The Natural Dog Mum

In our final episode for 2025, Michelle Cummins from Natural Pet Farmacy discusses her role in the pet care industry, focusing on empowering pet owners to manage minor health issues at home with natural remedies. She talks about the dangers of fillers and synthetic ingredients in many pet products, the hidden health risks associated with vaccines and other traditional medical treatments and the importance of education in managing pet health. Michelle also chats about the Canine Masters event and some of the natural pet health experts headlining the event. KEY TAKEAWAYS Colloidal silver is great for cuts and abrasions.Not every issue requires a vet visit.Understanding minor health issues is crucial for pet owners.Alternative remedies can reduce unnecessary vet visits.Confidence in pet care leads to better outcomes.Education is key in managing pet health. CHAPTERS00:00 Introduction to Michelle Cummins03:00 Journey into the Pet Industry09:00 The Birth of Natural Pet Pharmacy15:00 Challenges in the Pet Industry21:00 Importance of Natural Pet Care27:00 Canine Masters Event Overview CONTACT NATURAL PET FARMACY www.naturalpetfarmacy.com.auInstagram: @naturalpetfarmacy CANINE MASTERSwww.caninemasters.com.au ABOUT US The Natural Dog Mum podcast is produced by Bear + Kind Apawthecary founder and canine herbalist Sherry Cooper-Smith. Bear + Kind formulates award-winning organic skincare for sensitive dogs. CONTACT US ⁠www.bearandkind.com.au⁠Instagram/Facebook: @bearandkindapawthecary and @thenaturaldogmumYouTube: @bearandkind Linkedin: Sherry Cooper-Smith 🔔 Subscribe to learn more about natural health and wellness for dogs. 💬Got questions or stories? Drop them in the comments - we love hearing from our pack!

In this conversation, Sherry chats with Emma Delaney fromKindred CBD about the use of CBD for pets, exploring its benefits, the importance of veterinary guidance, and the quality assurance of CBD products. They delve into real-life case studies showcasing the positive effects of CBD inpets, as well as additional natural health supplements available for pet care. The conversation emphasises the need for education among veterinarians and pet owners alike regarding CBD and its applications in animal health. KEY TAKEAWAYS CBD can help with a multitude of conditions.Vets can prescribe CBD as an unlicensed medication.Quality assurance is crucial for pet safety.CBD is tailored to each pet's needs.Real-life case studies show overwhelmingly positiveoutcomes.Prevention is better than cure for pet health.Education for vets is essential for safe prescribing.CBD is well tolerated by most pets.Kindred offers a range of supplements for pets. CHAPTERS 00:00 Introduction to CBD for Pets02:43 Understanding CBD and Its Benefits05:41 Navigating CBD Regulations in Australia08:22 The Importance of Veterinary Guidance11:28 Real-Life Case Studies of CBD Use14:13 Comparing CBD with Traditional Medications16:59 Exploring Kindred's Product Range CONTACT KINDRED CBD www.kindredcbd.com.au Instagram: @kindredcbd ABOUT US The Natural Dog Mum podcast is produced by Bear + KindApawthecary founder and canine herbalist Sherry Cooper-Smith. Bear + Kind formulates award-winning organic skincare for sensitive dogs. CONTACT US ⁠www.bearandkind.com.au⁠Instagram/Facebook: @bearandkindapawthecary and@thenaturaldogmumYouTube: @bearandkind Linkedin: Sherry Cooper-Smith 🔔 Subscribe to learn more about natural health and wellness for dogs. 💬Got questions or stories? Drop them in the comments - we love hearing from our pack!

