Vet It Out Podcast With Dr. Leah

Hi friends, I’m Dr. Leah Osowiecki—though many know me as “Dr. Leah” or “Dr. O”—and I’m so excited to welcome you to the very first episode of Vetted Out.

Since I was five years old, I knew I wanted to be a veterinarian. My passion has always been about more than just treating animals—it’s also about supporting the people who love them. During the pandemic, I left my clinic jobs and devoted myself to in-home hospice care, helping families say goodbye to their pets in the comfort of their own homes. That experience reminded me how powerful the human–animal bond truly is.

In this episode, I open up about my personal journey, the challenges facing the veterinary profession, and why I believe this show is so important. We’ll talk honestly about compassion fatigue, the mental health crisis in veterinary medicine, and the misconceptions that hurt both vets and pet parents. As I say in the episode:

“No matter our differences in politics, religion, race, gender, or socioeconomic status, we share this common thread of the human–animal bond. It is real, and it’s powerful.”

My hope is that Vetted Out becomes a community where animal lovers and caregivers can come together, share real stories, and support one another. Whether you’re a pet parent, a farmer, a wildlife enthusiast, or a fellow veterinary professional, this show is for you.

So, thank you for being here at the very beginning. Please watch, subscribe, share with your animal-loving friends, and join me as we take this journey together. I promise honesty, education, compassion—and plenty of stories about the critters we all love.

— Dr. Leah

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Join the Vetted Out Podcast: Real Talk on Veterinary Life & Animal Welfare with Dr. Leah Osowiecki

Welcome to Vetted Out, the leading veterinary podcast hosted by Dr. Leah Osowiecki—known as Dr. Leah or Dr. O. If you’re a pet owner, veterinary professional, animal lover, or animal welfare advocate, this podcast and community is made for you.

Discover honest conversations and expert insights on critical topics like veterinary mental health, compassion fatigue, pet hospice care, human–animal bond, and challenges facing the veterinary profession. Learn how to improve animal welfare at home, in shelters, farms, and zoos.

👉 Subscribe now to Vetted Out on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite platform.
🔗 Explore episodes, share with animal lovers, and join a compassionate community dedicated to supporting both animals and the people who care for them.

Because strong human–animal connections deserve honest stories, expert advice, and unwavering support.

Episodes

Jun 16, 2026

58 min

Vet It Out Episode 11 brings you inside the world of wildlife rehabilitation with Angela Grano, a dedicated wildlife rehabber helping animals in need. In this episode, Dr. Leah and Angela break down common wildlife myths, share surprising facts, and talk about what it really takes to become a wildlife rehabilitator. From the challenges of caring for injured and orphaned animals to the reality behind wildlife rescue, this episode is packed with education, laughs, and stories from the field. Whether you love animals, want to learn more about wildlife, or have ever wondered what it takes to become a wildlife rehabber, this is an episode you do not want to miss. Get ready for one of the most informative and entertaining episodes of Vet It Out yet. Subscribe for more conversations about veterinary medicine, animal welfare, wildlife, and the stories. Angela Luna Grano is a licensed Wildlife Rehabilitator and Animal Control Officer in the state of Connecticut. Her passion for animals, music and doing the right thing allows her to to humbly serve all creatures big and small. Her Educational program Wild Magic is the result of decades in the field and is dedicated to arming the animal warrior in you....

Jun 16, 2026

58 min

May 19, 2026

56 min

In Episode 10 of Vet It Out, Dr. Leah sits down with Jana Wu of the Sober Spill Podcast for an honest conversation about the growing mental health crisis in veterinary medicine. This episode dives into difficult but important topics including burnout, substance abuse, addiction, abuse within the profession, compassion fatigue, emotional trauma, and the devastating mental health struggles affecting veterinary professionals. They discuss why so many veterinarians and veterinary staff are struggling, what is causing the crisis in vet med, and what can be done to help improve the future of the field. From the pressure of veterinary medicine and rising emotional stress to seeking help and supporting mental health, this is one of the deepest conversations featured on Vet It Out so far. If you care about animals, veterinary medicine, mental health awareness, or the people working behind the scenes to save pets every day, this is an episode you do not want to miss. Subscribe to Vet It Out with Dr. Leah for more conversations about veterinary medicine, animal welfare, pet care, and the real issues affecting the animal world today.

