The Alternative Dog Moms

Kimberly Gauthier (Raw Feeder Life) and Erin Scott (Believe in Dog)

Two content creators chatting about what's happening in the fresh food community and pet industry. Kimberly Gauthier, of Instagram pages Raw Feeder Life and Plants Dogs & Prayer, joins Erin Scott of the podcast Believe in Dog each week to share their thoughts on what's happening on social media and in the news. Join us each week to hear our thoughts and share your own.

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20 episodes
Updated July 23

Episodes20

Newest first

Integrative Veterinary Oncology with Dr. Kendra Pope: Cancer Prevention, Nutrition & Proactive Dog Health
Send us Fan Mail Dr. Kendra Pope shares how integrative veterinary oncology can help pet parents take a proactive approach to canine cancer prevention. Learn about nutrition, at-home health testing, wellness, veterinary costs, and why caring for the whole dog matters. CHAPTERS: Navigating the growing world of at-home test kits with Dr. Kendra Pope (0:55) Why wellness is more than physical, and why letting "dogs be dogs" matters (4:54) How Dr. Pope navigates oncology care while sometimes challenging "conventional" thinking, such as what to feed dogs (16:59) How pet parents can learn from Dr. Pope to take a proACTIVE approach to cancer prevention, the mindset shift needed and how to prioritize your efforts (27:44) Integrative care expands the veterinary toolbox beyond "conventional" treatment and why more young veterinarians aren't entering integrative medicine sooner (43:13) The growing impact of veterinary costs on cancer treatment decisions (49:10) The best part of Dr. Pope's job (56:38) LINKS DISCUSSED: Pet Cancer Risk Quiz - https://prismpets.krtra.com/t/NchL8dYAWUrK How to Build a Cancer Resilient Pet Masterclass - https://prismpets.krtra.com/t/kXqbO9hPmQdT Pet Cancer Prevention Course (Waitlist) - https://prismpets.krtra.com/t/IXdjgvPkLhZa Poppy Phillips with Dr. Pope (https://youtu.be/WQAx3AChAq0?si=WAHUneLXxDpKkoFz) Believe in Dog Podcast with Kim Brophey (https://believeindogpodcast.com/episodes-1/episode133) SOCIAL MEDIA: Kimberly: Raw Feeder Life, RawFeederLife.com Erin Scott: Believe in Dog podcast, BelieveInDogPodcast.com Raw Feeder Life, Instagram.com/RawFeederLife Believe in Dog Podcast, Instagram.com/Erin_The_Dog_Mom Thanks for listening to our podcast. You can learn more about Erin Scott's first podcast at BelieveInDogPodcast.com. And you can learn more about raw feeding, raising dogs naturally, and Kimberly's dogs at KeepTheTailWagging.com. And don't forget to subscribe to The Alternative Dog Moms.
July 23 · 1 hr
Canine Rehab, CCL Tears, and Senior Dog Mobility with Dr. Deb Torraca
Send us Fan Mail In this episode of The Alternative Dog Moms Podcast, Kimberly and Erin talk with Dr. Deb Torraca, a pioneer in canine rehabilitation, about helping dogs move better, age more comfortably, and recover from injuries with thoughtful support. Dr. Deb shares the biggest factors pet parents can control when it comes to their dog’s mobility, including exercise, weight, home setup, and knowing when to respect a dog’s limits. We also dig into CCL tears, whether surgery is always necessary, and what conservative management can look like when guided by the right professional. This conversation also covers common activities that may increase the risk of orthopedic injuries, subtle behavior and movement changes that may show up before a limp, and the many therapies and tools used in canine rehab. Whether you have a senior dog, an active dog, or a dog recovering from an injury, this episode is packed with practical takeaways to help you support your dog’s comfort, strength, and quality of life. CHAPTERS: Dr. Deb Torraca is a pioneer in the field of canine rehab (0:54) The biggest factors pet parents can control to help their dogs mobility (5:30) Supporting your senior dog's mobility while respecting their limits (7:44) Does every CCL tear really need surgery? What does "Conservative Management" really look like? (13:06) The #1 mistake many well-meaning pet parents make when exercising their dogs, and other factors that contribute to knee injuries (17:23) Common activities that may increase your dog's risk of orthopedic injuries (26:41) The everyday adjustments we've made to help our senior dogs stay comfortable around the house (30:26) The behavior and movement changes that may signal an injury or mobility challenge in our dogs ... before the limp (32:58) The wide range of therapies and tools used in canine rehabilitation (40:17) Why Dr. Deb says the hardest part of canine rehab often isn't the dog (44:48) Breed predispositions, common injuries, and simple ways to reduce your dog's risk of injury (48:35) WHERE TO FIND DR. TORRACA: https://wizardofpaws.net/ https://www.instagram.com/wizard.of.paws/ WHERE TO FIND A CANINE REHAB PRACTITIONER: https://www.caninerehabinstitute.com/find-therapist https://www.utvetrehab.com/canine-rehab-ccrp/ccrp-practitioners/ https://rehabvets.org/ SOCIAL MEDIA: Kimberly: Raw Feeder Life, RawFeederLife.com Erin Scott: Believe in Dog podcast, BelieveInDogPodcast.com Raw Feeder Life, Instagram.com/RawFeederLife Believe in Dog Podcast, Instagram.com/Erin_The_Dog_Mom Thanks for listening to our podcast. You can learn more about Erin Scott's first podcast at BelieveInDogPodcast.com. And you can learn more about raw feeding, raising dogs naturally, and Kimberly's dogs at KeepTheTailWagging.com. And don't forget to subscribe to The Alternative Dog Moms.
July 7 · 58 min
Former NFL Linebacker Nathan Gerry on Raw Feeding, Dog Nutrition, and Building Rawly Raw Pet Food