In this episode of the Natural Dog Mum Podcast, Sherry chats with Sara Gibson, founder of Kelpy Bone, a sustainable dog chew brand made from seaweed. They discuss the journey of creating Kelpy Bone, the health benefits of seaweed for dogs, the challenges of starting a small business, and the importance of community among dog owners. Sara shares her insights on balancing a full-time job while running her business and the realities of entrepreneurship in the pet care industry. KEY TAKEAWAYS Kelpy Bone offers a sustainable alternative to traditional dog chews.Seaweed is a sustainable material that benefits both dogs and the environment.Chewing releases happy hormones in dogs, promoting their mental health.The process of creating Kelpy Bone involved significant learning and adaptation.Community and brand philosophy are central to Kelpy Bone's mission.Building a supportive community is essential for small business success.CHAPTERS 00:00 Introduction to Kelpy Bone and Its Benefits01:19 The Journey of Creating Kelpy Bone03:29 The Problem with Traditional Dog Chews05:41 The Science Behind Chewing and Dog Health08:35 Sustainability and Seaweed as a Material09:37 The Process of Making Seaweed Dog Chews12:19 Community and Brand Philosophy15:43 Expanding into New Markets CONTACT KELPY BONE www.kelpybone.comInstagram: @kelpybone ABOUT US The Natural Dog Mum podcast is produced by Bear + KindApawthecary founder and canine herbalist Sherry Cooper-Smith. Bear + Kind formulates award-winning organic skincare for sensitive dogs. CONTACT US ⁠www.bearandkind.com.au⁠Instagram/Facebook: @bearandkindapawthecary and@thenaturaldogmumYouTube: @bearandkind Linkedin: Sherry Cooper-Smith 🔔 Subscribe to learn more about natural health and wellness for dogs. 💬Got questions or stories? Drop them in the comments - we love hearing from our pack! #holisticpetcare #petcareprovider #animalmedicine#petnutritionmatters #naturalpetcare #naturaldogcare #holisticpethealth

In this episode, Sherry catches up with Fiona from Pet Deliabout holistic pet care, emphasising the importance of nutrition, preventative health care, and a community approach to pet wellness. Fiona shares her personaljourney with her dog Indy, who faced health challenges that led her to explore holistic options. The conversation spans the health care services offered at Pet Deli, including nutritional consultations, titre testing, and the integration of traditional veterinary practices with holistic modalities. KEY TAKEAWAYS Holistic health treats pets as a whole, not just symptoms.Preventative care can reduce vet bills and improve pet health.Nutrition plays a crucial role in pet wellness.Community support is vital for pet owners.Education about pet nutrition is essential for better health.Integrating traditional and holistic practices benefits pets.Fresh food is key to a healthy diet for pets.Mental stimulation is as important as physical exercise.Pets should be treated as family members, deserving the best care.CHAPTERS01:23 Fiona's Journey to Pet Deli03:13 Indy's Health Journey and Holistic Approach05:31 Understanding Holistic Health Care08:26 Preventative Care in Pet Health08:54 Integrating Traditional and Holistic VeterinaryPractices12:13 Services Offered at Pet Deli Wellness Studio16:54 Community and Support for Pet Owners19:54 The Importance of Nutrition in Pet Health23:30 Practical Tips for Transitioning to Fresh Feeding30:19 Mental Stimulation and Enrichment for Pets34:31 Final Thoughts on Pet Care and Nutrition CONTACT PET DELI www.petdeli.com.auInstagram: @petdeliau ABOUT US The Natural Dog Mum podcast is produced by Bear + KindApawthecary founder and canine herbalist Sherry Cooper-Smith. Bear + Kind formulates award-winning organic skincare for sensitive dogs. CONTACT US ⁠www.bearandkind.com.au⁠Instagram/Facebook: @bearandkindapawthecary and@thenaturaldogmumYouTube: @bearandkind Linkedin: Sherry Cooper-Smith 🔔 Subscribe to learn more about natural health and wellness for dogs. 💬Got questions or stories? Drop them in the comments - we love hearing from our pack! #holisticpetcare #petcareprovider #animalmedicine#petnutritionmatters #naturalpetcare #naturaldogcare #holisticpethealth

In this episode, we chat to Jenny Golsby from the CompletePet Company, exploring the emerging field of applied zoo pharmacognosy in Australia. Jenny explains how this practice allows dogs to self-select natural remedies, emphasising the importance of understanding dog behaviour and communication. The conversation delves into the holistic dog care including nutrition, essential oils, and the significance of giving dogs the freedom to choose their treatments. KEY TAKEAWAYS Applied zoo pharmacognosy allows dogs to self-selectremedies.Dogs communicate their needs through behaviour and body language.Essential oils should be used with caution and knowledge.Holistic care addresses both physical and emotional health.Nutrition plays a crucial role in a dog's overall well-being.Self-selection can provide insights into a dog's healthissues.Education in dog care is essential for pet owners.Understanding canine behaviour enhances treatmenteffectiveness.Holistic approaches are becoming more recognised inAustralia. CHAPTERS00:00 Introduction to Applied Zoo Pharmacognosy10:06 Understanding Dog Communication and Self-Selection20:45 The Journey into Holistic Dog Care25:12 The Complete Pet Company and Its Offerings28:55 Podcast Outro.mp4 CONTACT THE COMPLETE PET COMPANYwww.completepet.com.auInstagram: @the_complete_pet_company ABOUT US The Natural Dog Mum podcast is produced by Bear + KindApawthecary founder and canine herbalist Sherry Cooper-Smith. Bear + Kind formulates award-winning organic skincare for sensitive dogs. CONTACT US⁠www.bearandkind.com.au⁠Instagram/Facebook: @bearandkindapawthecary and@thenaturaldogmum YouTube: @bearandkind Linkedin: Sherry Cooper-Smith 🔔 Subscribe to learn more about natural health and wellness for dogs. 💬Got questions or stories? Drop them in the comments - we love hearing from our pack!