May 19, 2026

56 min

Apr 25, 2026

27 min

On World Veterinary Day, we are marking one year of Vet It Out with an important episode that pulls back the curtain on veterinary medicine today. This episode is a reintroduction to Dr. Leah and an honest conversation about the current crisis in the veterinary field. From rising costs of care to the mental health challenges facing professionals, this discussion covers what is really happening behind the scenes. Topics include: Why veterinary care is becoming more expensive The reality of burnout, substance abuse, and suicide in the field How the industry has changed over time Misconceptions about veterinarians and pricing What solutions exist for both the industry and pet owners This is not just about veterinary medicine. It is about understanding the people who care for your animals and the system they are working in. Whether you are a pet owner, animal lover, or someone in the field, this episode offers insight into one of the most important conversations happening in animal care today. Subscribe for more episodes of Vet It Out and weekly Vets Talk About It segments covering real issues in animal health and welfare.

Apr 25, 2026

27 min

Apr 3, 2026

59 min

You Got a Cat… Now What?! | Featuring Dr. Charlotte In Episode 8 of Vet It Out with Dr. Leah, we’re joined by Dr. Charlotte to break down one of the most common questions new pet owners ask: “I just got a cat… now what?” Bringing a new cat home can be exciting, but it also comes with a lot of uncertainty. In this episode, Dr. Leah and Dr. Charlotte walk through the essential steps to help your new cat adjust, stay healthy, and thrive in their new environment. We cover: What to expect in the first few days at home How to properly set up your space for a new cat Litter box basics and common mistakes Nutrition and feeding tips When to schedule your first veterinary visit Behavioral changes and what’s normal vs concerning Whether you’re a first-time cat owner or just need a refresher, this episode provides practical, vet-backed advice to set you and your cat up for success. Subscribe for more Vet It Out podcast episodes and weekly Vets Talk About It segments covering real-world animal care, behavior, and health.

Apr 3, 2026

59 min

Feb 18, 2026

1 hr 6 min

Ray Connors | 30 Years in Animal Control and Animal Welfare Law
In Episode 7 of Vet It Out, Dr. Leah sits down with Ray Connors, Retired Chief of the State of Connecticut Animal Control Unit, to discuss more than 30 years on the front lines of animal welfare and law enforcement.
Ray shares powerful firsthand stories from his career — from raiding a finch fighting operation to using nothing but his wit and investigative skill to get suspects to admit to crimes. His experience offers a rare, behind-the-scenes look at the realities of animal control work that most people never see.
In this episode, Dr. Leah and Ray discuss:
The basics of animal welfare law and owner responsibilities
What can get you fined — and why
How animal cruelty investigations actually unfold
Moments on the job when Ray felt genuinely unsafe
The emotional and psychological weight of the work
Why he chose to dedicate his life to protecting animals
This conversation explores the intersection of public safety, legal enforcement, and compassion. It sheds light on common misconceptions about animal control officers and the difficult decisions they must make every day.
Whether you're a pet owner, animal welfare advocate, or simply curious about how animal protection laws are enforced, this episode provides insight from someone who has seen it all.
Subscribe for more Vet It Out podcast episodes and weekly Vets Talk About It segments covering real-world animal issues, policy, and public responsibility.

