A Dog's Life with Anna Webb

This week we’re joined by Amber Pegden, Marketing Manager at The Picture House Central. Based in Piccadilly in the heart of London’s Theatreland and Soho, it's also home to very special dog friendly screenings. Amber has been instrumental in creating this extremely popular dog-centric cinematic experience. She chats about why as a dog owner herself she understands why fellow dog owners would prefer to go and see films with their dogs. Interestingly it's not to see Lassie or 101 Dalmatians, its the latest ‘blockbuster’ movies. We talk about how Anna’s own Mr Binks is a seasoned cinema goer, and how Prudence, Anna’s Bull terrier, went to see the multi-award winning Isle of Dogs, created in Hackney in London. Amber highlights the thought behind her project which includes a seat for your dog that’s included in the price for a single human seat. On entering the Auditorium dogs are offered their own blanket to keep their seat dog hair free, with fresh bowls of water dotted around for the dogs. There’s dog-friendly ice cream on offer, and of course dog-friendly popcorn too. We chat about the joyous spirit of these screening where like minded folk get together and celebrate their dogs.Its a chance to sharpen their training, as well as meet and greets. As Anna’s personally most favourite thing to do as an inspired concept taking dog friendly to new limit. What’s extraordinary is that the dogs really enjoy it and settle. In over six years there’s never been a complaint about dog hair or any allergic reactions! It has to be experienced to be believed! Later, Anna joins her friends Jo Good, Henry Brandman, and Caroline Brill, all with their dogs to see the Barbie Movie. Picture House Cinema websitePicture House Cinema InstagramIf you love A Dog's Life and would like to help support the show why not become a Patreon backer where you can also have access to some exclusive content. If you want to move your dog to a raw diet or even switch brands we wholly recommend Paleo RidgeFor more about Anna go to annawebb.co.ukMusic and production by Mike Hanson for Pod People ProductionsCover art by JaijoCover photo by Rhian Ap Gruffydd at Gruff Pawtraits

This week we’re joined by Dr Daniel Allen, Animal Geographer at Keele University, and champion of Pet Theft Reform. In the wake of Government shelving what was called the Animal Welfare (Kept Animals) Bill, Dr Dan, along with pet theft campaigners including SAMPA (the Stolen & Missing Pets Alliance) and Vets Get Scanning, to lobby Government hard again to bring in a separate law with appropriate penalties for stealing all pets, but mainly dogs who have been victims of organised crime for decades. Brought to a head in the pandemic when the demand for puppies outstretched supply, along with prices for puppies soaring to ridiculous levels, canny criminal activity reached preposterous levels with scamming, stealing dog in daylight, breaking into private gardens and more. As a crime with little consequence under the antiquated Theft Act 1968, dogs are classed in law as chattel. This means that stealing dogs is a low-risk, high-gain business for criminals. The penalty is the same for stealing a laptop, a phone or a car. During the pandemic there was much talk of creating a specific law that factored in the enormous emotional attachment between dogs and their owners and the trauma to individuals suffering from this ‘abduction'. We discuss this at length not least that science now concurs that dogs have emotional intelligence -they are not chattel. So Dr Dan has launched a new petition to re-galvanise Government to take action - please sign the petition!!!!For more information visit their websiteIf you love A Dog's Life and would like to help support the show why not become a Patreon backer where you can also have access to some exclusive content. If you want to move your dog to a raw diet or even switch brands we wholly recommend Paleo RidgeFor more about Anna go to annawebb.co.ukMusic and production by Mike Hanson for Pod People ProductionsCover art by JaijoCover photo by Rhian Ap Gruffydd at Gruff Pawtraits

This week we’re joined by Dr Lise Hansen who returns to talk about the latest science behind neutering and spaying. We last recorded an episode about this same subject three years ago, it seems that the messages from a raft of science on the side effects of neutering is yet to filter down into routine Vet practice. Dr Lise explains that the issue surrounds the reproductive LH Hormone, which continues to be produced by the brain even when the sex organs are removed. This hormone accumulates in the body and becomes out of balance, creating health issues from osteoarthritis, cancers, to hypothyroidism. The science is only 10 years old, and change can be slow to take effect. But according to Dr Lise this is the biggest news in the Veterinary world, which she predicts that in 10 years time, neutering will be considered not only an unnecessary, but unethical procedure. Dr Lise points out that in Norway it is already illegal to neuter unless for extreme health reasons, and in Scandinavia generally it’s frowned upon as a practice compared to the complete opposite in the USA where Dr Lise thinks that a possible alternative like vastectomies for dogs and ovary sparing spays for bitches will become the norm, in the USA, but for now Dr Lise encourages you to read the science much of which is included in her book : The Complete Book of Cat and Dog Health.The Complete Book of Cat and Dog Health is published by Hubble&Hattie and is available everywhere you buy books including Amazon. It contains a full chapter (16 pages) covering the topic of neutering including alternative surgeries and the implications of living with an entire dog. It also lists scientific references.Read all about this and more in Dr Lise’s book: The Complete Book Of Cat And Dog Health Dr Lise on InstagramIf you love A Dog's Life and would like to help support the show why not become a Patreon backer where you can also have access to some exclusive content. If you want to move your dog to a raw diet or even switch brands we wholly recommend Paleo RidgeFor more about Anna go to annawebb.co.ukMusic and production by Mike Hanson for Pod People ProductionsCover art by JaijoCover photo by Rhian Ap Gruffydd at Gruff Pawtraits

This week we’re joined by Mahny Djahanguiri (DogaMahny). Mahny is the UK and Europe's leading founder and author of DOGA -Yoga for you and your Dog. She is also a Ashtanga yoga teacher with whom Anna has practiced both Yoga and Doga. Seven years ago Mahny learnt of Puppy Yoga and began delving deeper into these classes, which were benefiting from the success and growing recognition of Doga. Thanks to her determination she was thrilled that she helped an ITV investigation of this new trend and its exposé recently aired on mainstream national UK news. Mahny is passionate about Doga as offering a therapy for you and your own dog. It is not related to this new trend in any way. Doga practices the principles of Yoga: positive energy, mindfulness: kindness and altruism as part of Ayurvedic culture. The ITV News investigation by Sam Leader, Daniel Hewit, and Imogen Barrer uncovers the dark side of a growing wellness trend, Puppy Yoga. In a world where influencers are continually looking for the latest social media trend to jump on it seemed that puppy yoga, the practice where young dogs roam around your yoga class, was a perfect fit. On the face of it, the events provide an enticing mix of cute animals in a relaxing environment, creating images that are perfect for sharing on social media. But the ITV News investigation offers a glimpse into a differing reality than those filtered Instagram videos might lead you to believe.If you love A Dog's Life and would like to help support the show why not become a Patreon backer where you can also have access to some exclusive content. If you want to move your dog to a raw diet or even switch brands we wholly recommend Paleo RidgeFor more about Anna go to annawebb.co.ukMusic and production by Mike Hanson for Pod People ProductionsCover art by JaijoCover photo by Rhian Ap Gruffydd at Gruff Pawtraits

This week we’re joined by John Honchariw, founder of Companion. This is the groundbreaking new device recently launched in the USA that deploys AI to train, entertain, feed, and monitor the health of your dog. It’s a stationary robot that engages with your dog and cleverly adapts as your dog learns, fulfilling a dog’s instinctive needs to hunt, chase, and forage. Designed by dog lovers for pet parents to help maximise good behaviours like settling, learning sit, recall and down, whilst minimising unwanted behaviours like destructive chewing, barking, whining, and pacing. Companion aims to minimise stress, anxiety, and boredom when your dog is left alone, offering mental stimulation and enrichment. With games and features supported and designed by world-class behaviour and training experts focusing only on positive reward based training, the technology is easy to use offering pet parents real-time remote communication and interaction with your dog. Companion plans to launch in the UK soon so watch this space! For more information click hereInstagram: @Companionlabs.dogIf you love A Dog's Life and would like to help support the show why not become a Patreon backer where you can also have access to some exclusive content. If you want to move your dog to a raw diet or even switch brands we wholly recommend Paleo RidgeFor more about Anna go to annawebb.co.ukMusic and production by Mike Hanson for Pod People ProductionsCover art by JaijoCover photo by Rhian Ap Gruffydd at Gruff Pawtraits

