Ask the Vet

49. How Teeth Shaped Life on Earth with Zoologist and Author Bill Schutt

Dr. Ann Hohenhaus welcomes zoologist and best-selling author Bill Schutt to discuss the fascinating history and function of teeth. His latest book, Bite: An Incisive History of Teeth, from Hagfish to Humans explores how teeth evolved, what they reveal about survival, and why they matter for both wild animals and our pets. Tune in as they discuss: How scientists identify extinct species by their fossilized teeth Why teeth originated in the animal kingdom How teeth shaped the course of evolution, from ancient species to modern pets What fossilized teeth reveal about the diets of extinct species Why small dogs have more dental issues than large dogs The science behind bite force—and why mammals can’t match crocodiles The importance of continuously growing teeth in certain species The surprising ways animals use their teeth beyond chewing Also on this month's show: Viral trending animal story of the month featuring Tracker, the diabetic alert dog who detected his young owner’s emergency from five houses away! Animal news, including a story on how researchers track honeybees with QR codes as well as the hidden function of manta ray tails Pet Health Listener Q&A, where Dr. Hohenhaus answers listener questions on heart disease, pet allergies, and feline vocal changes Do you have a pet question for Dr. Hohenhaus? Email askthevet@amcny.org to have your question answered on Ask the Vet's Listener Q&A. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and X!

48. Helping People by Helping Pets with PAWS NY Founder and Executive Director Rachel Herman Plus an Update on Bird Flu

Dr. Ann Hohenhaus interviews Rachel Herman, Founder and Executive Director of PAWS NY. This organization is dedicated to supporting vulnerable New Yorkers and their pets, preserving the human-animal bond during challenging times. Tune in as they discuss: What is the mission of PAWS NY? Rachel's inspiration to establish this organization How PAWS NY helps New Yorkers having difficulty caring for their pets due to illness, disability, mobility limitations, and finances, among other issues The poignant story of a man and his dog that PAWS NY helped for over ten years How individuals, veterinarians, and other organizations can partner with and support PAWS NY What does the future look like for PAWS NY? Also on this month's show: Viral trending animal story of the month about how heroic firefighters saved a dog that fell through ice on a river in Ottawa Animal news, including updates about bird flu and tips for protecting your pet Pet Health Listener Q&A Do you have a pet question for Dr. Hohenhaus? Email askthevet@amcny.org to have your question answered on Ask the Vet's Listener Q&A. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and X!

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47. How Americans Came to Feel the Way They Do About Animals with Dr. Monica Murphy

Dr. Ann Hohenhaus interviews Dr. Monica Murphy, a veterinarian and co-author of "Our Kindred Creatures: How Americans Came to Feel the Way They Do About Animals" — a fascinating book that looks at how America’s attitudes toward animals were transformed in the late 19th century. Tune in as they discuss: Why Dr. Murphy found this particular time period intriguing The effectiveness of Henry Bergh, founder of the ASPCA, in advocating for animals The impact the book "Black Beauty" had on animal welfare Why an outbreak of horse flu in 1872 highlighted the need for veterinary care The role of veterinarians advocating for animal welfare How the cruel transport of sea turtles destined for New York dinner tables inspired Henry Bergh to advocate for the welfare of wildlife Why PT Barnum was a lightning rod for reformers Does the physical and emotional distance humans have from certain species impact animal welfare? Dr. Murphy's ideas for a new book Also on this month's show: Viral trending animal story of the month, featuring the couple who used their wedding fund to rescue and treat a dog who had been injured in a hit-and-run Animal news, including the discovery in Siberia of a 37,000-year-old saber-toothed kitten with its fur, flesh, and tiny whisker tufts intact Pet Health Listener Q&A Do you have a pet question for Dr. Hohenhaus? Email askthevet@amcny.org to have your question answered on Ask the Vet's Listener Q&A. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and X!

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