Send us Fan Mail From NFL linebacker to raw feeding advocate. In this episode, we sit down with Nathan Gerry, former linebacker for the Philadelphia Eagles and founder of Rawly Raw Pet Food in South Dakota, to talk about how one dog changed everything. Nathan shares how raw feeding transformed his dog’s life, what it’s like advocating for fresh food in a kibble-heavy world, and why whole-food nutrition matters for dogs, working dogs, athletes, and pet parents who want to do better. We also talk about the origin story of Rawly, the dogs who inspired the mission, and how this company is supporting canine health beyond the bowl. Whether you’re raw curious, already feeding fresh, or just love hearing from dog dads who went all in for their dogs, this is a great conversation. Chapters: How Raw Feeding Changed His Dog's Life and Inspired an NFL Dog Dad to Become a Raw Feeding Founder (0:54) The challenges of educating and advocating for fresh feeding in a kibble world (9:46) The role of whole-food nutrition in supporting performance for both humans and working dogs (22:22) The origin story of Rawly: from feeding one dog to building a raw food company (27:04) How better nutrition has transformed the lives of our own dogs (and dogs we know) (33:28) Rawly's product lineup and where to find them (41:15) An exclusive peek behind the curtain at how Rawly supports your dog's health beyond the bowl (47:21) Links Discussed: Rawly Dog Food, https://www.rawly.co/ Social Media: Kimberly: Raw Feeder Life, RawFeederLife.com Erin Scott: Believe in Dog podcast, BelieveInDogPodcast.com Raw Feeder Life, Instagram.com/RawFeederLife Believe in Dog Podcast, Instagram.com/Erin_The_Dog_Mom Thanks for listening to our podcast. You can learn more about Erin Scott's first podcast at BelieveInDogPodcast.com. And you can learn more about raw feeding, raising dogs naturally, and Kimberly's dogs at KeepTheTailWagging.com. And don't forget to subscribe to The Alternative Dog Moms.
June 30 · 52 min
Tvati, Senior Pets & Choosing Where to Invest in Your Dog’s Wellness
Send us Fan Mail In this episode of The Alternative Dog Moms, we’re joined by Sean to learn the origin story behind Tvati and why this topical product has become part of so many pet wellness conversations. We discuss what animals have taught him about Tvati’s topical-systemic results, how pet parents can decide where to invest in their dog’s wellness, and why traditional use matters when looking at long-term support. We also dig into the big questions: Can’t you just buy hibiscus anywhere? Does Tvati really produce cartilage and heal bone? Is it appropriate for pets with cancer? And how can it support quality of life in senior pets? Plus, we talk about Tvati’s entrance into the integrative veterinary world with Dr. Katie Kangas and Jessica, and how this product is being used by both people and pets. Chapters: Tvati's origin story (0:55) What animals have taught Sean about Tvati's topical-systemic results (10:21) Choosing Where to Invest in Your Dog's Wellness (18:13) How Long Should You Use Tvati? A Look at Its Traditional Origins (28:41) Can't You Just Buy Hibiscus Anywhere? (31:56) Does Tvati really produce cartilage and heal bone? (34:26) Entering the Integrative Veterinary World with Dr. Katie Kangas (and Jessica!) (37:46) Is Tvati appropriate for pets with cancer? (41:14) Usage in people and pets (44:10) How Tvati improves quality of life in senior pets (52:14) Links Discussed: https://tvati.com/ Social Media: Kimberly: Raw Feeder Life, RawFeederLife.com Erin Scott: Believe in Dog podcast, BelieveInDogPodcast.com Raw Feeder Life, Instagram.com/RawFeederLife Believe in Dog Podcast, Instagram.com/Erin_The_Dog_Mom Thanks for listening to our podcast. You can learn more about Erin Scott's first podcast at BelieveInDogPodcast.com. And you can learn more about raw feeding, raising dogs naturally, and Kimberly's dogs at KeepTheTailWagging.com. And don't forget to subscribe to The Alternative Dog Moms.
June 22 · 57 min
Hot Topics: Raw Feeding Myths, Grass Eating Dogs & Lamb Protein Yeast
Send us Fan Mail This week, we’re catching up on the dogs, discussing pet parent etiquette in public, and revisiting the raw feeding myths and misleading statistics making the rounds on social media. We also explore why dogs eat grass, share a veterinarian’s practical approach to pet food, and talk about a new free DIY raw feeding calculator. Then we ask the question no one saw coming: WTF is lamb protein yeast, and would we feed it to our dogs? Plus, we wrap up with our latest TV and movie talk. Chapters: Dog Updates & Pet Parent Public Etiquette (0:54) Social media's raw feeding myths & misleading statistics . . . AGAIN (16:52) A new article explaining why dogs eat grass (28:21) A veterinarian's practical pet food advice and a new free DIY raw calculator (34:12) WTF is "lamb protein yeast" and would you feed it to your dog? (49:10) TV and Movie Talk (59:59) Links Discussed: Why Dogs Eat Grass Dr. Coger's advice for choosing a dog food Free DIY Dog Food Recipe Maker from Dr. Dobias All different outlooks on Lamb Protein Yeast Investment publication: https://za.investing.com/news/stock-market-news/bond-pet-foods-receives-fda-clearance-for-fermented-lamb-protein-93CH-4314956 Pet industry: https://www.petfoodindustry.com/nutrition/pet-food-ingredients/news/15824986/hills-bond-pet-foods-receive-fda-noobjection-letter-for-fermentationderived-lamb-protein Veterinarians: https://www.dvm360.com/view/fda-issues-no-objection-letter-for-the-first-precision-fermentation-derived-animal-protein-for-use-in-pet-food Susan Thixton: https://truthaboutpetfood.com/approved-by-fda-precision-fermentation-animal-protein-in-pet-food/ Solutions: https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1DfqUQMjm9/ Social Media: Kimberly: Raw Feeder Life, RawFeederLife.com Erin Scott: Believe in Dog podcast, BelieveInDogPodcast.com Raw Feeder Life, Instagram.com/RawFeederLife Believe in Dog Podcast, Instagram.com/Erin_The_Dog_Mom Thanks for listening to our podcast. You can learn more about Erin Scott's first podcast at BelieveInDogPodcast.com. And you can learn more about raw feeding, raising dogs naturally, and Kimberly's dogs at KeepTheTailWagging.com. And don't forget to subscribe to The Alternative Dog Moms.
June 19 · 1 hr 12 min
Regenerative Farming, Soil Health & Nutrient-Dense Food for Dogs and People | Ramstead Ranch Story
Send us Fan Mail What does "regenerative agriculture" actually mean, and why should pet parents care? In this episode, we sit down with the team behind Ramstead Ranch to explore the connection between soil health, nutrient-dense food, sustainable farming, and the health of both people and pets. We discuss the origin story of Ramstead Ranch, how 240 acres were transformed through regenerative farming practices, and why healthy soil may be one of the most important factors in producing healthier food. You'll learn how regenerative agriculture differs from factory farming and conventional "Big Ag," what nutrient differences may exist between foods raised in healthy ecosystems, and why you can't out-supplement poor-quality food produced from depleted land. We also dive into practical advice for becoming a more informed consumer, navigating confusing marketing claims, feeding nutrient-dense foods on a budget, and understanding how Ramstead Ranch expanded into products for dogs. Along the way, we