This week we’re joined by Phil Green, animal advocate, dog lover and proud pet parent to Scarlett the Beagle. Rescued by The Beagle Freedom Project in 2016 from a toxicology laboratory in Hungary, she had been bred by Marshall Bio Resources at the huge HQ in New York for the purpose of vivisection. Scarlett is one of the very few lucky ones enabled freedom, aged only two years. Both Phil and Janie Green had their names down for a rescued Beagle, understanding the long socialisation journey ahead. Scarlett adapted very well to her rural life in Essex, and enjoys the sights, sounds and smells of woodlands, and outdoors that she was deprived of. Scarlett has helped raise awareness of the atrocities that these Beagles endure in their very short terribly sad lives. In the hands of ‘white coats’ that justify their salaries from private ‘Big Pharma’ firms making everything from cleaning products to headache pills. The practice of vivisection is morally and financially bankrupt in an age when we have advanced technology that can do testing more economically, accurately, and without causing huge suffering to animals - in this Beagle. Scarlett has become the face of many campaigns , not least The Camp Beagle, to raise awareness and urge the public to support her in getting vivisection - the dark secret - raised in Parliament, get legislation amended in line with the Animal Welfare Act.Sign the Petition hereScarlet on TwitterScarlet on InstagramCamp Beagle on InstagramBeagle Freedom Project on InstagramFor more about Anna go to annawebb.co.ukMusic and production by Mike Hanson for Pod People ProductionsCover art by JaijoCover photo by Rhian Ap Gruffydd at Gruff PawtraitsTo advertise on or sponsor A Dog's Life email: [email protected]

This week in loving memory of Gremlin, tune into my chat with Dr Zazie Todd - CompanionAnimal Psychology - talking about her book Purr. In our conversation on cats , the lack of science on their behaviour (compared to dogs), I recount several hilarious anecdotes on Gremlin, which will make you realise why I named him Gremlin, the lengths he went for to help Molly when she was poorly, and why Gremlin was quite a cat for someone’s first feline! He is so missed, but I hope is he is reunited with Molly across that rainbow bridge. Zazie's websiteInstagram: @ZazieToddTwitter: @CompAnimalPsychFor more about Anna go to annawebb.co.ukMusic and production by Mike Hanson for Pod People ProductionsCover art by JaijoCover photo by Rhian Ap Gruffydd at Gruff PawtraitsTo advertise on or sponsor A Dog's Life email: [email protected]

This week Brenda Stowers joins us to chat about Le Pet Express. Her passion to offer straight forward service to travel in and out of the UK began with her own experience when relocating from California into the UK. She flew into France because dogs and cats can travel in the cabin as long as they fit in front of your airline seat. From Paris they entered the UK on a ferry in a rented car service. Coordination took months of planning and a lot effort to find a trusted provider to cross the Channel. The only other option was to put her cats in cargo and fly direct into Heathrow. The issue with traveling in the hold as cargo means you lose control, and it can be super stressful for your pet. Le Pet Express lessens this anxiety, whether you’re relocating, or popping over to Paris for a long weekend, or driving traveling onward into Europe. Le Pet Express offers help with all the newly complicated paperwork, and Brenda handles bookings and holds customer’s hands through checking the minute details of the Animal Health Certificate needed for British pets to enter France. Having designed the minibus especially to accommodate five pets and their people in line with DEFRA’s regulations, Brenda has traveled with Great Danes to Chihuahuas, Ferrets and of course cats. Le Pet Express is an ideal option for larger dogs that cannot travel in cabin due to their size, which puts owners off taking them abroad. For more information click here.If you love A Dog's Life and would like to help support the show why not become a Patreon backer where you can also have access to some exclusive content. If you want to move your dog to a raw diet or even switch brands we wholly recommend Paleo RidgeFor more about Anna go to annawebb.co.ukMusic and production by Mike Hanson for Pod People ProductionsCover art by JaijoCover photo by Rhian Ap Gruffydd at Gruff Pawtraits

This week we’re down at the Mind, Body and Spirit show where we caught up with Ruth Milner talking about ‘Red Light Therapy’. As a member of the International Light Association, Ruth is an expert authority on the power of light as a healing modality. We discuss the sudden boom in LED sourced Red and Near Infrared devices, which have flooded the beauty market recently. We chat why not all ’devices’ are the same in their evidence based doses. We discuss the how light interacts with our cells at a biological level to provide vital energy and power ATP. We discuss the latest volume of The Power of Light, Colour and Sound for Health and Wellness from the International Light Association, in which Ruth’s chapter of using a device called Photizo has helped all creatures great and small: from tigers, elephants, horses, dogs and even hedgehogs. And we discuss why the Photizo range gained its Medical CE status -with so many applications to help on a human level too - we chat notably about evidence on Red Light and Parkinson's disease. But we also discuss why ‘Red Light Therapy’ uses a modality termed by MeSH in 2015 - its called Photobiomodulation. Find out more hereIf you love A Dog's Life and would like to help support the show why not become a Patreon backer where you can also have access to some exclusive content. If you want to move your dog to a raw diet or even switch brands we wholly recommend Paleo RidgeFor more about Anna go to annawebb.co.ukMusic and production by Mike Hanson for Pod People ProductionsCover art by JaijoCover photo by Rhian Ap Gruffydd at Gruff Pawtraits

This week Kennel Club spokesperson, Bill Lambert, joins us to chat about how during this year’s Mental Health Awareness Week, they explored the theme of anxiety. One of the most common mental health problems today, affecting people of all ages, and this new research also highlights the different ways in which owners, from all walks of life, believe their dogs help with their mental health. Dogs scored highly as helping reduce anxiety and promote wellness amongst dog owners.Nearly half (48 per cent) of owners aged over 55 agree that their dog makes them less stressed, while more than a third (37 per cent) of owners aged between 16-24 admit that their dog makes them feel less anxious. Regular exercise is also beneficial for mental well-being, and more than two in five (45 per cent) of owners believe that walking their dog improves their mood, while 63 per cent claim their dog has helped them to become fitter and healthier.To celebrate what our nation’s pets do for us and the important role that they play in our lives a new cyber-Crufts was launched on 15 May and is open to all pets, starting with ‘Best Pet Companion’. The Asda Crufts Online Pet Show – with prizes ranging from a framed photograph of a pet to a pet friendly holiday – will be hosted on the Crufts Facebook and Instagram pages over the next six weeks, leading to a Best in Show finale on 23 June, where the winner will get the ultimate Crufts 2024 VIP experience.To enter click hereInstagram @thekennelclubIf you love A Dog's Life and would like to help support the show why not become a Patreon backer where you can also have access to some exclusive content. If you want to move your dog to a raw diet or even switch brands we wholly recommend Paleo RidgeFor more about Anna go to annawebb.co.ukMusic and production by Mike Hanson for Pod People ProductionsCover art by JaijoCover photo by Rhian Ap Gruffydd at Gruff Pawtraits

This week we’re joined by Pet Bereavement Councillor, Dawn Murray. She has over 20 years experience working in the heart of the pet bereavement world, not only offering pet bereavement support but also as a pet undertaker. She has won numerous awards in relation to her work including a Points of Light award. She lives near Edinburgh with her husband and two whippets. For many years she has had a passion for retired racing Greyhounds and has loved and lost over 25 of her own pets. In her book 'An Introduction to Pet Bereavement Counselling’ she highlights the psychology behind grief. We talk about the different types of grief that different people can experience. Why many pet parents suffer greatly despite us all knowing that our pets simply don’t live long enough. The book is relevant for everyone to read as it highlights many cases, proving we’re not alone. Losing a pet is for many greater and deeper than losing a family member. And why reaching out for help is good, especially in safe hands like Dawn.Get your copy of Dawn's book here or go to her website livingwithpetbereavement.comIf you love A Dog's Life and would like to help support the show why not become a Patreon backer where you can also have access to some exclusive content. If you want to move your dog to a raw diet or even switch brands we wholly recommend Paleo RidgeFor more about Anna go to annawebb.co.ukMusic and production by Mike Hanson for Pod People ProductionsCover art by JaijoCover photo by Rhian Ap Gruffydd at Gruff Pawtraits

