Soul Touched by Dogs
Society & Culture
About
Welcome to the Soul Touched by Dogs Podcast, the show for dog lovers who see dogs not as toys or tools, but as wise souls worth our respect and care. The 20-minute interviews with "Pawsome Humans", people who do great work for dogs and their people, you're listening to here on the podcast are one of the ways we celebrate the human-canine connection and advocate for holistic approaches to canine health, well-being and education.
Episodes
- Veterinary burnout and mental health: Why vets leave the profession | Dr. Marie Holowaychuk
This episode discusses the escalating crisis of veterinary burnout and mental health challenges within the profession, featuring insights from Dr. Marie Holowaychuk. It explores the demanding nature of veterinary work, the impact of financ…
- Veterinary burnout and mental health: Why vets leave the profession | Dr. Maria Holowaychuk
This episode features Dr. Marie Holowaychuk discussing the crisis of veterinary burnout, explaining how it often goes unnoticed until it is too late. The conversation covers the evolving demands of veterinary practice, the emotional toll o…
- Resource Guarding in Dogs: Sonia Fetherling on Trust Over Control
This episode discusses resource guarding in dogs with Sonia Fetherling, emphasizing understanding the behavior's roots in fear and insecurity. It advocates for building trust and collaboration over control for lasting change, viewing the p…
- When Dogs Choose Their Own Medicine - With With Animal Healer Lisa Tully
Animal healer Lisa Tully discusses how dogs can instinctively choose their own healing methods and mirror their humans' emotions. The episode covers holistic approaches, animal communication, and the human-animal bond, suggesting that list…
- Adam Spencer - Furlanthropy: A New Model for Helping Pets in Crisis
This episode features Adam Spencer, founder of Furlanthropy, an innovative nonprofit crowdfunding platform designed to help pet parents access life-saving veterinary care when financial difficulties arise. The discussion covers the crisis…
- Miranda Wimbush - Dogs as Mirrors: Healing at the Human End of the Leash
This episode features Miranda Wimbush discussing how dogs act as mirrors to human emotions and the significance of the human nervous system in the healing process. The conversation covers intuitive connection, self-regulation, and a holist…
- Andy Honda - Beyond the Holidays: A Therapy Dog’s Love Letter to New York City
This episode features Andy Honda discussing her therapy dog Koa and their work with children in New York City. They explore the calm presence of therapy dogs, the connection they foster, and how everyday moments and stories can be profound…
- Stephanie Rombough - How to Stop the Chase (Kindly)
Trainer Stephanie Rombough discusses a reward-based method from her book to help dogs stop chasing, focusing on voluntary disengagement and providing appropriate outlets for predatory drive.
- Dr. Holly Tett - Looking Beyond "Good Dog / Bad Dog" - Healing Both Ends of the Lead
Dr. Holly Tett, a psychologist and dog behaviorist, explains how to apply trauma-informed psychology to dog training, emphasizing safety, co-regulation, and compassion. The episode covers distinguishing between shutdown and calm, managing…
- Jill Hedgecock - Fiction That Heals, Teaches & Celebrates Dogs
Author Jill Hedgecock joins Soul Touched by Dogs to discuss her Shadow series, novels where dogs help humans and explore themes of compassion and responsible dog ownership. The episode touches on topics like dog stewardship, the legacy of…
- Tricia Montgomery - Marching for More Memories: Early Detection and Hope for Dogs with Cancer
Tricia Montgomery founded Moose's March to promote early cancer detection in pets after losing her dog, Moose. The organization aims to provide more time for pet parents and focuses on prevention and identifying early signs of cancer.
- Toni Shelaske - What Happens When One Dog Mom Decides the Pet Industry Can Do Better
Toni Shelaske shares her path in the pet wellness industry, detailing her transition from pet sitting to opening natural pet supply stores, advocating for raw food, and supporting independent retailers.
- Vivian Zottola - Being a Good Dog in a Human’s World
This episode features Vivian Zottola, a human-dog relationship therapist, discussing how to live in harmony with dogs. It covers understanding dog behavior, the importance of respecting dogs as sentient beings, and how this understanding c…
- Lauren McKnight - The Truth About Calm, Peaceful Walks (It’s Not What You Think)
This episode features trainer Lauren McKnight discussing how to achieve calm dog walks through preparation, accepting dog quirks, and supporting owners. Key takeaways include the benefits of indoor training and ditching walk-related guilt.
- Dr. Nancy Kay - From Trusting to Questioning: A Vet’s Call for Smarter Dog Advocacy
Dr. Nancy Kay, a veterinary specialist and author, discusses the importance of advocating for dogs by asking informed questions. The episode covers collaborative veterinary care, navigating conflicting advice, considerations for spaying/ne…
- Marilyn Mele - Stop Desensitizing Your Sensitive Dog: A Fresh Perspective
Marilyn Mele joins Soul Touched by Dogs to discuss alternative approaches for sensitive dogs, emphasizing the importance of creating a safe and predictable environment rather than relying solely on desensitization techniques.
