Dr. Rachel Malamed, DVM, DACVB, CABC, tells us about how she become a Veterinary Behaviorist, what types of behavior problems she commonly sees with cats, behavior modification + medication, and cat training tips! Check out book, Decoding Your Cat https://www.amazon.com/Decoding-Your-Cat-Ultimate-Behaviors/dp/0358566045 Get Cat Body Language Poster: https://trulyforcefree.com/product/understanding-body-language-poster-cat-8-5x11/ Feliway Calming Spray: https://prf.hn/l/8jmdz20

Kristina Spaulding, PHD, CAAB, tells us how stress impacts your dog's brain, behavior and welfare! When you understand and recognize stress in your dog, you will help be able to prevent and deal with problematic behavior! Check out her newly released book, "THE STRESS FACTOR IN DOGS UNLOCKING RESILIENCY AND ENHANCING WELL-BEING"

In todays episode, Shannon Riley and, Guest, Niki Tudge, discuss The Pet Professional Guild (PPG)! Niki Tudge tells us about her background, why she created PPG, the importance of PPG, new things offered, and what she recommends for new dog trainers! Check out The Pet Professional Guild: https://petprofessionalguild.com/ Dognostics: https://dognosticseducation.com/ Doggone Safe: https://doggonesafe.com/ The Pet Professional Accreditation Board: https://www.credentialingboard.com/

In todays episode, we discuss the fear period as well as how to introduce your puppy to new dogs, people and places!

In todays episode Karen B. London tells us about her book Cows, Ants, Termites, and Me: Revealing the World of Animals One Newspaper Column at a Time! Shannon and Karen share some of their favorite stories from the book. Author Karen B. London, PhD combines her scientific training, natural wit, and storytelling skills to create Cows, Ants, Termites, and Me—an engaging compilation of 145 newspaper columns that have appeared in the Arizona Daily Sun beginning in 2008. Her twice-monthly animal column covers tales of the weird and wonderful from well-known animals such as giraffes and honey bees along with less well-known ones such as Gordian worms and balloon flies. Entertaining and informative, this collection of science-based essays offers readers an opportunity to learn a considerable amount about natural history, ecology, taxonomy, evolution, and behavior. Topics range from birds who benefit from sleep when learning songs, to mosquitoes that perform duets, to Arctic Terns flying around the world, to dung beetles navigating by the stars. Did birds really evolve from dinosaurs? How do camels survive such dry environments? How do termites build their own air conditioning systems? Do animals really use tools? The columns in this book answer these and so many other interesting questions in an engaging style. Karen London's writing is both accurate and enjoyable, making it popular among scientists and nature enthusiasts alike. Cows, Ants, Termites, and Me belongs with books about natural history, zoology, animals, animal behavior, and collections of essays. Check out her book here: https://www.amazon.com/Cows-Ants-Termites-Revealing-Newspaper-ebook/dp/B0BZ2MVC5F?ref_=ast_author_dp

In todays episode, we discuss Book: Canine and Feline Behavior for Veterinary Technicians and Nurses with author Debbie Martin! She tells us her background, why she wrote the book, how it can help you as a pet professional and her success stories! Find her book here: https://www.amazon.com/Canine-Feline-Behavior-Veterinary-Technicians/dp/1119765404/ref=sr_1_1?adgrpid=1337006703780358&hvadid=83562990042649&hvbmt=be&hvdev=c&hvlocphy=44172&hvnetw=o&hvqmt=e&hvtargid=kwd-83563265218154%3Aloc-190&hydadcr=15052_10495091&keywords=debbie+martin&qid=1691092048&sr=8-1&ufe=app_do%3Aamzn1.fos.006c50ae-5d4c-4777-9bc0-4513d670b6bc

In todays episode we discuss, what and how to stop counter surfing, what and how to stop resource guarding, what your puppies love languages are and how you can bond with your puppy!

Check out Temple Grandin's NEW BOOK "Visual Thinking" here: https://www.amazon.com/Visual-Thinking-Pictures-Patterns-Abstractions-ebook/dp/B09Q89CG86/ref=tmm_kin_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=1687283551&sr=8-1

In todays episode, we discuss rewarding good behavior vs causing an unwanted chain of behaviors, how to lure your puppy to the kennel, how you can tell if your puppy is confused and why you should leave treats around your home.

