Feeding the Aging Mind: David Merrick on Senior Dogs, MCTs, and Functional Wellness

In this episode of Rooted Tales by Rooted Owl, host Jeffrey Mendelson sits down with David Merrick, wellness strategist, behavioral researcher, and passionate advocate for senior dogs. Together, they dive into the science of aging canine brains, the misunderstood link between weight and behavior, and how targeted nutritional support can unlock a new quality of life for older pets.

With a background that spans military service and functional health research, David shares his journey into pet wellness and explains how supplements like MCT oil, functional mushrooms, turmeric, and joint support blends are helping dogs stay sharper, longer. The episode blends personal stories, evidence-based advice, and a heartfelt mission to help senior pets age with dignity.

From epilepsy management to the power of smell in memory recall, David makes complex science accessible and inspiring—while giving listeners practical tools to support their furry family members.

Key Lessons Covered in This Episode:

What is Canine Cognitive Dysfunction Syndrome (CDS)? David unpacks this doggy version of Alzheimer’s—how to recognize it, why it’s often misdiagnosed, and what pet parents can do.

The Power of MCTs for the Aging Brain: Learn how medium-chain triglycerides offer a clean fuel source for older dogs’ brains—and how the right blend can improve energy, memory, and behavior.

Why Weight Isn’t Just About Diet: Discover the overlooked connections between obesity, inflammation, anxiety, and aging—and how simple shifts in nutrition and lifestyle make a difference.

Functional Ingredients That Matter: From turmeric to reishi, David explains how anti-inflammatory compounds and medicinal mushrooms are improving quality of life in aging pets.

The Human-Animal Epilepsy Connection: Hear David’s personal story of epilepsy and how both human and canine treatments—like Epidiolex and CBD—are reshaping seizure management.

From Lab to Living Room: David talks about how formulations like ToeGrips MCT blend were designed by vets, tested by real dogs, and tailored for aging pets with cognitive or mobility issues.

Key Takeaways:

✅ Senior dogs can thrive with the right nutritional support

✅ CDS is more common than you think—and it’s treatable

✅ Weight gain may be a symptom, not the cause

✅ Functional ingredients like mushrooms and turmeric have real clinical benefits

✅ Targeted supplementation can improve quality of life—for both pets and their people

Listen Now:

If you’ve got an aging pup—or want to better understand how to support them—this episode offers powerful tools, emotional depth, and actionable strategies grounded in both science and soul.

Spotify | Apple Podcasts

Connect with David Merrick:

• 🔗 LinkedIn:linkedin.com/in/david-merrick-994a144
• 🔗 Email: [email protected]

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