Feb 18, 2026

1 hr 6 min

Nov 4, 2025

1 hr 2 min

So You Got a Puppy, Now What? | Vet It Out with Dr. Leah ft. Dr. Grasson Part 2
Bringing home a new puppy is exciting, heartwarming, and—if we’re honest—a little overwhelming. Between all the cuddles and chaos, most new pet parents quickly realize there’s a lot more to raising a healthy, happy dog than food, walks, and playtime.
In this episode of Vet It Out with Dr. Leah, veterinarian Dr. Leah sits down with Dr. Grasson, a small-animal veterinarian with years of clinical experience, to talk about everything new puppy owners need to know. From anxiety and training to nutrition, vaccines, and the growing cost of veterinary care, this conversation is packed with insights that every dog parent should hear.
Whether you’ve just brought home your first puppy or you’re adding a new furry family member to the mix, this episode will help you start off right — with practical advice straight from real vets who see it all every day.
🩺 Understanding Your Puppy’s Needs: The First Few Weeks
The first few weeks after bringing home a new puppy set the stage for their entire life. Dr. Leah and Dr. Grasson share the steps that make those early days smoother for both pet and owner — from scheduling your first vet visit to setting up a consistent feeding and potty routine.
They emphasize the importance of building trust early: puppies thrive on structure and positive experiences. That means introducing new environments, people, and even alone time slowly, so your dog grows up confident and well-adjusted.
Both veterinarians highlight how socialization and routine play a huge role in preventing anxiety, aggression, and destructive behaviors down the road.
🐾 Separation Anxiety and Behavior Challenges
One of the biggest topics in the episode is puppy anxiety — something most owners underestimate until it becomes a problem.
Dr. Grasson explains that dogs are pack animals by nature, and young puppies often panic when left alone, even for a short time. This can lead to unwanted behaviors like barking, chewing furniture, or even eating non-food items out of stress.
When that happens, the consequences aren’t just behavioral — they can be medical emergencies. Puppies that eat socks, toys, or bedding can end up with intestinal obstructions, a life-threatening condition that often requires emergency surgery.
The vets discuss how owners can prevent this by gradually teaching independence and using tools like crates, enrichment toys, and calm training environments.
“Helping your puppy be comfortable in another room isn’t just about training,” Dr. Leah explains. “It’s about keeping them safe.”
💸 The True Cost of Pet Emergencies
Many pet owners don’t realize how expensive emergency care can be until they’re facing it. In this episode, Dr. Leah and Dr. Grasson share real-world examples of what emergency surgery for an obstruction or injury can cost today — often between $6,000 and $10,000 depending on the hospital and situation.
They talk about how these costs have risen due to inflation, staffing shortages, and increased demand for veterinary services since the pandemic.
That’s where the topic naturally turns to pet insurance — a resource both veterinarians strongly recommend.
“Pet insurance isn’t a luxury anymore,” says Dr. Grasson. “It’s peace of mind. When something unexpected happens, it can make the difference between treatment and tragedy.”
🐕 Why Pet Insurance Is More Important Than Ever
Pet insurance has become one of the most talked-about topics in modern veterinary medicine. Dr. Leah and Dr. Grasson dive into why more and more pet owners are choosing coverage, and what to look for when selecting a plan.
They explain how policies vary — from accident-only coverage to comprehensive wellness plans — and how premiums are often cheaper if you enroll your pet while they’re young and healthy.
The vets also stress the importance of reading the fine print: pre-existing conditions, breed-specific exclusions, and annual caps can make a big difference in coverage.
If you’re wondering whether pet insurance is worth it, this episode lays out the financial realities clearly and compassionately.
🧠 Training, Enrichment, and Mental Health
Good puppy care isn’t just about vaccines and vet visits — it’s also about mental stimulation and positive training.
Dr. Leah and Dr. Grasson discuss how enrichment keeps puppies from getting bored and acting out. Puzzle toys, chew items, and structured playtime can help channel their energy into healthy behaviors.
They also talk about reward-based training and the importance of patience and consistency. Punishment-based methods can increase fear and anxiety, while positive reinforcement builds trust and long-term good behavior.
“Your puppy doesn’t know what’s right or wrong yet,” says Dr. Leah. “They just know what gets your attention. Make sure that attention is positive.”
