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Off Leash with Dr. Pete

Off Leash Podcast

Presented by Voyager Dog Food Co.
Dr. Pete Vanvranken gives us a deep dive into dog related health topics. From how to help your dog if they’ve eaten something they shouldn’t have to new and exciting treatments for your best friends, we cover many different dog related topics on the Off Leash Podcast. As a vet of 49 years, Dr. Pete has what he calls “the privilege and duty” to help animals lead their best lives. Ask him his favorite part of the job and he’ll tell you it’s two-fold - partnering with his clients to solve their pets’ health challenges and striving to provide those same pets with long, healthy lives. And that’s our goal with the Off Leash Podcast: to educate dog owners and to advocate for your pet. Listen along with us and leave us a review!

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#123
Wednesday · 24 min
Q&A: Copper Storage, Puppy Food & Grass
On this episode of Off Leash with Dr. Pete, Molly puts another round of listener questions in front of Dr. Pete, covering everything from copper storage disease and puppy nutrition to grass eating, fish oil supplements, flea prevention, and common misconceptions about pet health. Dr. Pete begins by answering several questions about copper accumulation in dogs, including whether a low-copper diet can help reduce copper stored in the liver, which treats to avoid, and why regular monitoring of liver enzymes is so important. The conversation then shifts to everyday questions many pet owners have, including why dogs suddenly start eating grass in the spring and when puppies can safely transition to adult dog food. Dr. Pete also shares his thoughts on modern flea and tick prevention, why some older products no longer work as well as they once did, and how to make informed decisions when choosing preventive care for your dog. Whether you're caring for a growing puppy, managing allergies, or simply looking for trusted answers to common dog health questions, this episode offers practical, science-based guidance to help you make informed decisions for your pet. Thanks so much for listening, and be sure to subscribe and review!
#122
August 19 · 35 min
The Truth About Pet Vaccines
On this episode of Off Leash with Dr. Pete, Molly and Dr. Pete tackle one of the most debated topics in veterinary medicine: Are we overvaccinating our dogs? With so much conflicting information online, it can be difficult for pet owners to know which vaccines are essential, which are based on lifestyle, and how often their pets really need them. Dr. Pete breaks down the science behind modern vaccination protocols and explains why there isn't a one-size-fits-all answer. The conversation explores the difference between core vaccines, like rabies, distemper, parvovirus, and leptospirosis, and non-core vaccines that depend on where your dog lives and how they spend their time. Whether your dog goes hunting, attends daycare, visits the groomer, travels frequently, or mostly stays at home, Dr. Pete explains how veterinarians evaluate disease risk and build vaccination plans around a dog's individual lifestyle rather than simply giving every vaccine every year. Whether you're welcoming a new puppy, wondering if your adult dog needs every vaccine, or simply trying to make informed decisions about your pet's preventive care, this episode offers practical, science-based guidance to help you work with your veterinarian to create the right vaccination plan for your dog. Thanks so much for listening, and be sure to subscribe and review!
#121
August 12 · 30 min
Q&A: Puppy Food, Allergies & Myths
On this episode of Off Leash with Dr. Pete, Molly brings your questions straight to Dr. Pete for another listener Q&A covering everything from puppy nutrition and food allergies to probiotics, pork-based diets, and some of the biggest myths circulating on social media. If you've ever wondered how to sort good pet advice from misinformation, this episode is for you. The conversation begins with choosing the right food for large breed puppies and why slower, steady growth is often healthier than trying to grow puppies as quickly as possible. Dr. Pete also answers questions about managing chicken and beef allergies, selecting appropriate treats, and whether supplements are necessary for dogs eating a complete and balanced diet. Dr. Pete explains the difference between digestive health and allergic skin disease, discusses when probiotics may have a role, and why understanding the underlying cause of itching is far more important than relying on a marketing claim. The episode also tackles a viral social media video claiming pork is unsafe for dogs, separating internet myths from current veterinary science and explaining why context matters when evaluating pet nutrition advice online. Whether you're raising a puppy, managing food allergies, or trying to make sense of the endless stream of pet advice online, this episode offers practical, science-based answers to some of the questions dog owners ask most often. Thanks so much for listening, and be sure to subscribe and review!
#120
August 5 · 28 min
Should You Breed Your Dog?
