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Paws and Effect

Dr Carra Walters

Welcome to Paws and Effect, the ultimate Podcast for pet lovers and veterinarians alike! Join renowned veterinarian Dr Carra as they explore the captivating world of pets. With expert knowledge and a passion for animals, Dr Carra brings engaging content, interviews with veterinary professionals, and valuable insights. From expert veterinary advice to tips on pet-life balance, Paws and Effect is your go-to podcast. Subscribe now and join our vibrant community dedicated to celebrating the bond we share with our furry friends and the impact of pets on your mental health.

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  • 24 episodes
  • Avg 1 hr 4 min
  • English

Episodes 24

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  • March 31 · 1 hr 15 min

    When Medicine isn’t Always the Answer: The Missing Piece in Pet Care

    Join us for a refreshing and practical conversation with holistic veterinarian Dr. Emily Roth! In this episode, Dr. Roth and I discuss the world of integrative veterinary medicine, sharing how treatments like acupuncture, chiropractic care, Chinese herbs, and nutrition can revolutionise pet health, mobility, and comfort. Discover how Dr. Roth blends Eastern and Western therapies for large and small animals, busts myths about “natural” treatments, and explains why “holistic” doesn’t mean anti-medicine or anti-vaccine. Learn the science behind acupuncture, the real role of spinal adjustments, and why nail trims and weight management are game-changers for your pets. Dr. Roth shares her honest advice on quality of life, end-of-life care, and how pet owners can create happier, healthier lives for their animals. If you’re searching for ways to improve your pet’s comfort, get practical tips, or just want a fresh perspective on modern veterinary medicine, this episode is a must-listen! SPONSOR: Ultra Pet Check out Ultra Pets new range here: https://ultra-pet.co.za/product/premium-recipe-adult/ https://ultra-pet.co.za/product/optimal-balance-adult/ Connect with Dr Carra: Website: https://drcarra.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr_carra LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drcarra/ Hillcrest Veterinary Hospital: https://hillcrestvets.co.za/ Connect with Dr Emily: Website: https://www.healingtrailsholisticvet.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dremily_honestvettalk/ Podcast Production: This Podcast is produced by Kythe Creative and filmed onsite at Hillcrest Veterinary Hospital. Kythe Creative: https://kythecreative.co.za/ THIS EPISODES SPONSORS: Ultra Pet: This episode is sponsored by Ultra Pet, who has been scientifically formulating premium pet food for over 25 years. If you want to take the guesswork out of feeding your furry friends, give Ultra Pet a try. Check them out here at www.ultra-pet.co.za Just For Pets: Justforpets.co.za is proud to sponsor this episode of the Paws and Effect podcast. Visit their website for all your pet needs and find everything from toys to food and much more. The team over at Just For Pets believe that every pet deserves the best care possible, and that's why we offer a wide range of products to help keep your furry friend happy and healthy - Check them out at https://www.justforpets.co.za/ FOR SPONSORSHIPS AND GUEST APPEARANCES, Email us at drcarra@pawsandeffect.co.za and we'll get in touch with you. Don't forget to LIKE this if you found it helpful, SUBSCRIBE for more episodes and content like this. ----------------------------------------------------------- 00:00 The Secret to Spinal Care: Nail Length 00:37 Unpacking Holistic and Integrative Vet Med 01:57 Balancing Large and Small Animal Care 05:06 How Veterinary Acupuncture Actually Works 08:09 The Benefits of Electroacupuncture 11:21 Defining True Holistic Veterinary Care 14:15 Extreme Perceptions vs. Evidence-Based Remedies 17:01 When to Recommend Acupuncture for Pain 20:08 The Limits of Acupuncture Treatment 23:08 The Clinical Science Behind Acupuncture Points 27:42 Spinal Adjustments and Chiropractic Care for Pets 29:31 Species Differences in Animal Chiropractic 32:52 Understanding the Chiropractic "Pop" Sound 35:14 Managing Uncooperative and Difficult Patients 38:45 Diagnosing Stiffness in Active Agility Dogs 43:33 At-Home Tips for Spinal Comfort and Mobility 49:54 The Importance of Early Nail Care and Desensitisation 56:02 How Outdoor Mobility, Sunlight, and Cold Plunges Shape Care 01:03:08 Assessing Quality of Life with Pet Owners 01:06:28 Common Regrets During a Pet's Final Phase 01:07:51 Re-framing Euthanasia as an Act of Love 01:09:00 The Future of Integrative Veterinary Medicine 01:11:00 One Crucial Message Before Your Next Vet Visit