This week we’re joined by animal lover and animal advocate, John O’Callaghan, who has launched Dog Advocacy Ireland, a not for profit organisation aiming to make change! Known as the puppy farm capital of Europe, hundreds of puppy farms are permitted to operate without fear of detection or prosecution, to ‘breed for greed’ in an illegal industry which yields at least €200 million annually. He discusses why change is needed where a Government misappropriates tax-payers money in funding hare coursing and Greyhound Racing, despite public opposition, and must be held accountable for condoning dog/animal mistreatment. John explains why Ireland has a poor reputation when it comes to animal welfare despite legislation including The Animal Welfare Act and the Control of Dogs Act, Parliament is divided. "Dog Advocacy Ireland is openly inviting ALL right-minded dog/animal lovers to join our non-profit organisation in forging meaningful change of mindset and policy on dog/animal welfare protection in our country. We want Government to uphold current legislation, under the Animal welfare Act 2013 which includes the duty of care under the Five Freedoms. Similarly, Dog Advocacy Ireland wants to ensure that local authorities work proactively in line with the ‘Control of Dogs Act’ to encourage and support responsible dog ownership. Bringing dog welfare centre stage in public consciousness, together with cooperative engagement with the political system, is paramount in effecting meaningful change. John discusses why government’s abdication of statutory responsibilities on dog/animal welfare protection legislation has reached intolerable levels. Subscribe to Dog Advocacy Ireland to help bring positive change. Twitter: @AdvocacyDogIf you love A Dog's Life and would like to help support the show why not become a Patreon backer where you can also have access to some exclusive content. If you want to move your dog to a raw diet or even switch brands we wholly recommend Paleo RidgeFor more about Anna go to annawebb.co.ukMusic and production by Mike Hanson for Pod People ProductionsCover art by JaijoCover photo by Rhian Ap Gruffydd at Gruff PawtraitsTo advertise on or sponsor A Dog's Life email: [email protected]

Phil Heckels, AKA Hercule Van Wolfwinkle, is a pet portrait artist with a self-proclaimed ‘ultra-realistic style’ that has gained him worldwide fame and an ever-increasing gaggle of disgruntled customers trying to get their hands on him! But all of that changed one late summer afternoon in 2020 when, whilst trying to coerce his young son into making some thank you cards, he doodled a picture of their family dog. The picture was rubbish, so naturally he stuck it on Facebook.Little did he know that post would go viral and his work would soon be in high demand with requests for portraits flooding into his inbox in their tens of thousands from all over the globe.Hercule’s self-proclaimed ‘ultra-realistic’ style is akin to that of a small child who has never seen an animal before and is only just learning how to hold a pencil properly, but people like it. A large social media following and worldwide media coverage catapulted Hercule into the limelight and he has used this exposure to raise money for his chosen charities, Turning Tides Ending Local Homelessness and StreetVet. Hercule does not take paid commission requests. All of the portraits are free and are just uploaded to his social media pages in return for a discretionary donation to the charity (more information can be found on the Facebook page). To date he has raised over £260,000 and counting and this fundraising has seen Hercule receive a Points of Light Award from the Prime Minister, recognised by The Big Issue as one of their 100 Change Makers for 2021, and named as the ‘Creative Fundraiser of The Year’ at the 2022 Just Giving Awards.Visit the website or follow on InstagramIf you love A Dog's Life and would like to help support the show why not become a Patreon backer where you can also have access to some exclusive content. If you want to move your dog to a raw diet or even switch brands we wholly recommend Paleo RidgeFor more about Anna go to annawebb.co.ukMusic and production by Mike Hanson for Pod People ProductionsCover art by JaijoCover photo by Rhian Ap Gruffydd at Gruff PawtraitsTo advertise on or sponsor A Dog's Life email: [email protected]

This week we’re joined by Author and Journalist, Beverley Byrne, who talks about how she’s recently exchanged facts for fiction in her published book of short stories entitled The Dog Gets It! Inspired by her own Labradors, Lily and Dora, all proceeds are donated to Guide Dogs for the Blind. Beverley talks about why she’s chosen Guide Dogs and how the Charity inspired the short story called 'The Dog Gets It!' Beverley's love for Labradors shines through and we chat about why the remain in pole position as Britain’s most popular breed. We talk about Field Trials and the difference between a ‘working’ strain Labrador. We also discuss diet and how Dora’s on going digestion issues have benefitted from the new Collar-gen from Pawable. Contact Beverley on [email protected] Beverley on Instagram and FacebookIf you love A Dog's Life and would like to help support the show why not become a Patreon backer where you can also have access to some exclusive content. If you want to move your dog to a raw diet or even switch brands we wholly recommend Paleo RidgeFor more about Anna go to annawebb.co.ukMusic and production by Mike Hanson for Pod People ProductionsCover art by JaijoCover photo by Rhian Ap Gruffydd at Gruff PawtraitsTo advertise on or sponsor A Dog's Life email: [email protected]

This week Art Critic, Estelle Lovatt, comes back to chat about the landmark art collection in The Wallace Museum - Portraits of Dogs: the faithful and the fearless. We chat about why this collection spanning 300 years truly captures the essence of living with dogs and their role as man’s best friend. Estelle discusses the importance of art, before the camera as being our source of history and why the works selected resonate. From Lucien Freud, Gainsborough, Stubbs, to Hockney, De Vinci, and Sir Edwin Landseer - the collection reflects the way dogs capture our hearts. From symbols of loyalty, faithfulness, fearlessness, to just being our stead fast companions. For more information go to The Wallace Collection More about Estelle Lovatt or follow on InstagramIf you love A Dog's Life and would like to help support the show why not become a Patreon backer where you can also have access to some exclusive content. If you want to move your dog to a raw diet or even switch brands we wholly recommend Paleo RidgeFor more about Anna go to annawebb.co.ukMusic and production by Mike Hanson for Pod People ProductionsCover art by JaijoCover photo by Rhian Ap Gruffydd at Gruff PawtraitsTo advertise on or sponsor A Dog's Life email: [email protected]

This week Anna is joined by Trainer and Behaviour consultant, Hannah Molloy. With a BSc in Animal Behaviour, she has written “What’s Your Dog Thinking?’, starred on Channel 4’s Puppy School and most recently organised sessions at APDAWG on ‘Dog Bites’. We discuss how Hannah decided make dogs her main focus rather than working with horses or cats. She started her career working in the Birmingham area and over seven years trained over 10,000 dogs in group sessions and one to ones. We chat about why dog bite incidents are on the rise and whether it's directly related to the the pandemic, and the sudden surge in dog ownership, or whether it's a problem that’s been brewing for sometime. Hannah believes since about 2003. Her aim is to guide people towards dogs that suit our modern lifestyles, ones that can adapt to apartment living, bred for temperament and health. She champions that greater responsibility needs to be taken, and an awareness of our Duty of Care as defined in the Animal Welfare Act, and refined as the Five Domains. We discuss over exaggerated features in breeds, which arguably has spear headed certain breeds huge popularity leading to dogs being sold online, which continues to boom, despite campaigning to stop puppy shopping on the internet.Follow on Instagram and TwitterIf you love A Dog's Life and would like to help support the show why not become a Patreon backer where you can also have access to some exclusive content. If you want to move your dog to a raw diet or even switch brands we wholly recommend Paleo RidgeFor more about Anna go to annawebb.co.ukMusic and production by Mike Hanson for Pod People ProductionsCover art by JaijoCover photo by Rhian Ap Gruffydd at Gruff PawtraitsTo advertise on or sponsor A Dog's Life email: [email protected]

This week we’re joined by Holistic guru, Caroline Griffiths, who talks about the first Natural Dog Expo coming soon on May 7th . Packed with leading lights and globally recognised experts highlighting natural health for dogs - from raw feeding, the microbiome, to homeopathy and more! We chat about how an awareness of natural options is becoming more ‘mainstream’, particularly where nutrition is concerned as humans’ greater awareness is increasingly transferred to their dogs. We also chat about Caroline’s famous Canine Flow retreats, where she focuses on channeling energy into balance drawing on inspiration from traditional Chinese theories on Qi and the Vital Force from Homeopathy.Click here for tickets and information and here for CanineflowIf you love A Dog's Life and would like to help support the show why not become a Patreon backer where you can also have access to some exclusive content. If you want to move your dog to a raw diet or even switch brands we wholly recommend Paleo RidgeFor more about Anna go to annawebb.co.ukMusic and production by Mike Hanson for Pod People ProductionsCover art by JaijoCover photo by Rhian Ap Gruffydd at Gruff PawtraitsTo advertise on or sponsor A Dog's Life email: [email protected]

Vet and Environmental campaigner, Andrew Prentis is also a ‘fellow’ at Imperial College. He is amongst the team of scientists that have advised pet owners to be more sparing in their use of toxic flea and tic treatments, warning that they are entering watercourses and damage aquatic ecosystems. Reviewing 160 scientific papers on the impact on aquatic ecosystems of imidacloprid, a pesticide used in 138 pet treatments sold in the UK. They found that “one monthly flea treatment for a large dog contains enough imidacloprid to kill 25 million bees". In the decade up to 2019, the sale of the pesticide for veterinary use in the UK increased 152 per cent. In that year, 2,500kg of the substance were sold for veterinary use, not much less than the 4,000kg used in 2014 for combined agricultural and veterinary use. We discuss how we can change our approach to parasite control in our pets by adopting a Test Before You Treat approach that’s used in Scandinavia where Vets only prescribe treatments if an animal actually has fleas. Certainly where wormers are also concerned (similarly penetrating waterways and the landscape), there’s an easy alternative simply by testing your pet’s poop. If no worms are found, why give your dog a wormer? One of the sticking points of the discussion is that the market for parasite control in the vet industry is valued at £170 million. We chat about how practices could recoup this revenue in other proactive ways. Instagram: @the_environmental_worrierWebsite: vetsustain.orgIf you love A Dog's Life and would like to help support the show why not become a Patreon backer where you can also have access to some exclusive content. If you want to move your dog to a raw diet or even switch brands we wholly recommend Paleo RidgeFor more about Anna go to annawebb.co.ukMusic and production by Mike Hanson for Pod People ProductionsCover art by JaijoCover photo by Rhian Ap Gruffydd at Gruff PawtraitsTo advertise on or sponsor A Dog's Life email: [email protected]