On this episode of Off Leash with Dr. Pete, Molly and Dr. Pete tackle a question many dog owners eventually ask themselves: Should you breed your dog? While the idea of raising a litter of puppies can sound exciting, responsible breeding involves far more than pairing two dogs together. From health testing and genetics to temperament and the financial realities of raising puppies, they explain why ethical breeding starts long before the first puppy is born. Along the way, Molly and Dr. Pete talk about the hidden costs of breeding, from emergency C-sections and veterinary care to the time, effort, and emotional investment required to properly raise a healthy litter. The conversation also explores the difference between ethical breeders and backyard breeders, common warning signs to look for when purchasing a puppy, and the questions every prospective dog owner should ask before supporting a breeder. Whether you're thinking about breeding your dog, looking for a reputable breeder, or simply want to better understand what responsible dog breeding really involves, this episode provides valuable insight into making decisions that benefit both dogs and the future of their breed. Thanks so much for listening, and be sure to subscribe and review!
#119
July 29 · 20 min
Looking Beyond The Symptoms
On this episode of Off Leash with Dr. Pete, Molly and Dr. Pete share the story of Ellie, a Labrador whose persistent diarrhea and weight loss left multiple veterinarians searching for answers. Dr. Pete explains why chronic diarrhea isn't always caused by parasites or a simple stomach upset. He walks through the importance of bloodwork, what low albumin levels can reveal, and why distinguishing between conditions like Addison's disease and intestinal lymphangiectasia can make all the difference. Along the way, Molly and Dr. Pete discuss the challenges of managing complex medical cases from a distance, how veterinary medicine continues to evolve, and why every patient deserves an individualized approach rather than a one-size-fits-all treatment plan. Whether your dog has experienced chronic diarrhea, unexplained weight loss, or ongoing digestive issues, this episode offers valuable insight into why finding the right diagnosis matters—and how asking the right questions can sometimes save a dog's life. Thanks so much for listening, and be sure to subscribe and review!
#118
July 22 · 19 min
Are Dog Breed Stereotypes True?
On this episode of Off Leash with Dr. Pete, Molly and Dr. Pete tackle one of the biggest myths in the dog world: how much does breed actually determine a dog's personality? From Golden Retrievers and Chihuahuas to Dobermans, Pit Bulls, and Border Collies, they discuss which stereotypes have some truth behind them-and which ones deserve to be left behind. Dr. Pete explains why genetics can influence certain behaviors, but don't determine whether a dog will be friendly, aggressive, or well-mannered. The conversation covers the importance of early socialization, proper training, matching a dog's energy level to your lifestyle, and why environment often plays a much larger role than breed alone. Along the way, Dr. Pete shares memorable stories from his years in practice that challenge many of the assumptions dog owners make about different breeds. Whether you're thinking about bringing home your first puppy or simply want a better understanding of canine behavior, this episode offers practical advice to help you choose, train, and care for your dog with confidence. Thanks so much for listening, and be sure to subscribe and review!
#117
July 15 · 31 min
The Truth About Toy Breed Puppies
On this episode of Off Leash with Dr. Pete, Molly and Dr. Pete dive into one of the biggest challenges facing owners of tiny breed puppies: hypoglycemia. Using a real-life case involving a young Yorkie, Dr. Pete explains why very small puppies can suddenly become weak, lethargic, or unresponsive, what causes dangerous drops in blood sugar, and the simple steps that can help stabilize them before they receive veterinary care.  The conversation also covers the unique needs of toy breed dogs. Dr. Pete shares practical advice for new dog owners and explains why understanding normal puppy development can prevent emergencies.  Dr. Pete also breaks down the differences between ear mites, ear infections, and food allergies, explains why cats and dogs experience ear problems differently, and shares what veterinarians look for during an ear exam. Whether you've recently welcomed a tiny puppy into your home, own a toy breed dog, or simply want to better understand common ear conditions in dogs and cats, this episode is packed with practical advice to help you keep your pets healthy and safe. Thanks so much for listening, and be sure to subscribe and leave a review!
