Speaking for Spot: Becoming the Advocate Your Dog Deserves with Dr. Nancy Kay
What if the biggest difference you could make in your dog’s life isn’t about training or nutrition, but learning to ask better questions?
In this heartfelt, information-packed episode, I sit down with Dr. Nancy Kay - veterinarian, author, and passionate animal welfare advocate - to explore what it really means to "speak for Spot".
From her own story of medical advocacy that sparked a bestselling book, to the eye-opening realities of veterinary culture, to her bold new mission to educate kids about puppy mills, Nancy brings deep expertise, compassion, and a refreshing willingness to challenge outdated norms.
Whether you're navigating a tricky diagnosis or just want to be a more empowered guardian, this conversation will leave you feeling inspired, better informed, and more confident in your role as team captain for your dog’s well-being.
Key Takeaways
- Why “just trust the vet” is outdated advice
Learn why a collaborative, relationship-centered approach to your dog’s health is not only possible but essential.
- How to navigate conflicting advice with clarity and confidence - Why asking for second (or third!) opinions isn’t just okay, it’s smart and necessary.
- What most dog lovers don’t know about spaying and neutering
Timing and method matter more than you think. Nancy shares breed-specific insights and surprising facts that many vets don’t mention.
- The truth about overnight care
Why assuming someone is with your dog at the clinic overnight can lead to heartbreaking consequences, and what to ask instead.
- Educating the next generation about puppy mills
How Nancy’s latest book A Dog Named 647 is using storytelling to empower kids to stand up for animal welfare when adults have failed to do so.
💬 Favorite Quote
“You are the team captain of your dog’s healthcare team. The vet is one of your players, not the coach.” – Dr. Nancy Kay
Enjoy!
00:00 Welcome and Introduction
00:15 Nancy's Background and Career in Veterinary Medicine
02:06 Inspiration Behind Writing Books
05:58 Advocacy and Veterinary Care
09:50 Challenges in Veterinary Practices
16:07 Nancy's Third Book and Puppy Mills
21:45 Connecting with Nancy and Conclusion
About Dr. Nancy Kay
Dr. Nancy Kay is a board-certified veterinary specialist in small animal internal medicine, the author of Speaking for Spot and Your Dog’s Best Health, and a long-time advocate for animal welfare. Her newest middle grade novel, A Dog Named 647, aims to raise awareness among kids about the cruelty of puppy mills—and how they can help change the world for animals.
When she’s not writing or advocating, Nancy enjoys life in Northern California with her family and her beloved 17-year-old dog, Quinn.
🔗 Find out more and connect with Dr. Nancy:
Website: https://speakingforspot.com
Substack: https://kayn.substack.com
Facebook: https://facebook.com/speakingforspot
NPR’s Fresh Air interview: Listen here https://freshairarchive.org/segments/veterinarian-advises-how-speak-spot
As always, to find out all about Soul Touched by Dogs, go to https://soultouchedbydogs.com
