Rethinking our relationship with bacteria

What if not all bacteria are harmful?

In this thought-provoking episode of the Mystic Dog Mama podcast, Dr Alexia Mellor welcomes Joe Flanagan to explore how beneficial bacteria (probiotics) and the microbiome help support healthier pets, homes and the environment.

Together, they discuss why many of us have been taught to fear bacteria and how working with nature - rather than against it - offers a different way of thinking about pet care, home cleaning and everyday wellbeing.

In this podcast, you'll discover:

• Why beneficial bacteria are an important part of healthy living
• How the microbiome supports pets, people and the home
• Why dogs can act as early indicators of environmental change
• How probiotic pet care and home cleaning differ from traditional antibacterial approaches
• Why reducing reliance on harsh chemical cleaning products supports a healthier living environment
• How working with nature helps restore microbial balance in our homes and everyday lives

Dr Alexia Mellor brings her unique perspective as the host of Mystic Dog Mama, guiding a thoughtful conversation that looks beyond traditional antibacterial thinking. Together, she and Joe explore how viewing our homes and pets as part of living ecosystems can inspire a more balanced, nature-inspired approach to everyday life.

Listen to the full podcast using the button on the left. The episode will open in a new window.