In this episode, Sherry chats with Amanda Falconer from Bestie Health about her journey from rescuing dogs to creating a line of nutritional supplements and raw feeding products for pets. They discuss the importance of fresh food, the challenges of transitioning from kibble, and the role of nutraceuticals in supporting dog health. Amanda shares insights on formulating balanced diets for busy pet parents and the need for pet owners to make informed choices about their dogs' diets while considering both health andenvironmental impacts. KEY TAKEAWAYS Transitioning from kibble to fresh food can bestraightforward.Working with nutritionists is crucial for formulating petsupplements.Nutraceuticals can address specific health issues in dogs.Balancing a dog's diet requires understanding proteinsources and their nutritional profiles.Antioxidants are important for aging dogs and can supportcognitive function.Lightly cooking food can aid digestion without losingnutrients.Sustainability is a key consideration in pet nutritionchoices. CHAPTERS 00:00 The Journey Begins: From Rescue to Bestie Health03:10 Navigating Nutrition: The Shift from Kibble to FreshFood05:57 Formulating for Health: Collaborations and Innovations08:53 Understanding Nutraceuticals: Supplements for SpecificNeeds11:50 Balancing Act: The Science of Dog Nutrition14:41 Transitioning to Fresh: Tips for Dog Owners17:53 Broths and Chews: Expanding the Product Line20:36 The Importance of Antioxidants and Gut Health23:41 Sustainability in Pet Nutrition: A Holistic View26:23 Final Thoughts: The Future of Dog Nutrition CONTACT BESTIE www.bestiehealth.com.au Instagram: @⁠bestiehealth.au ABOUT US The Natural Dog Mum podcast is produced by Bear + KindApawthecary founder and canine herbalist Sherry Cooper-Smith. Bear + Kind formulates award-winning organic skincare for sensitive dogs. CONTACT US www.bearandkind.com.auInstagram/Facebook: @bearandkindapawthecary and@thenaturaldogmum YouTube: @bearandkind Linkedin: Sherry Cooper-Smith 🔔 Subscribe to learn more about natural health and wellness for dogs. 💬Got questions or stories? Drop them in the comments - we love hearing from our pack! #naturalpetcare #animalmedicine #dogmumsofinstagram#probioticsforpets #rawfeeding #dogdiet #naturopathy #dognutritiontips#petnutrition

In this episode, Sherry chats to Tara Medina, founder of Aussie pet food brand Eureka, known for air-dried, nutritionally balanced raw dog food. Tara shares her journey from starting a wild game harvesting business to creating a unique dog food product that focuses on high-quality ingredients and convenience. The conversation delves into the benefits of air-dried food compared to kibble, the importance of understanding dog nutrition, and the concept of hybrid feeding. Tara also discusses future developments for Eureka and emphasises the need for better education on pet nutrition.KEY TAKEAWAYSTara's journey into the pet industry began with wild game harvesting.Eureka focuses on air-dried dog food made from high-quality ingredients.Air-dried food retains more nutritional value compared to kibble.Hybrid feeding allows for a balanced diet tailored to individual dogs.Education on dog nutrition is often lacking among pet owners and vets.Eureka aims to provide convenient and high-quality food options for dogs.Tara emphasises the importance of variety in a dog's diet.Air-dried food can be used as treats or mixed with other foods.Eureka is committed to sustainability and ethical sourcing of ingredients.CHAPTERS00:00 Introduction to Eureka and Tara's Journey05:46 The Benefits of Air-Dried Pet Food10:00 Nutritional Insights: Comparing Air-Dried and Kibble15:54 Hybrid Feeding: Finding the Right Balance22:17 Future Plans for Eureka24:23 Sustainable Practices in Pet Food ProductionCONTACT EUREKAwww.eurekapet.coEmail: tara@eurekapet.coInstagram: @eurekapetcoABOUT US The Natural Dog Mum podcast is produced by Bear + Kind Apawthecary founder and canine herbalist Sherry Cooper-Smith. Bear + Kind formulates award-winning organic skincare for sensitive dogs. CONTACT US www.bearandkind.com.au Instagram/Facebook: @bearandkindapawthecary and @thenaturaldogmumYouTube: @bearandkind Linkedin: Sherry Cooper-Smith 🔔 Subscribe to learn more about natural health and wellness for dogs. 💬 Got questions or stories? Drop them in the comments - we love hearing from our pack!

