Soul Touched by Dogs

What do you do when your dog turns into a tiny (or not-so-tiny) dragon over… a sock?This conversation with Sonia Fetherling goes far beyond “how to fix it.”Because what looks like stubbornness, dominance, or “bad behavior” is often something much more vulnerable underneath.We talk about resource guarding in a way that feels… human.The fear.The tension.The pressure it creates in a home.And what becomes possible when we stop trying to control the behavior, and start understanding what’s driving it.Sonia shares not just her professional experience, but the journey with her own dog, who pushed her to question everything she thought she knew.This isn’t about quick fixes.It’s about trust, patience… and seeing your dog (and yourself) differently.🐾 Key Takeaways👉 The one mistake even experienced dog guardians make with resource guardingTrying to stop the behavior instead of understanding what’s underneath it.👉 Why the “quick fix” approach to dog behavior will get you stuckBecause lasting change doesn’t come from control, it comes from shifting emotions, trust, and safety.👉 The truth behind resource guardingIt’s not about your dog being difficult.It’s often about insecurity, unpredictability, and a need to feel safe.👉 How to avoid the biggest mistake when your dog guards objectsTaking things away without building trust first… which can make the behavior worse.👉 Why it’s actually more simple (and more powerful) to think in terms of “recovery”Not fixing your dog, but supporting them in an ongoing process of feeling safer.👉 How a simple shift - from conflict to collaboration - can change everythingA dog bringing you a stolen shoe to trade?That’s not failure. That’s communication.👉 The often-overlooked factor that changes behavior faster than training techniquesThe relationship. The trust. The predictability.💬 A Favorite Moment“It’s a marathon, not a sprint…Sometimes you’re running, sometimes you’re hobbling.But you just keep putting one foot in front of the other.”00:00 Podcast Welcome00:38 Meet Sonya Best of Behavior02:16 Training Without Owning03:56 Mentors and Dolphin Lessons05:09 Marathon Not Sprint10:38 Patience and Family Dynamics12:30 In Person and Virtual Work13:55 Cats and Referrals14:50 Finding Her Niche14:58 Adopting Kismet After Loss17:59 Shelter Surprise Resource Guarding18:39 Living With A Thief19:20 Dogs As Teachers20:29 Beyond Counterconditioning21:28 Socks Shoes And Swallows22:26 Root Causes Of Guarding23:04 When Trading Backfires24:05 Decompression And Deprivation27:15 Board And Train Reset29:27 Recovery Not Cure31:31 Reward The Swap33:41 Where To Find Sonia35:27 Closing Thanks And OutroFind out more and connect with SoniaSonia is the owner of Best of Behavior, a dog training and behavior consulting business based near Chicago, Illinois.With over 25 years of experience, she works with dogs and their humans on everything from reactivity and aggression to everyday training—with a deeply compassionate, relationship-focused approach.What makes Sonia’s work stand out is her willingness to go beyond surface-level solutions and explore the emotional roots of behavior—both in dogs and their humans.She also works professionally with cats (yes, really 😉), helping with complex household dynamics and behavior challenges.🔗 Connect with Sonia🌐 Website: https://www.bestofbehavior.com📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bobdogtraining📷 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bestofbehavior/?hl=enAs always, to find out all about Soul Touched by Dogs, go to https://soultouchedbydogs.com

What if your dog already knows exactly what they need to heal?In this fascinating conversation, I’m joined by Irish animal healer and communicator Lisa Tully, who works with dogs and cats around the world using a deeply intuitive and holistic approach.Lisa combines animal communication, Chinese medicine principles, and plant-based healing to uncover the root causes of emotional and physical imbalance in animals. And sometimes… the answers point right back to us.We explore how animals can mirror their guardians’ emotions, why some dogs seem “misunderstood,” how animals instinctively choose their own botanicals for healing, and what happens when we start listening to them in a whole new way.If you’ve ever wondered whether your dog understands more than we give them credit for… this episode may change the way you see them forever.In This Episode🐾 Why the “standard” approach to behaviour problems often misses the real issueAnd how understanding a dog’s unique constitution can change everything.