- Zazie Todd - The Science of a Happy Dog: What Every Guardian Should Know
In this episode, animal behavior expert Zazie Todd, PhD, discusses science-backed methods for enhancing dog happiness and supporting anxious or reactive dogs. The conversation covers the benefits of allowing dogs to sniff freely, the impor…
- Kathy Callahan & Helen St. Pierre - Old Dog, New Dog: Supporting Your Aging Best Friend and Welcoming a New One
Authors Kathy Callahan and Helen St. Pierre discuss the challenges and joys of integrating a new puppy with an aging dog. The episode covers assessing your senior dog's needs, managing expectations, and navigating end-of-life decisions wit…
- Nora Lenz - Your Dog’s Dinner Might Be the Problem (and the Cure)
This episode features Nora Lenz, creator of Rotational MonoFeeding (RMF), discussing how a dog's diet can be the root cause and cure for illnesses. Lenz explains RMF, which mimics wild dogs' natural eating habits, and how prioritizing biol…
- Meghan Butt - Nervous System Wisdom: The Healing Power of Attuned Touch for You and Your Dog
Meghan Butt discusses her journey into dog behavior coaching, emphasizing a trauma-informed, body-based approach. The episode explores nervous system wisdom, the benefits of Tellington Touch, and how attuned touch can improve the relations…
- Sarah Cavallaro - Dogs Have Angels Too
Writer Sarah Cavallaro discusses her novel "Dogs Have Angels Too," which blends humor and heart to explore the world of dog rescue. The episode covers how storytelling can foster compassion, the real-life rescue that inspired the book, and…
- Marisa Hoskins - Pet Travel Made Easy With Paws Abroad
Marisa Hoskins, founder of Paws Abroad, shares her journey creating a platform to simplify international pet travel after facing difficulties herself. The episode covers the realities of pet relocation, the creation of Paws Abroad, and the…
- Debbie Sheridan - There Are No Bad Dogs, Just Unheard Souls: What “Aggressive” Dogs Are Really Telling Us
In this episode of Soul Touched by Dogs, certified canine life coach Debbie Sheridan discusses the myth of the "aggressive" dog, explaining that seemingly aggressive behaviors are often expressions of fear or distress. She contrasts empath…
- Dr. Isla Fishburn - Medicine from the Canine Soul: Healing Through Connection
In this episode of Soul Touched by Dogs, Dr. Isla Fishburn, a conservation biologist and canine wellness intuitive, discusses the deep connection between humans and dogs. She explores the concept of dogs as living ecosystems, their role as…
- Grisha Stewart - Giving Reactive Dogs the Lead: How to Teach Social Skills to Dogs
Grisha Stewart discusses her Behavior Adjustment Training (BAT) method for reactive dogs, which focuses on giving dogs agency and working with their instincts. The episode explores helping anxious dogs find calm and supporting owners throu…
- Lisa Waggoner – Dogs and Second Chances: Rehabilitation Behind Bars
This episode features Lisa Waggoner discussing the Jail Dog Program, where inmates train shelter dogs using positive reinforcement. The conversation covers the program's origins, its impact on the men, dogs, families, and communities, and…
- Denise O'Moore - The Dog Who Launched a Brand: How Jeffrey Sparked Mighty Dog Graphics
Denise O'Moore transitioned from dog training, including work with guide and assistance dogs, to founding Mighty Dog Graphics after her own dog's medical challenges. She now combines her love for dogs with graphic design, offering consulta…
- Lisa Hird & Dale McLelland - Decoding the Canine Mind: Strengthening Dog-Human Partnerships
Canine behavior experts Lisa Hird and Dale McLelland discuss their mission to improve dog-owner relationships through practical, respect-based training. They emphasize understanding dog body language, questioning traditional methods, and f…
- Turid Rugaas - Your Dog Is Smarter Than You
In this episode, Turid Rugaas, a dog expert with over 50 years of experience, shares insights on understanding dogs and natural training. She emphasizes allowing dogs freedom, respecting their intelligence, and observing their communicatio…
- Monique Brignoni - Facing the Final Moments: Embracing End of Life - Naturally, Without Regrets
In this episode of Soul Touched by Dogs, host speaks with Monique Brignoni of Animalchemy about navigating the natural end-of-life process for pets. They discuss understanding the stages of dying, differentiating signs of discomfort from n…
- Diane Garrod - Understanding Stress & Reactivity in Dogs
This episode features Diane Garrod, a canine behavior specialist, discussing stress and reactivity in dogs. The conversation covers the evolution of dog training, the impact of urban environments, and practical strategies for managing cani…
- Peggy Hoyt - Wishful Thinking isn't Planning
Estate planning attorney Peggy Hoyt discusses the necessity of pet trusts for ensuring pet care after an owner's death or disability. The episode covers creating, funding, and legally establishing a pet trust, as well as selecting appropri…
- Mark Bridger-Pescott - BoneCanis - Barks 'n Words: Better Communication Between Humans and Dogs
Mark Bridger-Pescott, founder of BoneCanis, discusses improving communication between humans and dogs, covering common behavioral issues like anxiety, dog body language, and cognitive abilities. He highlights the importance of fun, engagin…
