the Banfield podcast: NOT JUST FLUFF

We're back for season 2 (tail wags welcome)

Host and Producer Hannah Shaw will sit down with pet pros to debunk common pet-related myths, share practical advice, and deep dive into some of the most common questions we hear from pet lovers.

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Latest episode

Episode 1 - yes, your cat needs to see the vet regularly, too!

Believe it or not, cats are only about half as likely to see the vet as their canine counterparts. But why is that? What is it about our independent feline friends that keeps so many of them away a little longer than they should? In this episode, host Hannah Shaw sits down with Dr. Michael Kearley, a veterinarian with a soft spot for cats, to unpack the myths and realities of feline health. From the subtle red flags that often go unnoticed, to practical ways to make vet visits less stressful (even if your cat hates the carrier), Dr. Kearley shares everything you need to know to help your cat live a healthier, happier life. Whether you’re a seasoned cat owner or just starting your feline journey, this conversation is full of easy tips to make caring for your cat a little simpler and a lot less stressful!

Mentioned in this episode:

Statistics on cats visiting the vet HERE.

Disclaimer: The listener question featured in this episode is a hypothetical scenario presented by an actor. It does not reflect the views or experiences of an actual listener. The information provided in this podcast is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. Always consult a veterinarian with any questions regarding your pet’s health or medical condition. Never disregard or delay seeking professional veterinary advice based on information from this podcast.

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Season 1 transcripts and episode links

Episode 7: Best fur-iends

Run time: 34 minutes, 42 seconds

Description:

Raw, veggie senior or puppy, wet or dry... oh my! With seemingly endless food options, it can be hard to navigate how and how much to feed our pets.

In this episode, Hannah sits down with Jennifer Rodeen, Registered Veterinary Technician and Practice Manager at Banfield Pet Hospital in Lacey, Washington. Hannah and Jennifer discuss the role nutrition plays in every stage of your pet’s life, what to pay attention to when choosing the right foods, and how lifestyle and environment can have an impact.

We hope you enjoy Not Just Fluff! If you find these conversations helpful, we want to hear from you! Rate and review us on Apple Podcasts and let us know what you liked about the show.

Read the transcript and listen to the episode on your favorite platform.

Episode 6: Nourishing nibbles

Run time: 33 minutes, 21 seconds

Description:

Raw, veggie senior or puppy, wet or dry... oh my! With seemingly endless food options, it can be hard to navigate how and how much to feed our pets.

Read the transcript and listen to the episode on your favorite platform.

Episode 5: Golden Ears

Run time: 32 minutes, 42 seconds

Description:

Our senior pets are extremely special creatures, and caring for a senior can be very fulfilling. Every stage of your pet’s life comes with changes, their golden years are no different. So as your BFF trades in the zoomies for naps in the sun, what can you do to give them appropriate care?

In this episode, Hannah speaks to Dr. Andrea Sanchez, Area Chief of Staff for Banfield Pet Hospital in Portland, and passionate advocate for senior pets. Together, they discuss the changes you can expect as your dog or cat enters their senior years, and preventive care practices you can adopt to help keep them comfortable, happy, and healthy. That’s right – preventive care isn’t just for our young pets!

Read the transcript and listen to the episode on your favorite platform.

Episode 4: Preventive Petcare

Run time: 32 minutes, 52 seconds

Description:

Despite the amount we talk to our pets (c’mon, you know you do it!), they just can’t talk back. So, it’s up to us as pet caretakers to advocate for their health and well-being. Pet owners sometimes ask why it’s important to take their pets to the vet if they seem healthy. We’re here to answer that question, unpack what wellness means when it comes to your BFF, and explain the differences between proactive and reactive care.

In this episode, Hannah speaks to Dr. Meaghan Gilhooly, veterinarian and Vice President at Banfield Pet Hospital, and Mony Iyer, President of Banfield Pet Hospital. They’ll discuss preventive care and how regular vet visits can support the health of our furry friends. You’ll learn the importance of developing a relationship with your veterinary professional, and why prevention is important!

This episode also reveals the origin of Not Just Fluff (and why you should probably keep your sock drawer closed if you have a puppy at home!).

Read the transcript and listen to the episode on your favorite platform.

Episode 3: Whisker Wonderland

Run time: 36 minutes, 56 seconds

Description:

Holiday celebrations are tons of fun for humans but can sometimes be stressful for our furry companions. Our dogs and cats are creatures of habit, and between decorations, new food, guests, and travel, they might feel out of sorts this time of year.

In this episode, host Hannah Shaw sits down with Dr. Saskia Bogman, a veterinarian at Banfield Pet Hospital in Castle Rock, Colorado. Hannah and Saskia discuss the environmental changes that can impact your pets over the holidays, how to plan to make sure they are safe, and how to minimize pet stress. Whether you’re traveling or home for the holidays, join Hannah to uncover how to help keep your furry BFFs safe, calm, and healthy when changes occur.

Read the transcript and listen to the episode on your favorite platform.

Episode 2: Creepy crawlies

Run time: 34 minutes, 59 seconds

Description:

Is something creepy bugging your pet?

Parasites like heartworm, ticks and fleas can be scary, and infections can have lasting effects on your pet’s health. All the more reason to talk about them! Silence and lack of awareness around parasites can lead to dangerous myths and misconceptions. Let’s change that together.

In this episode, host Hannah Shaw sits down with Dr. Michael Piccione, Area Chief of Staff for Banfield Pet Hospital Houston North. Hannah and Michael discuss all sorts of creepy crawlies that can harm your pet, common symptoms to look out for, and preventive measures you can take to protect your furry BFF.

Read the transcript and listen to the episode on your favorite platform.

Episode 1: The importance of oral hygiene for our furry friends

Run time: 32 minutes, 23 seconds

Read the transcript and listen to the episode on your favorite platform.

Episode 0: Trailer

Read time: 1 minute 30 seconds

TRANSITIONAL SOUNDSCAPE - *bark meow*

I’m Hannah Shaw, and I love animals. If you’re listening to this, chances are, you do too. That’s why Banfield Pet Hospital created Not Just Fluff, a podcast all about animals, made for the humans who love them.

I’m so excited to share these conversations with you. As an animal lover and humane educator, I deeply appreciate the value of proper care for the animals that we love.

In each episode, I’ll be speaking with a different veterinary professional to bring you helpful, practical advice for happy, healthy pets. We want to empower you with the knowledge you need to give your furry friends the best care and show them unconditional love.

And trust me when I say, it’s not just fluff.

I’m your host, Hannah Shaw, and this is Not Just Fluff - Pet wellness from the professionals at Banfield Pet Hospital. Subscribe now so you don't miss an episode.

Read the transcript and listen to the episode on your favorite platform.