🩹 Preventive Care and Early Vet Visits
Preventive care starts from day one. The veterinarians outline what a new puppy’s first year of vet visits should look like:
Vaccinations (distemper, parvo, rabies, etc.)
Parasite prevention (heartworm, fleas, ticks)
Nutrition and weight checks
Spay/neuter timing
Microchipping and ID safety
They also address how the veterinary shortage has made it harder to find clinics accepting new patients, urging owners to line up care before an emergency happens.
This part of the episode is packed with practical advice for scheduling, budgeting, and forming a long-term relationship with your veterinarian.
🏡 Building a Routine That Works
Routines keep puppies calm and confident. From feeding times to sleep schedules, predictability helps them understand what’s expected — and reduces stress-related behaviors.
Dr. Leah and Dr. Grasson suggest simple habits like:
Morning potty breaks and playtime before owners leave the house
Short practice sessions of being alone
Feeding at consistent times
Regular exercise suited to the puppy’s breed and age
They also touch on the importance of crate training and creating a safe “den space” for your puppy to rest when you’re away.
🐕‍🦺 Socialization and Safe Exposure
Socialization is a crucial window of development — typically up to about 16 weeks of age — where puppies learn how to interact with the world.
The vets explain that positive exposure to people, animals, sounds, and environments helps prevent fear-based behavior later on. They also warn about unsafe or overwhelming situations, like dog parks before full vaccination or chaotic introductions that can create lasting anxiety.
Balance is key: let your puppy explore, but keep experiences calm, safe, and rewarding.
🦴 Nutrition, Feeding, and Growth
Every puppy is different, but nutrition matters for all. Dr. Leah and Dr. Grasson discuss how to choose quality food, read ingredient labels, and understand portion sizes.
They emphasize:
Feeding a complete and balanced diet formulated for puppies
Monitoring weight and growth rate
Avoiding over-supplementation unless directed by a vet
Transitioning food gradually to prevent stomach upset
The vets also highlight how rapid growth in large breeds can lead to orthopedic problems if nutrition isn’t balanced properly — another reason to check in with your veterinarian early and often.
💬 Real Talk from Real Veterinarians
One of the most valuable parts of this episode is how candid and relatable the conversation feels. Both Dr. Leah and Dr. Grasson share firsthand experiences from clinical practice — the emergencies, the happy endings, and the challenges of modern veterinary medicine.
Listeners get a glimpse into the realities behind the exam room door: the compassion, the tough calls, and the constant balance between medical care and affordability.
They talk honestly about the emotional side of pet ownership — the joys, the frustrations, and the responsibility that comes with caring for another life.
💡 Key Takeaways from “So You Got a Puppy, Now What?”
Find a veterinarian early. Don’t wait until your puppy is sick — clinics are busier than ever.
Start socializing and training immediately. Build confidence and independence early.
Understand the financial side. Emergency vet bills can reach $6,000–$10,000 — be prepared.
Consider pet insurance. It’s a financial safety net every owner should evaluate.
Stay consistent. Routines, positive reinforcement, and preventive care build a foundation for lifelong health.
📺 Watch, Learn, and “Vet It Out”
If you’ve ever wondered what veterinarians really want you to know as a new pet owner, this episode is for you.
🎧 Watch the full conversation now and learn how to:
Prevent puppy anxiety and destructive behavior
Build a care routine that works
Protect your pet (and your wallet) from unexpected emergencies
Create a lifelong bond based on trust, health, and confidence
🐾 Vet It Out with Dr. Leah is your go-to veterinary podcast for honest conversations about animal health, pet ownership, and the stories behind the stethoscope.
🔍 SEO Keywords Embedded
Puppy care, new puppy tips, veterinarian advice, pet insurance, emergency vet surgery, puppy training, dog anxiety, separation anxiety, crate training, socialization, dog nutrition, new pet checklist, vet podcast, Dr. Leah, Dr. Grasson, Vet It Out, how to train a puppy, how to prepare for a puppy, puppy health care, veterinary tips, dog behavior problems, pet health, pet wellness, veterinary costs, vet shortage, new puppy owner advice.
📢 Call to Action
🎙️ Subscribe to Vet It Out with Dr. Leah for more insights from real veterinarians.💬 Drop a comment if you’re a new puppy owner — what’s been your biggest challenge so far?🐕 Follow us on your favorite podcast platform for more episodes that help you care smarter, not harder.