share stories from ranch life, lessons learned from livestock guardian dogs, and resources for anyone interested in learning more about regenerative agriculture. In This Episode: Origin story of Ramstead Ranch What regenerative agriculture really means How to evaluate food and pet food marketing claims Regenerative farming vs factory farming and Big Ag Soil health and nutrient density Rebuilding 240 acres through regenerative practices Why Ramstead Ranch began offering products for dogs Behind-the-scenes realities of ranch life The connection between soil, food quality, and chronic health issues Budget-friendly ways to feed more nutrient-dense foods Resources for learning more about regenerative agriculture Chris's journey to Ramstead Ranch Find Ramstead Ranch: Web: https://ramsteadranch.com/ IG: https://www.instagram.com/ramsteadranch/ FB: https://www.facebook.com/RamsteadRanch Links Discussed: Gabe Brown: https://brownsranch.us/ Common Ground Film: https://commongroundfilm.org/ Kiss the Ground: https://kissthegroundmovie.com/ Joel Salatin: https://www.regenerativefarms.org/why-regeneration/ Food Inc.: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YXIkrYbqRO0 Omnivore's Dilemma Social Media: Kimberly: Raw Feeder Life, RawFeederLife.com Erin Scott: Believe in Dog podcast, BelieveInDogPodcast.com Raw Feeder Life, Instagram.com/RawFeederLife Believe in Dog Podcast, Instagram.com/Erin_The_Dog_Mom Thanks for listening to our podcast. You can learn more about Erin Scott's first podcast at BelieveInDogPodcast.com. And you can learn more about raw feeding, raising dogs naturally, and Kimberly's dogs at KeepTheTailWagging.com. And don't forget to subscribe to The Alternative Dog Moms.
June 10 · 1 hr 4 min
Hot Topics: Raw Feeding Controversies, Lipoma Mushroom Claims & What “Balance” Really Means for Dogs
Send us Fan Mail In this episode of The Alternative Dog Moms Podcast, we dive into some of the hottest conversations happening in the fresh feeding community. We kick things off by discussing whether a raw food company is getting a fair shake on Reddit, along with a side conversation that confirms why neither of us would survive a career in customer service (0:55). Next, we tackle the mushroom advertisement that claims a specific product can shrink lipomas in dogs. The ad seems to be making the rounds again, so we share our thoughts on what pet parents should know before getting their hopes up (27:48). Then we discuss a thoughtful post from Holistic Canine that offers a balanced perspective on what "balance" actually means when feeding dogs. Is every meal supposed to be perfectly balanced? Can balance happen over time? We share our take on this often misunderstood topic (40:56). Of course, we also provide updates on our dogs, what's working, what we're trying, and what's happening in our homes (55:34). And finally, we wrap things up with TV talk, random tangents, and the usual conversations that somehow take on a life of their own (1:08:02). Episode Highlights: Is a raw food company being judged fairly online? Why customer service is not our calling The truth behind mushroom and lipoma marketing claims A realistic discussion about balance in homemade and raw diets Updates on our dogs and daily life TV recommendations and side conversations Links Discussed: Reddit thread: https://www.reddit.com/r/rawpetfood/comments/1tbcfvl/viva_raw_selling_rotten_raw_meat/ Kimberly's functional mushroom article: https://rawfeederlife.substack.com/p/functional-mushrooms-for-dogs Holistic Canine's post about Balance: https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1BPAzoDWnk/ Recipe resources Kimberly mentions: Forever Dog Life Dinner Pawsible by Dr. Cathy Alinovi and Susan Thixton Dr. Judy Morgan's Books Feed Real Institute Animal Diet Formulator Woof Creek Social Media: Kimberly: Raw Feeder Life, RawFeederLife.com Erin Scott: Believe in Dog podcast, BelieveInDogPodcast.com Raw Feeder Life, Instagram.com/RawFeederLife Believe in Dog Podcast, Instagram.com/Erin_The_Dog_Mom Thanks for listening to our podcast. You can learn more about Erin Scott's first podcast at BelieveInDogPodcast.com. And you can learn more about raw feeding, raising dogs naturally, and Kimberly's dogs at KeepTheTailWagging.com. And don't forget to subscribe to The Alternative Dog Moms.
June 2 · 1 hr 20 min
Hot Topics: Houseplants, Red Light Therapy Update, Microalgae in Pet Food, and Why HPP Food Smells Like Rotten Eggs
Send us Fan Mail In this episode of The Alternative Dog Moms Podcast, Kimberly shares life updates as a new plant mom, discusses recent experiences using AnimaSol red light therapy with her dogs, and dives into the growing conversation around microalgae in pet food and supplements. The episode also tackles a controversial question circulating in the raw feeding community: should pet parents donate potentially rancid raw dog food to animal shelters? Kimberly shares her honest thoughts on food quality, safety, and accountability in the pet food industry. Plus, the conversation shifts to holistic wellness for humans and dogs alike, including the importance of supporting our own health while caring for our pets, with a little TV talk at the end. CHAPTERS: Kimberly the Plant Mom (0:55) Dog updates and AnimaSol experiences (11:23) Microalgae in pet feed (23:11) Is a raw food company suggesting pet parents donate potentially rancid food to animal shelters? (30:00) Keeping ourselves healthy as well as our dogs (36:45) [Not much] TV Talk (48:03) LINKS DISCUSSED: New Veramaris® O3 Max Pure replaces fish oil in pet nutrition https://www.reddit.com/r/rawpetfood SOCIAL MEDIA: Kimberly: Raw Feeder Life, RawFeederLife.com Erin Scott: Believe in Dog podcast, BelieveInDogPodcast.com Raw Feeder Life, Instagram.com/RawFeederLife Believe in Dog Podcast, Instagram.com/Erin_The_Dog_Mom Thanks for listening to our podcast. You can learn more about Erin Scott's first podcast at BelieveInDogPodcast.com. And you can learn more about raw feeding, raising dogs naturally, and Kimberly's dogs at KeepTheTailWagging.com. And don't forget to subscribe to The Alternative Dog Moms.
May 27 · 51 min
Raw Feeding for Dogs, Cats & Ferrets: Balance, Myths, and Getting Started with Mariah (Paws of Prey)