This week Anna is joined by Esther Logue from Paleoridge. As the leading raw food firms’ Content & Communications’ Manager, we chat about the success of this year’s Crufts, and how the company brought feeding raw to life at the biggest dog show in the world. We talk about why Crufts is such an educational platform and so needed in an age where dog ownership has boomed almost making it unrecognisable compared to back in circa 2002. Featuring a meat grinder and ’diner’ on their stand the team offered tastings on their stand, along with expert nutrition talks to an audience eager to learn more. Their dogs meanwhile had a great time too enjoying free samples of Paleoridge’s new meaty treats. We also talk in detail about studying Naturopathic Nutrition and why it literally explains why and how: YOU ARE WHAT YOU EAT!For more information go to Paleo Ridge or follow on Instagram @paleoridge and Twitter @PaleoRidgeIf you love A Dog's Life and would like to help support the show why not become a Patreon backer where you can also have access to some exclusive content. For more about Anna go to annawebb.co.ukMusic and production by Mike Hanson for Pod People ProductionsCover art by JaijoCover photo by Rhian Ap Gruffydd at Gruff PawtraitsTo advertise on or sponsor A Dog's Life email: [email protected]

This week Anna is joined by Sarah Jones who rescued Bella nine years ago. After Bella experienced a couple of dog attacks, and soft tissue damage, she became very nervous when dogs invaded her space. She also associated her emotional and physical pain with strangers approaching, and could appear quite aggressive. Sarah found walking Bella increasingly stressful, and decided to launch an initiative to help other owners coping with fear reactively. Realising that many ‘pandemic’ generation dogs display some sort of anxiety, many of whom have no recall, there’s lots of dogs unaware of how to socialise with unknown doggies, Sarah devised a range of yellow leads, collars, bandanas, and jackets, which is the colour recognised to highlight that your dog needs some space. Understanding that thousands of dogs suffer with being reticent about being approached, Sarah launched #DogsInYellow last year. As a dedicated day to celebrate nervous dogs, and respect their differences, rather than be misunderstood, causing some stressful situations for both the dogs and their guardians. A recent survey of 1,000 dog owners revealed that 78% of owners felt more confident going out to public spaces with the signatory yellow leads and harnesses. So the range of yellow accessories continues to expand offering poop bag holders, bandanas and more. It’s the Yellow Army.Find out more at bellascollars.co.uk Follow on Instagram @myanxiousdog and Twitter @MyanxiousdogIf you love A Dog's Life and would like to help support the show why not become a Patreon backer where you can also have access to some exclusive content. If you want to move your dog to a raw diet or even switch brands we wholly recommend Paleo RidgeFor more about Anna go to annawebb.co.ukMusic and production by Mike Hanson for Pod People ProductionsCover art by JaijoCover photo by Rhian Ap Gruffydd at Gruff PawtraitsTo advertise on or sponsor A Dog's Life email: [email protected]

This week we’re joined by Cinema Journalist, Toby Rose, talking about the annual film awards for dogs - the FIDOS : For Incredible Dogs On Screen. Talking about his awards as the Oscars are announced for people, and appropriately on Best In Show day at Crufts, the FIDOS offers a chance for the loyal canine co-stars to receive worthy accolades. From best ‘Mutt Moment’, to best ‘Historical Hound’, and best ‘Rom-com Rover’, get the latest on the nominees for this year! And the gossip for the upcoming prestigious Palm Dog upcoming which is of course staged in Cannes at the iconic Film Festival.Instagram: @thepalmdog WebsiteIf you love A Dog's Life and would like to help support the show why not become a Patreon backer where you can also have access to some exclusive content. If you want to move your dog to a raw diet or even switch brands we wholly recommend Paleo RidgeFor more about Anna go to annawebb.co.ukMusic and production by Mike Hanson for Pod People ProductionsCover art by JaijoCover photo by Rhian Ap Gruffydd at Gruff PawtraitsTo advertise on or sponsor A Dog's Life email: [email protected]

This week we’re joined by Jonny Nagler who is passionate about the English Toy Terrier (ETT) and his ETT, Milo, is Mr Binks' cousin. With Crufts now just a few days away, we talk about the ETT as one of 34 native breeds that are deemed ‘vulnerable’. This means they are technically rarer than the giant Panda. The Kennel Club helps a lot in raising awareness for these breeds as they define our British history with dogs as defined in so much fine art from the Victorian era when enthusiasts began creating many breeds for a specific purpose. Many are terriers who would have helped keep our homes and back yards rat free in an age without sewers. We chat about the ETT that is the 8th most endangered of these breeds. With only 64 puppies born last year it's a figure in stark contrast to Britain’s most popular dog - the Labrador, with over 50,000 puppies born last year. There’s a lot of limited views on breeds with most new pandemic pet parents opting for designer cross breeds. Often the more unlikely the mix, the more ‘caché’ they are! We chat about what’s lined up for the ETT this year at Crufts, not least on the Pets As Therapy stand where Jonny and Milo will be supporting during the show. Jonny and Milo (a registered PATS dog) have gone the extra mile in this capacity to bring a little joy to those in need. Follow them on InstagramIf you love A Dog's Life and would like to help support the show why not become a Patreon backer where you can also have access to some exclusive content. If you want to move your dog to a raw diet or even switch brands we wholly recommend Paleo RidgeFor more about Anna go to annawebb.co.ukMusic and production by Mike Hanson for Pod People ProductionsCover art by JaijoCover photo by Rhian Ap Gruffydd at Gruff PawtraitsTo advertise on or sponsor A Dog's Life email: [email protected]

This week Anna is joined by Dr Nick Thompson, known as the Holistic Vet. We chat about vaccines, but also about minimising chemicals in your home. Science proves that indoor environments can be 100 times more toxic than outdoors. With this in mind Dr Nick talks about his experience using ‘probiotic therapy’. We chat about his experience with his own dogs in terms of Dental Care and with Dog Dental Month upcoming, it's a timely reminder that tooth brushing is not always the full proof answer in dogs or indeed humans. This why diet plays a major role. Dr Nick has long championed feeding a raw balanced and complete diet and we chat about why keeping your dog’s mouth full of good bacteria, rather than creating a sterile environment created by sterile diets, is so easy yet important! Biscuit kibble gets stuck in dogs gums, and tiny particles remain overtime to create a pro-inflammatory reaction and gum disease. Conversely, feeding raw fuels the digestive system, the microbiome, and creates an environment in the mouth for good bacteria to flourish and counter any bad bacteria, which helps keep disease at bay. This coupled with regular treatment with Ingenious Probiotics’ Dental Spray has Dr Nick’s thumb’s up. Similarly for dogs fed on kibble diets especially adding some Collar-gen will replenish what is missing from a sterile biscuit diet. Collagen depletes in all mammals with age, and as a structural protein is essential for strong bones, and healthy soft tissue, including teeth and gums. Nick's WebsiteNick's InstagramIf you love A Dog's Life and would like to help support the show why not become a Patreon backer where you can also have access to some exclusive content. If you want to move your dog to a raw diet or even switch brands we wholly recommend Paleo RidgeFor more about Anna go to annawebb.co.ukMusic and production by Mike Hanson for Pod People ProductionsCover art by JaijoCover photo by Rhian Ap Gruffydd at Gruff PawtraitsTo advertise on or sponsor A Dog's Life email: [email protected]