#116
July 8 · 27 min
The Raw Food Debate
On this episode of Off Leash with Dr. Pete, Molly and Dr. Pete take on one of the most controversial topics in pet nutrition: raw diets versus kibble. After Molly returns from Global Pet Expo, where raw and fresh pet foods dominated the conversation, she and Dr. Pete break down the claims behind these diets and discuss what every dog owner should know before making the switch.  Dr. Pete explains why a dog that suddenly stops eating may have an underlying medical problem rather than simply becoming "picky," and why changing foods can sometimes delay an important diagnosis. They also explore the potential risks associated with raw feeding, including bacterial contamination from Salmonella and E. coli, food safety concerns, and the challenges of balancing a complete diet at home.   Molly also shares her experience speaking with pet food companies at Global Pet Expo, where she found that many representatives couldn't answer basic questions about ingredients, minerals, or nutrient levels.    Whether you feed kibble, fresh food, a raw diet, or are simply trying to choose the best option for your dog, this episode offers practical, science-based insight to help you make informed decisions about your pet's nutrition. Thanks so much for listening, and be sure to subscribe and review!
#115
July 1 · 19 min
Firework Fright
Fireworks, thunderstorms, road trips, and summer celebrations can be exciting for us—but for many dogs, they can be some of the most stressful days of the year. In this episode of Off Leash, Dr. Pete and Molly discuss why so many dogs struggle with noise anxiety and travel stress, and what pet owners can do before the panic starts. They break down the importance of planning ahead, how the "Chill Protocol" works, when medications like gabapentin and trazodone may be appropriate, and why waiting until your dog is already terrified is often too late. The conversation also covers practical training techniques for helping dogs become more comfortable with loud noises, travel, and unfamiliar situations, along with the common mistakes owners make when trying to comfort an anxious pet. Whether your dog hides during thunderstorms, panics during fireworks, or gets anxious on road trips, this episode is packed with practical advice to help make the busy summer season safer and less stressful for both you and your four-legged family members. Thanks so much for listening and be sure to subscribe and review! Wishing all of our listeners and clients a very happy 4th of July weekend!
#114
June 16 · 23 min
Jaime Simpson: Saved by Dogs
In this heartfelt episode of Off Leash, Molly sits down with service dog trainer, advocate, and disability educator Jaime Simpson to share a story of resilience, purpose, and the life-changing bond between humans and dogs. Jaime opens up about living with epilepsy, Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome, vision challenges, and other complex medical conditions—and how her service dogs have become essential partners in helping her navigate daily life. From seizure alerts and medication retrieval to mobility support and emotional healing, Jaime's dogs do far more than provide assistance—they've helped save her life. The conversation explores the incredible world of service dog training, the science behind medical alert dogs, and Jaime’s mission to help others through her organization, New Life Working Dogs. She also shares how a near-death hospitalization transformed her outlook on life, inspiring her to focus on connection, kindness, and helping others find support through both dogs and community. This inspiring episode is a reminder of the extraordinary things dogs are capable of, the power of perseverance, and the beauty of finding purpose through service. Thanks so much for listening to Off Leash and be sure to subscribe and review! Follow Jaime: Instagram & Socials: @EmbracingEcho Website: embraceeveryday.org
#113
June 10 · 17 min
Pure and Natural
At the Global Pet Expo in Orlando, Molly sits down with Samantha from Pure and Natural Pet, a woman-founded company that's raising the bar for transparency in the pet wellness industry. From USDA-certified organic grooming products to innovative dental care solutions, Samantha shares how Pure and Natural Pet was built on a mission to create safer, cleaner, and more trustworthy products for pets. The conversation dives into the challenges of regulation in the pet industry, the importance of ingredient transparency, and why pet parents should pay closer attention to what they're putting on—and in—their pets. You'll also hear about some of the company's most popular products, including dental wipes, paw balms, hot spot relief treatments, flea and tick solutions, and grooming essentials designed with both pets and pet owners in mind. Whether you're a devoted pet parent, professional groomer, or simply curious about the growing movement toward natural pet care, this episode offers valuable insights into the products, practices, and people helping shape the future of pet wellness. Thanks so much for listening to the Off Leash Podcast! Be sure to subscribe and review!
#112
June 3 · 29 min
Behind Closed Doors: What Really Happens When Your Dog Goes to the Back Room at the Vet
Before the exam, before the blood draw, and before your dog heads "to the back"—what really happens at the veterinary clinic? In this episode of Off-Leash, Dr. Pete and Molly pull back the curtain on one of the biggest mysteries in veterinary medicine: what happens when your pet disappears behind the treatment room doors. From anxious dogs and nervous owners to blood draws, nail trims, sedation protocols, and the surprisingly common reasons pets behave better away from their humans, this candid conversation explains the why behind veterinary procedures. Dr. Pete shares real-world stories from decades in practice, discusses the "Chill Protocol" for anxious pets, explains when sedation becomes the safest option, and addresses one of the most common concerns pet owners have: "Are they torturing my dog back there?" Whether your dog loves the vet, hates the vet, or starts panicking the moment you turn into the parking lot, this episode offers an honest look at how veterinary teams work to keep pets, owners, and staff safe while providing the best possible care. Tune in for a behind-the-scenes look at veterinary medicine, practical tips for reducing your pet's anxiety, and a few hilarious stories that only Dr. Pete could tell. Thanks so much for listening and be sure to subscribe and review!