Nov 4, 2025

1 hr 2 min

Nov 4, 2025

37 min

So You Got a Puppy, Now What? | Vet It Out with Dr. Leah ft. Dr. Grasson Part 1
Bringing home a new puppy is exciting, heartwarming, and—if we’re honest—a little overwhelming. Between all the cuddles and chaos, most new pet parents quickly realize there’s a lot more to raising a healthy, happy dog than food, walks, and playtime.
In this episode of Vet It Out with Dr. Leah, veterinarian Dr. Leah sits down with Dr. Grasson, a small-animal veterinarian with years of clinical experience, to talk about everything new puppy owners need to know. From anxiety and training to nutrition, vaccines, and the growing cost of veterinary care, this conversation is packed with insights that every dog parent should hear.
Whether you’ve just brought home your first puppy or you’re adding a new furry family member to the mix, this episode will help you start off right — with practical advice straight from real vets who see it all every day.
🩺 Understanding Your Puppy’s Needs: The First Few Weeks
The first few weeks after bringing home a new puppy set the stage for their entire life. Dr. Leah and Dr. Grasson share the steps that make those early days smoother for both pet and owner — from scheduling your first vet visit to setting up a consistent feeding and potty routine.
They emphasize the importance of building trust early: puppies thrive on structure and positive experiences. That means introducing new environments, people, and even alone time slowly, so your dog grows up confident and well-adjusted.
Both veterinarians highlight how socialization and routine play a huge role in preventing anxiety, aggression, and destructive behaviors down the road.
🐾 Separation Anxiety and Behavior Challenges
One of the biggest topics in the episode is puppy anxiety — something most owners underestimate until it becomes a problem.
Dr. Grasson explains that dogs are pack animals by nature, and young puppies often panic when left alone, even for a short time. This can lead to unwanted behaviors like barking, chewing furniture, or even eating non-food items out of stress.
When that happens, the consequences aren’t just behavioral — they can be medical emergencies. Puppies that eat socks, toys, or bedding can end up with intestinal obstructions, a life-threatening condition that often requires emergency surgery.
The vets discuss how owners can prevent this by gradually teaching independence and using tools like crates, enrichment toys, and calm training environments.
“Helping your puppy be comfortable in another room isn’t just about training,” Dr. Leah explains. “It’s about keeping them safe.”
💸 The True Cost of Pet Emergencies
Many pet owners don’t realize how expensive emergency care can be until they’re facing it. In this episode, Dr. Leah and Dr. Grasson share real-world examples of what emergency surgery for an obstruction or injury can cost today — often between $6,000 and $10,000 depending on the hospital and situation.
They talk about how these costs have risen due to inflation, staffing shortages, and increased demand for veterinary services since the pandemic.
That’s where the topic naturally turns to pet insurance — a resource both veterinarians strongly recommend.
“Pet insurance isn’t a luxury anymore,” says Dr. Grasson. “It’s peace of mind. When something unexpected happens, it can make the difference between treatment and tragedy.”
🐕 Why Pet Insurance Is More Important Than Ever
Pet insurance has become one of the most talked-about topics in modern veterinary medicine. Dr. Leah and Dr. Grasson dive into why more and more pet owners are choosing coverage, and what to look for when selecting a plan.
They explain how policies vary — from accident-only coverage to comprehensive wellness plans — and how premiums are often cheaper if you enroll your pet while they’re young and healthy.
The vets also stress the importance of reading the fine print: pre-existing conditions, breed-specific exclusions, and annual caps can make a big difference in coverage.
If you’re wondering whether pet insurance is worth it, this episode lays out the financial realities clearly and compassionately.
🧠 Training, Enrichment, and Mental Health
Good puppy care isn’t just about vaccines and vet visits — it’s also about mental stimulation and positive training.
Dr. Leah and Dr. Grasson discuss how enrichment keeps puppies from getting bored and acting out. Puzzle toys, chew items, and structured playtime can help channel their energy into healthy behaviors.
