Veterinary Ramblings

Veterinary Ramblings: Animal Welfare, Contextualized Care & Pet Lighthouse with Guest Caroline Allen

In this episode of Veterinary Ramblings, hosts Mike Brampton and Julian Hoad sit down with guest Caroline Allen, a veteran veterinarian with nearly two decades of general practice experience and former Chief Veterinary Officer for the RSPCA.1 Together, they dive deep into the evolving landscape of veterinary medicine, exploring topics that range from lighthearted personal anecdotes to crucial issues in modern animal care. Key Discussion Points: Career Journey & RSPCA Legacy: Caroline shares her path from entering general practice to serving as the Chief Veterinary Officer at the RSPCA. She reflects on the history of the world's oldest animal welfare charity and her time managing complex welfare challenges.2 The Shift in Veterinary Practice: The group discusses the rise of extreme breed conformations (e.g., French Bulldogs, Pugs) and how the transition from curing illnesses to managing chronic, human-created breeding issues impacted practice. Animal Advocacy & The Five Domains: Caroline delivers a "60-Second CPD" breakdown of the Five Domains Model (Health, Nutrition, Environment, Behavioral Interactions, and Mental State). She emphasizes the importance of giving animals a "voice" and focusing on animal feelings rather than just medical health. Contextualized Care & AI in Practice: A candid look at the challenges modern vets face in 15-minute consultations, including the need for individualised treatment plans, proper communication, trust-building, and the pros and cons of AI in veterinary software. Introducing "Pet Lighthouse": Caroline details her new independent consultancy service, Pet Lighthouse, designed to bridge the trust gap between pet owners and veterinary practices. She explains how she provides extended, holistic consultations to help owners navigate complex end-of-life decisions, chronic conditions, and care paths. Euthanasia & End-of-Life Care: An open conversation on viewing euthanasia as a vital welfare tool, managing caregiver placebo effects, and asking whether advance Tired of boring, clinical veterinary podcasts? Join Veterinarian Dr Julian Hoad & Anaesthetic Expert Mike Brampton, as they interview inspirational guests each week who are related to the veterinary world. Veterinary Ramblings is like going for a drink with your favourite work colleagues after a long day – we’ll make you laugh, inspire you and perhaps teach you something new! #Veterinary #VetMed #VeterinaryPodcast #FunnyPodcast #VeterinaryStories ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

Part 1: Inside the Old Manosphere with Chris Ritchie (Part 1) | Veterinary Ramblings Ep 154

What happens when a veterinary publisher, a vet and a vet nurse/podcaster sit down with a beer? Mike Brampton and Julian Hoad welcome Chris Ritchie – editor, publisher and accidental founder of "the old manosphere" – to Veterinary Ramblings. In Part 1 we cover: - Chris taking over Vet Surgeon and Vet Nurse and the future of veterinary publishing - Print vs digital – are vets still reading journals cover to cover? - The Veterinary Edge and Pet & Vet magazines - Why Tesco's straight croissants are a crime - Poisonous vs venomous – why adders aren't poisonous - Pi, puns and the birth of the old manosphere Veterinary Ramblings is the podcast for vets, vet nurses and veterinary students who want real stories, CPD and a good laugh. 🔔 Subscribe for new episodes every week 🎧 Listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts and all major platforms #VeterinaryRamblings #VetPodcast #Veterinary #VetNurse #VetStudent #VeterinaryCPD #VetLife #ChrisRitchieodcast #FunnyPodcast #VeterinaryStories ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

The Truth About Cat Health & FIP | Veterinary Ramblings (Part 2)

FIP, Ethics, & The Truth About Feline Medicine | Dr. Petra Cerna

This week on Veterinary Ramblings, Mike Brampton and Julian Hoad are joined by feline medicine specialist Dr. Petra Cerna, DVM, PhD, to explore the unique clinical, physiological and legal considerations surrounding feline health. The conversation explores the evolution of FIP treatment, including antiviral therapies and emerging insights into post-FIP complications such as myocarditis. Petra also discuss animal advocacy and law, including the ethics of cosmetic procedures, evolving animal welfare legislation and the responsibilities of veterinary organisations. The episode also takes a closer look at feline-specific diagnostics and why markers such as bilirubin, albumin and ALT can have very different clinical significance in cats compared with dogs. From feline internal medicine to veterinary ethics and animal law, this episode offers an insightful look at the complexities of feline healthcare. ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

