Dogs Are Individuals

127: This week, I’m digging into Addison’s disease in dogs—what it is, how it shows up, and why it’s so often missed. It’s one of those conditions that can mimic a bunch of other issues, which makes getting the right diagnosis a real challenge. I’ll break down what’s actually happening with your dog’s adrenal glands, how vets typically test for it, and what treatment looks like. If you’ve got a dog that’s been acting off—low energy, vomiting, or just not quite themselves—this episode’s for you. Topics Discussed:  What are the early signs of Addison’s disease in dogs? How is Addison’s disease diagnosed in dogs? What causes Addison’s disease in dogs? What is the treatment for canine Addison’s disease? Can Addison’s disease in dogs be managed long-term? Sponsored By:   Green Juju Real Mushrooms  Goodness Gracious   Earth Buddy  Innovative Pet Lab Coco Therapy AniCell Biotech  Pawdega  Check Out Rita:  BUY MY BOOK  Rita’s Instagram Facebook Group My Courses My Website and Store Produced By: Drake Peterson

126: In this short episode, I go on a much-needed rant about something that truly made my stomach turn: Milk-Bone has teamed up with Jif peanut butter to create a new dog treat—and it's just as bad as it sounds. I break down the disturbing ingredients in both products, from glyphosate-laced wheat and trans fats to sugar, molasses, and mystery meats. These kinds of humanized, ultra-processed treats are not only unnecessary—they’re harmful. If you’ve ever wondered why I’m so passionate about reading labels and advocating for real, whole food for dogs, this episode will explain exactly why. One in two dogs will die of cancer—and it’s time we stop pretending these mainstream treats are “just fine.”   Topics Discussed:  Are Milk-Bone dog treats safe for dogs to eat? What harmful ingredients are in Jif peanut butter for dogs? Why should dog owners avoid processed treats with sugar and trans fats? What are the risks of feeding dogs mainstream peanut butter brands? How do common dog treats contribute to inflammation and cancer in dogs?   Sponsored By:  Green Juju Real Mushrooms  Goodness Gracious  Dr Ruth Roberts   Earth Buddy  Innovative Pet Lab Coco Therapy Pawdega    Further Listening: Forever Dog Life Review    Check Out Rita:  The Herbal Dog (Book!) Rita’s Instagram Facebook Group My Courses My Website and Store   Produced By: Drake Peterson

125: In this episode, we’re diving deep into what happens after your dog gets bit by a tick — because that moment matters. I answer a listener's question about my After formula and break down how each ingredient helps support your dog’s body post-bite — from the cellular level all the way to the emotional layer. We’re talking olive bud, sweet chestnut, teasel, mushrooms, and more — all working together to modulate the immune response, reduce inflammation, and help your dog come back into balance. If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed trying to figure out what to do after your dog gets a bite, this is your roadmap. Gentle, effective, and in tune with nature. Let’s jump in! Topics Discussed: What should you do after your dog gets bit by a tick? How does the After formula help dogs recover from tick bites? Which natural ingredients support a dog’s healing process after a tick bite? What are the best natural remedies to support a dog’s immune system post-tick bite?   Sponsored By:  Green Juju Real Mushrooms   Check out Rita: SIGN UP FOR MY NEW BOOK Rita’s Instagram Facebook Group My Courses My Website and Store

In this episode of Dogs Are Individuals, we are going to talk about Cushing’s by request. I’m going to share my dog’s journey to help you recognize signs like panting, skin changes, and increased appetite. We’ll also explore diagnostic tools and treatment options, including holistic support. If your dog’s health feels like a mystery, this one’s for you. Topics Discussed: What are the early signs of Cushing’s disease in dogs? How is Cushing’s disease diagnosed in dogs? What treatment options are available for dogs with Cushing’s disease? Can holistic care help manage Cushing’s disease in dogs? Why is my dog panting more and gaining weight—could it be Cushing’s?   Topics Discussed:  What are the early signs of Cushing’s disease in dogs? How is Cushing’s disease diagnosed in dogs? What treatment options are available for dogs with Cushing’s disease? Can holistic care help manage Cushing’s disease in dogs? Why is my dog panting more and gaining weight—could it be Cushing’s?   Sponsored By:  Green Juju Real Mushrooms  Goodness Gracious  Fido’s Bone Broth Dr Ruth Roberts  Earth Buddy  Innovative Pet Lab Coco Therapy Rawsome Nutritional Excellence  Raw Pets Feline Essentials | Two Crazy Cat Ladies AniCell Biotech   Check Out Rita:  Rita's Book Rita’s Instagram Facebook Group My Courses My Website and Store

