Rooted Tails by Rooted Owl

From Loss to Legacy: Dr. Nicole Leibman on Redefining Veterinary Care at Home

In this episode of Rooted Tales by Rooted Owl, host Jeffrey Mendelson sits down with Dr. Nicole Leibman, DVM, MS, DACVIM (Oncology)—veterinary oncologist and Chief Medical Officer of PAD—to explore how her personal journey of loss and compassion led to creating a new model of in-home veterinary nursing and hospice care. Dr. Nicole shares how the heartbreaking loss of her childhood dog on Christmas day inspired her career in veterinary oncology and, ultimately, her mission to help pets and families face illness and end-of-life with dignity. Together, Jeffrey and Nicole dive into the realities of pet cancer, the myths around diagnostics, and how PAD is bridging critical gaps in modern veterinary care. Through stories of post-surgical recoveries, families navigating tough decisions, and pets finding peace in their final days, this conversation reveals the power of empathy, innovation, and home-centered care. KEY LESSONS COVERED IN THIS EPISODE: Why Fine-Needle Aspirates Don’t Spread Cancer: Dr. Nicole debunks one of the most common and damaging myths in veterinary oncology. The Role of PAD in Veterinary Care: How in-home nursing supports pets, relieves overburdened clinics, and gives families peace of mind. Facing End-of-Life Decisions with Compassion: Why dignity in dying is one of the greatest gifts pet parents can give—and how PAD helps them through it. The Power of Veterinary Technicians: PAD empowers nurses and technicians to practice at the top of their skill set, strengthening the entire care ecosystem. COVID’s Lasting Impact on Veterinary Medicine: The pandemic revealed deep cracks in accessibility and burnout—PAD is one solution offering relief. Exploring CBD and Telehealth in Oncology: Where alternative modalities fit today, and where more research is needed. KEY TAKEAWAYS: ✅ Misdiagnosis myths can harm pets—education saves lives ✅ In-home nursing bridges the gap between clinics and families ✅ Veterinary technicians are the backbone of compassionate care ✅ Dignity in death is just as important as quality in life ✅ Innovation in vet med starts with empathy and real-world need LISTEN NOW: If you’ve ever faced a pet’s cancer diagnosis, struggled with end-of-life decisions, or wondered how veterinary medicine can better support families, this episode is essential listening. Dr. Nicole brings warmth, honesty, and forward-thinking solutions to some of the hardest moments pet parents face. Spotify | Apple Podcasts CONNECT WITH DR. NICOLE LEIBMAN & PAD: LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/nicole-leibman [https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicole-leibman?utm_source=chatgpt.com] Know a pet parent, vet, or animal care professional? Share this episode and help normalize safe, science-backed cannabis education in animal wellness.

From Vet Oncology to Cannabis Advocacy: Dr. Trina Hazzah’s Mission to Educate and Empower

In this episode of Rooted Tales by Rooted Owl, host Jeffrey Mendelson sits down with Dr. Trina Hazzah—integrative veterinarian, cannabis educator, and founder of Green Nile and the Veterinary Cannabis Society. Together, they unpack the evolving science, stigma, and incredible healing potential of cannabis in animal care. Dr. Trina shares how her pivot from conventional veterinary oncology led her into the world of plant medicine, where she now helps pets—and their people—navigate cannabis safely and effectively. From formulating Rooted Owl’s CBD oil to advocating for national policy change, Dr. Trina’s mission is rooted in science, compassion, and responsible education. Through real stories of anxious dogs transformed, chihuahuas finding peace, and rescues finally adopted, this episode makes one thing clear: cannabis, when used wisely, can be a powerful bridge to healing. KEY LESSONS COVERED IN THIS EPISODE: Why You Shouldn’t Just Walk Into a Dispensary: Dr. Trina explains why human-grade cannabis products can be dangerous for pets—and why bartenders shouldn’t be giving veterinary advice. The Science Behind Cannabis Formulation: From terpenes to cannabinoids, Dr. Trina breaks down how she developed Rooted Owl’s CBD formula based on scientific research and holistic safety. The Transformational Stories of Walter and Ruben: Hear how two rescue dogs overcame anxiety and trauma through a combination of cannabis and compassionate care—and eventually no longer needed it. The Birth of the Veterinary Cannabis Society: Created out of frustration with legal gray areas and lack of education, Dr. Trina’s nonprofit offers unbiased resources, advocacy, and practitioner directories for vets and pet parents alike. How Cannabis Can Be Used Preventatively: Cannabis isn’t just for emergencies—Dr. Trina shares when and how it can help regulate inflammation, anxiety, and neurological imbalance before serious issues arise. Balancing East and West in Pet Care: From vaccines to nutrition to cannabis, Dr. Trina emphasizes the power of integrative medicine—where science meets soul, and prevention meets purpose. KEY TAKEAWAYS: ✅ Cannabis is powerful—but must be used under expert guidance ✅ Anxiety, trauma, and pain can all be addressed holistically ✅ Healing is possible—even for pets with tough pasts ✅ Education is the bridge between fear and informed care ✅ The future of veterinary medicine includes balance, integration, and compassion Listen Now: If you’ve ever been curious about cannabis for pets—or want to hear from one of the most respected voices in the space—this episode is essential listening. Dr. Trina Hazzah brings humor, heart, and unmatched knowledge to a misunderstood field. Spotify [https://open.spotify.com/show/3eVK7zSE2uhzEYERs5A1h3]| Apple Podcasts Connect with Dr. Trina Hazzah: * Website: greennile.org [https://www.greennile.org] * Veterinary Cannabis Society: veterinarycannabissociety.org [https://www.veterinarycannabissociety.org] * Instagram: @dr.trinahazzah * Email: contact@greennile.org Know a pet parent, vet, or animal care professional? Share this episode and help normalize safe, science-backed cannabis education in animal wellness.