They also talk about reward-based training and the importance of patience and consistency. Punishment-based methods can increase fear and anxiety, while positive reinforcement builds trust and long-term good behavior.
“Your puppy doesn’t know what’s right or wrong yet,” says Dr. Leah. “They just know what gets your attention. Make sure that attention is positive.”
🩹 Preventive Care and Early Vet Visits
Preventive care starts from day one. The veterinarians outline what a new puppy’s first year of vet visits should look like:
Vaccinations (distemper, parvo, rabies, etc.)
Parasite prevention (heartworm, fleas, ticks)
Nutrition and weight checks
Spay/neuter timing
Microchipping and ID safety
They also address how the veterinary shortage has made it harder to find clinics accepting new patients, urging owners to line up care before an emergency happens.
This part of the episode is packed with practical advice for scheduling, budgeting, and forming a long-term relationship with your veterinarian.
🏡 Building a Routine That Works
Routines keep puppies calm and confident. From feeding times to sleep schedules, predictability helps them understand what’s expected — and reduces stress-related behaviors.
Dr. Leah and Dr. Grasson suggest simple habits like:
Morning potty breaks and playtime before owners leave the house
Short practice sessions of being alone
Feeding at consistent times
Regular exercise suited to the puppy’s breed and age
They also touch on the importance of crate training and creating a safe “den space” for your puppy to rest when you’re away.
🐕‍🦺 Socialization and Safe Exposure
Socialization is a crucial window of development — typically up to about 16 weeks of age — where puppies learn how to interact with the world.
The vets explain that positive exposure to people, animals, sounds, and environments helps prevent fear-based behavior later on. They also warn about unsafe or overwhelming situations, like dog parks before full vaccination or chaotic introductions that can create lasting anxiety.
Balance is key: let your puppy explore, but keep experiences calm, safe, and rewarding.
🦴 Nutrition, Feeding, and Growth
Every puppy is different, but nutrition matters for all. Dr. Leah and Dr. Grasson discuss how to choose quality food, read ingredient labels, and understand portion sizes.
They emphasize:
Feeding a complete and balanced diet formulated for puppies
Monitoring weight and growth rate
Avoiding over-supplementation unless directed by a vet
Transitioning food gradually to prevent stomach upset
The vets also highlight how rapid growth in large breeds can lead to orthopedic problems if nutrition isn’t balanced properly — another reason to check in with your veterinarian early and often.
💬 Real Talk from Real Veterinarians
One of the most valuable parts of this episode is how candid and relatable the conversation feels. Both Dr. Leah and Dr. Grasson share firsthand experiences from clinical practice — the emergencies, the happy endings, and the challenges of modern veterinary medicine.
Listeners get a glimpse into the realities behind the exam room door: the compassion, the tough calls, and the constant balance between medical care and affordability.
They talk honestly about the emotional side of pet ownership — the joys, the frustrations, and the responsibility that comes with caring for another life.
💡 Key Takeaways from “So You Got a Puppy, Now What?”
Find a veterinarian early. Don’t wait until your puppy is sick — clinics are busier than ever.
Start socializing and training immediately. Build confidence and independence early.
Understand the financial side. Emergency vet bills can reach $6,000–$10,000 — be prepared.
Consider pet insurance. It’s a financial safety net every owner should evaluate.
Stay consistent. Routines, positive reinforcement, and preventive care build a foundation for lifelong health.
📺 Watch, Learn, and “Vet It Out”
If you’ve ever wondered what veterinarians really want you to know as a new pet owner, this episode is for you.
🎧 Watch the full conversation now and learn how to:
Prevent puppy anxiety and destructive behavior
Build a care routine that works
Protect your pet (and your wallet) from unexpected emergencies
Create a lifelong bond based on trust, health, and confidence
🐾 Vet It Out with Dr. Leah is your go-to veterinary podcast for honest conversations about animal health, pet ownership, and the stories behind the stethoscope.
 