  • March 24 · 52 min

    New Baby, Same Dog: Preparing for a Safe Coexistence

    Thinking your dog will instantly become your baby’s best friend? Think again! In this eye-opening episode, Dr Carra sits down with dog trainer and educator Dominika Knossalla-Pado to talk about the realities of introducing babies and toddlers to family dogs. Dominika shares her own personal story, twins, a dog with unexpected reactions, and the challenges she faced, and explains why “dog bites coming out of nowhere” is one of the biggest myths out there. Discover the subtle warning signs dogs give, the crucial mistakes parents often make, and why “cute” viral videos on social media might actually be dangerous. Learn practical advice on preparing your dog for a new baby, managing risks with food and toys, decoding canine body language, and the truth about supervision and safe spaces. Whether you’re an expecting parent, a dog owner, or simply curious about the realities of child-dog relationships, this episode is filled with actionable insights, honest anecdotes, and expert guidance. Dominika’s passion to keep families informed, and pets safe, shines through, making this a must-listen for anyone navigating life with kids and dogs. Hit play to learn how you can create a safe, rewarding bond between your child and your dog, without falling for common mistakes! SPONSOR: Ultra Pet Check out Ultra Pets new range here: https://ultra-pet.co.za/product/premium-recipe-adult/ Connect with Dr Carra: Website: https://drcarra.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr_carra LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drcarra/ Hillcrest Veterinary Hospital: https://hillcrestvets.co.za/ Connect with Dominika: Website: https://dogmeetsbaby.expert/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dogmeets_baby/ Podcast Production: This Podcast is produced by Kythe Creative and filmed onsite at Hillcrest Veterinary Hospital. Kythe Creative : https://kythecreative.co.za/ THIS EPISODES SPONSORS: Ultra Pet: This episode is sponsored by Ultra Pet, who has been scientifically formulating premium pet food for over 25 years. If you want to take the guesswork out of feeding your furry friends, give Ultra Pet a try. Check them out here at www.ultra-pet.co.za Just For Pets: Justforpets.co.za is proud to sponsor this episode of the Paws and Effect podcast. Visit their website for all your pet needs and find everything from toys to food and much more. The team over at Just For Pets believe that every pet deserves the best care possible, and that's why we offer a wide range of products to help keep your furry friend happy and healthy - Check them out at https://www.justforpets.co.za/ FOR SPONSORSHIPS AND GUEST APPEARANCES, Email us at drcarra@pawsandeffect.co.za and we'll get in touch with you. Don't forget to LIKE this if you found it helpful, SUBSCRIBE for more episodes and content like this. -------------------------------------------- 00:00 Introduction: Dogs, Babies, and Tolerance 01:33 How Dominika Started "Dog Meets Baby" 02:51 Do Dog Bites Really Come Out of Nowhere? 05:31 The Biggest Misunderstanding About Dogs and Babies 08:19 Why Dogs Don't Always "Just Walk Away" 10:31 Subtle Warning Signs Parents Often Miss 12:58 Why "Calm" Dogs Sometimes Bite 14:10 High-Risk Situations: Beds, Toys, and Resources 17:31 What Safe Supervision Actually Looks Like 20:14 A Dog's Perspective on Face-to-Face Interactions 24:44 The Danger of Hugging and Kissing Dogs 28:01 Social Media's Unrealistic Expectations 30:12 Tolerance vs. Enjoyment: Why Kids Shouldn't Climb on Dogs 32:47 Preparing Your Dog Before the Baby Arrives 36:39 Overcomplicating Baby Prep for Dogs 39:29 Common Regrets from Unprepared Families 41:14 Is Co-Sleeping with Dogs and Babies Safe? 42:04 Frustrating Misconceptions About Dogs and Children 46:07 Where to Find "Dog Meets Baby" Resources 47:07 One Key Takeaway for Parents 48:21 Advice on Breed Selection for Future Families

  • March 17 · 56 min

    When Helping Wildlife Goes Wrong

    This week, join me and Wade Whitehead, CEO of FreeMe Wildlife, for an exciting conversation about the world of wildlife rehabilitation and human-wildlife conflict in South Africa. Discover the unique, science-based approach FreeMe Wildlife uses to restore wild animals to their natural environments, covering everything from animal behaviour, ethical considerations, and mistakes made in wildlife rehabilitation, to solutions for managing backyard poultry, rodent control, and dealing with monkeys. Wade shares his journey, from professional wildlife guiding to rescuing and transforming FreeMe Wildlife into a value-adding non-profit, and explains why wildlife rehab is about people as much as animals. Learn the importance of understanding physiology, ethology, and psychology in rehabilitation, and why emotional, unscientific approaches can be damaging. The episode also provides practical advice for responsible wildlife encounters, and eye-opening stories about the human impact on animal health (like feeding stations, poisoning, and rabies). Our conversation aims to help our viewers understand how proper education and engagement, not just activism, are the keys to harmony. If you’re passionate about wildlife, conservation, or finding real, actionable ways to coexist with nature, this episode will challenge your assumptions and inspire you to make a difference. Listen now and find out how you can support or get involved with FreeMe Wildlife’s mission. SPONSOR: Ultra Pet Check out Ultra Pets' new range here: https://ultra-pet.co.za/product/premium-recipe-adult/ Connect with Dr Carra: Website: https://drcarra.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr_carra LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drcarra/ Hillcrest Veterinary Hospital: https://hillcrestvets.co.za/ Connect with Wade: Website: https://freemewildlife.org/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@FreeMeWildlife Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/freemewildlife/ Podcast Production: This Podcast is produced by Kythe Creative and filmed onsite at Hillcrest Veterinary Hospital. Kythe Creative: https://kythecreative.co.za/ THIS EPISODES SPONSORS: Ultra Pet: This episode is sponsored by Ultra Pet, who has been scientifically formulating premium pet food for over 25 years. If you want to take the guesswork out of feeding your furry friends, give Ultra Pet a try. Check them out here at www.ultra-pet.co.za Just For Pets: Justforpets.co.za is proud to sponsor this episode of the Paws and Effect podcast. Visit their website for all your pet needs and find everything from toys to food and much more. The team over at Just For Pets believe that every pet deserves the best care possible, and that's why we offer a wide range of products to help keep your furry friend happy and healthy - Check them out at https://www.justforpets.co.za/ FOR SPONSORSHIPS AND GUEST APPEARANCES, Email us at drcarra@pawsandeffect.co.za and we'll get in touch with you. Don't forget to LIKE this if you found it helpful, SUBSCRIBE for more episodes and content like this.