🐾 How dogs instinctively know which plants help them healLisa explains the concept of animal self-medication and botanical selection.🐾 The surprising ways dogs mirror their humans’ emotionsEspecially fear, grief, and unresolved stress.🐾 Why some dogs are labeled “difficult” when they’re actually deeply sensitiveIncluding a fascinating example of the “water element” dog in Chinese medicine.🐾 How healing can flow both directions on the leadWhen the human shifts, the dog often does too.🐾 What happens during an animal communication sessionIncluding the powerful question Lisa always asks first.🐾 Why many people only find holistic healing after trying everything elseA Favourite Moment“Have you asked the dog what it is they need to heal?”Sometimes the answers we’re searching for aren’t in another training method… but in learning how to listen.00:00 Welcome to the Podcast00:38 Meet Lisa in Ireland03:16 Her Path to Healing07:21 Why Clients Seek Help08:11 Five Elements Water Dog12:33 Dogs Mirror Their Humans15:23 Pandemic Puppies and Grief20:26 How Dogs Choose Essences22:28 How Lisa Receives Messages25:10 Animals She Works With27:26 Meditation Gift and Programs30:22 Website and Farewell30:48 Subscribe and OutroAbout Lisa TullyLisa Tully is a professional animal healer and communicator from Ireland with an international practice supporting dogs and cats.Her work blends animal communication with botanical healing and holistic approaches to uncover the emotional, physical, and energetic root causes of imbalance in animals.Lisa believes animals are active participants in their own healing process. Through her work, animals can guide the selection of natural remedies, helping them return to balance so they can live longer, healthier lives alongside the people who love them.She collaborates with holistic veterinarians worldwide and supports animals dealing with emotional challenges, behavioural issues, and chronic health conditions.Connect with LisaWebsitehttps://animalhealing.ieFree Guided Meditation (Start Healing Your Animals Today)https://animalhealing.ie/guided-meditation/Instagramhttps://www.instagram.com/animalhealinglisatully/TikTokhttps://www.tiktok.com/@animalhealinglisatullyFacebookhttps://www.facebook.com/animalhealinglisatullyAs always, to find out all about Soul Touched by Dogs, go tohttps://soultouchedbydogs.com

When Love Meets Innovation: Helping Pets Get the Care They DeserveSome dogs simply arrive one day… and change everything.In this episode of Soul Touched by Dogs, I’m joined by Adam Spencer, founder of Furlanthropy — an innovative nonprofit that’s reimagining how pet parents can access life-saving veterinary care when money stands in the way.Adam’s journey into animal welfare didn’t begin with a lifelong love of dogs. In fact, it started with reluctance… and a rescue dog named Hazelnut who quietly cracked his heart wide open.What followed was the creation of the first nonprofit-owned crowdfunding platform designed specifically for pets — one that protects donors, supports veterinarians, and keeps families together during their most vulnerable moments.This is a conversation about compassion, dignity, and what becomes possible when we stop accepting “that’s just how it is.”🐾 Key Takeaways🐾 The truth behind “I can’t afford treatment”Why financial barriers are now one of the leading reasons pets don’t receive care — and how this crisis is quietly growing.🐾 The one basic secret of ethical crowdfundingHow trust, verification, and transparency change everything for donors, vets, and pet parents alike.🐾 Why even loving, responsible guardians get stuck: How rising veterinary costs and debt traps leave families with impossible choices — and why this isn’t a personal failure.🐾 How a single rescue dog can ripple outward:Hazelnut’s story — and how one soul-deep connection inspired help for hundreds of pets across the country.🐾 The overlooked support system behind the scenes: Why veterinarians are often carrying emotional and financial burdens we rarely talk about — and why they matter here too.