Send us Fan Mail We sit down with Mariah from Paws of Prey to break down raw feeding across dogs, cats, and ferrets. We cover balance, common myths, kibble toppers, whole foods vs synthetics, and how beginners can confidently get started. CHAPTERS: How Mariah from Paws of Prey got started creating raw feeding content about cats, dogs, and ferrets (0:54) Ferrets, like cats, are obligate carnivores, and why create content about 3 species (6:23) Mariah's educational background and experiences working in the conventional vet world as a raw feeder (10:34) Mariah's starter products for new raw feeders and how these compare to formulator software (14:49) How to learn from Mariah and the state of raw feeding today(21:28) Common misconceptions about raw feeding (and Erin's being squeamish again)(27:11) Mariah's philosophy on Balance Every Bowl vs. Balance Over Time and the impact of social media on raw feeding information and education (31:09) What happens to balance when you add fresh food to a bowl of kibble and the best food toppers for a bowl of kibble (37:54) Synthetic nutrients vs whole food (41:23) Kimberly's & Erin's raw feeding origin stories (43:49) Being the "dog person" in your circle and Mariah's thoughts for new or aspiring content creators (54:32) Finding a vet who supports raw feeding (59:54) REVELANT LINKS: Mariah's website: https://pawsofprey.com/ Mariah's YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@PawsofPrey Dr. Tom Lonsdale's new book: Spin Doctors: Junk Pet Food Partners in Crime SOCIAL MEDIA: Kimberly: Raw Feeder Life, RawFeederLife.com Erin Scott: Believe in Dog podcast, BelieveInDogPodcast.com Raw Feeder Life, Instagram.com/RawFeederLife Believe in Dog Podcast, Instagram.com/Erin_The_Dog_Mom Thanks for listening to our podcast. You can learn more about Erin Scott's first podcast at BelieveInDogPodcast.com. And you can learn more about raw feeding, raising dogs naturally, and Kimberly's dogs at KeepTheTailWagging.com. And don't forget to subscribe to The Alternative Dog Moms.
May 7 · 1 hr 9 min
Hot Topics: Raw Feeding Week, Vet Costs, AnimaSol Torch Results & Dog Mom Life Update
Send us Fan Mail Celebrating another podcast anniversary, Kimberly and Erin share raw feeding insights, AnimaSol Torch experiences, rising vet care costs, and real-life dog mom updates. Tune in for honest conversation, fresh food talk, and a little TV chat too. CHAPTERS: Podcast Anniversary, Great Guests & AnimaSol Torch experiences (0:55) Raw Feeding Week, April Fool's and Kimberly's new obsession (10:22) Catching up with Erin's & Kimberly's dogs (20:11) Would you go to Mexico for cheaper vet care? The rising costs of caring for dogs (35:57) TV Talk (52:48) LINKS DISCUSSED: AnimaSol Red Light Therapy Torch/Blanket New Instagram About Houseplants The Pet Owners Taking Their Injured Dogs to Tijuana SOCIAL MEDIA: Kimberly: Raw Feeder Life, RawFeederLife.com Erin Scott: Believe in Dog podcast, BelieveInDogPodcast.com Raw Feeder Life, Instagram.com/RawFeederLife Believe in Dog Podcast, Instagram.com/Erin_The_Dog_Mom Thanks for listening to our podcast. You can learn more about Erin Scott's first podcast at BelieveInDogPodcast.com. And you can learn more about raw feeding, raising dogs naturally, and Kimberly's dogs at KeepTheTailWagging.com. And don't forget to subscribe to The Alternative Dog Moms.
April 22 · 1 hr 1 min
REPLAY: Raw Feeding Made Simple with Dr. Ian Billinghurst & Rob Ryan (Gussy’s Gut)
Send us Fan Mail Discover how raw feeding started with Dr. Ian Billinghurst and why it doesn’t have to be complicated. In this episode, we cover raw meaty bones, balanced diets, and real-life benefits of Gussy’s Gut for canine gut health. Raw feeding origin stories (0:56) How Dr. Billinghurst learned to feed dogs fresh food (4:15) Why Dr. Billinghurst has created a raw feeding course for pet parents (12:40) How to feed raw meaty bones to dogs and other lessons covered in the course (28:42) Raw feeding doesn't have to be complicated nor every meal complete & balanced (42:35) Benefits we've seen using Gussy's Gut and the origin story of the product (48:05) Feeding our dogs should be fun! (1:01:56) LINKS DISCUSSED: Learn from Dr. Billinghurst (https://www.billinghurst.institute/a/2147722332/AF6MvfMf) Gussy's Gut (https://www.gussysgut.com/RFL) SOCIAL MEDIA: Kimberly: Raw Feeder Life, RawFeederLife.com Erin Scott: Believe in Dog podcast, BelieveInDogPodcast.com Raw Feeder Life, Instagram.com/RawFeederLife Believe in Dog Podcast, Instagram.com/Erin_The_Dog_Mom Thanks for listening to our podcast. You can learn more about Erin Scott's first podcast at BelieveInDogPodcast.com. And you can learn more about raw feeding, raising dogs naturally, and Kimberly's dogs at KeepTheTailWagging.com. And don't forget to subscribe to The Alternative Dog Moms.
April 13 · 1 hr 13 min
Gut Health, Raw Feeding, and Probiotics with Billy Hoekman (Green Juju Kitchen)
Send us Fan Mail We’re kicking off Season 5 of The Alternative Dog Moms with our annual deep dive featuring Billy Hoekman, Vice President of Nutrition & Formulation at Green Juju Kitchen… and let’s just say, this one is packed. From celebrating FOUR YEARS of the podcast to unpacking the nuances of raw feeding, gut health, and supplement trends, this conversation goes way beyond the surface. If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by conflicting advice in the dog nutrition space… this episode is your reality check. CHAPTERS: Celebrating 4 YEARS of The Alternative Dog Moms, what's new with Green Juju and thiaminase depletion (0:55) Nutrients, sourcing, and the quirks of lab testing you only discover when formulating raw food (8:10) Plant fiber vs. animal fiber: Billy's take (20:18) What Billy has learned about gut health resilience with Huckleberry (24:13) In which Billy teases early results from Green Juju’s Soil probiotic study (and the findings are worth paying attention to!) (27:27) Weighing in on a social media discussion that probiotics are often misused or misunderstood. Is there such a thing as too much? (32:31) Mushroom broth, upcoming events and Green Juju's continuing evolution (40:25) Deciphering shady claims in social media ads (45:55) Billy's experiments with his own diet, as well as Huckleberry's (51:04) LINKS: Green JuJu Kitchen Green JuJu on Instagram SOCIAL MEDIA: Kimberly: Raw Feeder Life, RawFeederLife.com Erin Scott: Believe in Dog podcast, BelieveInDogPodcast.com Raw Feeder Life, Instagram.com/RawFeederLife Believe in Dog Podcast, Instagram.com/Erin_The_Dog_Mom Thanks for listening to our podcast. You can learn more about Erin Scott's first podcast at BelieveInDogPodcast.com. And you can learn more about raw feeding, raising dogs naturally, and Kimberly's dogs at KeepTheTailWagging.com. And don't forget to subscribe to The Alternative Dog Moms.
