Vet Tales

The Lowdown on Anal Glands: What Every Pet Parent Should Know

This episode breaks down why anal glands exist, how they work, and the common problems pets can have—from impactions and infections to abscesses and rare cancers.
Hosts, Dr. Natalie Brackeen and Dr. Josiah Dame, explain symptoms to watch for (scooting, tail tucking, straining), how internal vs. external expressions are done, treatment options, and prevention tips like diet, weight management, and allergy control.

Can't Outrun a Bad Diet: Practical Fixes for Pet Obesity

In this episode of Vet Tales, Dr. Natalie Brackeen and Dr. Josiah Dame discuss pet obesity—how to recognize it using body condition scores, why excess weight causes arthritis, diabetes, breathing issues and liver problems, and why calories matter more than exercise.They share practical advice for pet caretakers: keep food logs, measure portions, adjust feeding for spayed/neutered and senior pets, consider satiety or weight-loss diets, use meal management tools for multi-pet homes and cats, monitor progress with your veterinarian, and watch for emerging medical options.

Preventing Mammary Cancer: Why Early Spay Matters

In this episode of Vet Tales Dr. Natalie Brackeen and Dr. Josiah Dame discuss mammary cancer in dogs and cats and how timely spay/neuter dramatically reduces risk. They explain the difference between cytology and histopathology, review statistics (dogs: ~50% malignant, cats: ~90% malignant), and cover practical timing recommendations—generally spay by 6–12 months for most dogs, at the age of 6 months for cats, with exceptions for large breeds.
The hosts also address male neuter benefits (prostate disease prevention), common owner concerns (anesthetic risk, weight gain, behavior changes), and rare exceptions like persistent puppy vaginitis or specific health cases where timing may vary.
Key takeaways: check any firm lumps on the mammary chain promptly, spay/neuter pets if you do not plan to breed, and talk to your veterinarian about the best timing for your pet’s breed and health.

When Lymph Nodes Tell the Story: Understanding Canine Lymphoma

In this episode, two veterinarians, Dr. Natalie Keith and Dr. Josiah Dame discuss lymphoma in dogs (and briefly in cats): common breeds and ages affected, how enlarged lymph nodes present, and the tests used to diagnose (aspiration cytology and PARR).
They explain treatment options ranging from steroids and oral drugs to the CHOP chemotherapy protocol, address prognosis differences between B-cell and T-cell lymphoma, and share real clinical stories about rapid progression and difficult decisions.
The episode also touches on feline GI lymphoma, the role of routine lab work, and how veterinarians balance diagnostics, treatment costs, and pet quality of life.

The 12‑Month Flea & Tick Game Changer: Bravecto Quantum Explained

Hosts Dr. Natalie Keith and Dr. Josiah Dame discuss current flea, tick, and heartworm prevention options — from the new Bravecto Quantum 12‑month injectable to monthly pills, topicals, and Seresto collars — and explain how each works and who they suit.They compare pros and cons (including Lone Star tick efficacy and seizure‑history cautions), offer practical tips for choosing based on pet lifestyle and species (dogs vs. cats, indoor vs. outdoor), and emphasize the importance of consistent, year‑round prevention.

Vector-Borne Diseases. IDEXX, the 4Dx, and special guest, Missy Williams

Welcome to Vet Tales with Dr. Natalie Keith, where we explore the fascinating world of veterinary medicine. Join Dr. Keith and special guest Missy Williams from IDEXX as they delve into the crucial topic of vector-borne diseases affecting pets. With over 13 years of collaboration, Natalie and Missy share their insights on the importance of diagnostic tools and preventative measures against parasites that threaten our beloved animals.
Discover the powerful 4DX test by IDEXX, a game changer in detecting heartworm disease, Lyme disease, Ehrlichia and more. As they shed light on the role of mosquitoes, ticks, and other vectors, they also discuss their personal experiences and ways to protect pets from these invisible threats. Gain valuable knowledge about the relationship between early detection and better health outcomes, including why knowing about a pet's exposure to Ehrlichia is vital for long-term kidney health.
This episode is a must-listen for pet parents and veterinary professionals looking to enhance their understanding of pet diagnostics and preventative care. Tune in for engaging stories, expert advice, and practical tips to keep your furry friends healthy and safe from vector-borne diseases.

"GDV (Gastrodilation Volvulus): A Guide to this Medical Emergency"

Join Dr. Natalie Keith and Dr. Tracy Trussell on Vet Tales as they delve into the life-saving insights on managing Gastric Dilatation and Volvulus (GDV) in dogs. This episode explores the importance of understanding the risks, identifying early symptoms, and employing preventative measures to tackle this critical canine emergency. Discover the essential procedures, from the intricacies of surgical intervention to the straightforward preventative strategies that can safeguard your pet's health. Whether you're a seasoned pet caretaker or new to the veterinary realm, gain knowledge that could be vital in preventing this dangerous condition.

The Mysteries of Histoplasmosis and other Fungal Infections

Welcome to Vet Tales, where we delve into the complexities of histoplasmosis, a fungal disease primarily affecting cats, found prominently in regions such as Oklahoma, Texas, and Louisiana. In this episode, Dr. Natalie Keith and Dr. Josiah Dame share their veterinary experiences, discussing the challenges and nuances of diagnosing and treating this elusive condition in pets.
Join us as we explore real-life stories of affected pets, uncover the diagnostic procedures that help identify histoplasmosis, and outline the long-term management required to ensure a good quality of life for pets battling this disease. We also touch on other regional fungal infections, offering insights on symptoms, challenges, and treatment options.

Unraveling Pet Allergies: From Itchy Dogs to Coughing Cats

Welcome to Vet Tales! Join Dr. Natalie Keith and Dr. Josiah Dame as they delve into the world of pet allergies and asthma. Discover why allergies are a lifelong management task rather than a condition that can be cured. Learn about the prevalence of allergies in different regions, like Oklahoma, and how environmental factors like crosswinds and pollen can exacerbate these conditions. Understand the differences in allergy presentation between humans and pets, and how conditions in dogs and cats manifest in unique ways.
The episode covers methods of identifying whether a pet's symptoms are due to allergies or other causes, and strategies for effective management of these conditions. It highlights the importance of thorough examination and diagnosis, including when to opt for skin tests, blood tests, or allergy shots to determine and manage the allergens affecting your pet.
Furthermore, Dr. Keith and Dr. Dame discuss various allergens, from common foods to environmental irritants like dust and smoke, and offer insights into how to mitigate these factors. The conversation also spans feline asthma, the challenges of diagnosis, and the role of immunotherapy in treatment.
Whether your pet is dealing with itchy skin, coughing, or any other allergy-related symptom, this episode serves as a valuable resource for understanding and managing pet allergies effectively. Don't miss the tips and experiences shared, which could provide relief and better quality of life for your furry friends.

Ocular Challenges: Common Eye Related Ailments and their Impacts

In this engaging episode of Vet Tales, Dr. Natalie Keith and Dr. Jessica Eastep explore the fascinating world of veterinary ocular health. They delve into common eye conditions seen in pets, such as corneal ulcers, conjunctivitis, and the intriguing phenomenon of melting corneas. Eye diseases are not only frequent but can rapidly escalate into severe problems, making early detection and treatment crucial.
The discussion also uncovers autoimmune diseases affecting the eyes, hereditary conditions that predispose pets to eye issues, and the intricate relationship between systemic health and ocular symptoms. Whether it's understanding entropion or tackling glaucoma, this episode aims to educate pet caretakers about the significance of eye health in enhancing the life quality of their beloved animals.