Pet Professional Guild Assistance Animal Division Chairman, Tasha Atwood, is also the founder of Miyagis Dog Training and Behaviorist Services. We discuss the "Shock Free Coalition" through Pet Professional Guild and how you can use their services to find a pet pro in your area! We also dive into the differences between a Service Dog, Therapy Dog and Emotional Support Animal.

In todays episode, we discuss common puppy questions such as; What is the first thing I should teach my puppy? Should I be exhausting my puppy? How can I get my puppy to settle down (especially in the evening)? When can my dog start sleeping with me in my bed and not the crate? What’s a scratch pad and why should I get one? How can I get my puppy used to getting their nails trimmed?

In todays episode, we talk you through the teething process and answer questions such as... - When do teeth come in? - How do teeth come in? - What does it feel like for your puppy? - When does teething stop? - Teething VS Biting - When is it OK to chew? - Being careful with strangers and kids? - Biting my pants! How to avoid and redirect - He always has acceptable chews. Do dogs get used to chews? - Should I hold his mouth closed when he is mouthy?

Meghan Herron, DVM, DACVB tells us about how she became a veterinary behaviorist, how she got started working with GiGi's and how she has helped the shelter dogs cope! (https://gigis.org/) She also provides recommendations for shelters and those who are looking to adopt from shelters. Check out her newly released book, "Introduction to Animal Behavior and Veterinary Behavioral Medicine" recommended for beginning veterinarian students! https://www.wiley.com/en-us/Introduction+to+Animal+Behavior+and+Veterinary+Behavioral+Medicine-p-9781119824480

In todays episode, we discuss common puppy problems such as setting a schedule for your puppy, what to do if your puppy is whining in the crate, appropriate play, humping, preventing your puppy from eating plants, the #1 mistake we see when training a puppy and why the socialization period is so important!

In todays episode, we discuss what food is right for my puppy and what to avoid, how to transition your puppy to new food, why food toys are so important and what treats are okay to chew on!

In todays episode, we discuss why creating a daily routine for your puppy is important to build structure! We dive into the differences between a wire crate versus a plastic crate, why crate training is important for confinement, supervision, potty training and for sleep to prevent biting.

In todays episode, we discuss what you should do before you get a puppy. Finding a puppy that is right for you and your personality is important to a successful relationship between you and your pup! We also discuss genetics, finding the right breeder, putting down a deposit, breeder contracts, puppy kits you should get before picking up puppy, and the difference between flying and driving to pick up puppy.

In todays episode, we discuss "The Bucket Filler Blueprint" that comes in handy when training your pet! While using a simple metaphor of a bucket and a dipper, author Carol McCloud illustrates that when we choose to be kind, we not only fill the buckets of those around us, but also fill our OWN bucket! Conversely, when we choose to say or do mean things, we are dipping into buckets. All day long, we are either filling up or dipping into each other's buckets by what we say and what we do. When you're a bucket filler, you make the world a better place to be! Have You Filled a Bucket Today?: A Guide to Daily Happiness for Kids: https://www.amazon.com/Have-Filled-Bucket-Today-Bucketfilling/dp/099609993X/ref=sr_1_3?crid=2403ERDD211CP&keywords=the+bucket+filler&qid=1679678526&sprefix=the+bucket+filler%2Caps%2C170&sr=8-3

Liz Murdoch, Animal Communicator, Owner of Talking With The Dogs, discusses her specialty particularly talking with dogs through animal communication and what you can do to become an animal communicator yourself! "Understanding & being connected is essential to maintaining a happy, healthy relationship with your dog... and makes a difference with humans too!" Liz Murdoch Do you want to know what your pet is trying to tell you? Schedule your Animal Talk Service here: https://talkingwiththedogs.com/