Puppy Farms, Politics & Protecting Dogs with Dr. Marc Abraham part 2

This week on Veterinary Ramblings, Mike Brampton and Julian Hoad are joined by Dr. Marc Abraham to explore animal welfare, grassroots campaigning, legislation, and the power of education to create meaningful change. The episode dives into Marc’s work as a vet, animal advocate and author, from visiting schools and literary festivals with his children’s book to his work exposing puppy farming through the documentary "Dogspiracy". He shares insights from going undercover in Amish puppy mills in Pennsylvania and how the film helped open new educational conversations with breeders and veterinary professionals. Marc also reflects on the decade-long grassroots campaign behind Lucy’s Law, which brought an end to commercial third-party sales of puppies and kittens in the UK. He explains why legislation is only the beginning, creating the framework needed for enforcement, investigation and prosecution. The conversation also explores what makes political campaigning effective, the role of APDAWG in bringing grassroots voices into Parliament, and why patience, collaboration and giving policymakers practical solutions can be more powerful than confrontation. From animal welfare legislation to veterinary-client relationships, Marc also discusses the difficult conversations vets face when treating animals affected by extreme breeding, and why keeping communication open is essential to protecting the animal in front of them. ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

Puppy Farms, Politics & Protecting Dogs with Dr. Marc Abraham

This week on Veterinary Ramblings, Mike Brampton and Julian Hoad are joined by Dr. Marc Abraham to explore animal welfare, grassroots campaigning, legislation, and the power of education to create meaningful change. The episode dives into Marc’s work as a vet, animal advocate and author, from visiting schools and literary festivals with his children’s book to his work exposing puppy farming through the documentary "Dogspiracy". He shares insights from going undercover in Amish puppy mills in Pennsylvania and how the film helped open new educational conversations with breeders and veterinary professionals. Marc also reflects on the decade-long grassroots campaign behind Lucy’s Law, which brought an end to commercial third-party sales of puppies and kittens in the UK. He explains why legislation is only the beginning, creating the framework needed for enforcement, investigation and prosecution. The conversation also explores what makes political campaigning effective, the role of APDAWG in bringing grassroots voices into Parliament, and why patience, collaboration and giving policymakers practical solutions can be more powerful than confrontation. From animal welfare legislation to veterinary-client relationships, Marc also discusses the difficult conversations vets face when treating animals affected by extreme breeding, and why keeping communication open is essential to protecting the animal in front of them. ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

Bears, Birds & the BSAVA Handover

This week on Veterinary Ramblings, Mike Brampton and Julian Hoad catch up on recent adventures, veterinary milestones, and a few unexpected stories along the way. The episode begins with Mike reflecting on handing over the BSAVA presidency before the conversation heads north to Finland, where the pair share highlights from a wildlife photography trip filled with brown bears, wolves, wolverines, and fascinating facts about Arctic wildlife. They also swap stories from a recent expedition around Scotland, discuss an unexpected front-row view of a major NATO military exercise, and, with their usual humour, touch on the ever-changing UK political landscape. The episode wraps up back in the veterinary world with a look at the recent BSAVA Vets Cymru conference in Aberystwyth, celebrating the value of regional events and the first graduating cohort of veterinary students from the University of Aberystwyth. As always, it's a relaxed mix of veterinary chat, wildlife stories, travel, and plenty of good conversation. ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