March 31 · 1 hr 2 min
Meat Fiber vs Plant Fiber for Dogs: Dr. Conor Brady on Gut Health, Probiotics & What Dogs Really Need
Send us Fan Mail What if everything you’ve been told about fiber, probiotics, and gut health in dogs is only part of the story? In this episode of The Alternative Dog Moms Podcast, we sit down with canine nutrition researcher and author Dr. Conor Brady to break down the difference between meat fiber and plant fiber and why it matters more than most dog parents realize. We explore what “fiber” really means in a dog’s diet and how meat-based fiber (like connective tissue, cartilage, fur, and feathers) interacts with the gut microbiome differently than plant fiber. From there, we dive into probiotics, pathogens, and gut bacteria, including why Dr. Brady questions the need for routine probiotic supplementation. We also tackle the big question: are dogs carnivores or omnivores? Along with a few entertaining detours, this conversation challenges common feeding beliefs and encourages a more nuanced view of canine nutrition. CHAPTERS: Introducing Dr. Conor Brady and the topic of meat fiber vs plant fiber (0:54) Probiotics, pathogens, and bacteria: how these relate to meat fiber (3:38) Dr. Brady on whether dogs are carnivores or omnivores plus cow farts and private planes (10:32) What Dr. Brady recommends instead of probiotics and why (20:04) 5 potential downsides of plant fiber (32:06) Will there be a Feeding Dogs 2.0 book? Plus blueberries & antioxidants and meat fiber for cats (43:04) Dr. Brady’s honest reflections on sharing science in a marketing-driven industry (49:00) What Dr. Brady is feeding his dog during a busy season of life (55:37) FIND DR. BRADY: Website: https://www.dcbholistic.com/ DogsFirst: https://dogsfirstshop.ie/ Book: Feeding Dogs (https://amzn.to/4sioZiX) Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dogsfirstireland RawPetMedics: https://www.facebook.com/rawpetmedics Dr. Brady's Substack: https://substack.com/home/post/p-187500789?_bhlid=1d63f7f4c7b619863dd9f78e09403d82a6f04d1f Study: The feline carnivore and their prey: how important is animal fibre and its structure in their diet? (https://research.wur.nl/en/publications/the-feline-carnivore-and-their-prey-how-important-is-animal-fibre/) Chimp Empire on Netflix: https://www.netflix.com/title/81311783?source=35&fromWatch=true SOCIAL MEDIA: Kimberly: Raw Feeder Life, RawFeederLife.com Erin Scott: Believe in Dog podcast, BelieveInDogPodcast.com Raw Feeder Life, Instagram.com/RawFeederLife Believe in Dog Podcast, Instagram.com/Erin_The_Dog_Mom Thanks for listening to our podcast. You can learn more about Erin Scott's first podcast at BelieveInDogPodcast.com. And you can learn more about raw feeding, raising dogs naturally, and Kimberly's dogs at KeepTheTailWagging.com. And don't forget to subscribe to The Alternative Dog Moms.
March 19 · 1 hr 13 min
Red Light Therapy for Dogs: Benefits, Safety Tips, and How AnimaSol Devices Support Canine Health
Send us Fan Mail Can red light therapy improve your dog’s health? In this episode of The Alternative Dog Moms, we talk with Jackie from AnimaSol about how red light therapy works, how to choose a safe device, and what pet parents should know before using it with their dogs. We explore the science behind red light therapy, the debate around sun exposure, and the key terms to understand when comparing devices. Jackie also explains why AnimaSol created a full-body red light therapy blanket for dogs and how their products differ from others on the market. Plus, we discuss whether red light therapy may help with common concerns like mobility issues, skin lumps, and inflammation, along with real stories from pets who have benefited from these devices. If you’re curious about adding red light therapy to your dog’s wellness routine, this episode breaks down the research, myths, and practical tips every dog parent should know. CHAPTERS: Jackie's personal red light therapy origin story (0:55) A rabbit hole on the conflicting research and opinions around sun exposure — is it beneficial, harmful or both? (5:24) Decoding the vocabulary of red light therapy (17:54) Safety and usage tips when choosing a red light device (21:30) Why AnimaSol designed a dog blanket and how their products are different from others on the market (27:30) Will AnimaSol's products help with skin issues such as lipomas or tumors? (30:40) How exactly does red light therapy work? and learning about AnimaSol's product line and the research behind it (32:44) Personal experiences with red light products, understanding the ROI on the pricing and what to look for when comparing between different brands (41:25) Myth-busting a common - but incorrect - assumption about red light therapy (53:35) Can you use red light therapy with cancer? (56:15) Favorite stories about pets that AnimaSol has helped (57:49) LINKS: Website: https://www.animasol.life/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/anima__sol/ SOCIAL MEDIA: Kimberly: Raw Feeder Life, RawFeederLife.com Erin Scott: Believe in Dog podcast, BelieveInDogPodcast.com Raw Feeder Life, Instagram.com/RawFeederLife Believe in Dog Podcast, Instagram.com/Erin_The_Dog_Mom Thanks for listening to our podcast. You can learn more about Erin Scott's first podcast at BelieveInDogPodcast.com. And you can learn more about raw feeding, raising dogs naturally, and Kimberly's dogs at KeepTheTailWagging.com. And don't forget to subscribe to The Alternative Dog Moms.
March 9 · 1 hr 4 min
Integrative Veterinary Medicine for Dogs: Dr. Richter on Longevity, Cannabis & Acupressure
Send us Fan Mail In this episode of The Alternative Dog Moms Podcast, Dr. Richter shares his journey into integrative veterinary medicine, a common-sense approach to dog nutrition, cannabis for pets, acupressure you can do at home, and what really matters most for canine longevity. CHAPTERS: Dr. Richter's veterinary origin story and how integrative modalities became a part of his practice (0:55) Why aren't more veterinarians curious about integrative healing modalities? (5:50) Dr. Richter's common-sense approach to dog food that meets pet parents where they're at (8:16) Longevity science - and drugs - for dogs. And the health factors that matter more than any drug or biohacking (16:27) Cannabis medicine for pets (27:30) Acupressure: The at-home healing modality pet parents can do while bonding with their pets (35:33) The future of veterinary care and the modalities Dr. Richter is most excited about (38:16) LINKS DISCUSSED: Website: https://drgaryrichter.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/petvetexpert Pet Metrics App: https://petmetrics.com/ Ultimate Pet Nutrition: https://ultimatepetnutrition.com/ Books: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Gary-Richter-DVM/author/B018YNHUC0 Veterinary Cannabis Society: https://veterinarycannabissociety.org/ SOCIAL MEDIA: Kimberly: Raw Feeder Life, RawFeederLife.com Erin Scott: Believe in Dog podcast, BelieveInDogPodcast.com Raw Feeder Life, Instagram.com/RawFeederLife Believe in Dog Podcast, Instagram.com/Erin_The_Dog_Mom Thanks for listening to our podcast. You can learn more about Erin Scott's first podcast at BelieveInDogPodcast.com. And you can learn more about raw feeding, raising dogs naturally, and Kimberly's dogs at KeepTheTailWagging.com. And don't forget to subscribe to The Alternative Dog Moms.