123: In this episode, I’m covering a fascinating topic: the glymphatic pathway. Think of it as your (and your dog’s!) brain detox system—kind of like the lymphatic system, but for the brain. We’ll explore how it works, why it matters for cognitive clarity and emotional regulation, and what you can do to support it naturally, especially in your dog. I’ll also share updates from my book tour and some thoughts on dog dementia. We’ll touch on essential oils, phytoembryonic therapy, and lifestyle practices that help keep this system flowing. If you're curious about how sleep, side-sleeping, herbs, and even breathing techniques can impact brain health—this one’s for you.   Sponsored By:  Real Mushrooms Green Juju Earth Buddy  Dr Ruth Roberts  CocoTherapy  Pawdega  Fidos Bone Broth  Check Out Rita:  THE HERBAL DOG  Rita’s Instagram Facebook Group My Courses My Website and Store Produced By: Drake Peterson

122: In today’s episode, we are going to talk about preparing the gut for probiotics. A lot of people don’t realize that we have to prepare and strengthen the gut before it’s ready for probiotics, which I talk about a lot in my new book The Herbal Dog.    Strengthening the glycocalyx and IGA builds a resistant gut barrier before introducing probiotics. This is especially true in sensitive or immune compromised individuals. Strengthening these allows for commensal bacteria, which is good bacteria, can actually stick to the gut wall.    Tune in to learn how natural remedies can help strengthen your dog's gut, making it the perfect environment for probiotics to thrive and support their overall health.   Sponsored by: Goodness Gracious  Green Juju Fido’s Bone Broth   Check Out Rita: BUY THE HERBAL DOG Rita’s Instagram Facebook Group My Courses My Website and Store   Produced By: Drake Peterson

121: In this episode, I explore natural ways to support your dog’s health after spay or neuter surgery. We’ll discuss how herbs like ashwagandha and rhodiola can help balance hormones and keep your pup healthy and happy. I’ll also highlight how herbs can complement veterinary care, not replace it. Whether your dog’s surgery was recent or some time ago, I’ll share practical tips for aiding their recovery and promoting long-term well-being. Tune in to learn how natural remedies can support your dog’s health and keep them feeling great.   Sponsored By:   Goodness Gracious    Check Out Rita:   BUY THE HERBAL DOG Rita’s Instagram Facebook Group My Courses My Website and Store   Produced By: Drake Peterson

120: In this episode, we're diving into often-overlooked aspects of canine care that can significantly impact your dog's health and well-being. We'll discuss why it's worth rethinking conventional practices like spaying and neutering, along with natural approaches to heartworm prevention, antibiotic recovery, and building a healthy microbiome. I'll also share effective, environmentally friendly alternatives to conventional flea and tick medications — plus insights on reducing pharmaceutical reliance for long-term health. Topics Discussed: Rethinking spaying and neutering Natural heartworm prevention and antibiotic recovery Supporting your dog's microbiome with diverse probiotics Alternatives to pharmaceutical treatments and conventional flea/tick meds Sponsored By: Goodness Gracious Green Juju Real Mushrooms  Fidos Bone Broth Coco Therapy Rawsome Nutritional Excellence  Raw Pets Dr Ruth Roberts  Earth Buddy  Innovative Pet Lab Feline Essentials | Two Crazy Cat Ladies AniCell Biotech  Check Out Rita:  BUY THE HERBAL DOG  Rita’s Instagram Facebook Group My Courses My Website and Store   Produced By: Drake Peterson

119: Today’s episode explores how plant medicine and raw food nutrition can boost your pet's health. We’ll break down High Pressure Pasteurization (HPP), what it means for your dog’s diet, and how it keeps food safe while maintaining key nutrients.   Throughout this episode, I’ll share my own experiences with HPP-treated and traditional raw food diets, along with insights from my book tour. Tune in to learn how HPP works, what nutrients it affects, and why variety is so important in your pet’s meals.   Topics Discussed: High Pressure Pasteurization (HPP) and its benefits How HPP preserves nutrients while improving food safety Book tour updates! The role of HPP in the all-natural pet food industry Why vitamin B12 and other nutrients are impacted by HPP Tips for a balanced, personalized raw food diet for pets   Sponsored By:   Green Juju Goodness Gracious Real Mushrooms Innovative Pet Lab Dr. Ruth (the original crockpot vet)  Cocoa Therapy Paudega Anacel Biotech Feline Essentials (The Two Crazy Cat Ladies)  Rawsome Pets   Check Out:  EarthBuddy Pet Raw Pets in Tampa   Check Out Rita:    Get The Book Rita’s Instagram Facebook Group My Courses My Website and Store   Produced By: Drake Peterson

118: In this episode, I’m answering a listener question from Caroline about moringa. This trendy herb is often called a superfood, but is it the right fit for your dog? As a canine herbalist, I’m breaking down what you need to know before adding moringa to your dog’s routine. Tune in for the full scoop!   Topics discussed: Moringa’s natural habitat Superfood category  Health benefits of moringa Recommended dosage When moringa is a bad idea   Sponsored By Green Juju    Check Out Rita:  BUY MY BOOK  Rita’s Instagram Facebook Group My Courses My Website and Store   Produced By: Drake Peterson