They’re hiding in plain sight. People who are really good at influencing the behavior of those around them walk among us. The people in question are dog trainers, and they know how to get others to do what they want them to do and how to get them to stop doing things that bother them. Most importantly, they know how to do it in a kind, loving way that can improve the relationships they have with those other individuals. What dog trainers do is based on principles, ideas, and techniques that are well-known in their field, but not so well-known outside of it. Dog trainers know how to teach dogs to turn around and come running to them even if the dog was chasing a squirrel, to drop a bone on request, and to greet people at the door politely instead of jumping up on every visitor. If they can successfully teach these skills and many more to another species, don’t you want to know what they know about influencing behavior? Dr. Karen London has been a dog trainer and canine behaviorist for nearly 25 years, and applying the lessons from her professional experience to the rest of her life has made her interactions with people better and more effective. The suggestion to treat everyone like a dog is a result of the love and respect she feels for people. Treating people as good dog trainers treat dogs is a thoughtful, kind approach to influencing behavior whether you call it teaching or training. What if you could influence people as well as dog trainers influence dogs? You can, and Treat Everyone Like a Dog tells you how. Inside you will discover: •A great way to stop your coworkers from complaining incessantly •Techniques to keep young kids from grabbing candy and gum in the checkout line •That using play is a powerful way to get your spouse to clean up •How to change your roommate’s Monday-morning grumpiness into more cheerful feelings •The reason asking people certain types of questions will influence their behavior to your benefit Treat Everyone Like a Dog will make you laugh, make you think, and motivate you to act. It discusses—in plain English—dog training principles and explains how to apply them more broadly. It’s an entertaining read that includes loads of real-life examples. Inspiring, funny and incredibly practical, this book will change the way you interact with the people around you and improve your relationships with them. Find the book here: https://www.amazon.com/Treat-Everyone-Like-Dog-Trainers/dp/1952960002

Dog and cat lovers will tell you, pet anxiety is a real thing. Fortunately, pet stress is a subject that has been getting more attention in recent years. Now Brandi Music, offered by Easy On Hold, has received Fear Free® certification for its streaming music channel designed to reduce anxiety. With the development of the Brandi Music Pet Care channel, pet care professionals now have a source of legal, licensed background music designed to ease pet anxiety. Check them out here: https://easyonhold.com/blog/calming-music-for-pets/

Service Dog Positive Reinforcement Dog Trainer, Kasey Nash, discusses the differences between a service dog, therapy dog, and emotional support animal as well as what really goes into service dog training. If you are considering getting a service dog that is already trained or training a service dog yourself, this podcast is for you! Bergin University: https://www.berginu.edu/ Joyful Paws Service Dogs: https://joyfulpawsservicedogs.com/ Americans With Disabilities Act (ADA): https://www.ada.gov/resources/service-animals-2010-requirements/

In todays episode, we talk with Julie Hill from Dog Cast Radio! She has been podcasting since 1995 and tells us about some of her fun guests. DogCast Radio is a podcast all about dogs. We’ve been going since 2005, and have covered a lot of dog related subjects. We publish an episode every month, and have 264 episodes available online, all free to download. It all came about because of Julie and Jenny’s love of dogs, and habit of falling into conversation with countless other dog owners, coupled with Anthony’s technical knowledge and computer skills. And thanks also to a Black Labrador called Buddy who joined the family and opened the dog world up to us. We love dogs, and we love learning about them. Sharing that joy and knowledge is a passion, and feedback from listeners has been wonderful. So what kind of things can you listen to on DogCast Radio? How long do you have? The following is just a taster of the smorgasbord of doggy delights. But if by any chance you don’t find the subject you’re looking for in one of our shows, let us know and we’ll get right onto it. Listen here: https://dogcastradio.com/

In todays episode, we talk with Clarissa Black, founder of Pets For Vets (https://www.petsforvets.com/), about her background and WHY + HOW she started Pets For Vets. She also tells us where you can FIND these trainers and HOW you can GET INVOLVED! At Pets For Vets they help develop the relationships between animals and veterans based on mutual trust and respect helping veterans find pets that fit their lifestyle so both can feel seen, heard and to build the superbond between pets and people where all needs are met! You can find their success stories here https://petsforvets.com/matches

In todays episode, we talk with Trick McMillan from The Shelter Behavior Hub! She shares with us how she got started working for shelters, the changes she has seen in the shelters throughout her career and struggles they commonly deal with. Keep listening to learn more on how you can help!

