Episodes

  • How to Build a Balanced Fresh Diet for Your Dog - Without Guesswork with Amanda Falconer from Bestie Health
    Jul 24 2025

    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 Health

    03:10 Navigating Nutrition: The Shift from Kibble to FreshFood

    05:57 Formulating for Health: Collaborations and Innovations

    08:53 Understanding Nutraceuticals: Supplements for SpecificNeeds

    11:50 Balancing Act: The Science of Dog Nutrition

    14:41 Transitioning to Fresh: Tips for Dog Owners

    17:53 Broths and Chews: Expanding the Product Line

    20:36 The Importance of Antioxidants and Gut Health

    23:41 Sustainability in Pet Nutrition: A Holistic View

    26:23 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


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    31 mins
  • The Naturopath’s Guide to a Longer, Healthier Life for Your Pet with Naturopath Pru Crompton
    Jul 17 2025

    In this episode, we chat with Animal Naturopath and Nutritionist Pru Crompton from Whiskey's Animal Goods Store, about the importance of proper nutrition for dogs. Prue shares her background in health and nutrition, emphasising the need for dog owners to be educated about their dogs' diets. The conversation highlights common health issues in dogs, the significance of a balanced species appropriate diet, and practical feeding tips to improve dog health. Prue advocates for raw feeding and the use of probiotics, while also addressing dental health and the importance of making gradual dietary changes for your dog.


    KEY TAKEAWAYS

    • Pets require a balanced diet rich in protein and fat.
    • Environmental factors contribute to increasing health issues in pets.
    • Probiotics are essential for gut health in pets.
    • Incremental changes in diet can lead to significant improvements in pet health.
    • Raw feeding can enhance a pet's energy and overall well-being.
    • Pet owners should read and understand pet food ingredients.
    • Dental health is crucial and can be maintained through proper feeding practices.
    • Listening to pets' needs is vital for their health and happiness.
    • Education and support for pet owners are key to improving pet care.


    CHAPTERS

    00:00 Introduction to Animal Naturopathy and Nutrition

    06:01 Common Health Issues in Pets

    11:50 The Importance of Probiotics and Nutrition

    18:29 Feeding Practices and Dental Health

    24:20 Advice for Pet Parents on Nutrition

    CONTACT PRUwww.whiskeysanimalgoodsstore.com.auInstagram: @whiskeys_animal_goods_storeKELPY BONE

    www.kelpybone.comInstagram: @⁠kelpyboneABOUT 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!







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    28 mins
  • Air-Dried vs Kibble: The Facts Every Dog Parent Needs to Hear with Tara Medina from Eureka Pet Co
    Jul 10 2025

    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 TAKEAWAYS

    • Tara'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.


    CHAPTERS

    00:00 Introduction to Eureka and Tara's Journey

    05:46 The Benefits of Air-Dried Pet Food

    10:00 Nutritional Insights: Comparing Air-Dried and Kibble

    15:54 Hybrid Feeding: Finding the Right Balance

    22:17 Future Plans for Eureka

    24:23 Sustainable Practices in Pet Food Production

    CONTACT EUREKAwww.eurekapet.co

    Email: 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!


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    28 mins
  • How Patience and Force-Free Training Transform Anxious Dogs with Behaviour Specialist Sarah Rutten
    Jul 3 2025

    In this week’s episode, Sherry chats with Dog Trainer and Behaviour Specialist Sarah Rutten about the complexities of dog behaviour, particularly focusing on anxiety and reactivity in dogs. They discuss the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on dog socialisation, the importance of understanding reactivity as a fear-based response, and methods for ddressing these behaviours through patience and proper training techniques. Sarah also shares her journey in writing a book on dog training, emphasising the need for a compassionate and an informed approach to dog behaviour.

    KEY TAKEAWAYS


    • Dog training is not a regulated industry, so qualifications vary.
    • COVID-19 has led to an increase in anxiety and reactivity in dogs.
    • Reactivity in dogs often stems from fear and anxiety, not aggression.
    • Proper socialisation during puppyhood is crucial for healthy behaviour.
    • Desensitisation and counter conditioning are effective methods for training.
    • Patience is key; behaviour change takes time and consistency.
    • Recognizing early signs of stress can prevent reactive behaviours.
    • Force-free methods are essential for effective dog training.


    CHAPTERS

    00:00 Introduction to Dog Behaviour and Training

    02:48 The Impact of COVID-19 on Dog Behaviour

    05:49 Understanding Reactivity in Dogs

    08:43 Assessing and Addressing Reactivity

    11:35 The Role of Medication in Dog Training

    14:41 Desensitisation and Counter Conditioning

    17:28 The Importance of Patience in Training

    20:40 Recognising Early Signs of Stress in Dogs

    CONTACT SARAH RUTTEN

    www.thecanineperspective.com.au

    Instagram: @thecanineperspective

    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!

