Vet Candy Goes In the Wild: Exploring Animal Conservation with Jeremiah Pouncy

Vet Candy is expanding its mission beyond clinics and labs with its brand-new series, In the Wild, hosted by Cornell veterinary student and passionate conservation advocate Jeremiah Pouncy. The show blends veterinary insight, wildlife science, and on-the-ground storytelling, bringing viewers face-to-face with the challenges and triumphs of animals in the wild.

The premiere episode takes audiences to an unexpected corner of Rome—not the bustling piazzas or iconic Colosseum, but the waters just an hour from the city’s historic heart. Here lives the “Capitoline dolphins,” a small resident group of bottlenose dolphins whose survival is under threat. A recent study revealed alarming findings: seven out of ten dolphins showed signs of malnutrition, many bore scars from fishing gear, and some had lost fins or tails. Researchers also observed unusually frequent fighting within the population, likely due to competition for scarce food.

Overfishing, pollution from the Tiber River, and accidental entanglement in nets have created a perfect storm of threats. Despite their long history in Roman waters—Pliny the Elder even wrote about them—these dolphins are now at risk of disappearing if urgent conservation measures are not taken.

Jeremiah guides viewers through the science behind the study, explains how human activity directly impacts marine life, and highlights ongoing conservation efforts to protect these iconic animals. With a mix of field reporting, expert interviews, and on-the-ground footage, the show makes distant crises feel immediate and personal, emphasizing that conservation isn’t just about animals—it’s about our shared responsibility to the planet.

“These dolphins have survived emperors and empires,” Jeremiah reflects in the episode, “but they may not survive us.” In the Wild is more than a wildlife series; it’s a call to action for anyone who cares about animals and the environment. From marine mammals to terrestrial species, each episode offers an insider’s look at the challenges animals face—and the solutions that could make a difference.

For animal lovers, aspiring veterinarians, and conservation advocates alike, In the Wild is a must-watch. Follow Jeremiah’s journey and discover stories that connect you to the animals you love and those who need our help most. Join the conversation and watch the premiere episode @myvetcandy.