From Pet Resort Pressure to Considerably Bold with Alex Varney

In this episode of Rooted Tales by Rooted Owl, host Jeffrey Mendelson sits down with Alex Varney, Vice President of Operations at Pinnacle Pets and founder of Considerably Bold. Together, they dive into the emotional toll of running a pet care facility, navigating client red flags, and the burnout that comes when your heart outpaces your limits. Alex opens up about the realities behind the front desk—from managing anxious dogs and difficult owners to the impossible expectations placed on small teams. She shares a raw story of having to turn away a dog for safety reasons—only to be accused of lacking faith. That turning point led her to reimagine how she could stay in the industry without sacrificing her wellbeing. What started as a conference talk submission became Considerably Bold, a budding community-driven initiative that helps pet care professionals avoid burnout, create healthier operations, and find purpose through support—not isolation. From firm boundaries to heartfelt business, this conversation is for anyone who’s ever loved animals so much it hurt. KEY LESSONS COVERED IN THIS EPISODE: When Compassion Isn’t Enough: Alex walks through a high-stakes situation where kindness toward an aggressive dog wasn’t enough—and why ethical care sometimes means saying “no.” The Burnout Behind the Business: Long hours, emotional labor, and leadership without support led Alex to a breaking point—and ultimately a new way forward. Why Boundaries Are an Act of Care: Saying no to unsafe clients or situations isn’t failure—it’s protection for staff, pets, and the integrity of care. The Birth of Considerably Bold: Alex shares how her burnout turned into a mission to help others thrive—through conference speaking, peer resources, and community connection. Building Pet Care Community Beyond Facebook Groups: From veterinarians to local treat makers, Alex explains how real-world partnerships keep her business resilient and community-first. Helping Others Step Out of the Day-to-Day: Alex shares why owners working every shift aren’t building a business—they’re building exhaustion. And how stepping back can mean moving forward. KEY TAKEAWAYS: ✅ Pet care burnout is real—and often invisible ✅ Ethical care sometimes requires difficult conversations ✅ Saying no can be the most compassionate choice ✅ Community over competition is how the industry grows ✅ Small businesses thrive when supported by local partnerships ✅ You don’t have to run the business and be the business Listen Now: If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by the pressure to do it all—or want a more sustainable path in the pet care world—this episode offers honesty, hope, and practical insight. Alex Varney is here to say: you’re not alone, and it doesn’t have to be this hard. Spotify [https://open.spotify.com/show/3eVK7zSE2uhzEYERs5A1h3]| Apple Podcasts Connect with Alex Varney: * LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/alex-m-varney-72a02a70 [https://www.linkedin.com/in/alex-m-varney-72a02a70] * Email: alex@pinnaclets.com [alex@pinnaclets.com] * Website: https://www.considerablybold.comhttps://pinnaclepets.com/ [https://pinnaclepets.com/] Know someone in the pet care industry? Share this episode to help normalize healthy boundaries, emotional support, and peer mentorship in a space where burnout runs deep—and passion runs even deeper.

From Rescue to Revelation: Dr. Kim Bloomer on Holistic Pet Health, Vaccine Risks & Healing Beyond the System