💬 Favourite Quote“When you touch someone’s heart, you don’t have to convince them to care.”00:00 Introduction to the Soul Touched by Dogs Podcast00:24 Meet Adam and His Journey with Furlanthropy01:40 The Heartwarming Story of Adopting Hazelnut06:25 The Birth of Furlanthropy: A Mission to Help Pets09:37 Challenges in Pet Care and the Role of Furlanthropy14:28 How Furlanthropy Operates and Its Impact17:54 Fundraising Tips and Reaching Potential Donors28:11 How Furlanthropy Supports Various Pet Needs30:45 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsAbout the Guest: Adam SpencerAdam Spencer is the Founder and President of Furlanthropy, an innovative nonprofit charity created to help pet parents raise funds for veterinary expenses — from emergency surgeries to long-term treatment and recovery.With over 20 years of experience as a Certified Fund Raising Executive (CFRE), Adam has raised millions of dollars for causes close to the heart. Furlanthropy was inspired by the rescue of his dog Hazelnut — a moment that transformed Adam’s life and redirected his professional mission toward animal welfare.Adam is a passionate advocate for ethical giving, transparency in fundraising, and innovative solutions that keep pets with the people who love them.He lives in the Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia with his wife Erica, their five children, and two rescue dogs — enjoying pickleball, e-bike rides, and imported lobster rolls.🔗 Connect with Adam & FurlanthropyWebsite: https://www.furlanthropy.orgFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/furlanthropycharityInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/furlanthropycharityAs always, to find out all about Soul Touched by Dogs, go to👉 https://soultouchedbydogs.com

What if your dog’s behaviour isn’t something to fix… but something to listen to?In this beautifully grounding conversation, I’m joined by Miranda Wimbush, founder of The Mindful Canine, to explore what becomes possible when we slow down, soften our nervous systems, and reconnect with the wisdom that lives beneath the noise.Miranda brings together science, intuition, and embodied awareness in a way that feels both practical and profound. We talk about dogs as mirrors, grief as an initiator, and why true change so often begins at the human end of the leash.This is an episode for dog guardians and professionals who feel the pull toward a quieter, more connected way of being with their dogs - and with themselves.🐾 Key TakeawaysThe truth behind “fixing the dog”Why behaviour often shifts when the human nervous system finds regulation first.The one basic secret of intuitive connectionSlowing down enough to feel - not analyse - what’s happening between you and your dog.Why most well-meaning dog guardians are exhaustedAnd how emotional release can restore capacity, clarity, and compassion.How a simple heart-centred practice can change everythingFrom daily stress… to how safe and supported your dog feels with you.The often-overlooked cost of caring deeplyEspecially for pet professionals, and why boundaries and self-connection matter more than technique.💬 Favourite Quote“When we release some of what we’re carrying, our dogs don’t just feel it, they soften with us.”00:00 Introduction to the Podcast00:24 Welcoming Miranda Rubush00:54 Miranda's Background and Business02:33 The Shift to Focusing on Dog Owners04:26 Personal Journey and Emotional Healing05:45 Intuitive Connection and Energy Healing07:03 Impact of COVID on Dog Owners08:36 Challenges Faced by Dog Professionals11:45 Meditation and Visualization Techniques16:08 Emotional Connection with Dogs23:40 Conclusion and Resources🌿 About the Guest – Miranda WimbushMiranda Wimbush is the founder of The Mindful Canine, where she supports dog guardians and pet professionals through holistic canine coaching and intuitive healing.With a background as a certified professional dog trainer, veterinary technician, and HeartMath Certified Mentor, Miranda bridges practical, science-based understanding with deep inner work. Her approach helps people regulate their nervous systems, heal unconscious patterns, and reconnect with their own inner wisdom — so their dogs don’t have to carry what isn’t theirs.Miranda’s work is especially powerful for pet professionals experiencing burnout or compassion fatigue, offering a heart-centred path toward sustainability, clarity, and trust — on both ends of the leash.🔗 Connect with Miranda🌐 Website: https://www.mindfulcanine.ca🎁 Free Workshop + Call: Deepening Your Intuitive Connection Workshop & Call(A beautiful entry point into Miranda’s work and lived experience of intuitive connection)https://program.mindfulcanine.ca/intuitiveUse code FREEBIEAs always, to find out all about Soul Touched by Dogs, go to👉 https://soultouchedbydogs.com