In todays episode, we talk with Dr. Lisa Radosta, DVM, DACVB, (https://drlisaradosta.com/) about how she became a behaviorist and why she loves her career! We also talk about the common behavior change trends since COVID-19 in 2020, seeing medication use increase for specific behaviors + why medication is important when working with a fearful dog.

In todays episode, we talk with Judy Moore from Canine Behavior Counseling, LLC (https://caninebehaviorcounseling.com/) about arousal in dogs and how it can be genetic. She provides tips on what you can do when your dog is overly aroused, how resilience affects the ability to change or modify arousal, the differences between the different types of arousal and a dogs ability to process information as well as skills owners should teach their puppy to prevent arousal!

In todays episode, Shannon Riley talks with Erika Austin From Dogwise (https://www.dogwise.com/) about how this small family run business got started and how you can find the most trusted and up to date source of information for dog training. These books are easy to understand and to apply to your everyday life. If you really want to learn about dog training, visit dogwise here: https://www.dogwise.com

In todays episode, we discuss what appropriate play looks like, what signs to look for when resource guarding and what really motives your puppy!

In todays episode, we talk with Sarah Owings about how she got started working with and training cows! We also discuss what she learned when training cows about herself and animals. About Sarah Owings: Sarah Owings is a Karen Pryor Academy Certified Training Partner. She specializes in the practical application of behavioral principles to help transform the lives of fearful, shut down, and over-the-top dogs. As the owner of Bridges Dog Training, an international speaker, and a regular contributor to online training forums, she is known for her innovative approaches to tough behavior problems and her compassionate and insightful teaching. She has written for Clean Run Magazine on topics such as stimulus control, release cues, and toy-related cues, and serves as faculty at ClickerExpo, an instructor for Karen Pryor Academy, and an advisor to the Glendale Humane Society in Los Angeles. She is also an avid nose work competitor, currently competing at the Elite level with her dog, Tucker. She recently moved from Los Angeles to San Rafael, CA with her two dogs, two geriatric rabbits, and her husband Fred.

In todays episode, we talk with Amy Pike, DVM, Veterinary Behaviorist, Owner of Animal Behavior Wellness Center about how behaviorist, general veterinarians, vet techs and animal trainers can work together to help anxious pets! Amy explains what a veterinary behaviorist is and how she got started in the veterinary behaviorist field. Her team approach can help animals who suffer from the following; General anxiety Separation anxiety Aggression toward:​ Strangers Family members Children Other dogs/cats Wildlife Moving objects Destructive behaviors Mouthing and nipping Self-mutilation, barbering High energy/difficulty relaxing Distress during veterinary procedures Inappropriate urination and defecation Obsessive behaviors like chasing lights Fearfulness, hiding, and anti-social behavior Find out more about Amy Pike here: https://www.abwellnesscenter.com/team/-------amy-l.-pike%2C-dvm%2C-dacvb%2C-iaabc-cdbc

In this episode of Backyard Pet Talk, Shannon Riley chats with multi-talented author and paddleboarding enthusiast Scott Graham. Scott shares how he got into standup paddleboarding (SUP), why he started training his dogs to join him, and the unique steps he took to teach them safely and confidently. You'll hear about his inspiring background, his approach to dog training on the water, and his latest book all about SUP with dogs. Plus, Scott offers practical tips for anyone ready to try paddleboarding with their pup! You can find Scott’s book and follow his work on Instagram https://gscottgraham.com/book/sup-with-your-pup

In this episode of Backyard Pet Talk, host Shannon Riley sits down with Fernando Sandoval from State Farm to answer one of the most common questions pet owners have: Do I really need pet insurance? As veterinary costs continue to rise, more people are looking into how to protect their pets—and their wallets. Fernando breaks down how State Farm partners with Trupanion, what their pet insurance covers, and how easy it is to get started (hint: you don’t even need to be a State Farm customer!). ✅ Why pet insurance is becoming more important ✅ What State Farm offers and who it's for ✅ How to get a quote and what to expect ✅ Answers to common questions pet parents have Whether you're a new pet parent or just trying to plan ahead, this episode is packed with useful info to help you make a smart decision for your four-legged family members.