March 3 · 51 min
Raw Feeding without a Spreadsheet, Root Causes of Disease in Dogs, & Real Talk | Dr. Nick Thompson
Send us Fan Mail In this episode of The Alternative Dog Moms, holistic veterinarian Dr. Nick Thompson, President of the Raw Feeding Veterinary Society, the voice behind @HolisticVetUK, and co-host of the Raw Pet Medics podcast, joins us to talk about why nutrition is often the missing link in canine health. Dr. Nick shares his journey from conventional practice to holistic veterinary medicine and explains why nutrition is frequently overlooked as a root cause of chronic disease in dogs. We discuss why some veterinarians remain resistant to nutrition-based approaches, how pet parents can work collaboratively with conventional vets they may disagree with, and the cultural differences between raw feeders in the UK and the USA. You’ll also learn what Dr. Nick feeds his own dogs and how dog parents can confidently feed fresh food without relying on spreadsheets or complex formulation software. Whether you're new to raw feeding or a more advanced fresh feeder, this episode will help you better understand how nutrition impacts long-term canine health and how to advocate for your dog while maintaining a positive relationship with your veterinary team. CHAPTERS: Introducing Dr. Nick Thompson and why he shares the content he does on social media (0:56) Origin story to becoming a holistic veterinarian (8:38) Why do "conventional" veterinarians have such opposition to understanding that nutrition is often the root of disease (18:07) Working with conventional veterinarians who you may fundamentally disagree with (25:13) UK vs USA pet parents who embrace raw feeding (32:50) About Dr. Nick Thompson's dogs (41:41) What does the President of the Raw Feeding Veterinary Society feed his own dogs? (44:51) Feeding your dog without spreadsheets (55:04) LINKS DISCUSSED: Raw Feeding Veterinary Society Website: https://rfvs.info/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RawFeedingVets Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rfvs.info/ Dr. Nick Thompson Website: https://holisticvet.co.uk/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Holisticvet.Ltd Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/holisticvetuk/?hl=en RawPetMedics Website: https://rawpetmedics.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rawpetmedics Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rpmvet/ Courses with the Billinghurst Institute (https://www.billinghurst.institute/) SOCIAL MEDIA: Kimberly: Raw Feeder Life, RawFeederLife.com Erin Scott: Believe in Dog podcast, BelieveInDogPodcast.com Raw Feeder Life, Instagram.com/RawFeederLife Believe in Dog Podcast, Instagram.com/Erin_The_Dog_Mom Thanks for listening to our podcast. You can learn more about Erin Scott's first podcast at BelieveInDogPodcast.com. And you can learn more about raw feeding, raising dogs naturally, and Kimberly's dogs at KeepTheTailWagging.com. And don't forget to subscribe to The Alternative Dog Moms.
February 23 · 1 hr 5 min
Hot Topics: Kibble Contamination, Homemade Dog Food Risks, and Bloat: What the Research Really Says
Send us Fan Mail In this episode, we dive into Dog Mom Winter, kibble contamination concerns, and why many homemade dog food recipes online are nutritionally deficient. We also break down a fascinating study on bloat (GDV) and the markers researchers are investigating, unpack heated online debates about medicinal mushrooms for dogs, and explain how to critically examine pet nutrition studies—without fear or fluff. We wrap things up with a little TV talk to keep it fun. Chapters: Dog Mom Winter (0:56) Kibble contamination and deficient homemade recipes online (8:23) Are you concerned about bloat? What a study reveals about markers for this condition (33:43) Online mushroom debates and how we examine studies (43:19) TV Talk (1:03:29) Links Discussed: Study out of Greece showing 95% of kibble has mycotoxins and 72% showed pesticide Dr. Becker link: https://www.facebook.com/share/p/17sPNRaQ37/ Link to study: https://www.mdpi.com/2072-6651/18/1/22 Study re: dogs that are prone to bloat have genetic and microbiome markers Dr. Becker link: https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1aXwExQoqR/ Link to study: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29889838/ Mushroom debate Host Defense claims Lion's Mane mycelium more beneficial than fruiting body: https://nutraceuticalbusinessreview.com/new-study-lion-mane-mycelium-immune-fruiting-body Critique that marketing claims aren't science: https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/critique-claims-regarding-lions-mane-mycelium-philip-rebensburg-wmvne/ Facebook Recipe Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/3811403639186117/ ADM Episode 12: Breaking down the 2013 study that 95% of homemade diets are deficient (https://alternativedogmoms.buzzsprout.com/1955775/episodes/10779166-alternative-dog-moms-ep-13-homemade-diets-satc-ajlt-cbd-oil-and-fireworks) Social media: Kimberly: Raw Feeder Life, RawFeederLife.com Erin Scott: Believe in Dog podcast, BelieveInDogPodcast.com Raw Feeder Life, Instagram.com/RawFeederLife Believe in Dog Podcast, Instagram.com/Erin_The_Dog_Mom Thanks for listening to our podcast. You can learn more about Erin Scott's first podcast at BelieveInDogPodcast.com. And you can learn more about raw feeding, raising dogs naturally, and Kimberly's dogs at KeepTheTailWagging.com. And don't forget to subscribe to The Alternative Dog Moms.
February 9 · 1 hr 16 min
From Zookeeper to PhD Animal Nutritionist: Dr. Francis Cabana on Pet Food Myths, Microbiomes & Feeding Better Dogs
