In Episode 7, Mark and Julie welcome three guests for discussions on pet food safety, the upcoming U.S. midterm elections, and the influence of pet ownership on voting behaviour.
First, Dr. Sean Callan, Chief Science Officer at the Clean Label Project, joins the hosts to discuss the organization's recent report on cat food. He shares insights into the levels of contaminants detected, addresses questions surrounding the findings, and explores the controversy the report has sparked within the pet industry.
With the U.S. midterm elections approaching on November 3, Mark and Julie then turn their attention to the intersection of politics and pet ownership. Mark Cushing, CEO of the Animal Policy Group, shares his perspective on how the election results could shape the future of the pet industry, particularly regarding veterinary clinic ownership, the expansion of telehealth services, and the evolving business models of traditional veterinary practices.
Finally, Professor Lori Kogan of Colorado State University joins the conversation to discuss her 2025 research examining the relationship between pet ownership and voting behaviour in the United States. She reveals fascinating differences in voting patterns among cat-only households, dog-owning households, and those with both cats and dogs, offering a unique perspective on how our relationships with pets may influence our political choices.