Breeding, Bans, and Brachycephalics with Dan O’Neill & Marisa Heath

This week on Veterinary Ramblings, Mike Brampton and Julian Hoad are joined by Dan O’Neill & Marisa Heath to unpack the controversy surrounding the so-called “67 breeds ban” and the wider conversation around animal welfare legislation. The episode dives into how sensational headlines and “rage bait” media distorted the guests’ work, falsely claiming they wanted to ban dozens of dog breeds. In reality, the discussion focuses on preserving beloved breeds by encouraging healthier physical traits and moving away from extreme conformations that can compromise welfare. Dan and Marissa also introduce the Innate Health Assessment (IHA), a free, voluntary tool designed to help breeders and the public identify healthier breed characteristics. From brachycephalic breathing issues to public perceptions of “healthy-looking” dogs, the conversation explores how education and informed choices can drive meaningful change. The episode also tackles the importance of addressing root causes rather than just treating symptoms, alongside thoughtful discussions on legislation, social change, and what truly defines a good quality of life for our pets. ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

Port Etiquette, Public Speaking, and Polar Bears

This week on Veterinary Ramblings, Mike Brampton and Julian Hoad cover everything from formal dinner etiquette to key issues in the veterinary industry. A humorous start, featuring dining traditions, leads into Mike’s upcoming expedition, where he’ll explore history from Vikings to WWII-era sharking. The episode also tackles the CMA investigation into the profession, discussing concerns around online pharmacies, rising costs, and potential impacts on animal welfare. It wraps up with a quick “60 Second CPD” on public speaking and a lighthearted segment on the hosts’ irrational fears. ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

Pet Savers, Propeller Planes, and the Perfect Scone

This week on Veterinary Ramblings, Mike Brampton and Julian Hoad are joined by Allie Selby, Fundraising and Income Generation Manager for PetSavers, part of the British Small Animal Veterinary Association (BSAVA). Allie shares her journey in the animal charity sector, including her time with Guide Dogs and the moment that inspired her passion for the field. The episode highlights the vital work of PetSavers, from funding research into companion animal health to supporting projects at every career stage. Allie also discusses how individuals and organisations can get involved in supporting this work. The conversation ends on a lighter note, with Allie’s favourite “guilty pleasure” bread, a “60 Second CPD” on perfecting scones, and a few entertaining anecdotes from the hosts. ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

From Tokyo to Tigers: Travel Tales and Vet Stories

This week on Veterinary Ramblings, hosts Mike Brampton and Julian Hoad kick off the episode with Mike’s recent trip to Japan, sharing observations from a culture built on respect, ritual, and remarkable attention to detail. Mike reflects on everything from impeccably organised airport baggage reclaim to the country’s legendary punctuality and the deeply ingrained bathing traditions of the onsen. The pair also discuss Japanese cuisine, including sea urchin, seaweed, and raw egg dishes, along with Mike’s experience exploring Tokyo’s famous “kitchen street” and the craftsmanship (and cost!) behind traditional Japanese knives. The conversation moves into Mike’s photography adventures, including visits to the famous snow monkeys and the iconic Japanese cranes. He explains how wildlife viewing areas are carefully managed to protect the animals while still allowing visitors to observe them in their natural environments. Back in veterinary territory, the hosts reflect on zoo welfare and the debate around stereotypical behaviours in captive animals, before Mike recounts a memorable (and slightly terrifying) story from early in his career involving anaesthetising a tiger. The episode wraps up with a candid rant about public services, touching on the challenges facing the NHS and the frustrations of unreliable infrastructure. Packed with travel stories, wildlife encounters, veterinary insights, and the usual off-the-cuff humour, this episode is classic Veterinary Ramblings. ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

Protecting People, Protecting Animals with Dr Paula Boyden

This week on Veterinary Ramblings, Mike Brampton and Julian Hoad are joined by Dr. Paula Boyden, newly appointed Fellow and leading voice on animal and human welfare. The discussion focuses on the Links Group, a registered charity highlighting the link between animal abuse and domestic abuse, and the difficult, often emotional cases vets may face. Paula shares key statistics, guidance on recognising non-accidental injury, professional responsibilities around reporting concerns, and the ARD framework (Ask, Reassure, Document, Report/Refer). The episode also touches on current legislative gaps in animal cruelty laws and available training resources, before ending on a lighter note with “60 Second CPD”, a quick lesson on taking a narrowboat through a lock. ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