Yes… this episode should have gone out before Christmas.And yet, there’s something quietly perfect about sharing it now, at the very beginning of January.Because this conversation isn’t really about Christmas.It’s about connection.About slowing down enough to notice the magic that’s already there.And about the kind of presence dogs offer us - especially when the world feels loud, fast, or overwhelming.In this episode, Andy Honda invites us into life in New York City through the eyes (and paws) of her therapy dog, Koa, and into the heart behind her children’s book series Koa’s Ruff Life.It’s gentle.It’s grounding.And it’s exactly the kind of story many of us need as we step into a new year.🐾 What we explore in this episodeHow a big, soulful Rhodesian Ridgeback became a certified therapy dogWhat therapy dog visits actually look like - in children’s hospitals and schools for kids with special needsWhy Koa’s calm presence has such a powerful effect on childrenHow everyday walks through New York City turned into stories that educate, comfort, and delightThe surprising thread connecting Andy’s work as a medical executive with her storytelling for childrenWhy paying attention is one of the greatest gifts dogs give usKey takeawaysThe truth behind therapy dogs: It’s not about tricks or obedience - it’s about temperament, attunement, and emotional safetyWhy small, ordinary moments matter: A walk, a pause, a shared smile ... this is where connection livesHow dogs help us regulate: Koa doesn’t “do” much, and that’s exactly why he helps so muchWhy stories are such powerful teachers: Especially for children, learning lands best when it’s wrapped in warmth and curiosity💬 Favorite quote from the episode“There’s something about Koa. He has this calming presence - and an uncanny ability to sense emotion.”About Andy & KoaAndy Honda is a NYC-based medical executive, speaker, and lifelong animal lover. Originally from Hawaii, she brings a spirit of warmth, curiosity, and aloha into everything she creates.Her children’s book series, Koa’s Ruff Life, is inspired by real-life adventures with her therapy dog, Koa - from Central Park mornings to holiday traditions in New York City. Together, Andy and Koa volunteer weekly with children with special needs, offering comfort, companionship, and connection.Her latest release, Koa’s Ruff Life: Christmas Time in New York City, captures the wonder of the season, but as you’ll hear in this episode, its heart goes far beyond Christmas.🔗 Connect with Andy🌐 Website: https://koasrufflife.com🌐 Author site: https://andyhondamd.com📚 Signed books & the full series available via her websiteJanuary often arrives with pressure: new goals, new habits, new energy.This episode offers something different.This is an invitation to begin the year gently.To remember that presence matters more than momentum.And to let dogs - as always - lead us back to what’s real.As always, to find out all about Soul Touched by Dogs, go to👉 https://soultouchedbydogs.com

If your “sweet-as-sugar-until-a-squirrel-appears” dog can’t resist the thrill of the chase, this one’s for you. Force-free trainer Stephanie Rombough (Happy Hounds Dog Training, Alberta, Canada) joins me to share the reward-based process behind her new book inspired by her own high-drive herder, Nera. We dig into why chasing is so reinforcing, how to prevent dangerous rehearsals, and exactly how to teach voluntary disengagement—from “laser-eyes on bunny” to “I see it… and I choose you.”You’ll hear how Stephanie moved from a compulsion-based upbringing in dog training to a compassionate, science-grounded approach that works for terriers, sighthounds, herders—and the humans who love them.Key takeaways🐾 The one mistake even experienced guardians make: starting where the dog can’t succeed. Begin well below threshold so you can reward success and build from there.