This week on the podcast, we’re thrilled to share a conversation that’s as heartwarming as a kitten curled up in a sunbeam. We sat down with Kat, the visionary behind a brand-new cat café that’s more than just a cute concept—it’s a bold entrepreneurial leap powered by passion, purpose, and plenty of purrs. Starting a business is never easy, and as a woman navigating the world of small business ownership, Kat brings honesty, creativity, and courage to the journey. From building a welcoming space where people can relax with adoptable cats, to launching unique merch and time-based cat-cuddle sessions, she’s truly crafting something special for the community. In this episode, we talk: How Kat turned her dream into reality The challenges (and joys!) of opening a cat café Why supporting women-owned businesses matters What’s next for the café—including sneak peeks at merch and experiences And of course... so much cat talk

In today's special episode, we talk with Zazie Todd, PHD, about some scientific studies; some dogs are harder to train than others, adolescent dogs have more issues than puppies, the puppy blues thing! If you would like to donate to Ripple Animal Effect Project, please use this link: https://www.clover.com/pay-widgets/45e53cea-3d70-4757-a404-fabcaf9b33ed Zazie Todd, PhD, is an animal behavior expert and the award-winning author of Wag: The Science of Making Your Dog Happy, Purr: The Science of Making Your Cat Happy, and Bark! The Science of Helping Your Anxious, Fearful, or Reactive Dog. She is the creator of Companion Animal Psychology blog, has a column at Psychology Today, and is an adjunct professor at Canisius University. She has a PhD in Psychology, an Advanced Certificate of Feline Behavior (with Distinction) from International Cat Care and is an honors graduate of the Academy for Dog Trainers. Originally from Leeds, UK, she now lives near Vancouver, Canada, with her husband, a dog and a cat. Website: https://www.companionanimalpsychology.com/ Podcast: https://thepawsitivepostinconversation.buzzsprout.com Substack: https://zazietodd.substack.com/ Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/zazietodd.bsky.social Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/companionanimalpsychology Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/zazietodd/ SOME DOGS ARE HARDER TO TRAIN THAN OTHERS: - Researchers investigated which kinds of dog will struggle to learn a new behavior. They picked a hand-touch. - Older dogs were more likely to fail, likely due to lack of attention to guardian - Dogs who were used to being trained with food rewards were less likely to fail, compared to dogs used to being trained with non-edible rewards (play or praise) - Owner experience and knowledge of training helped - They did not teach the hand touch how we would. It’s easy. We can talk about the benefits of teaching it. ADOLESENT DOGS HAVE MORE ISSUES THAN PUPPIES: - A study from Generation Pup that studied dogs through the first year of life from being acquired as a new puppy to 12 months of age - At each time-point, dogs were more likely to have a behavior issue, reaching 41% of them by 12 months of age - Although some dog guardians used only reward-based methods, most used a mix of rewards and aversives - As dogs got older, people were more likely to switch to include more aversives - People need more help with their adolescent dog and info on how to use reward-based methods THE PUPPY BLUES THING: - This is something that people often talk about but had hardly been studied until last year - Researchers developed a scale to assess the puppy blues - There are 3 main areas: Frustration; Anxiety; Weariness - 24% of people surveyed said they regretted getting a puppy - Of course, things change with time! - We can recommend going to puppy class! REFERENCES: Azadian, A., & Protopopova, A. (2025). Factors Influencing a Hand-touch Learning Task Outcome in the Domestic Dog (Canis lupus familiaris). Applied Animal Behaviour Science, 106522. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.applanim.2025.106522 Owczarczak-Garstecka, S. C., Casey, R. A., Cooper, B., Da Costa, R. E., Kinsman, R. H., Lord, M. S., ... & Murray, J. K. (2025). Association between training methods and owner-reported problem behaviours in dogs enrolled in the ‘Generation Pup’longitudinal study in the UK. Journal of Veterinary Behavior, 77, 52-60. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jveb.2024.10.001 Ståhl, A., Salonen, M., Hakanen, E., Mikkola, S., Sulkama, S., Lahti, J., & Lohi, H. (2024). Development and validation of the puppy blues scale measuring temporary affective disturbance resembling baby blues. npj Mental Health Research, 3(1), 27. https://www.nature.com/articles/s44184-024-00072-z