In this episode, Sherry chats with Kal, dog trainer and co-founder of Bark Botanica, a natural supplement brand for dogs. Kal shares his journey from investment banking to dog training and ultimately to creating the brand. He discusses the challenges faced with his dog Elsa's health issues, the importance of diet in managing these issues, and how it led to the development of their product line. The conversation also touches on the link between diet and behaviour in dogs, the significance of gut health, and the importance of using a holistic approach to canine nutrition.KEY TAKEAWAYS• Elsa's health issues sparked the creation of Bark Botanica.• Dietary changes significantly improved Elsa's health.• Holistic approaches are essential in dog care.• Gut health is crucial for overall dog wellness.• Behavioural issues in dogs can be linked to diet.• Quality of snacks and treats matters in dog nutrition.• Education on dog nutrition is vital for pet owners.CHAPTERS00:00 Introduction to Bark Botanica02:15 Kal's Journey: From Banking to Dog Health06:26 Dietary Changes for Dog Health09:56 The Link Between Diet and Behaviour14:42 Understanding Dog Nutrition19:59 Bark Botanica's Product LineCONTACT BARK BOTANICA www.barkbotanica.com.au Instagram: @barkbotanica ABOUT US The Natural Dog Mum podcast is produced by Bear + Kind Apawthecary founder and canine herbalist Sherry Cooper-Smith. Bear + Kind formulates award-winning organic skincare for sensitive dogs. CONTACT US www.bearandkind.com.au Instagram/Facebook: @bearandkindapawthecary YouTube: @bearandkind Linkedin: Sherry Cooper-Smith 🔔 Subscribe to learn more about natural health and wellness for dogs. 💬 Got questions or stories? Drop them in the comments - we love hearing from our pack!

In this conversation, Holistic Vet Dr. Kate Millhouse shares her journey into the field of natural therapies for pets. She discusses the importance of questioning traditional veterinary practices, the benefits of holistic approaches, and the significance of nutrition in pet health. Dr. Millhouse emphasises the role of acupuncture, homeopathy, and dietary management in treating various health issues, particularly skin problems. She also highlights the need for pet owners to be informed about vaccinations and the potential to minimise medications through natural methods.KEY TAKEAWAYSNutrition plays a crucial role in pet health, with fresh whole foods being preferable to processed diets.Acupuncture is not only for pain relief but can regulate various bodily functions.Skin issues in pets often respond better to natural therapies than conventional medicines.Holistic approaches can improve gut health, which is linked to overall well-being.Vaccination protocols can be adjusted based on antibody testing rather than routine schedules.Minimizing the use of medications can lead to healthier pets in the long run.Pet owners should seek out holistic veterinarians for alternative treatment options.Continuous learning in veterinary medicine opens up new possibilities for treatment.CHAPTERS00:00 Introduction to Holistic Veterinary Medicine02:31 The Journey to Holistic Practices05:01 Exploring Homeopathy and Acupuncture08:02 The Impact of Nutrition on Animal Health10:25 The Role of Herbs and Traditional Medicine12:47 Addressing Skin Issues and Inflammation14:40 Vaccination and Preventative Care16:42 The Future of Holistic Veterinary Practices