Ethics at the Edge of Veterinary Medicine with Dr Polly Taylor

This week on Veterinary Ramblings, Julian Hoad and Mike Brampton are joined by Dr Polly Taylor to discuss veterinary ethics and the limits of modern medicine. Centred on the idea that “just because we can doesn’t mean we should,” the conversation explores difficult treatment decisions, experimental procedures, defensive medicine, and the moral injury vets face in practice. They also reflect on the importance of strong clinical judgement, the pressures on veterinary education, and concerns around the future of Cambridge Vet School. The episode ends with “60 Second CPD,” where Polly shares essential anaesthesia advice, focusing on the basics: airway, breathing, and circulation. ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

New Year Episode

This week on Veterinary Ramblings, Julian Hoad and Mike Brampton debate the value of pre-anaesthetic blood tests for young, healthy animals, questioning whether they genuinely improve care or are driven by defensive medicine and rising corporate pressures. They also discuss increasing veterinary costs, the real financial pressures on practices, and how vets can have more honest conversations with clients, with a dash of trademark humour and a whiskey review along the way. ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

London Vet Show Special: Stand J09 and Beyond with Mike & Julian

We’re warming up for the London Vet Show with a mix of conference wisdom and classic chaos. Mike talks super-cuffs and reliable readings, Julian drops a 60-second CPD on making the most of your day and together they dive into exhibit fatigue, greener shows, and the joy of good kit used well. Expect the usual tangents, unexpected insights, and a brand-new take on the famous bread question. ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

Building Better Veterinary Conversations With Arlo Guthrie

This week we’re joined by Arlo Guthrie - publisher, community builder, and unapologetic critical thinker. From cake factories and cockpits to founding VetNurse.co.uk and VetSurgeon.org, Arlo explores how the profession communicates: the fragmentation of social media, AI’s confident mistakes, and practical rules for writing online with clarity and respect. We also dig into pricing, trust, and contextualised care, and how better communication can rebuild confidence in the profession. ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

Breaking Bread and Beating Burnout with Mark Johnston

This week we’re joined by Mark Johnston, former equine anaesthetist, digital innovator, and mental health advocate. From his early years in Newmarket to leading research on anaesthetic risk, Mark talks openly about burnout, reflection, and rediscovering balance beyond the profession. We explore the evolution of Vetstream, his work supporting Ukrainian vets, and why self-awareness is as vital as clinical skill. Along the way, he shares lighter moments on bread-making, open questions, and how connection over conversation can change everything. ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

Kickboxing, Burnout & Boundaries with Gunila Pedersen

This week we’re joined by Gunila Pedersen - ECC vet, life coach, and Muay Thai enthusiast who splits her time between Spain, Denmark, and the UK. From belly dancing gigs to night shifts in emergency practice, Gunila talks candidly about chasing variety, hitting burnout, and finding her way back to vet med with stronger boundaries and a clearer head. We dive into what drew her to emergency work, how coaching reframed her career (and life), and a challenging safeguarding case that underlines why protocols and support matter. ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

Ubuntu on the Road with Manon Verijdt

This week we’re joined by Manon Verijdt - writer, adventurer, and editor of Ubuntu Magazine. From a very Dutch loaf to a very big leap: Manon shares how a sleepless night on a boat off Norway sparked a global conservation magazine and how the spirit of “I am because we are” runs through its pages. We follow her overland across Africa: tracking gorillas, abseiling a towering waterfall, digging out of Zambian mud with strangers-turned-friends, and rescuing a tiny Nigerian street pup, Nim. Manon also explains why Ubuntu tells conservation stories and delivers a brilliant 60-Second CPD on becoming media-ready. A joyful, reflective ride about curiosity, courage, and seizing the tide when it turns. ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

Charisma, Communication & Community with Karis Matik

This week we’re joined by Karis Matik, Marketing & Brand Director at Kernow Vet Messaging and dedicated StreetVet volunteer. From French baguettes to Cornwall’s hidden homelessness crisis, Karis shares stories of community, inclusion, and why volunteering has become such a central part of her life. We also dive into her work on making veterinary practices more accessible through inclusive communication and of course, her unforgettable 60-Second CPD. A lively conversation full of heart, humour, and a reminder that sometimes the biggest changes start with the smallest actions. ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★