  • March 10 · 58 min

    Behind the Scenes of Pet Surgery: Prep to Procedure

    When the word “surgery” comes up, pet owners often picture scary risks, high costs, and worst-case scenarios. But what REALLY happens when your pet needs an operation? In this episode, Dr. Emma Brown of Hillcrest Veterinary Hospital joins me to dispel fears and unpack every step, from the initial consultation to recovery after surgery. You’ll get insider insights on: How vets assess risks and tailor anaesthetic plans Why pre-surgery testing (like blood work and heart scans) matters ⁠What to expect in the admission and operating process How the surgical team works together behind the scenes Essential aftercare tips for a safe, smooth recovery at home The emotional and financial challenges of emergency cases (including tough decisions and honest conversations) What quality of life really means when your pet faces repeat surgeries or chronic issues Whether your pet needs an elective surgery or you’re facing a midnight emergency, this episode is designed to replace anxiety with understanding. Plus, you’ll hear real-life examples and practical advice to make you feel more confident and prepared. If you’ve ever worried about the risks or realities of pet surgery, hit play and let Dr. Emma and I guide you through the journey, step by step. Have questions? Drop them in the comments, and our vet team will help! Like, subscribe, and share if this episode helped you understand what happens when your pet heads to the vet for surgery. SPONSOR: Ultra Pet Check out Ultra Pets New range here: https://ultra-pet.co.za/product/optimal-balance-adult/ Connect with Dr Carra: Website: https://drcarra.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr_carra LinkedIN: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drcarra/ Hillcrest Veterinary Hospital: https://hillcrestvets.co.za/ Connect with Dr Emma Brown: Hillcrest Veterinary Hospital: https://hillcrestvets.co.za/ Podcast Production: This Podcast is produced by Kythe Creative and filmed onsite at Hillcrest Veterinary Hospital. Kythe Creative : https://kythecreative.co.za/ THIS EPISODES SPONSORS: Ultra Pet: This episode is sponsored by Ultra Pet, who has been scientifically formulating premium pet food for over 25 years. If you want to take the guesswork out of feeding your furry friends, give Ultra Pet a try. Check them out here at www.ultra-pet.co.za Just For Pets: Justforpets.co.za is proud to sponsor this episode of the Paws and Effect podcast. Visit their website for all your pet needs and find everything from toys to food and much more. The team over at Just For Pets believe that every pet deserves the best care possible, and that's why we offer a wide range of products to help keep your furry friend happy and healthy - Check them out at https://www.justforpets.co.za/ FOR SPONSORSHIPS AND GUEST APPEARANCES, Email us at drcarra@pawsandeffect.co.za and we'll get in touch with you. Don't forget to LIKE this if you found it helpful, SUBSCRIBE for more episodes and content like this. -------------------------------------------------------------- 00:00 Understanding Surgical Risks and Quality of Life 01:23 Unpacking the Surgical Recommendation 02:19 Addressing Pet Owner Fears About Anaesthesia 03:14 Pre-Surgical Clinical Exams and Additional Testing 05:58 The Complexity of Estimating Dental Procedures 07:15 Comorbidities That Delay Elective Surgery 08:55 Anaesthetic Risks in Obese Pets and Sighthounds 12:35 Managing Information Overload and Estimates 14:40 Night-Before Preparation and Fasting Rules 17:51 Understanding the Consent Form 20:40 The Behind-the-Scenes Admission Process 23:25 The Induction Phase and Theatre Preparation 26:08 What Surgical Monitors Actually Track 29:18 Post-Op Recovery: The Riskiest Phase 32:51 Discharge Timeframes and Post-Op Feeding 35:45 The Importance of Buster Collars and Rest 40:03 Post-Surgery Red Flags and Bandage Care 44:19 Emergency Procedures vs. Elective Surgeries 48:46 Navigating Negative Outcomes and Euthanasia 53:20 Balancing Gold Standard Care and Budgets

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