This week Anna is joined by CEO of Ingenious Probiotics about what represents an explosion in the science of healthy bacteria. We discuss probiotics in an external environment rather than an internal one. Based on our knowledge, albeit recent and expanding, we understand the vital role of probiotics as balancing bacteria in our microbiome. Joe discusses how we can use probiotics as a cleaning product to kill pathogens indoors with out adding chemicals. Too many chemicals in the home environment can make your indoor environment 100 times more toxic than outdoors. The issue with dogs is that the explore the world nose first, and sadly overtime many chemicals used in the home leach / off gas very toxic ‘endocrine disruptors’ that can play havoc at a cellular level. Choosing a more natural option to work symbiotically with nature can also be used to clean ears, remove tear stains, and clean teeth. Joe talks about the range of products from shampoos to sprays for the coat. Thinking about how the enzymes also work we discuss how the the probiotics actually work to keep good bacteria in the environment and react accordingly to the pathogens in the environment. As an emerging science , this episode clarifies we’ve just begun to scratch the surface of probiotics in the context of us having lived in a very sterile world. For more information click here or follow on InstagramIf you love A Dog's Life and would like to help support the show why not become a Patreon backer where you can also have access to some exclusive content. If you want to move your dog to a raw diet or even switch brands we wholly recommend Paleo RidgeFor more about Anna go to annawebb.co.ukMusic and production by Mike Hanson for Pod People ProductionsCover art by JaijoCover photo by Rhian Ap Gruffydd at Gruff PawtraitsTo advertise on or sponsor A Dog's Life email: [email protected]

This week we’re joined by the legend that is Dr Jean Dodds talking about vaccines. As one of the pioneers to research the duration of immunity (DOI) of modern vaccines, Dr Jean has led the way for the WSAVA (The World Small Animal Veterinary Association) to recommend Titre Testing over annual boosters. Having studied how the DOI of initial puppy shots can last a minimum of three years, if not a life time, Dr Jean believes in #TestBeforeYouTreat and that’s for annual vaccines as well as wormers. A Titre tests picks up the serological immunity that your dog has developed against the core diseases: Parvo, Distemper and Hepatitis, and helps pet guardians manage their dog’s immunisation rather than over vaccinate. For over five decades Dr Jean has noted the side effects of many vaccines, not least from the ingredients or adjuvants that are added including Mercury. We chat about the difference between active vaccines and non-active vaccines, and the possible side effects from the latter, and what you can do to minimise the risks. We chat about the best time to vaccinate your puppy, and we also discuss Hemopet the blood bank Dr Jean founded in 1986 where bloods for Thyroid assessments are sent globally. In 2015 Dr Jean published the best selling book Canine Nutrigenomics - foods to heal your dog naturally. We also talk about environmental stressors and the food chain too! For more information click here Follow on TwitterJean's bookif you love A Dog's Life and would like to help support the show why not become a Patreon backer where you can also have access to some exclusive content. If you want to move your dog to a raw diet or even switch brands we wholly recommend Paleo RidgeFor more about Anna go to annawebb.co.ukMusic and production by Mike Hanson for Pod People ProductionsCover art by JaijoCover photo by Rhian Ap Gruffydd at Gruff PawtraitsTo advertise on or sponsor A Dog's Life email: [email protected]

This week we’re joined by Andrew Hale. As a certified dog behaviourist, one of the founders of the UK Dog Charter and much more, he runs his practice in south Devon called Dog Certified Care. We chat about how his human psychology degree and work in practice for people inspired helping owners and their dogs. Without ‘humanisation’ Andrew talks about why we must factor the emotional experience into training and behaviour, indeed life itself. With so much science highlighting emotional intelligence in all animals, especially dogs, Andrew’s view is about ensuring dogs are kept safe but allowed free expression. And seeing learning as an interaction, building a relationship rather than exclusively on operant conditioning. It goes without saying we discuss why lifestyle, experience, accommodation must be factored into the choice of dog. How stress causes disease, and why humans can be emotional contagions. We chat about a natural remedy helping balancing the modern life stressors with calmer dogs, calmer people and a more harmonious relationship.Andrew's websiteFind out more about Pet Remedy hereInstagram: @petremedyofficialif you love A Dog's Life and would like to help support the show why not become a Patreon backer where you can also have access to some exclusive content. If you want to move your dog to a raw diet or even switch brands we wholly recommend Paleo RidgeFor more about Anna go to annawebb.co.ukMusic and production by Mike Hanson for Pod People ProductionsCover art by JaijoCover photo by Rhian Ap Gruffydd at Gruff PawtraitsTo advertise on or sponsor A Dog's Life email: [email protected]

This week Anna is joined by Rachel Bean RVN - qualified veterinary nurse. Apart from being an amazing ‘dog person', Rachel is the creator of the iPET Network's canine first aid qualification. We chat about this and about common accidents, like how to offer the first line of care for cut paws, insect stings, and with more serious situations like possible bloat or for dogs that might be choking. Rachel chats about her dogs too, and about her work with rescues in India and Thailand. Her message is about how by staying calm and being informed, you could help save your dog’s life. Rachel is also the Manchester co-ordinator for the Street Paws charity, and co-founder of Vet on Set, which ensures the welfare of animals on TV and film productions. Instagram: @rachelbeanrvnWebsite: rachelbean.co.ukIf you love A Dog's Life and would like to help support the show why not become a Patreon backer where you can also have access to some exclusive content. For more about Anna go to annawebb.co.ukMusic and production by Mike Hanson for Pod People ProductionsCover art by JaijoCover photo by Rhian Ap Gruffydd at Gruff PawtraitsTo advertise on or sponsor A Dog's Life email: [email protected]

This week Anna is joined by Vet Nurse and Behaviourist, Morag Sutherland. Apart from boasting a long career as an in-practice vet nurse, Morag is one of the founders of the Raw Feeding Vet Society (RFVS). Not only passionate about feeding animals as nature intended, Morag as clinical experience highlighting how dogs thrive on a balanced, complete species appropriate diet comprising a lot meat as natural born carnivores. Morag discusses in a balanced way why forward thinking Vets, Vet Nurses, Wellness experts, and Natural Care practitioners have become members of the RFVS to champion natural feeding, raise awareness, and counter common misnomers, whilst endorsing safe raw feeding, especially through a new initiative called RawSafe. Morag also chats about her training and behaviour services called Gelert Behaviour Training, which follows the principles outlined by the UK Charter and embraces the latest science on emotional pain and stress as well as how nutrition affects behaviour and much more.Find out more about RFVS and GelertbehaviourInstagram @rfvs.infoIf you love A Dog's Life and would like to help support the show why not become a Patreon backer where you can also have access to some exclusive content. For more about Anna go to annawebb.co.ukMusic and production by Mike Hanson for Pod People ProductionsCover art by JaijoCover photo by Rhian Ap Gruffydd at Gruff PawtraitsTo advertise on or sponsor A Dog's Life email: [email protected]

This week Anna is joined by Rosie Fuller of the Top Dog Film Festival UK Tour. Created in Australia, it brings a selection of independent short films into an immersive cinema experience that is dedicated to highlighting the amazing capacity of dogs to impact on and enrich our lives. Available to watch for a limited three day period from January 20th, the films take us on an around the world starting in Greenland where we see how modern lifestyles and modern technology are affecting the future of sled dogs - once synonymous with this landscape. The underlying theme is about truly understanding why dogs are not accessories or status symbols. Why dogs really love to ‘work’ ,have a purpose as part of a family. And why this helps you get the best out of your dog, building trust, communication and respect. One film takes us inside a prison looking at an innovative scheme where a rescue centre called Happy Dogs places dogs to live and be cared for by prison inmates. Perhaps the most telling of the films, highlighting the impact these dogs have on their carers, in their rehabilitation. Another looks at the wonder of training to create a doggy dancing team, to the bond between farmers and their sheepdogs, without which they wouldn’t be able to farm!! This new collection of films will make you laugh, cry and fall in love with man’s best friend all over again The Top Dog Film Festival is produced by the team behind the Banff Mountain Film Festival in the UK and Ireland, and is running as part of their Winter Series of virtual events.Get your tickets hereFor more information follow them on Instagram and FacebookIf you love A Dog's Life and would like to help support the show why not become a Patreon backer where you can also have access to some exclusive content. For more about Anna go to annawebb.co.ukMusic and production by Mike Hanson for Pod People ProductionsCover art by JaijoCover photo by Rhian Ap Gruffydd at Gruff PawtraitsTo advertise on or sponsor A Dog's Life email: [email protected]