In today's special episode, we talk with Zazie Todd, PHD, about some scientific studies; some dogs are harder to train than others, adolescent dogs have more issues than puppies, the puppy blues thing! If you would like to donate to Ripple Animal Effect Project, please use this link: https://www.clover.com/pay-widgets/45e53cea-3d70-4757-a404-fabcaf9b33ed Zazie Todd, PhD, is an animal behavior expert and the award-winning author of Wag: The Science of Making Your Dog Happy, Purr: The Science of Making Your Cat Happy, and Bark! The Science of Helping Your Anxious, Fearful, or Reactive Dog. She is the creator of Companion Animal Psychology blog, has a column at Psychology Today, and is an adjunct professor at Canisius University. She has a PhD in Psychology, an Advanced Certificate of Feline Behavior (with Distinction) from International Cat Care and is an honors graduate of the Academy for Dog Trainers. Originally from Leeds, UK, she now lives near Vancouver, Canada, with her husband, a dog and a cat. Website: https://www.companionanimalpsychology.com/ Podcast: https://thepawsitivepostinconversation.buzzsprout.com Substack: https://zazietodd.substack.com/ Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/zazietodd.bsky.social Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/companionanimalpsychology Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/zazietodd/ SOME DOGS ARE HARDER TO TRAIN THAN OTHERS: - Researchers investigated which kinds of dog will struggle to learn a new behavior. They picked a hand-touch. - Older dogs were more likely to fail, likely due to lack of attention to guardian - Dogs who were used to being trained with food rewards were less likely to fail, compared to dogs used to being trained with non-edible rewards (play or praise) - Owner experience and knowledge of training helped - They did not teach the hand touch how we would. It’s easy. We can talk about the benefits of teaching it. ADOLESENT DOGS HAVE MORE ISSUES THAN PUPPIES: - A study from Generation Pup that studied dogs through the first year of life from being acquired as a new puppy to 12 months of age - At each time-point, dogs were more likely to have a behavior issue, reaching 41% of them by 12 months of age - Although some dog guardians used only reward-based methods, most used a mix of rewards and aversives - As dogs got older, people were more likely to switch to include more aversives - People need more help with their adolescent dog and info on how to use reward-based methods THE PUPPY BLUES THING: - This is something that people often talk about but had hardly been studied until last year - Researchers developed a scale to assess the puppy blues - There are 3 main areas: Frustration; Anxiety; Weariness - 24% of people surveyed said they regretted getting a puppy - Of course, things change with time! - We can recommend going to puppy class! REFERENCES: Azadian, A., & Protopopova, A. (2025). Factors Influencing a Hand-touch Learning Task Outcome in the Domestic Dog (Canis lupus familiaris). Applied Animal Behaviour Science, 106522. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.applanim.2025.106522 Owczarczak-Garstecka, S. C., Casey, R. A., Cooper, B., Da Costa, R. E., Kinsman, R. H., Lord, M. S., ... & Murray, J. K. (2025). Association between training methods and owner-reported problem behaviours in dogs enrolled in the ‘Generation Pup’longitudinal study in the UK. Journal of Veterinary Behavior, 77, 52-60. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jveb.2024.10.001 Ståhl, A., Salonen, M., Hakanen, E., Mikkola, S., Sulkama, S., Lahti, J., & Lohi, H. (2024). Development and validation of the puppy blues scale measuring temporary affective disturbance resembling baby blues. npj Mental Health Research, 3(1), 27. https://www.nature.com/articles/s44184-024-00072-z

In this podcast episode of Backyard Pet Talk, host Shannon Riley welcomes Deassa Benstock, the founder of the Ripple Effect Animal Project, a dog rescue in Napa, California. Shannon and Deassa have known each other for a long time, having worked together as vet techs. Deassa shares her journey into animal rescue, which started in college when she rescued a fearful dog with many issues. This experience led her to connect with Bad Rap, an organization in Oakland, and sparked her passion for rescue work. They discuss how people can help, including through social media, donations, and financial support, which allows organizations like Ripple Effect to continue their efforts in helping more animals Find out more about Ripple Effect Animal Project Here: https://rippleeffectnapa.rescuegroups.org/ Donate Here: https://rippleeffectnapa.rescuegroups.org/info/donate View Podcast Episode on YouTube here: https://youtu.be/pGFOFT6z23U

