Off Leash with Dr. Pete

Author: Off Leash Podcast

Presented by Voyager Dog Food Co. Dr. Pete Vanvranken gives us a deep dive into dog related health topics. From how to help your dog if theyve eaten something they shouldnt have to new and exciting treatments for your best friends, we cover many different dog related topics on the Off Leash Podcast. As a vet of 49 years, Dr. Pete has what he calls the privilege and duty to help animals lead their best lives. Ask him his favorite part of the job and hell tell you its two-fold - partnering with his clients to solve their pets health challenges and striving to provide those same pets with long, healthy lives. And thats our goal with the Off Leash Podcast: to educate dog owners and to advocate for your pet. Listen along with us and leave us a review!
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Language: en

Genres: Education, Kids & Family, Pets & Animals

Contact email: Get it

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iTunes ID: Get it

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1% vs 30%: The Dog Health Problem No One Is Talking About
Episode 104
Wednesday, 8 April, 2026

In this episode of Off Leash with Dr. Pete, we flip the script on how dog owners think about disease risk. For years, the conversation has been dominated by Parvo, Lyme disease, and heartworm—and for good reason. They’re serious, they’re scary, and they’ve been drilled into every dog owner’s mind. But what if those aren’t the biggest threats anymore? Dr. Pete breaks down the real numbers, putting these well-known diseases into perspective. When you zoom out, the data tells a surprising story: while roughly 1% of dogs are affected by the conditions we constantly worry about… 30% or more may be dealing with copper storage disease. That gap raises a big question—why aren’t we talking about it? This episode dives into: How Parvo has changed over time and why it’s less common today The true risk levels of Lyme disease and heartworm Why modern veterinary focus may be missing a growing issue What copper storage disease is—and why it matters more than most people realize Along the way, you’ll get real-world perspective, honest conversation, and a few classic Off Leash moments that keep things grounded and easy to follow. If you care about your dog’s long-term health, this episode might completely change what you pay attention to—and what you don’t. Thanks so much for listening and be sure to subscribe and review!