🐾 Management is non-negotiable. While you train, prevent rehearsals: leashes instead of off-leash parks, doors closed, baby gates up. Each “got it!” chase self-rewards like a biochemical jackpot.🐾 Use functional rewards. Sometimes a dry cookie can’t compete with a river, a breeze, or a squeaky critter. Reward with what your dog actually wants in that moment (e.g., a release to sniff/splash or a fur tug to bite).🐾 Three-phase training path:Prompted leave-it (you cue disengagement).Supported watching (dog looks, you cue when needed).Voluntary disengagement (dog chooses you without prompting—keep rewarding this every time).🐾 Replace, don’t just remove. Offer daily “legal” predation outlets—tug, chase games, scent work—so that the “prey-drive battery” drains in healthy ways.🐾 Safety first. Keep dogs on leash during the program to prevent a full predatory sequence (chase → grab → …). Finishing that sequence makes the habit much harder to change.🐾 How long does it take? It varies by dog and setup. Expect meaningful progress in a few weeks; solid reliability often builds over 2–3 months—and sometimes faster once the dog “gets it.”🐾 Why “force-free won’t work with tough cases” is a myth. With the right setup, criteria, and rewards, even high-octane chasers can learn to leave wildlife (and cats!) alone.🐾 Exactly how and what to reward: mark the moment your dog chooses you—even when you didn’t see the squirrel first. That’s the behavior you want on repeat.Favorite quote“Let your dog be a little wolf for 10–20 minutes a day, and they’ll be so much happier.”About Stephanie RomboughStephanie Rombough is a force-free dog trainer and the owner of Happy Hounds Dog Training in Alberta, Canada. She’s best known for clear, practical tutorials and client case studies on YouTube, helping guardians turn everyday struggles into calm, connected wins. Her new book distills a decade of hands-on work into a step-by-step, reward-based system to stop chasing—without pain or fear.Connect with StephanieWebsite: https://happyhoundsdogtraining.ca/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@happyhoundsdogtrainingFree guide: Leash Training Made Easier — https://happyhounds.myflodesk.com/leashtrainingBook: Stop the Chase — now available in print on Amazon (rolling out internationally)As always, to find out more about Soul Touched by Dogs, go to https://soultouchedbydogs.com

A psychologist walks into a dog park… and realises half her clients have tails.That’s pretty much how Dr. Holly Tett discovered her calling — blending trauma-informed psychology with force-free dog training to heal both ends of the lead.In this lively, heartfelt conversation, we talk about why obedience can’t fix overwhelm, how to spot the difference between shut down and calm, and what happens when we finally look at our dogs — and ourselves — through a lens of compassion instead of correction.Plus, you’ll hear the story behind Holly’s now-famous “Cheeky Chicken” elevator game — proof that a bit of silliness can soothe two nervous systems at once.Key takeaways🐾 The one mistake even experienced guardians make: trying to “train away” big feelings with obedience cues. Skills have their place—but distress needs safety, co-regulation, and time.🐾 How to tell the difference between shutdown and calm: a still body isn’t always a settled nervous system. Look at the whole dog, not just one body part.🐾 Why our own stress backfires on walks: when our fight-or-flight kicks in, memory and technique vanish. Regulate you first so you can help your dog regulate.🐾 A simple pre-walk ritual that changes everything: make connection the goal, not control. (Holly’s “Cheeky Chicken” game is a perfect example.)🐾 How to dodge the public-opinion trap: other people’s looks aren’t data. Notice when old shame or criticism stories resurface, name them — “my mind’s doing that thing again” — then return to your dog.