In today's paw-some episode, we’re chatting with Affordable Pet Labs about their tail-wagging journey—how they got started, why they’re on a mission to make pet wellness easier, and what every pet parent really needs to know to keep those furry friends healthy and happy! About Affordable Pet Labs: Affordable Pet Labs was founded by two passionate veterinarians with a shared vision: to revolutionize access to pet diagnostics and wellness. Frustrated by the barriers pet parents faced in obtaining quality care, they set out to create a solution that brought lab work and health monitoring directly to homes. Driven by a commitment to convenience, affordability, and accuracy, they established Affordable Pet Labs to ensure every pet could receive the best care possible, right where they feel most comfortable. Find Out More about Affordable Pet Labs here: https://affordablepetlabs.com/

In today's episode, we talk with Misti Soo Hoo, RVT, instructor at Ojai School of Canine Massage about how she got started with canine massage, the benefits, fun tips on how pet owners can help their pets by doing massage at home! You can find Misti Soo Hoo here: https://ojaischoolofmassage.com/

In this episode of Backyard Pet Talk, Shannon Riley sits down with renowned animal behaviorist and author Kathy Sdao to explore one of the most fundamental—and often misunderstood—concepts in training: cues. From dolphins to dogs, Kathy shares her journey and explains how cues are more than commands—they’re invitations for communication. Whether you're a pet parent or professional trainer, this episode is packed with insight and inspiration. Stay curious! Connect with Kathy Sdao: https://www.kathysdao.com/ You can find Kathy Sdao’s book, “Plenty in Life is Free – Reflection on Dogs, Training and Finding Grace, here: https://www.dogwise.com/plenty-in-life-is-free-reflections-on-dogs-training-and-finding-grace/?srsltid=AfmBOorlLVURvvgq8giyZX870h4z1DwsCOkD8ucFKM1ZMVpJ7ONdtkmf

Join Shannon Riley as she sits down with renowned positive reinforcement trainer Terry Ryan, founder of Legacy Canine Behavior & Training and pioneer of the famous Chicken Camp workshops. Terry shares her journey from training an energetic German Shepherd in the 1960s to becoming a leader in force free dog training, authoring multiple books, and helping trainers around the world sharpen their skills through chicken training. Together, Shannon and Terry discuss the evolution of dog training, the surprising lessons chickens can teach trainers about timing and communication, and why continuing education and open mindedness are essential for anyone working with animals. Terry also reflects on her books, her work with Karen Pryor and other influential trainers, and her passion for helping both dogs and people succeed through positive reinforcement.

In this episode of Backyard Pet Talk, Shannon Riley interviews Michael Shikashio, an aggressive dog expert and founder of aggressivedog.com. Michael shares his journey from working in other industries to becoming a dog trainer after fostering dogs with behavioral challenges. He highlights how aggression in dogs is often a result of fear or discomfort, and stresses the importance of using positive reinforcement over aversive techniques. Michael discusses the role of culture in dog behavior, the significance of understanding a dog's emotional state, and the importance of empathy and communication in handling aggression. He also touches on the use of technology, such as devices that monitor dogs' health, to better understand underlying issues that might contribute to aggressive behavior. The episode wraps up with advice for trainers and dog owners on managing aggression, stressing the importance of seeking professional help, considering a dog's health, and understanding the context of the aggressive behavior. Check our Michael Shikkashio's website here: https://aggressivedog.com/

In this episode of Backyard Pet Talk, Shannon Riley sits down with legendary animal behaviorist, author, and speaker Patricia McConnell to talk about her very first work of fiction, Away to Me. After decades of helping people understand dogs through science and compassion, Patricia shares what led her to write a novel—and how a lifetime of real-life dog behavior shaped the story. Set against the backdrop of rural Wisconsin, Away to Me weaves together dogs, loss, resilience, and truth, with canine characters portrayed as honestly and thoughtfully as the humans who love them. From her early days as a dog trainer to becoming a leading voice in applied animal behavior, Patricia reflects on her journey, her writing process, and the responsibility of telling dogs’ stories authentically. Whether you’re a longtime fan, a dog lover, or a reader curious about fiction rooted in real experience, this conversation is thoughtful, warm, and deeply engaging.