This week Anna is joined by Mike Dower, founder of Jai Dog Rescue in Thailand. Talking about why he left a busy career in London five years ago to set up a rehabilitation centre helping street dogs in Thailand, his passion for these dogs shines through. We talk about why Battersea Dogs and Cats Home is so inspired by Jai Dog and its sanctuary, it has invested in a five year initiative and financial collaboration called: CNVR - Capture, Neuter, Vaccinate and Release scheme. Offering vet care to those injured mainly in road accidents, the charity also re-habilitates those that have small injuries before re-releasing them neutered and healthy to the streets. Thailand being a Buddhist country means cruelty and abuse are not common, but Jai Dog aims to educate with outreach projects to involve communities with the dogs. Jai Dog rehabilitates those dogs injured in road accidents, sadly making up 60% of the dogs treated in their care. And for many of these tripod dogs, Mike explains how they remain at the sanctuary for life. We chat about cultural differences, particularly surrounding euthanasia and about the dedicated team looking after the 91 dogs currently living at the sanctuary. The aim is for dogs to find their forever home both overseas and in Thailand. As a charity, Jai Dog is very fussy about potential adopters, but if you’re interested, don’t be shy to apply. The charity also has on-going costs for food, medication, flea and tick preventatives, enrichment toys and so much more. Please don’t hesitate to follow the links below to donate at jaidogrescue.org or follow on Instagram and FacebookIf you love A Dog's Life and would like to help support the show why not become a Patreon backer where you can also have access to some exclusive content. For more about Anna go to annawebb.co.ukMusic and production by Mike Hanson for Pod People ProductionsCover art by JaijoCover photo by Rhian Ap Gruffydd at Gruff PawtraitsTo advertise on or sponsor A Dog's Life email: [email protected]

Happy New Year from A Dog's Life. To start the year Anna brings you our most popular episode to date. Dr Karen and Rodney Habib joined Anna in 2021 to talk about their New York Times best selling book, The Forever Dog.If you love A Dog's Life and would like to help support the show why not become a Patreon backer where you can also have access to some exclusive content. For more about Anna go to annawebb.co.ukMusic and production by Mike Hanson for Pod People ProductionsCover art by JaijoCover photo by Rhian Ap Gruffydd at Gruff PawtraitsTo advertise on or sponsor A Dog's Life email: [email protected]

Merry Christmas from A Dog's Life. To celebrate Christmas Day, Anna brings you her favourite episode from the archive. The pre eminent Cambridge professor and author of Dogs That Know When Their Owners Are Coming Hone, Dr Rupert Sheldrake from 2020.If you love A Dog's Life and would like to help support the show why not become a Patreon backer where you can also have access to some exclusive content. For more about Anna go to annawebb.co.ukMusic and production by Mike Hanson for Pod People ProductionsCover art by JaijoCover photo by Rhian Ap Gruffydd at Gruff PawtraitsTo advertise on or sponsor A Dog's Life email: [email protected]

This week we bring you highlights of the All Dogs Matter Christmas Carols at St Anne's Church in Soho, London. Anna spoke to old friends like Ira Moss, founder of the charity and Peter Egan and new friends like Regan Armani, Director of the Young Talent Academy whose choir was once on Britain's Got Talent, and provided the main entertainment of the night, and Simon Buckley, Rector of St Anne's, who told her of the church's history.Support All Dogs Matter hereLearn more about St Anne's Church hereCheck out the Young Talent Academy hereIf you love A Dog's Life and would like to help support the show why not become a Patreon backer where you can also have access to some exclusive content. For more about Anna go to annawebb.co.ukMusic and production by Mike Hanson for Pod People ProductionsCover art by JaijoCover photo by Rhian Ap Gruffydd at Gruff PawtraitsTo advertise on or sponsor A Dog's Life email: [email protected]

This week Anna is joined by Milliner Awon Golding and top Photographer Lucy Reeve, talking about this year’s Haute Dogs calendar which is in aid of the Jai Dog rescue. For the first time Awon and Lucy flew out to Thailand to take the stunning photos captured for the calendar. Featuring 12 amazing rescued street dogs who all have their story to tell. Jai Dog works tirelessly to neuter and offer medical assistance to hundreds of dogs living rough on the hectic streets of Thailand. The crowning glory of the calendar is the range of glorious hats designed by twelve milliners especially for the calendar. We discuss the idea behind the calendar, now in its fifth year, and the enormous funds it raises annually for a different dog charity in need. We chat about the photo challenges and how the Thai dogs were gradually de-sensitised to the photo experience, add training and enrichment at the same time. So if you’re thinking about gifting a calendar - think no further!Instagram: @hautedogscalendarAwon Golding's websiteYou and the Dog websiteJai Dog rescue.If you love A Dog's Life and would like to help support the show why not become a Patreon backer where you can also have access to some exclusive content. For more about Anna go to annawebb.co.ukMusic and production by Mike Hanson for Pod People ProductionsCover art by JaijoCover photo by Rhian Ap Gruffydd at Gruff PawtraitsTo advertise on or sponsor A Dog's Life email: [email protected]

This week we chat to select handful of British companies that offer sustainable, natural, and value for money products as stocking fillers that both you and your dog will love this Christmas. We talk to Lee Sargent, co-founder of the award-winning grooming and lifestyle brand Sniffe & Likkit. He discusses why the brand fulfills a huge gap in the market for a grooming range that contains no hidden nasties and is based on years of living with dogs, truly understanding what you and your dog really want. Emma and Lu, from Dog Ear, talk about their innovative Frankenball soft toy. As artists, Emma and Lu have ‘sculpted’ this toy from up-cycled fabrics and stuffed with sheep’s wool. It's 100% natural and safe - there’s no plastics, and the Dog Ear Frankenballs are gifted in delightful re-cycled packaging that ensures your dog has hours of fun with a minimum carbon paw-print! Ashleigh Hunter from Frogg talks about this range of sustainably sourced and produced rubber interactive toys that are tough, offering timeless enrichment, and without a squeak, Frogg encourages a dog to settle without exciting them. Christmas is not complete without a festive dinner, so we catch up with Esther Logue from Paleo Ridge to chat about the companies celebrated Christmas Dinner, with a delicious mix of pheasant, turkey and lamb. Not only mouth watering, it's ethically sourced ingredients are species appropriate and perfect for dogs to tuck into on Christmas Day.For the humans Anna chats to Calah Singleton from Souvenir Press about the re-print of arguably the world’s most iconic dog book called A Dog Day. First published in 1902 and written by Walter Emanuel, it's set apart with illustrations by Cecil Aldin. As the diary of a day in the life of a cheeky terrier, the book is funny and heart warming. Despite being 120 years old, this book is as relevant today as it was then as depicting dogs being dogs! Follow them all on Instagram:@profile.books@sniffeandlikket@[email protected]@paleoridgeIf you love A Dog's Life and would like to help support the show why not become a Patreon backer where you can also have access to some exclusive content. For more about Anna go to annawebb.co.ukMusic and production by Mike Hanson for Pod People ProductionsCover art by JaijoCover photo by Rhian Ap Gruffydd at Gruff PawtraitsTo advertise on or sponsor A Dog's Life email: [email protected]

This week Anna is joined by PDSA Vet Sean Wensley chatting about his book Through A Vet’s Eyes. As a candid exploration of how we live with animals in the modern world, Sean explains why we mustn’t lose touch with nature and all animals in the natural world. They offer stark contrast to our farm animals and pets being kept in captivity. We discuss the importance to understand the Five Domains: Nutrition, Behaviour, Physical health, the Environment, and the Mental Health of all animals. In the wild animals these domains are provided naturally through survival, but Sean argues we can all do better to ensure the well-being of all animals in our care. He chats openly about his experiences as a bird watcher noticing how captive birds display behaviours that indicate stress, unhappiness and boredom. We talk about why play with dogs and cats is better than food as a way of engaging them and tapping into their natural instincts. We talk a lot about farming and how our perceptions of food, and meat have changed in the past few decades. How consumers can drive change creating a demand for ethical rearing and practices; about understanding the natural collaboration between animals and humans, and why we could all do better especially under the Animal Welfare Act 2006, itself a radical step change, the details of which are often misinterpreted, overlooked, or ignored. We also chat about Government and the new Sentience and Kept Animals Bill that still awaits its airing date. Click here to order Sean's book and follow him on @SeanWensleyFor more information go to animalhealing.ie or on Instagram @animalhealinglisatully If you love A Dog's Life and would like to help support the show why not become a Patreon backer where you can also have access to some exclusive content. For more about Anna go to annawebb.co.ukMusic and production by Mike Hanson for Pod People ProductionsCover art by JaijoCover photo by Rhian Ap Gruffydd at Gruff PawtraitsTo advertise on or sponsor A Dog's Life email: [email protected]