Send us Fan Mail In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Francis Cabana to talk pet nutrition myths, unbalanced homemade recipes online, microbiome health, probiotics, and what it’s really like working in the pet food industry. We also cover whether dogs are true carnivores, zoo kibble, affordable ways to improve your dog’s bowl, and how to confidently choose evidence-based nutrition over internet noise. Timestamps: 0:56 – Dr. Francis’s origin story: from zookeeper to PhD animal nutritionist 8:06 – Why she started sharing about pet food on social media 13:13 – Life for dogs, cats, and pet parents in Singapore 17:16 – Unbalanced homemade recipes and misinformation online 25:31 – Encouraging pet parents (and our own parents) to try something new 32:00 – PhD in Animal Nutrition vs online nutrition certificates 40:11 – Are dogs carnivores? And what’s the deal with zoo kibble 45:10 – The microbiome, probiotics, and gut health 51:11 – Working as a nutritionist for a pet food brand 57:38 – What Dr. Francis feeds + affordable ways to improve your dog’s bowl Links Discussed: https://www.instagram.com/fuelledfurlife/ https://www.fuelledfurlife.com/ Dr. Francis's published studies: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/?term=francis%20cabana&sort=date&sort_order=desc Social media: Kimberly: Raw Feeder Life, RawFeederLife.com Erin Scott: Believe in Dog podcast, BelieveInDogPodcast.com Raw Feeder Life, Instagram.com/RawFeederLife Believe in Dog Podcast, Instagram.com/Erin_The_Dog_Mom Thanks for listening to our podcast. You can learn more about Erin Scott's first podcast at BelieveInDogPodcast.com. And you can learn more about raw feeding, raising dogs naturally, and Kimberly's dogs at KeepTheTailWagging.com. And don't forget to subscribe to The Alternative Dog Moms.
January 31 · 1 hr 6 min
Hot Topics: Raw Feeding Criticism, Carbs for Dogs, and Low-Histamine Bone Broth
Send us Fan Mail In this episode of The Alternative Dog Moms Podcast, Kimberly responds to unexpected criticism of raw feeding and tackles a common question: if cows and horses eat carbs, should dogs too? We also share a helpful listener resource, discuss herbs that may help reduce histamines in bone broth, and give behind-the-scenes updates, including Kimberly and Zoey joining a Jope product study and testing a new product for anxious dogs. Plus, Daisy Girl’s playday, a blood test Erin is geeking out over, Apollo’s birthday, and a conversation about why dogs form different relationships with different people. Episode timestamps: 00:55 – Responding to criticism of raw feeding 10:58 – Should dogs eat carbs because cows and horses do? 16:25 – Listener resources, Woof Creek Wellness, and cutting the cord on cable 26:01 – Herbs for reducing histamines in bone broth 33:23 – Kimberly & Zoey join a Jope product study 35:55 – Trying a new product for anxious dogs 42:55 – Daisy Girl’s playday + a blood test Erin loves 46:45 – Apollo’s birthday and dogs’ unique relationships with people If you love thoughtful conversations about fresh food, holistic care, and learning alongside your dogs, this episode is for you. Links discussed: Study re: Dogs in Laos eating rice (Geographically diverse canid sampling provides novel insights into pre-industrial microbiomes) Kimberly's article: Is Raw Dog Food a Scam? What Science Really Says About Grains, Carbs, and the Gut Microbiome Kimberly's post: Should dogs eat carbs because cows and horses do? Helpful link: http://petdiseasealerts.org/ Mid-Atlantic friends: See Erin & Woof Creek's co-founder Lisa Monk at the World of Pets Expo The blood test you might want to ask your vet to check: https://www.facebook.com/share/p/16pYwy6TKV/ Social media: Kimberly: Raw Feeder Life, RawFeederLife.com Erin Scott: Believe in Dog podcast, BelieveInDogPodcast.com Raw Feeder Life, Instagram.com/RawFeederLife Believe in Dog Podcast, Instagram.com/Erin_The_Dog_Mom Thanks for listening to our podcast. You can learn more about Erin Scott's first podcast at BelieveInDogPodcast.com. And you can learn more about raw feeding, raising dogs naturally, and Kimberly's dogs at KeepTheTailWagging.com. And don't forget to subscribe to The Alternative Dog Moms.
January 20 · 55 min
Hot Topics: New Year, Rising Vet Costs, Vaccine Conversations & Trust Issues in the Pet Industry
Send us Fan Mail In this episode, Erin and Kimberly catch up on life, dogs, and the pet industry — starting with Erin’s big news and why activated charcoal is always on hand. Kimberly shares updates from home, including more human cooking, Buffy’s recent vet visit, and navigating the lepto vaccine conversation. They break down a confusing article on rising veterinary costs, reflect on lessons learned in 2025, and talk New Year’s Eve plans. The conversation then turns to growing concerns about trust in the pet and veterinary industries, including the mainstream recognition of a veterinarian whose work has been debunked. The episode wraps with updates on their dogs and what they’re looking forward to in 2026 — with honesty, curiosity, and plenty of real-world dog-mom perspective. CHAPTERS: Erin's big news and why we keep Activated Charcoal on-hand (0:55) Kimberly is doing more cooking [for humans], Buffy had a recent vet visit and lepto vaccines (8:30) A recent article about rising vet costs was rather confusing (20:08) New Year's Eve plans, what we learned in 2025, and other stories of the year (29:47) How the mainstream vet industry is honoring a veterinarian whose work has been debunked (51:37) Lack of trust in the pet & vet industries (56:54) Catching up with Kimberly's & Erin's dogs plus what we're looking forward to in 2026 (1:09:15) LINKS DISCUSSED: NOW Activated Charcoal (https://amzn.to/49iWNWl) Justice Dept calls for affordable vet care (https://san.com/cc/justice-department-calls-for-affordable-vet-care/) AKC's Honoring Dr. Lisa Freeman (https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1QRTuUAy3A/) Who Killed JFK podcast (https://pod.link/1714611578) SOCIAL MEDIA: Kimberly: Raw Feeder Life, RawFeederLife.com Erin Scott: Believe in Dog podcast, BelieveInDogPodcast.com Raw Feeder Life, Instagram.com/RawFeederLife Believe in Dog Podcast, Instagram.com/Erin_The_Dog_Mom Thanks for listening to our podcast. You can learn more about Erin Scott's first podcast at BelieveInDogPodcast.com. And you can learn more about raw feeding, raising dogs naturally, and Kimberly's dogs at KeepTheTailWagging.com. And don't forget to subscribe to The Alternative Dog Moms.
January 12 · 1 hr 24 min