In this episode of Backyard Pet Talk, host Shannon Riley welcomes veterinarian, author, and animal welfare advocate Dr. Nancy Kay. Dr. Kay shares her lifelong passion for animals, her more than 40-year career in veterinary medicine, and her path into writing and animal welfare advocacy. The conversation explores her influential books, Speaking for Spot and her newest release, A Dog Named 647, along with her early blogging days. Shannon and Dr. Kay discuss the importance of giving animals a voice, the evolution of veterinary care, and Dr. Kay’s ongoing commitment to animal welfare and client education. Check out Dr. Nancy Kay's new book, "A Dog Names 647", here: https://www.amazon.com/Dog-Named-647-Nancy-Kay/dp/B0FDS138LS More from Dr. Nancy Kay: Website - Dr. Nancy Kay Substack - kayn.substack.com Other Books! - General 2 — Dr. Nancy Kay

In this episode of Backyard Pet Talk, host Shannon Riley welcomes back canine behaviorist, dog trainer, and author Karen London to discuss her newest book, My Dog’s Mystery Adventures and Other Stories From a Canine Behaviorist and Dog Trainer. Karen shares insights into her background in training, behavior, and science, and explains how the book reflects all sides of her work—from canine body language and play to shelter dogs, real-life problem solving, and everyday adventures with dogs. The two discuss how the deep emotional connections between people and dogs, focusing on how experiences like trauma, infertility, and abuse draw many individuals to work with animals. Karen shares personal stories about healing through dogs, the compassion that shapes the dog-care community, and the meaningful, human stories behind her books—including the real dogs who inspired the cover! Click here to check out Karen London's new book, "My Dog’s Mystery Adventures and Other Stories from a Canine Behaviorist and Dog Trainer": https://www.amazon.com/My-Dogs-Mystery-Adventure-Behaviorist/dp/1952960045

In todays episode, we talk with pet parent, Karen Sullivan, about Carlie, her adopted reactive dog who suffered from fear and anxiety.

In todays episode, we talk with Companion Animal Psychologist, Zazie Todd! She started Companion Animal Psychology in 2012 to explore the ways in which science can help us to have happier cats and dogs. Check out her books Below! Purr The Science of Making Your Cat Happy: https://www.amazon.com/Purr-Science-Making-Your-Happy/dp/1778400795/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=1689962157&sr=8-4 Wag: The Science of Making Your Dog Happy https://www.amazon.com/Wag-Science-Making-Your-Happy/dp/177164379X/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=1689962204&sr=8-1

When compassion meets action, lives truly change — for both people and their pets. In this powerful episode, we welcome back Diane, founder of KARE (Kitsap Animal Rescue and Education), to share her incredible journey from corporate trainer to passionate dog behaviorist, rescuer, and advocate for families in crisis. Diane takes us behind the scenes of HOPE, a groundbreaking co-sheltering program in Washington State that allows individuals and families experiencing homelessness or escaping domestic violence to stay safely with their beloved animals. For so many, pets are family — a source of comfort, safety, and unconditional love — yet traditional shelters often force people to make the heartbreaking choice between protection and companionship. HOPE changes that. Through empathy, trust-building, and an understanding of both human and canine behavior, Diane and her team are proving that compassion and structure can coexist. You’ll hear moving stories of resilience — including people who say this program quite literally saved their lives — and learn how KARE and HOPE are creating a model that communities across the country can follow. From training rescue dogs to building systems of compassion, Diana will inspire anyone who believes in the human-animal bond.

In todays episode, we talk with Co-Author Jan Jeremias about her book "SpOil Your Pet: A Practical Guild to Using Essential Oils in Dogs and Cats" and how using the right essential oils can help your pet! Check out her book here: https://www.amazon.com/SpOil-Your-Pet-Practical-Essential/dp/1951044231