#111
May 27 · 19 min
Pam O’Hara; Breaking Barriers
In this episode of Off Leash, we sit down with Pam O’hara, a disabled service dog handler, advocate, and dog sport enthusiast who is redefining what accessibility looks like in the canine world. Recorded live at the Global Pet Expo in Orlando, this heartfelt and inspiring conversation dives into Pam’s journey navigating colon cancer, epilepsy, vision loss, and life alongside her incredible Belgian Malinois service dog, Mazikeen. Pam shares how her rescue dog—once slated for euthanasia—became her teammate, confidence builder, and partner in advocacy. Together, they’ve entered the world of protection sports, service dog work, and public education while pushing for greater inclusivity in dog sports for disabled handlers. From bite work and dock diving to the realities of traveling with a service dog, this episode explores the barriers disabled handlers face and Pam’s ambitious vision for creating adaptive, Paralympic-style dog sport events that welcome everyone. It’s a powerful conversation about resilience, teamwork, accessibility, and the extraordinary bond between humans and dogs. Thanks so much for listening and be sure to subscribe and review!
#110
May 20 · 19 min
David Teaster; The Future of Dog Collars
Fresh from Global Pet Expo in Orlando, Molly sits down with David Teaster of Satellai to talk about the future of pet safety, GPS technology, and AI-powered pet care. From virtual fencing and real-time GPS tracking to activity monitoring and health insights, David breaks down how Satellai’s smart collars are changing the game for pet owners, hunters, hikers, and adventurers alike. The conversation dives into everything from waterproof tracking collars and two-way audio features to AI behavior analysis that can help spot potential health concerns before they become serious. Molly also shares her own experiences with stubborn dachshunds, hunting dogs, and why reliable tracking technology matters when pets take off after prey. Plus, David gives listeners an inside look at Satellai’s newest products, including the Collar Go and the upcoming Tracker Ultra with satellite connectivity for off-grid adventures. If you’ve ever worried about a lost pet, wanted smarter wearable tech for your dog, or just love hearing about innovative pet products, this episode is packed with insight and fun conversation. Learn more about Satellai at satellai.com and don’t forget to subscribe to Off Leash with Dr. Pete for more conversations from the pet industry and beyond.
#109
May 13 · 16 min
Nina Ottosson; Every Dog Needs a Job!
In this episode of Off Leash, recorded live from Orlando, the host sits down with renowned dog enrichment designer Nina Ottosson of Outward Hound to talk about the growing world of dog puzzle games and interactive feeders. Nina shares how her puzzle products help dogs stay mentally stimulated, reduce boredom, and improve overall behavior through problem-solving and enrichment activities. She explains the science behind dog puzzles, slow feeders, and interactive feeding systems, while discussing how different breeds respond to mental challenges and why “all dogs need a job.” The conversation also explores the evolution of the pet industry, the increasing demand for enrichment products, and how Nina turned a simple idea inspired by her own dogs into a globally recognized business after more than 35 years of innovation. Along the way, they discuss hunting instincts, pet wellness, puzzle games for cats and even zoo animals, and how mental stimulation can aid injured or recovering dogs. Whether you’re a dog owner curious about enrichment or simply interested in modern pet care trends, this episode offers a fun and insightful look into the world of canine puzzles and behavior. Thanks so much for listening and be sure to subscribe and review!
#108
May 6 · 41 min
Listener Questions: Dog Health Deep Dive
This week on Off Leash with Dr. Pete, we’re diving into your questions—from dental health and puppy diets to treats, chews, and controversial topics like grain-free food and overprocessed kibble. We talk about what dogs actually need, what’s often misunderstood, and how small choices—like treat size or ingredient quality—can make a big difference. Along the way, we unpack the hidden impact of dental disease, surprising truths about the pet food industry, and some of the biggest nutrition myths dog owners face today. A great listen for any dog owner looking to make smarter, more informed decisions. Thanks so much for listening, and be sure to subscribe and leave a review!
