The Natural Animal Podcast

Episode14

Nutrition... It's Absurdly Simple with Ian Billinghurst

Ready for a deep dive into the world of raw pet nutrition? This week on the podcast, Ruth is thrilled to welcome Dr. Ian Billinghurst, widely regarded as the father of raw feeding and the founder of BARF (Biologically Appropriate Raw Food). Together, they explore his groundbreaking work in pet nutrition, the science supporting raw feeding, and how his approach can transform pet health. Whether listeners are experienced raw feeders or simply curious about making the switch, this conversation is packed with valuable insights!

Episode 15

The Liver's Role In Pet Health: Essential Insights & Care Strategies

In this episode of The Natural Animal, Ruth explores one of the most important yet often overlooked organs in a pet’s body—the liver. The episode delves into the liver’s essential roles, including detoxification, digestion, metabolism, and immune function, while offering practical, natural strategies to maintain liver health.

Ruth discusses common liver issues in cats and dogs and provides guidance on supporting liver health through natural nutrition, supplements, and herbs.

Episode 16

Voiceless: Advocating for Animal Rights with Ondine Sherman

Ruth hosts a heartfelt conversation with Ondine Sherman, Co-founder and Managing Director of Voiceless, the animal protection institute. As a lifelong animal advocate, Ondine shares her inspiring journey from Sydney to Tel Aviv, where she balances her role as a mother with her unwavering dedication to promoting respect and compassion for all creatures.

Episode 17

Why Kibble is a No-Go for Cats

Ever wondered if kibble is truly the best option for cats? In this episode, Ruth uncovers the hidden health risks of kibble and explains why it falls short of meeting the needs of obligate carnivores. Unlike dogs, cats require a higher protein, moisture-rich diet to stay healthy and thrive, but kibble simply doesn’t provide what they need.

Episode 18

Nature's Teachers: How Animal Symbolism Guides and Heals with Scott Alexander King

In this episode, Ruth delves into the fascinating world of zoomancy, or “animal dreaming,” exploring how animals convey profound wisdom and guidance through their symbolic presence in our lives.

Guest Scott Alexander King shares how his deep connection with animals from an early age has provided him with consistency, guidance, and inner knowing. Together, they discuss the roles of spirit animals, power animals, and animal totems, uncovering how each serves as a guide, protector, or teacher.

Episode 19

The Sacred Journey of Grieving a Beloved Animal Companion

In this heartfelt episode, Ruth explores the profound grief that pet parents experience after losing a cherished animal companion. This sacred period of mourning can be overwhelming, but the episode offers compassionate guidance to help navigate the sadness and find meaningful ways to honour the bond shared.

Ruth discusses practical coping strategies, healing rituals, and remembrance practices that can bring solace. Listeners will also discover supportive resources and community connections to provide comfort during this tender time.

Episode 20

Fighting for Better Animal Welfare in Australia with Jed Goodfellow

In this compelling episode of The Natural Animal Podcast, Ruth speaks with Jed Goodfellow, a passionate animal advocate with over 20 years of experience in animal protection. From his early days volunteering with the RSPCA—where he encountered heartbreaking cases of cruelty—to co-founding the Australian Alliance for Animals, Jed has dedicated his life to building a better future for all animals.

The conversation delves into the groundbreaking work of the Australian Alliance for Animals, an organization uniting Australia’s leading animal protection groups and over 2 million supporters to drive meaningful change.

Episode 21

Stress-Free Pet Care While You're Away: Tips for Happy Pets

Heading out of town and wondering how to care for your pets while traveling? In this episode, Ruth shares expert tips and reflections from her recent overseas trip on ensuring stress-free pet care while you’re away. From choosing between a cattery, kennel or pet sitter, to preparing meals and maintaining your pet’s routine, Ruth has got everything covered to help your beautiful animal kin stay happy and healthy.

Episode 22

Pet Allergies Demystified: Understanding Causes and Care Options

In this episode, Ruth Hatten, animal naturopath, dives deep into the world of pet allergies and intolerances. If your pet suffers from food sensitivities or environmental reactions, you won’t want to miss this conversation. Learn the difference between intolerances and allergies, the most common triggers, how these conditions affect your pet's overall health, the role of gut health and the immune system, and options for managing pet allergies and intolerances - from conventional treatments to holistic solutions.

Episode 23

Beyond Words: How Clair Senses Help You Understand Your Pet's Needs with Clare Deale

Ever wonder if your animal is trying to tell you something in a way you can’t quite explain? In this episode, Ruth explores the fascinating world of "Clair Senses" - intuitive abilities like clairvoyance (seeing), clairaudience (hearing), and clairsentience (feeling) - and how they shape the way animals communicate with us.

Episode 24

What Would You Change About the Human-Animal Relationship?

In the final episode of the season (and the year), Ruth explores a powerful question that has shaped countless conversations: “If there was one thing you could change about the human-animal relationship, what would it be?”

Ruth also shares her personal reflections on this question and celebrates the podcast’s journey with bite-sized highlights from every guest episode so far.