🐾 When life gets busy: compassion fatigue is real. Simplify environments, shorten exposures, and celebrate micro-wins.Favorite quote“Dogs don’t hide who they are — unless they don’t feel safe. Our job is to make safety the baseline so connection can do the teaching.”About Dr. Holly TettDr. Holly Tett is a force-free behaviourist, clinical psychologist, and dog-business coach who helps guardians and professionals strengthen their bond with dogs through a trauma-informed, attachment-based approach.She offers online courses, memberships, and mentorships — including Canine Connection (for guardians) and The Trauma-Informed Dog Practitioner Programme (for pros).Holly also hosts two podcasts: Letters From Your Dog and Training Dogs, Training People and Keeping Our Sh*t Together.She shares life with four beloved teachers — Riggs, Aya, Squid and Strudel — each with their own lessons to offer.Join Holly’s live workshopAre You as Triggered as Your Dog?This popular free session runs regularly (replay available). It’s for anyone who loves their dog but feels the emotional weight of living with a sensitive pup — and wants simple, kind strategies to make life easier for both ends of the lead.➡️ Register: https://www.pawsupdogs.com/triggered/Connect with HollyWebsite: https://www.pawsupdogs.comPodcast (guardians): Letters From Your DogPodcast (pros): Training Dogs, Training People and Keeping Our Sh*t TogetherFacebook Page: Kindness Is Essential, Not OptionalFacebook Group: Kindness Is Essential, Not Optional — Dog Training SupportInstagram (dog parents): @pawsupdogstrainingInstagram (dog pros): @forcefreedogprobusinesssupportAs always, to find out all about Soul Touched by Dogs, go to https://soultouchedbydogs.com

What happens when a lifelong animal lover and environmental scientist weaves her passions into stories where dogs see ghosts, save the day, and change lives?In this episode, award-winning author Jill Hedgecock joins us to talk about her Shadow series — suspenseful, heart-filled novels that entertain while quietly teaching readers about compassion, responsible dog stewardship, and the beauty of the human–animal bond.From champion agility runs and nose-work discoveries to celebrating a famous Doberman named Ruby who inspired an entire book series — Jill’s world is where storytelling, science, and canine love meet.💡 Key TakeawaysThe truth behind “owning” dogs — why Jill uses the word stewardship instead, and what it changes in the way we see our dogs.How stories can de-stigmatize misunderstood breeds — and the powerful legacy of Ruby the Doberman, social-media star turned literary heroine.The surprising reason agility and nose work are about the handler, not the dog — and what it reveals about trust and communication.How a simple story choice can spark awareness about serious issues like DCM in large breeds or the environmental impact of pesticides on bees.The one thing all great “dog books” really teach us: how to be better humans.🐕 Favorite Quote“Agility is the best because the dogs are off leash. They can do whatever they want—and they choose to try to please you.” — Jill Hedgecock00:00 Introduction to the Podcast00:24 Meet Jill: A Lifelong Dog Lover00:41 Jill's Journey with Dogs and Agility02:21 Writing Books with Dogs as Main Characters02:52 The First Book: Between Shadows' Eyes06:11 The Second Book: From Shadow's Perspective08:18 The Third Book: Exploring Family and Loss09:15 Raising Awareness About DCM in Dogs11:29 Jill's Writing Journey and Inspirations14:19 The Magic of Storytelling14:55 Understanding the Audience15:39 Safari Books and Educating Through Stories16:31 Developing New Projects and Characters21:02 The Art of Dog Training and Agility23:11 Exploring Nose Work with Dogs30:00 Coincidental Encounters and Inspirations33:23 Conclusion and Where to Find Jill's Books📚 About Jill HedgecockJill Hedgecock is an award-winning and internationally published author whose stories celebrate the powerful connection between humans and animals. Her Shadow trilogy — Between Shadow’s Eyes, From Shadow’s Perspective, and In Shadow’s Reflection — follows a Doberman who can see ghosts and a young girl who learns to see through her dog’s eyes.A lifelong animal lover, Jill also writes a monthly pet column for The Diablo Gazette in the San Francisco Bay Area. When she’s not writing, she’s outdoors hiking with her two rescue dogs or training them in agility and nose work.Her upcoming novel, Queen of the Rhino, merges her environmental roots with her love of wildlife — proving that fiction can entertain, educate, and inspire change all at once.🌐 Connect with JillWebsite: https://www.jillhedgecock.comFacebook: https://facebook.com/jill.hedgecock.3Instagram: @hedgecockjillBluesky: @jillhedgecock.bsky.socialTikTok: @jillhedgecockYouTube: @jillhedgecock651👉 Free Gift: Get Lost Cause, the prequel to Jill’s Doberman series, when you join her newsletter via her website.As always, to find out all about Soul Touched by Dogs, visit https://soultouchedbydogs.com