In this week's episode, host Sherry Cooper-Smith sits down with Luke Fassbender, founder of Fetch House in Sydney, to explore his journey through the pet industry, his mission for integrity and transparency in pet nutrition, and the values that drive his business.Luke shares his evolution from dog walker and groomer to working in major pet retail chains, eventually launching his own business after growing disillusioned with the industry’s commercial compromises. Fetch House was born from his desire to put pets before profits, only stocking products he personally uses and believes in.The conversation covers everything from the importance of product integrity, transparency in pet food labelling, common misconceptions about raw feeding and kibble, and how Luke approaches customer education with empathy and honesty. Practical tips are also shared to help pet parents better understand labels and improve their dog’s diet—no matter their budget or feeding style.KEY TAKEAWAYSIngredient quality first—avoid fillers and cheap additives.Pet Parents should know how to read pet food labels.The first 5–6 ingredients on a pet food label make up the bulk of the product.AFCO standards are misunderstood—“meeting minimums” doesn’t equal quality.Avoid fillers like corn, wheat, and sorghum.CHAPTERS00:00 – Welcome & Luke’s intro01:00 – Luke’s 25-year journey in the pet industry03:45 – Why he founded Fetch House04:30 – Only recommending what he’s used on his own dogs05:15 – Ingredient standards and industry frustrations07:30 – Pet food labelling & what customers don’t know08:45 – The illusion of “AAFCO approval”10:50 – Myths around raw feeding & pathogen concerns12:15 – Is kibble really evil? Nuanced conversations & real-world feeding13:45 – Luke’s process when advising new customers16:45 – Tips for reading ingredient labels17:50 – How to boost kibble with fresh food19:20 – Using air-dried products as healthy treats21:00 – Creating consumer confidence through integrity22:30 – Word of mouth & community impact23:30 – Celebrating the small wins: feedback that matters24:45 – Final advice for pet parents

In this week's episode, Aaron shares the inspiring journey of his dog Larry, who overcame severe injuries and health challenges through dedicated care and fresh food. This experience led to the creation of Larry's Lunch. Aaron discusses his expertise in sourcing quality ingredients, offers tips for pet owners on selecting healthy foods, and emphasizes the importance of education in pet nutrition. KEY TAKEAWAYSHome-cooked meals significantly improved Larry's health.Quality fresh ingredients can be sourced from local markets.Education is crucial for pet owners in nutrition.Providing fresh food can be cost-effective for pet owners.CHAPTERS00:00 Introduction to Fresh Feeding for Pets01:37 The Importance of Education in Pet Nutrition02:11 Challenging Conventional Pet Food Norms04:48 Understanding Dog Health and Nutrition07:29 Larry's Journey: From Injury to Health10:04 Sourcing Fresh Ingredients for Pet Food12:51 Tips for Choosing Healthy Ingredients15:20 The Benefits of Fresh Feeding17:56 Conclusion and Future Discussions25:21 Exploring Effective Communication

In this episode, Diana Scott from Frontier Pets shares her journey in creating ethical pet food using freeze-drying technology. The conversation explore the importance of sourcing organic ingredients, supporting local farmers, and the challenges of sustainable packaging. Diana shares insights into the benefits of freeze-dried pet food and the recent innovations in their product line, including new offerings for cats and nutritional boosters. Key TakeawaysFreeze-drying technology preserves nutritional value in pet food.Organic and free-range product has higher nutritional value.Sourcing locally supports Australian farmers and the economy.Freeze-dried food is convenient and shelf-stable for pet owners.Sustainability in packaging remains a challenge for the industry.Frontier Pets aims for a long shelf life without preservatives.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Frontier Pets and Daya's Journey05:35 The Ethical Approach to Pet Food09:30 Understanding Freeze-Drying Technology16:55 The Importance of Organic Ingredients20:56 Branding and Packaging Evolution25:10 New Product Launches and Innovations33:11 Exploring Effective Communication

In this episode of the Natural Dog Mum podcast, host Sherry Cooper-Smith chats with Lydia Scarpari from Organix Canine Wellness Centre about the benefits of myotherapy in preventing cruciate ligament injuries in dogs. Lydia shares insights from her experience as a myotherapist and dog groomer, highlighting common mobility issues in dogs and the behavioral patterns that can lead to injuries. They explore simple steps that pet parents can take to support their pets' health, including exercises, behaviour modification, as well as ways to recognise the early signs of pain. The conversation emphasises the importance of being proactive when it comes to the wellbeing of your dog and preventing costly surgeries.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Canine Wellness01:34 Understanding Canine Mobility Issues05:21 Preventing Injuries in Dogs08:54 Techniques for Canine Rehabilitation12:12 Movement and Exercise for Dogs16:33 Identifying Early Symptoms of Canine Issues19:44 Contacting Canine Wellness Experts21:15 Exploring Effective CommunicationContact Lydia Scarpariwww.caninewellness.com.auInstagram: @organix.dogAbout UsThe Natural Dog Mum podcast is produced by Bear + Kind Apawthecary founder and canine herbalist Sherry Cooper-Smith. Bear + Kind sells award-winning organic skincare for sensitive dogs.Contact Uswww.bearandkind.com.auInstagram/Facebook: @bearandkindapawthecaryYouTube: @bearandkindLinkedin: Sherry Cooper-Smith