This week Anna is joined by Dale Nash from Pawable to discuss the first collagen (Collar-gen) for dogs. As the market booms in humans for collagen (and for good reason) it's important to understand that just as it depletes in us as we age, the same is true in our dogs. Not only 100% natural, the Collar-gen is species appropriate and easily absorbed through the gut. As a very important structural protein abundant in all our cells, it helps with mobility, skin & coat and digestion. The success of Collar-gen since its launch earlier this year is testament to its efficacy, vouched for by Anna’s dogs Prudence and Mr Binks. Her cat Gremlin is also taking it, proving how it can be taken by any mammal. NEW to Pawable’s range is Calming which is a supplement packed with a combination of anti-inflammatories and anti-bacterials that combine to boost the immune system, respiration, and brain health. Like a multi-vitamin, it offers a multi-purpose supplement combining of herbs like Thyme, Chamomile, and Ginko along with Phytoplankton, Coconut oil, Gogi berries. Offering value for money per serving, it's something to think about for Christmas.Instagram: @pawableukTwitter: @pawableukFor more information go to pawable.co.uk and use the promo code adogslife for a 10% discount.For more about Anna go to annawebb.co.ukMusic and production by Mike Hanson for Pod People ProductionsCover art by JaijoCover photo by Rhian Ap Gruffydd at Gruff PawtraitsTo advertise on or sponsor A Dog's Life email: [email protected]

This week Anna welcomes back Dr Amit Patel and his famous Guide Dog, Kika. We chat about a new programme on Cbeebies called Dog Squad which is all about teaching children just how amazing dogs are in helping their owners. For Dr Amit, Kika is his eyes. There are four other superhero dogs featured: Tinks, Sylvie, Meagaidh and Diesel. They all have amazing jobs! We chat about how the TV show also aims to break down preconceptions on disabilities, and explain why dogs can help people live independent lives. Giving an educational view on dogs and how they help people is going to inspire the next generation to understand dogs, and look at disability in a new light. Dr Amit talks about how he is an Ambassador for Guide Dogs having had his life transformed by Kika, and he speaks out as to why Assistance Dogs should never be refused access; how some venues, taxi firms and more refuse Kika entrance which is against the law. Dr Amit also chats about Kika and Me, the best-selling book highlighting their journey. As Dr Amit admits he was skeptical a dog could help him as much as Kika has. He also announces a huge piece of news: that his book is going to be made into the film! More on that in another episode coming soon! Follow Kika on Twitter @Kika_GuideDog and Instagram @kika_guidedog and Amit on Twitter @BlindDad_UK and Instagram @blinddad_ukFor more information on guide dogs click hereWatch Dog Squad on CBeebiesWhy not take us up on a special 10% discount across Dorwest’s range exclusive to our listeners by going to dorwest.com and using the code DOGSLIFE and follow them on Twitter @dorwest and Instagram @dorwestFor more about Anna go to annawebb.co.ukMusic and production by Mike Hanson for Pod People ProductionsCover art by JaijoCover photo by Rhian Ap Gruffydd at Gruff PawtraitsTo advertise on or sponsor A Dog's Life email: [email protected]

This week Anna is joined by Animal Communicator and Holistic Healer, Lisa Tully. We chat about how Lisa who worked in the pharmaceutical sector for years before becoming disheartened, and looking for health solutions that resonated with her. We chat about how a trip to Mongolia and a course in Shamanism changed her pathway forever, releasing some deeper energetic force. Her aim to help pet parents and their animals overcome trauma, holding onto stress, and achieve balance mentally and emotionally. Lisa draws on flower essences, herbs and botanicals as solutions, and gives her suggestions to keep pets calm through the stressful time through Bonfire Night, into Christmas and New Year. Lisa talks about offering advice on overall well-being, which includes courses on animal communication, empowering pet parents to understand their pet better. Lisa focuses on animals as sentient beings with emotional intelligence. For more information go to animalhealing.ie or on Instagram @animalhealinglisatully If you love A Dog's Life and would like to help support the show why not become a Patreon backer where you can also have access to some exclusive content. For more about Anna go to annawebb.co.ukMusic and production by Mike Hanson for Pod People ProductionsCover art by JaijoCover photo by Rhian Ap Gruffydd at Gruff PawtraitsTo advertise on or sponsor A Dog's Life email: [email protected]

This week Anna is joined by Roz Lishak co-founder of By Benji to chat about Trick and Treat on Howl-O-Ween. We chat about the range of unique Biltong beef treats that are made in the UK by slowly air-drying the beef in a herbal marinade for extra tenderness and palatability. And why By Benji is all about championing healthy species appropriate treats to complement a healthy natural diet for your pooch. Anna is conscious that many people forget how treats count to the overall health and calorie intake for your dog. And why using high value rewards you can train the most complex ticks, but above all it's about training the basic cues, not least the elusive recall that is essential in today’s busy public spaces. Roz highlights the range that includes enrichment chews, handy training treats, the biltong sausage varieties that are softer and crumblier, ideal for older dogs and puppies. And there’s the Biltong food topper, which is great to get fussy eaters eating. Ultimately Roz champions training and using the delicious biltong to bring joy to both the dogs and their pawrents. Twitter: @bybenjiBiltongInstagram: @bybenjiBiltong Website: bybenji.comThank you to our parterns Dorwest Herbs. Listeners to a Dog's Life will get a discount of 10% with the code DOGSLIFE. Follow them on Twitter @dorwest and Instagram @dorwestIf you love A Dog's Life and would like to help support the show why not become a Patreon backer where you can also have access to some exclusive content. For more about Anna go to annawebb.co.ukMusic and production by Mike Hanson for Pod People ProductionsCover art by JaijoCover photo by Rhian Ap Gruffydd at Gruff PawtraitsTo advertise on or sponsor A Dog's Life email: [email protected]

With firework season coming up Anna welcomes back Dr Sam Gaines of the RSPCA to chat about how you can start preparing your dog now to deal with fireworks that now start at Halloween, through Bonfire Night, Dwali, Christmas and New Year by learning to see the signs of stress in your dog and to create a safe space for them. Anna and Sam also talk about the progress (or lack there of) of various animal welfare bills currently in Parliament, the increase in dog biting, and a new media campaign to add more breeds to the list of Dangerous Dogs.For more information go to the RSPCA website.One good way to help keep your dog calm at this time of year is by giving them natural supplements from Dorwest Herbs. Listeners to a Dog's Life will get a discount of 10% with the code DOGSLIFE and follow them on Twitter @dorwest and Instagram @dorwestIf you love A Dog's Life and would like to help support the show why not become a Patreon backer where you can also have access to some exclusive content. For more about Anna go to annawebb.co.ukMusic and production by Mike Hanson for Pod People ProductionsCover art by JaijoCover photo by Rhian Ap Gruffydd at Gruff PawtraitsTo advertise on or sponsor A Dog's Life email: [email protected]

This week Anna is joined by Jo Boughton-White, Managing Director of Dorwest Herbs. Visiting their HQ in Dorchester, the Dorwest team show Anna around the facility, and chat about how their award winning range of Herbal supplements are produced. Conscious of the very best practice with quality ingredients, the supplements are made to pharmaceutical standards. We chat about the history of the company, now run by Jo as the third generation of this family business. Looking back at press cuttings from as far back as the 1950’s , Anna and Jo discuss why the heritage of Dorwest is so significant as they move into their 75th year! Discussing the power of herbs as complementary Jo highlights the calming combination of the Dorwest Valerian Compound and Scullcap & Valerian tablets as being a natural solution to reducing anxiety in dogs, offering a better frame of mind to develop training in a host of different situations, helping dogs to cope better with scenarios, including ‘fireworks’ and we discuss some popular products including Keeper’s Mix and Keeper’s Mix Sensitive. And of course we talk about the trends for people to consider natural alternatives as part of an integrated approach to ‘holistic’ wellness. Why not take us up on a special 10% discount across Dorwest’s range exclusive to our listeners by going to dorwest.com and using the code DOGSLIFE and follow them on Twitter @dorwest and Instagram @dorwestFor more about Anna go to annawebb.co.ukMusic and production by Mike Hanson for Pod People ProductionsCover art by JaijoCover photo by Rhian Ap Gruffydd at Gruff PawtraitsTo advertise on or sponsor A Dog's Life email: [email protected]