Puppy care, new puppy tips, veterinarian advice, pet insurance, emergency vet surgery, puppy training, dog anxiety, separation anxiety, crate training, socialization, dog nutrition, new pet checklist, vet podcast, Dr. Leah, Dr. Grasson, Vet It Out, how to train a puppy, how to prepare for a puppy, puppy health care, veterinary tips, dog behavior problems, pet health, pet wellness, veterinary costs, vet shortage, new puppy owner advice.
 
🎙️ Subscribe to Vet It Out with Dr. Leah for more insights from real veterinarians.💬 Drop a comment if you’re a new puppy owner — what’s been your biggest challenge so far?🐕 Follow us on your favorite podcast platform for more episodes that help you care smarter, not harder.

Nov 4, 2025

37 min

Oct 8, 2025

1 hr 6 min

Thinking of starting a backyard farm or diving into homesteading with animals? In this episode of the Vet It Out Podcast, Dr. Lisa Dauten — a seasoned large animal veterinarian — shares expert advice on what aspiring homesteaders need to know before bringing animals home. We cover everything from animal health, common mistakes, how to prepare your backyard for livestock, and what Dr. Dauten wishes every new homesteader knew. 🎙️ Episode 003 – Don't start your backyard homestead without hearing this first! 👉 Subscribe for more vet interviews, animal care tips, and homesteading insights. #BackyardFarm #Homesteading #VetAdvice #BackyardAnimals #VetItOutPodcast #DrLisaDauten #HomesteadTips #BackyardHomesteading #FarmAnimals #AnimalHealth #NewHomesteader

Oct 8, 2025

1 hr 6 min

Oct 8, 2025

31 min

🎙️ Back to Basics: The Five Freedoms of Animal Welfare | Vet It Out! with Dr. Leah What does animal welfare really mean? In this episode, Dr. Leah breaks down the Five Freedoms of Animal Welfare — the foundational principles that guide how we care for pets, farm animals, and animals in shelters and zoos. Whether you're a new pet parent, a vet student, or just passionate about animal well-being, this episode gives you a clear, compassionate look at the basics of ethical animal care. 🐾 🔍 What you'll learn: What the Five Freedoms are Why they still matter today How to spot welfare issues at home or in the community What you can do to help animals live better lives 💬 Got questions or thoughts? Drop them in the comments — we’d love to hear from you! 📌 Don’t forget to subscribe and hit the 🔔 to get notified when new episodes drop! 🎥 New episodes monthly 🎧 Podcast on YouTube — coming to other platforms soon! #VetItOut #DrLeah #AnimalWelfare #FiveFreedoms #PetCare #VeterinaryPodcast #AnimalRights #EthicalPetOwnership #BackToBasics

Oct 8, 2025

31 min

Oct 8, 2025

17 min

Hi friends, I’m Dr. Leah Osowiecki—though many know me as “Dr. Leah” or “Dr. O”—and I’m so excited to welcome you to the very first episode of Vetted Out.
Since I was five years old, I knew I wanted to be a veterinarian. My passion has always been about more than just treating animals—it’s also about supporting the people who love them. During the pandemic, I left my clinic jobs and devoted myself to in-home hospice care, helping families say goodbye to their pets in the comfort of their own homes. That experience reminded me how powerful the human–animal bond truly is.
In this episode, I open up about my personal journey, the challenges facing the veterinary profession, and why I believe this show is so important. We’ll talk honestly about compassion fatigue, the mental health crisis in veterinary medicine, and the misconceptions that hurt both vets and pet parents. As I say in the episode:
“No matter our differences in politics, religion, race, gender, or socioeconomic status, we share this common thread of the human–animal bond. It is real, and it’s powerful.”
My hope is that Vetted Out becomes a community where animal lovers and caregivers can come together, share real stories, and support one another. Whether you’re a pet parent, a farmer, a wildlife enthusiast, or a fellow veterinary professional, this show is for you.
So, thank you for being here at the very beginning. Please watch, subscribe, share with your animal-loving friends, and join me as we take this journey together. I promise honesty, education, compassion—and plenty of stories about the critters we all love.
— Dr. Leah
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Join the Vetted Out Podcast: Real Talk on Veterinary Life & Animal Welfare with Dr. Leah Osowiecki
Welcome to Vetted Out, the leading veterinary podcast hosted by Dr. Leah Osowiecki—known as Dr. Leah or Dr. O. If you’re a pet owner, veterinary professional, animal lover, or animal welfare advocate, this podcast and community is made for you.
Discover honest conversations and expert insights on critical topics like veterinary mental health, compassion fatigue, pet hospice care, human–animal bond, and challenges facing the veterinary profession. Learn how to improve animal welfare at home, in shelters, farms, and zoos.
👉 Subscribe now to Vetted Out on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite platform.🔗 Explore episodes, share with animal lovers, and join a compassionate community dedicated to supporting both animals and the people who care for them.
Because strong human–animal connections deserve honest stories, expert advice, and unwavering support.
 

Oct 8, 2025

17 min

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