage threshold in conventional testing[28:00 - 32:00] Real-World Iridology Case: BugsyDiscovering hidden pelvic pain through eye analysisConnecting umbilical hernia to structural issuesNatural support options: herbs, massage, full-spectrum hemp[32:00 - 38:00] Empowering Pet ParentsTaking control at vet appointmentsWhy you don't have to decide immediatelyThe role of a pet health coach in sorting through informationFeeding real food without fear[38:00 - 42:00] Diet as MedicineThe power of antioxidants, polyphenols, and whole foodsMaggie's 5 superfood go-tos:BerriesFermented foodsOrgan meatsColorful vegetablesSardines/fish oilFeeding the rainbow for optimal nutrition[42:00 - 46:00] Working with VeterinariansThe challenge of integrating holistic carePet health coaches as "conductors of the orchestra"Natural support options that complement conventional treatment[46:00 - 50:00] Vision for the FutureLooking at the whole dog, not just the lab work"The paper has no cheek" - Dr. Shea's wisdomCreating collaborative care teamsMaking holistic options more accessible[50:00 - End] Closing & Contact InformationKey Takeaways:✅ Subtle behavior changes can indicate pain, not just behavioral issues ✅ Skin problems take 4-6 weeks to develop—they don't appear overnight ✅ Iridology can detect imbalances before conventional lab work ✅ You have control over your pet's health through diet and lifestyle ✅ Pet health coaches bridge the gap between conventional vets and holistic care ✅ Simple whole foods can transform your pet's healthResources Mentioned:Intune Pets Health CoachingWebsite: IntunePetsHealthCoaching.comEmail: IntunePetsHealthCoaching@gmail.comConnect with Dr. Ruth:Website: DrRuthRoberts.comHolistic Pet Health Coach Certification: HolisticPetHealthCoach.comFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheOriginalHolisticPetHealthCoachInstagram: @dr.ruthrobertsYouTube: @drruthrobertsTikTok:@dr.ruthroberts Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational purposes only and is not intended to replace professional veterinary advice. Always consult with your veterinarian before making changes to your pet's health care routine. 🐾 FIND a Holistic Vet ► https://www.ahvma.org/ 

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, I’m joined by clinical nutritionist and holistic health expert Leah Bookhamer. Leah’s journey from chronic illness to empowered healer is deeply inspiring—and she’s now on a mission to help both pets and people detox and thrive. Together, we dive into the root causes of poor pet health and discuss why detoxification isn’t just a buzzword—it’s a lifestyle necessity.Leah opens up about her personal health struggles, how they led her to holistic nutrition, and why she created PetAmp Life, a groundbreaking detox support system for pets. From foundational nutrition to powerful drainage pathways, Leah shares the truths the pet industry often gets wrong—and what you can do starting today to make a difference for your furry family members.Timeline Summary:[1:15] Leah’s powerful story: how illness led to her calling[4:14] The missing piece that changed everything for her pets’ health[7:25] What inspired the launch of PetAmp Life[10:32] What “detox” really means—and why it matters for your pets[16:21] Breaking down detox pathways: liver, kidneys, skin, gut, and more[20:10] The three essential products in the PetAmp Life system[28:10] Signs your pet may need a detox[30:39] Simple detox tips every pet parent can start today[33:00] Why detoxing is critical for puppies, seniors, and sensitive breeds[36:50] How the pet industry is getting detox wrong—and what to do insteadLinks & Resources:PetAmp Life Website: petamplife.comFollow on Instagram: @PetAmpLifeConnect with Leah: leah@petamplife.comUse code FOODIE10 for 10% off PetAmp Life productsAdditional 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 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/