This week Anna is joined by Bill Lambert from The Kennel Club talking about London’s biggest dog event - Discover Dogs 15-16 October at the Excel Centre. It’s a doggy dream day out for all dog lovers, especially those aspiring to bring a dog into your life. As a fun weekend highlighting a host of dog activities like Agility, we chat about how over 150 dog breeds will be showcased by their officiados, experts in every breed. It gives people the chance to get up close to the dogs they may have thought would be a perfect match. But may realise that a bark-less Basenji may be more suitable for their experience and lifestyle than a Bassett Hound. There’s the return of the hugely popular ‘Cuddle Corner’, which allows visitors to relax, and de-stress by stroking a host of different puppies and dogs. Apart from an opportunity to enjoy retail therapy galore, there’s a chance to listen to experts, and watch Medical Detection Dogs in action. Plus there's the penultimate Scruffts competition, with the finale at Crufts in March 2023. And for those football fans there’s the Woofball world Cup where Barkelona and Woof Hound United compete in the main arena. There’s also plenty on the British Vulnerable Breeds, those that for some odd reason have fallen out of popularity. That includes A DOG’S LIFE co-host, Mr Binks, an English Toy Terrier, who is technically more rare than a giant panda!Find out more at discoverdogs.org.ukInstagram @thekennelclubukJoin the Dog's Life Club on Patreon. Help support the show and get extra goodies. Just go to Patreon.com/adogslifeCheck out Paleo Ridge. If you want to switch to raw, we suggest you start there!For more about Anna go to annawebb.co.ukMusic and production by Mike Hanson for Pod People ProductionsCover art by JaijoCover photo by Rhian Ap Gruffydd at Gruff PawtraitsTo advertise on or sponsor A Dog's Life email: [email protected]

This week Anna is over the moon to get the scoop on a new charity - Assistance Dog Assessment Association. She is joined by two of the Trustees, Richard Mearns and Selina Valentine, along with Richard’s Assistance Dog, Ziggy. We chat about why the charity has been launched; namely to clarify what defines an Assistance Dog in the UK. Often Assistance Dogs that are not partnered with a visible disability can lead to confusion with service providers and businesses. Especially with the discussion between what constitutes an Emotional Support Dog and a Mental Health Assistance Dog. We also chat about why independent assessment run by expert trainers can allow for more dogs to be trained and qualified as Assistance that perform tasks, helping their client navigate the world with task related assistance. Selina talks about her own assistance dogs and how they have helped her, and why she is passionate to help others find an easier way through assessment and qualification achieve their goal to benefit from a dog by their side. We chat about the team of experienced Trustees coming from a variety of charities and dog focused organisations, which is key to getting it right in the owner trained sector. We talk about raising awareness and how to donate. Find out more at theadaa.org or follow on Instagram @theadaa_org and Twitter @theADAA_orgAnd if you haven't heard it, you can listen to Richard's story with Ziggy in Episode 80Join the Dog's Life Club on Patreon. Help support the show and get extra goodies. Just go to Patreon.com/adogslifeCheck out Paleo Ridge. If you want to switch to raw, we suggest you start there!For more about Anna go to annawebb.co.ukMusic and production by Mike Hanson for Pod People ProductionsCover art by JaijoCover photo by Rhian Ap Gruffydd at Gruff PawtraitsTo advertise on or sponsor A Dog's Life email: [email protected]

This week Anna is joined by Georgina Montagu talking about her new coffee table book Top Dogs: A British Love Affair. The book reflects Georgina’s own passion for dogs, especially Poodles whilst celebrating the special relationship between beloved British dogs and their devoted owners. We chat about some of the many intriguing personalities featured from The King’s Consort, Camilla Parker Bowles, to Andrew Lloyd Webber, Jasper Conran, and other Architects and the other famous, creative and hyper-successful people who have one thing in common when it comes to their canines: the strength of the bond between human and four-legged friend. Exuberantly photographed by Dylan Thomas Top Dogs is not only wonderful eye candy, but it's a book about love and the great leveller that is man’s best friend.Instagram: @georginamontaguOrder your copy of Top Dogs hereCheck out Paleo Ridge. If you want to switch to raw, we suggest you start there!For more about Anna go to annawebb.co.ukMusic and production by Mike Hanson for Pod People ProductionsCover art by JaijoCover photo by Rhian Ap Gruffydd at Gruff PawtraitsTo advertise on or sponsor A Dog's Life email: [email protected]

In this episode Anna talks to Chocolatier, Paul A. Young in his small shop in Camden Passage, Islington, London. As well as the UK's leading maker of fine chocolate, Paul is an author and more importantly proud dad to Billy, a minature Dachshund. Chocolate is obviously bad for dogs but not for Pet Parents. Paul and Anna sample some of his treats and talk about how he needs to keep 'his work' away from Billy.Order Paul's new book The Joy of Chocolate or any of his delights here or follow on Instagram Check out Paleo Ridge. If you want to switch to raw, we suggest you start there!For more about Anna go to annawebb.co.ukMusic and production by Mike Hanson for Pod People ProductionsCover art by JaijoCover photo by Rhian Ap Gruffydd at Gruff PawtraitsTo advertise on or sponsor A Dog's Life email: [email protected]

It's 'Back to School' time and in this episode Anna talks to Debby Lucken, creator of a new programme 'Kids around Dogs'. What should be a natural relationship, kids and dogs don't always get along. Some children are frightened whilst others are over confident around dogs they don't know, which can lead to stress and even worse. Debby has designed a course that teaches children to respect dogs and to learn to read their body language. Learn more at kidsarounddogs.co.uk or on Instagram @kidsarounddogs and Twitter @KidsAroundDogsThank you to Pawable for their support and get 10% off your first order of collagen for your dog with the promo code ADOGSLIFE10. Just go to pawable.co.ukCheck out Paleo Ridge. If you want to switch to raw, we suggest you start there!For more about Anna go to annawebb.co.ukMusic and production by Mike Hanson for Pod People ProductionsCover art by JaijoCover photo by Rhian Ap Gruffydd at Gruff PawtraitsTo advertise on or sponsor A Dog's Life email: [email protected]

In part two of our pet insurance special Anna continues her chat with Petcover CEO, Andy Pearce, specifically regarding the case of Fiona Martin, and expert dog groomer, who had a terrible experience with another Insurance firm after her cocker spaniel, Teddy, developed an eye condition, and how Petcover would handle it differently. For more information find Petcover on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and Tik TokFiona Martin can be found on Instagram @feespampercamper and Twitter @feepampercamper Thank you to Pawable for their support and get 10% off your first order of collagen for your dog with the promo code ADOGSLIFE10. Just go to pawable.co.ukCheck out Paleo Ridge. If you want to switch to raw, we suggest you start there!For more about Anna go to annawebb.co.ukMusic and production by Mike Hanson for Pod People ProductionsCover art by JaijoCover photo by Rhian Ap Gruffydd at Gruff PawtraitsTo advertise on or sponsor A Dog's Life email: [email protected]

This week Anna is joined by Andy Pearce, CEO of Petcover Insurance. As an expert of many decades in the filed of pet insurance, we chat about why a dedicated pet focused insurance company is the best to opt for. Specialising in animals should mean that representatives are understanding to your needs, and be familiar with the treatments and emergencies that pet owners will be claiming for. Launching Petcover a year ago into the UK market, it is a long established insurer in Australia. We discuss the differences between the UK and Australia, and he answers a lot of questions from the issues with pre-existing conditions, accidents, lifetime cover and why insurance firms often do not pay out for dentals and issues with pet’s teeth.We also discuss the caveats that are common with insurance policies including annual boosters, insurance for only one condition - once. And why that can be an issue for pet owners who have not read the small print, or don’t understand why an ear problem can only be claimed for once. We chat about Petcover and why as a firm it is passionate about education, helping pet owners make the right healthcare choices to keep their pet in optimum health. And why as a firm they are all about happy, healthy pets!For more information find Petcover on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and Tik TokThank you to Pawable for their support and get 10% off your first order of collagen for your dog with the promo code ADOGSLIFE10. Just go to pawable.co.ukCheck out Paleo Ridge. If you want to switch to raw, we suggest you start there!For more about Anna go to annawebb.co.ukMusic and production by Mike Hanson for Pod People ProductionsCover art by JaijoCover photo by Rhian Ap Gruffydd at Gruff PawtraitsTo advertise on or sponsor A Dog's Life email: [email protected]

In this episode we talk to actor, singer, animal activist, and most importantly, mum to Billy the Parson-Russell terrier, about her life long love of dogs and all animals, how Billy came into her life, and feeding raw. We also talk about how inspiring pets can be, as noted in the book Women and Dogs, which features Billie Holiday, Bridget Bardot, and Janis Joplin who Collette portrays in a one woman play with live music called Tomorrow May Be My Last. Collette even mentions George, Janis' dog, in the script.For more about Collette go to collettecooper.com or follow her on Instagram @collettecooper or Twitter @collettecooperCollette is a proud ambassador for Paleo Ridge. If you want to switch to raw, we suggest you start there!Thank you to Pawable for their support and get 10% off your first order of collagen for your dog with the promo code ADOGSLIFE10. Just go to pawable.co.ukFor more about Anna go to annawebb.co.ukMusic and production by Mike Hanson for Pod People ProductionsCover art by JaijoCover photo by Rhian Ap Gruffydd at Gruff PawtraitsTo advertise on or sponsor A Dog's Life email: [email protected]