#107
April 29 · 20 min
Microchipping Matters
On this episode of Off Leash with Dr. Pete, Molly and Dr. Pete talk about why microchipping could be the difference between losing and finding your pet. What would you do if your dog or cat went missing? In this episode, we dive into one of the simplest — yet most important — tools pet owners have to protect their animals: microchipping. Using real-world stories, personal experiences, and eye-opening stats, we break down why microchipping matters more than most people realize. From natural disasters to everyday accidents, we explore how quickly pets can go missing — and what actually helps bring them home. Dr. Pete shares memorable cases from his years in practice, including unbelievable mix-ups and situations where identification made all the difference. We also talk through the real benefits of microchipping, how it works, and why it’s such a critical piece of responsible pet ownership. If you’ve ever wondered whether microchipping is worth it — or just want peace of mind knowing your pet is protected — this episode is a must-listen. Thanks so much for listening and be sure to subscribe and review!
#106
April 22 · 28 min
When Is the Right Time to Say Goodbye?
Saying goodbye to a beloved pet is one of the hardest decisions any owner will ever face—and in this deeply honest episode of Off Leash with Dr. Pete, the conversation tackles that reality head-on. Dr. Pete opens up about the emotional weight of euthanasia, sharing thoughtful insights from years of experience along with compassionate, real-life stories (while respecting client privacy) that many listeners will find painfully relatable. The discussion explores common but difficult questions—like what it means when a pet seems to be having a “good day” right before a scheduled goodbye—and why the timing is rarely as clear-cut as we hope. The episode doesn’t shy away from tough truths, including the importance of withholding judgment when others are faced with end-of-life decisions for their pets. It’s a candid reminder that every situation is deeply personal, and compassion should always come first. Alongside the heavier moments, the conversation evolves and shifts into a more reflective and comforting space, with personal stories about beloved dogs and the many ways we honor and remember them. This episode strikes a balance between emotional honesty and warmth, offering listeners not just guidance, but reassurance that they’re not alone in navigating one of pet ownership’s most difficult moments. Thanks so much for listening and be sure to subscribe and review!
#105
April 15 · 27 min
Canine Search and Rescue
In this episode of Off-Leash with Dr. Pete, we dive into the intense and fascinating world of canine search and rescue with special guest Beth, an experienced handler working on the front lines. From tracking lost hikers to locating critical evidence, these highly trained dogs are doing work most people never see—and the stories behind it are as gripping as they are eye-opening. We explore how search and rescue dogs are trained, the different types of tracking they perform, and the unique signals they give when they make a find. This episode takes some unexpected turns as we get into the realities of training—including the use of human remains—and what it truly takes to prepare dogs for these high-stakes situations. It’s shocking, fascinating, and gives a whole new appreciation for the work these teams do. We also cover practical, real-world advice: What search and rescue teams want you to do if you get lost How weather impacts scent tracking Tips to stay safe when you’re out in the field Whether you're a dog owner, outdoor enthusiast, or just someone who loves hearing incredible real-life stories, this episode will pull you in from start to finish. Tune in to hear how these dogs are saving lives—and why, if you ever find yourself lost, they’re your best chance of being found. Thanks so much for listening and be sure to subscribe and review!
#104
April 8 · 32 min
1% vs 30%: The Dog Health Problem No One Is Talking About
In this episode of Off Leash with Dr. Pete, we flip the script on how dog owners think about disease risk. For years, the conversation has been dominated by Parvo, Lyme disease, and heartworm—and for good reason. They’re serious, they’re scary, and they’ve been drilled into every dog owner’s mind. But what if those aren’t the biggest threats anymore? Dr. Pete breaks down the real numbers, putting these well-known diseases into perspective. When you zoom out, the data tells a surprising story: while roughly 1% of dogs are affected by the conditions we constantly worry about… 30% or more may be dealing with copper storage disease. That gap raises a big question—why aren’t we talking about it? This episode dives into: How Parvo has changed over time and why it’s less common today The true risk levels of Lyme disease and heartworm Why modern veterinary focus may be missing a growing issue What copper storage disease is—and why it matters more than most people realize Along the way, you’ll get real-world perspective, honest conversation, and a few classic Off Leash moments that keep things grounded and easy to follow. If you care about your dog’s long-term health, this episode might completely change what you pay attention to—and what you don’t. Thanks so much for listening and be sure to subscribe and review!

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