The Alternative Dog Moms

Integrative Veterinary Oncology with Dr. Kendra Pope: Cancer Prevention, Nutrition & Proactive Dog Health

Canine Rehab, CCL Tears, and Senior Dog Mobility with Dr. Deb Torraca

Former NFL Linebacker Nathan Gerry on Raw Feeding, Dog Nutrition, and Building Rawly Raw Pet Food

Tvati, Senior Pets & Choosing Where to Invest in Your Dog’s Wellness

Hot Topics: Raw Feeding Myths, Grass Eating Dogs & Lamb Protein Yeast

Regenerative Farming, Soil Health & Nutrient-Dense Food for Dogs and People | Ramstead Ranch Story

Hot Topics: Raw Feeding Controversies, Lipoma Mushroom Claims & What “Balance” Really Means for Dogs

Hot Topics: Houseplants, Red Light Therapy Update, Microalgae in Pet Food, and Why HPP Food Smells Like Rotten Eggs

Raw Feeding for Dogs, Cats & Ferrets: Balance, Myths, and Getting Started with Mariah (Paws of Prey)

Hot Topics: Raw Feeding Week, Vet Costs, AnimaSol Torch Results & Dog Mom Life Update

REPLAY: Raw Feeding Made Simple with Dr. Ian Billinghurst & Rob Ryan (Gussy’s Gut)

Gut Health, Raw Feeding, and Probiotics with Billy Hoekman (Green Juju Kitchen)

Meat Fiber vs Plant Fiber for Dogs: Dr. Conor Brady on Gut Health, Probiotics & What Dogs Really Need

Red Light Therapy for Dogs: Benefits, Safety Tips, and How AnimaSol Devices Support Canine Health

Integrative Veterinary Medicine for Dogs: Dr. Richter on Longevity, Cannabis & Acupressure

Raw Feeding without a Spreadsheet, Root Causes of Disease in Dogs, & Real Talk | Dr. Nick Thompson

Hot Topics: Kibble Contamination, Homemade Dog Food Risks, and Bloat: What the Research Really Says

From Zookeeper to PhD Animal Nutritionist: Dr. Francis Cabana on Pet Food Myths, Microbiomes & Feeding Better Dogs

Hot Topics: Raw Feeding Criticism, Carbs for Dogs, and Low-Histamine Bone Broth

Hot Topics: New Year, Rising Vet Costs, Vaccine Conversations & Trust Issues in the Pet Industry