In this eye-opening episode of Rooted Tales by Rooted Owl, host Jeffrey Mendelson sits down with animal naturopath Dr. Kim Bloomer—founder of Aspen Bloom Pet Care—to explore a radically different path in pet wellness. What began with the adoption of a Great Dane-Shar Pei mix named Shadrach became a mission: to challenge the conventional model of veterinary care and return to nature-based healing. Dr. Kim shares her journey from corporate veterinary support to outspoken natural health advocate, tackling everything from gut health and over-vaccination to the dangers of antibiotics and processed pet foods. This isn’t just a conversation about holistic remedies—it’s a call for conscious, educated pet parenting. Together, they uncover the systems that are failing both pets and people and offer a grounded alternative rooted in nutritional integrity, informed decision-making, and interprofessional collaboration between veterinarians and wellness practitioners. KEY LESSONS COVERED IN THIS EPISODE: The Wake-Up Call Named Shadrach: Dr. Kim opens up about the dog who changed everything—and how his health struggles inspired her deep dive into naturopathy. The Pandemic Pet Crisis: A surge in adoptions, followed by a wave of surrenders, is overwhelming shelters. Dr. Kim explores the root causes and why labeling dogs as “aggressive” often misses the point. Gut Health Is Ground Zero: From probiotics and enzymes to raw feeding and detoxification, Dr. Kim breaks down how the gut is connected to behavior, immunity, and overall well-being. Antibiotics and Over-Vaccination: Why quick-fix medicine can have long-term consequences—and what tighter testing and informed protocols could offer instead. Prevention Is the Best Cure: Dr. Kim shares daily, natural strategies pet owners can adopt to prevent chronic issues—without waiting for symptoms to spiral. The Call for Collaboration: Rather than pitting holistic care against conventional medicine, Dr. Kim makes the case for dialogue, openness, and working together for the good of the animal. KEY TAKEAWAYS: ✅ Natural wellness is rooted in prevention, not reaction ✅ The microbiome matters—what’s in your pet’s gut shapes their life ✅ Vaccines and meds have a place—but so does discernment ✅ Shelter dogs are not broken—they’re often misunderstood ✅ Healing starts with education, intuition, and whole-body care Listen Now: If you’ve ever questioned the mainstream model of pet care—or want to raise healthier animals from the inside out—this episode delivers truth, tools, and transformation with one of the boldest voices in natural wellness. Spotify [https://open.spotify.com/show/3eVK7zSE2uhzEYERs5A1h3]| Apple Podcasts Connect with Dr. Kim Bloomer: * Dr. Kim’s Profile:linkedin.com/in/drkim [https://www.linkedin.com/in/drkim] * Websites: AspenbloomPetCare.com  [http://www.aspenbloompetcare.com/](Personal), Bark-N-Blog.com  [http://www.bark-n-blog.com/](Blog), AnimalNaturopathy.org  [http://www.animalnaturopathy.org/](Council) Know a pet parent exploring holistic options? Share this episode and help shift the conversation from symptom-chasing to root-cause healing.

From Childhood Instincts to Global Impact with Irith Bloom

In this episode of Rooted Tales by Rooted Owl, host Jeffrey Mendelson sits down with Irith Bloom, internationally certified dog trainer, behavior consultant, and founder of The Sophisticated Dog. Together, they unpack Irith’s lifelong resistance to harsh training methods and how that early instinct evolved into a professional mission to transform how we relate to our pets. Irith shares her journey from training a Rottweiler at age 10 using kindness and intuition, to discovering positive reinforcement after rescuing a high-energy English Shepherd in urban Los Angeles. That experience led her to pursue professional credentials, eventually becoming an educator, mentor, and co-founder of Carefree Companion, a platform advancing stress resilience in animals. From dog training to cultural analysis, this conversation explores how empathy, science, and global collaboration are reshaping animal care. KEY LESSONS COVERED IN THIS EPISODE: Understanding Negative Reinforcement vs. Positive Reinforcement Irith breaks down the difference and why she moved away from physical cues and pressure-based training toward methods that center agency, motivation, and mutual trust. The Rescue Dog That Changed Everything Her experience rehabilitating a behaviorally challenged English Shepherd opened the door to modern training science—and a new career. Global Attitudes Toward Animal Welfare From Scandinavia’s gold standard to cultures still rooted in traditional dominance-based methods, Irith explores how societal values shape the treatment of animals. The Link Between Gender Equity and Humane Training Drawing from cultural studies and field experience, Irith connects more progressive animal welfare practices with societies that prioritize human rights and gender equity. How Carefree Companion Is Teaching Stress Resilience Co-founded with animal behaviorist Dr. Christina Spalding, this professional-facing platform trains trainers to reduce animal stress, the key to long-term behavior change. Certifications That Set the Standard Irith discusses her commitment to ongoing education and why regulation, ethics, and credentials matter in an unregulated field. KEY TAKEAWAYS: ✅ Positive reinforcement builds trust—and it's effective ✅ Culture plays a major role in how animals are treated ✅ Stress resilience is foundational to behavior success ✅ Empathy is a strength, not a soft skill—in both humans and animals ✅ True progress blends science, compassion, and lived experience Listen Now: If you’ve ever questioned traditional training methods—or are curious how culture, kindness, and science can come together for better pet outcomes—this episode is full of insight. Irith Bloom brings wisdom, warmth, and real-world experience to the mic. Spotify [https://open.spotify.com/show/3eVK7zSE2uhzEYERs5A1h3]| Apple Podcasts Connect with Irith Bloom: * LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/irith-bloom-25a6428 [https://www.linkedin.com/in/irith-bloom-25a6428] * Website: TheSophisticatedDog.com [https://thesophisticateddog.com] * Book: Your Puppy and You on Amazon [https://www.amazon.com/] or Dogwise [https://www.dogwise.com] * Professional Resource: CarefreeCompanion.com [https://carefreecompanion.com] Know someone with a reactive rescue dog—or a passion for kinder training? Share this episode and help promote empathy, education, and better outcomes for pets and their people everywhere.