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    30 mins
  • How Gut Health Supports Your Dog’s Whole Wellbeing with Kal Ranadive from Bark Botanica
    Jun 26 2025

    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.


    CHAPTERS

    00:00 Introduction to Bark Botanica

    02:15 Kal's Journey: From Banking to Dog Health

    06:26 Dietary Changes for Dog Health

    09:56 The Link Between Diet and Behaviour

    14:42 Understanding Dog Nutrition

    19:59 Bark Botanica's Product Line


    CONTACT 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!


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    23 mins
  • Say Goodbye to Dry Itchy Skin and Hello to Therapeutic Grooming with Master Groomer Naomi Conroy
    Jun 19 2025

    In this week's episode, Sherry chats with Naomi, Master Groomer and Australia's first Master Pet Aesthetician, about the importance of skincare for dogs. They discuss Naomi's journey in the grooming industry, the most common skin issues faced by dogs, and the significance of using quality, natural products. Naomi emphasises the need for dog owners to nourish their dogs' skin and the important role of groomers in maintaining overall pet health. They also touch on the importance of understanding ingredients in grooming products and the potential health implications of poor skin care.


    Key Takeaways


    • Protecting the skin is crucial for your dog's overall health.
    • A significant percentage of dogs suffer from dry skin.
    • Nourishing the skin should start from the first grooming session.
    • Skin acts as the first line of defence against allergens.
    • Underlying health issues can manifest as skin problems.
    • Transparency in product ingredients is essential for safety.
    • Regular grooming can significantly improve skin health.
    • Groomers play a vital role in monitoring pet health.
    • Quality natural grooming products can be used daily without harm.


    Chapters


    00:00 Introduction to Grooming and Skin Care

    01:05 Naomi's Journey in Pet Grooming

    03:49 Common Skin Conditions in Pets

    07:49 Innovative Treatments for Skin Health

    10:34 The Importance of Skin Health

    13:24 Understanding Ingredients for Pet Care

    16:00 Ingredients to Avoid in Pet Products

    19:34 Tips for Home Grooming and Skin Care



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    29 mins
  • Holistic Vet Secrets That Could Transform Your Dog’s Life with Dr Kate Millhouse
    Jun 13 2025

    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 TAKEAWAYS


      • Nutrition 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.


      CHAPTERS


      00:00 Introduction to Holistic Veterinary Medicine

      02:31 The Journey to Holistic Practices

      05:01 Exploring Homeopathy and Acupuncture

      08:02 The Impact of Nutrition on Animal Health

      10:25 The Role of Herbs and Traditional Medicine

      12:47 Addressing Skin Issues and Inflammation

      14:40 Vaccination and Preventative Care

      16:42 The Future of Holistic Veterinary Practices


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    25 mins
  • The #1 Thing You Can Do to Help Your Dog Live Longer (Hint: It’s Not Exercise!) with Animal Naturopath Erin Follington
    Jun 5 2025

    In this episode of The Natural Dog Mum, we sat down with Animal Naturopath Erin Follington from Natural Pet Supplements to uncover the most powerful thing you can do to help your dog live a longer, healthier life—and no, it’s not just more walks in the park!

    Erin shares her expert insights on the root causes of chronic illness in dogs and why the gut is ground zero for your dog’s wellbeing. From feeding a fresh food diet and supplementing with probiotics and foods that support the gut to the simple daily habits you can start today, this conversation is full of lightbulb moments for dog mums and dads who want to go deeper with their pet’s health.

    Whether you're raw feeding, kibble-curious, or somewhere in between, this episode is a must-listen for pet parents who want to add vibrant years to their dog’s life.


    KEY TAKEAWAYS


    • Why gut health is the foundation of canine longevity.

    • The link between inflammation, disease, and digestion.

    • What most dog owners get wrong about nutrition.

    • Erin's top 3 tips for supporting your dog’s microbiome.

    • Foods and supplements that truly make a difference.

    • A thriving gut can drastically reduce disease risk and boost your dog’s vitality.
    • Why probiotics are the key to a healthy gut microbiome.

    • You don’t have to be an expert to spot signs your dog’s gut is out of balance.


    CHAPTERS

    00:00 – Intro
    01:45 – Why Gut Health Matters
    04:20 – Early Signs Your Dog’s Gut is Struggling
    08:30 – Common Mistakes Dog Parents Make
    12:10 – The Gut-Inflammation Connection
    15:40 – Diet is the Game-Changer
    19:05 – Probiotics, Prebiotics & Real Food Toppers
    23:00 – What Healthy Poop Really Means
    26:40 – Making Gut Support Easy and Affordable
    30:55 – Erin's Top 3 Longevity Tips
    34:10 – Final Thoughts + Where to Find ErinCONTACT ERINwww.naturalpetsupplements.com.auInstagram: @natural_pet_supplementsABOUT USThe 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 USwww.bearandkind.com.auInstagram/Facebook: @bearandkindapawthecaryYouTube: @bearandkindLinkedin: 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!

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    28 mins