When Tricia Montgomery lost her beloved Moose to cancer, her world stopped.But out of heartbreak came a mission — to make sure no other pet parent wakes up one morning to find it’s too late.In this deeply moving conversation, Tricia shares how grief became fuel for purpose and how her non-profit, Moose’s March, is leading the charge for early detection of pet cancer so more dogs (and cats) can live longer, happier lives with the people who love them.She’s not just raising awareness — she’s sparking hope.In this episode, you’ll discover:🐾 The surprising everyday toxins hidden in toys and treats that could quietly harm your dog — and how to spot them before they do.🐾 Why so many pet parents miss the earliest signs of cancer (and how to recognize them before it’s too late).🐾 The truth about what’s driving the rise in cancer rates — and what you can do right now to protect your dog.🐾 A simple, affordable pre-cancer test your vet can add to a routine check-up that could save your dog’s life.🐾 How to turn grief into goodness — and find healing through helping others.Favorite Quote“I knew I needed to honor him in some way. I needed to turn my grief into goodness.” – Tricia Montgomery00:00 Introduction to the Podcast00:24 Guest Introduction: Meet Tricia00:49 Tricia's Journey in Animal Welfare02:37 The Story of Moose05:44 Founding Moose's March07:04 Early Detection and Prevention of Pet Cancer10:30 Environmental Factors and Pet Health14:04 Current Efforts in Pet Cancer Research16:21 Signs and Symptoms of Pet Cancer27:52 Final Thoughts and ResourcesAbout Tricia MontgomeryTricia Montgomery is the visionary founder of Moose’s March, a 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to making early detection of pet cancer accessible to everyone, regardless of gender, race, or income level.With over 25 years of leadership experience in the veterinary and pet industry — including her groundbreaking work with Canine Fit Club — Tricia combines deep industry expertise with heartfelt purpose. Her mission: to stop pet cancer before it starts and give every pet parent more time and more memories.Connect with Tricia🌐 Website: https://www.moosesmarch.com📸 Instagram: @moosesmarch📘 Facebook: Moose’s March - https://www.facebook.com/MoosesMarch💼 LinkedIn: Moose’s March Inc. - https://www.linkedin.com/company/moose-s-march-inc/As always, to find out all about Soul Touched by Dogs, go to https://soultouchedbydogs.com

When one chance encounter with a groomer feeding raw chicken legs made Toni Shelaske stop in her tracks, she had no idea it would set her on a path to becoming one of Pittsburgh’s most influential voices in pet wellness.From running her own pet sitting business to building four thriving natural pet supply stores, and now hosting the Toni Unleashed podcast, Toni has always been driven by curiosity, courage, and the belief that pets - and their people - deserve better.In this conversation, Toni shares how she turned a lightbulb moment into a movement, what she learned as a female founder in the pet industry, and why she’s passionate about helping both pet parents and indie retailers stand tall in a big-box world.Key TakeawaysThe spark that changed everything – how a single conversation in a grooming shop led Toni to rethink everything she knew about pet food.From burnout to business owner – why she left pet sitting and took the leap into retail.The truth behind “cheap” pet food – and why Toni believes investing in quality food pays off at the vet.Entrepreneurship unleashed – how Toni grew from one small shop to four thriving locations.Why indie voices matter – Toni’s mission to support independent pet retailers in a world dominated by big-box chains.Favorite Quote“The moment you start feeding real food, your dog becomes a different animal — brighter eyes, cleaner teeth, softer coat, more energy. It just creates a different being.” – Toni ShelaskeGrab a cuppa and enjoy!00:00 Introduction to the Podcast00:24 Meet Tony: