The Supplement Problem No One Talks About

What makes a pet supplement actually work? In this episode of The Dog Longevity Podcast, veterinarian Dr. David Haworth speaks with Colin Topham, founder of Alchemy Pet, about the science behind pet supplements, bioavailability, gut health and the future of natural pet wellness. Together they explore why not all supplements are absorbed equally, how advanced delivery systems such as microencapsulation may improve ingredient effectiveness, and why manufacturing methods can make a major difference to potency and quality. Colin shares the founding story behind Alchemy Pet and explains how the company is combining science, traditional nutrition and innovative supplement delivery to support healthier, longer lives for pets. The conversation also covers the growing importance of the microbiome, the role of gut health in overall wellbeing, and how pet owners can think more carefully about the “spectrum of care” between everyday nutrition, preventative support and veterinary intervention. This episode is essential listening for dog owners, pet parents, veterinarians and anyone interested in pet longevity, natural medicine, pet nutrition, supplement absorption and the future of preventative pet health. The conversation covers: - Why bioavailability matters in pet supplements How microencapsulation can support supplement absorption - Why turmeric and other natural ingredients may perform differently depending on delivery method - The founding story behind Alchemy Pet - How to think about a spectrum of care for pets - The connection between gut health, the microbiome and long-term wellness - Why individual pets may respond differently to the same nutrition or supplement - How manufacturing methods can affect potency and quality - The challenges of navigating pet health claims and regulations - Why preventative pet health needs both science and nuance Colin also discusses the human-animal bond, the emotional reasons many founders enter pet health, and why better education can help pet owners make more confident decisions about their animals’ wellbeing. With better science, better delivery systems and a deeper understanding of the gut, pet wellness can move beyond generic products and towards more thoughtful, effective support for long-term health. Colin Topham: https://linkedin.com/in/colintopham Alchemy Pet: https://www.alchemypet.com/ David Haworth: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-haworth/ PANIO: https://panio.io/ Colin’s Recommendations: HABRI’s Research on Pet Health: https://habri.com Texas A&M GI Institute: https://vetmed.tamu.edu The Forever Dog by Rodney Habib and Dr. Karen Becker **Chapters** 00:00 - Introducing Alchemy Pet and the Future of Pet Supplements 01:07 - The Founding Story Behind Alchemy Pet 02:52 - Bioavailability, Microencapsulation and Smarter Supplement Delivery 12:04 - Creating a Spectrum of Care for Pets 22:04 - Supplementation, Individual Variation and Pet Health Outcomes 32:00 - Nutrition, Leaky Gut and the Microbiome in Pets 47:56 - Cold Process Manufacturing, Potency and Pet Health Resources — Content is provided for general information only and does not constitute veterinary, medical or nutritional advice. It should not be used as a substitute for professional guidance tailored to your pet. Views expressed by hosts and guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of PANIO.