- Dr. Laura Donaldson - Compliance is not Cooperation
This episode features Dr. Laura Donaldson discussing canine trauma, including its definition, manifestations, and the impact of microtraumas. It covers recognizing trauma responses, building trust and safety, and offers practical steps for…
- Lisa Waggoner - The Gift Every Dog Wants From Their Human
In this episode of Soul Touched by Dogs, host speaks with Lisa Waggoner, co-founder of Cold Nose College, about her journey in dog training. They discuss the importance of positive reinforcement, making dogs feel safe, mental enrichment, a…
- Annie Phenix - Trauma Recovery for Dogs: Focus on Healing, Not Just Training
This episode features Annie Phenix, a dog trainer and author, discussing canine trauma recovery. Annie shares her experiences working with traumatized dogs, the influence of genetics, and the importance of creating a safe environment, high…
- John Reider - From Bubble Enthusiast to Pet Toy Innovator
John Reider, known as "The Bubble Man," shares his story of developing innovative pet bubbles, including scented and aromatherapy options, designed for pet exercise and mental stimulation. His St. Louis-based company, Atomic Bubbles, also…
- Barking Up the Right Tree: Julia Hawkins and Barbara Paterson on Solutions for Reactive Dogs
Julia Hawkins and Barbara Paterson, founders of Barking Up the Right Tree, share insights on reactive dog training, their journey, and approaches to understanding and managing dog reactivity. They also touch upon global differences in dog…
- Stef Hinds - Rila's Dream: How Saving One Puppy Sparked A Global Mission
Stef Hinds discusses Rila's Dream, a dog rescue charity he co-founded with his wife Nicole. The organization, inspired by rescuing a single puppy, has saved approximately 1,500 dogs over 12 years by applying business principles and fosteri…
- Dr. Edward Bassingthwaighte - Understanding and Healing Your Pet’s Silent Pain
Dr. Edward Bassingthwaighte joins the Soul Touched by Dogs podcast to discuss his Whole Energy Body Balance method. He explores how to detect and heal silent pain, anxiety, and trauma in pets through therapeutic touch, neurofascial bodywor…
- Wendy Sunshine - H.E.A.R.T. Parenting Principles for Puppy Problems
This episode features Wendy Sunshine discussing her book "Tender Paws" and the HEARTS framework for dog training, which applies principles from child development and autism spectrum disorder to canine care. Wendy shares her personal journe…
- Kathy Boyle - The Golden Project: Bringing Business Savvy to Dog Rescue
Kathy Boyle, founder of The Golden Project, discusses her approach to dog rescue by applying business principles to improve efficiency and transparency. She shares the organization's progress in Texas and her methods for managing adoption…
- Matt Beisner - ZenDog: How Helping Humans Helps Dogs
Matt Beisner, a dog trainer and mediator, shares his philosophy of supporting human transformations to help dogs, simplifying training methods, and addressing behavioral issues holistically. He discusses his personal journey and upcoming p…
- Catherine Smith - Vital Preparation - Mastering Canine First Aid
In this episode of Soul Touched by Dogs, host speaks with Catherine Smith, a certified canine first aid instructor and dog walker. They discuss Catherine's journey into dog care, the importance of knowing a dog's vital signs, and how to pe…
- Tessa Savelkoel - PuzzleDog: Brain Games for Dogs
Tessa Savelkoel discusses her business, PuzzleDog, focusing on canine mental stimulation through puzzle games and sensory rooms. She explains the benefits of mental enrichment, compares different methods like Herschenwerk, and offers guida…
- Kimmy Brown - Canine First Response Teams to the Rescue
This episode features Kimmy Brown, a canine first responder from Maine, discussing her work with critical incident response teams. The conversation covers the unique roles of these dogs, their training, and the emotional aspects for handle…
- Drayton Michaels - Debunking Pitbull Myths: Educate, Don't Legislate
Drayton Michaels, a dog trainer with 24 years of experience, joins Soul Touched by Dogs to discuss debunking myths about Pitbulls, advocating for humane training methods, and the negative effects of breed-specific legislation. He also shar…
- Dr. Marlene Siegel - Vital Wellness: Healing Pets Naturally
This episode features Dr. Marlene Siegel discussing holistic veterinary care and bioregulatory medicine. Key topics include the importance of essential nutrients, the impact of diet and toxins on pet health, and natural approaches to detox…
- Noelle Bellagamba - Breaking the Human-Canine Stress Cycle: The Art of Healing Dogs and Their Humans
In this episode, Noelle Bellagamba, a dog wellness expert, discusses the shared stress experienced by dogs and owners. She offers insights into managing canine anxiety and reactivity by addressing human stress first, and shares details abo…
- Vrushali and Blossom - Bypass the Steep Cost of Regret
This episode features Vrushali discussing her work with pet parents, integrating rescue dogs like Marshall, and offering advice on dog training, discipline, and understanding canine behavior. She emphasizes creating loving, harmonious rela…