A Journey with Dogs01:45 Discovering Raw Food for Dogs05:15 Building a Raw Food Business07:07 The Benefits of Raw Feeding08:22 Challenges and Misconceptions14:51 Recommended Raw Food Brands17:38 Freeze-Dried Food: A Convenient Alternative19:54 Where to Find More Information20:58 Conclusion and FarewellAbout Toni ShelaskeToni Shelaske is a podcast host, seasoned entrepreneur, and holistic pet wellness expert. She’s the dynamic female founder and former owner of Healthy Pet Products, Pittsburgh’s premier natural pet supply retailer. Today, Toni shares her expertise on her popular podcast Toni Unleashed, serves on the board of IndiePet to support independent retailers, and has even launched a line of Pittsburgh-themed dog toys that blend her love of pets with hometown pride.She’s passionate about helping pet owners make healthier choices for their dogs and guiding fellow entrepreneurs on how to stand out authentically in a big-box world.Connect with Toni:Website: https://www.toniunleashed.com/Toni Unleashed Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/toni-unleashed/id1621733676Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/toni.unleashed/.Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ToniUnleashed/As always, to find out all about Soul Touched by Dogs, go to https://soultouchedbydogs.com

What does it mean to be a good dog in the human world?In this heartfelt, eye-opening conversation, I’m joined by Vivian Zottola, human-dog relationship therapist, educator, and author, to talk about what it really takes to live in harmony with our dogs. Vivian brings decades of experience (and a deep well of wisdom) to help us shift the way we think about our relationships with our canine companions.We explore what happens when dogs are treated like toys or tools instead of sentient beings, why understanding their perspective changes everything, and how learning to listen to our dogs can make us more compassionate humans too.Whether you live with dogs now or are simply curious about the profound bond between species, this episode will leave you thinking differently about how we relate, not just to our pets, but to each other.💡 A few key takeaways:Why many behavior issues start with misunderstanding, not misbehaviorHow dogs “speak” to us - and how we can learn to listenThe link between learning to understand dogs and becoming more empathetic with peopleThe hidden dangers of treating dogs like siblings or toys, especially around childrenHow Vivian’s work and writing gently guide us back to mutual respect and shared connection💬 A favorite quote from this episode:"Emotionally, we are the same. When we start to understand what our dogs are trying to say, it changes how we see the world - and each other." — Vivian Zottola00:00 Introduction to the Podcast00:24 Meet Our Guest: Vivian00:43 Vivian's Journey with Dogs01:23 The World of Dog Training and Therapy02:29 Collaborations and Further Education06:29 Balancing Work and Personal Life06:54 Understanding Dog Behavior10:40 Promoting Vivian's Book15:19 The Importance of Respecting Dogs20:34 Educational Initiatives for Children23:05 Conclusion and Contact InformationAbout Vivian ZottolaVivian Zottola is a human-dog relationship therapist based near Boston, MA. With over 20 years of experience, she’s earned a stellar reputation among veterinarians, trainers, and clients alike. She holds two Master of Science degrees—in Anthrozoology and Communication Management—plus multiple certifications in canine behavior and training.Vivian is passionate about education, empathy, and building bridges between species. She’s the author of Being A Good Dog In The Human’s World, and the co-creator of BeBiteSmart.org, a series of animated educational resources designed to teach kids respectful, safe ways to interact with dogs. Her upcoming picture book, Cammie, Queen of the Neighborhood Goes to the Moon, explores adaptation, love, and pet loss through the story of a resilient rescue dog.Learn more and subscribe to Vivian’s newsletter to receive a free Dog Stress Response Illustration:👉 https://www.vivianzottola.comFollow Vivian:Instagram: @vivianzottoladogbehaviorFacebook: VivianMZottolaLinkedIn: Vivian ZottolaTwitter: @k9concierge🐾 As always, to find out all about Soul Touched by Dogs, go to https://soultouchedbydogs.com