Welcome to The Westies & Besties Podcast — the show that celebrates everything wonderful about West Highland White Terriers and the people who adore them!
Hosted by Alex Griffin and Kim Latham, we bring you heartwarming stories, expert advice, and real-life experiences from Westie guardians, breeders, vets, groomers, and rescue heroes around the world. Whether it’s health tips, training insights, hilarious tales of mischief, or inspiring rescue journeys, every episode is packed with Westie love and laughter.
Join us as we shine a spotlight on this cheeky, charming, and endlessly loyal little breed — and the incredible community that surrounds it.
Subscribe and be part of the world wide Westies & Besties family — because life’s simply better with a Westie by your side!
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Données mises à jour le 18/09/2026
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Want to Write a Book? Alison Page Reveals the ONE Thing You Should Do First!
Saison 1 · Épisode 31
jeudi 10 septembre 2026 • Durée 01:05:51
Want to write a book but don’t know where to start?
In this episode of The Westies & Besties Podcast, Alex Griffin chats with author Alison Page, creator of the much-loved Corrie's Capers children's book series, inspired by her beloved Westie, Corrie.
Alison's advice for anyone who has a story inside them is wonderfully simple:
“Put pen to paper.”
Don't worry about making it perfect. Don't worry about having every word in the right order. Don't worry about whether you're good enough.
Just get the ideas out of your head and onto the page.
Alison explains how the refining process comes later, why writers shouldn't be afraid of their abilities, and how connecting with other writers can help along the journey.
She also shares an important lesson about knowing your target audience, something that helped shape the success of Corrie's Capers.
Whether you've always dreamed of writing a children's book, a novel, a memoir, a travel book – or even your own story about your beloved dog – perhaps this is the encouragement you've been waiting for.
What story have you always wanted to write?
Watch, listen and let us know in the comments!
🎙️ The Westies & Besties Podcast - Brought to you by Westies & Besties Magazine
🐾 The Westies & Besties Podcast brings together leading experts, veterinarians, breeders, behaviourists and passionate Westie owners to help you give your Westie the happiest, healthiest life possible. Subscribe for new episodes.
The Ultimate Westie Owner Q&A: Westie Health, Nutrition, Behaviour, Training & More with Host - Alex Griffin
Saison 1 · Épisode 30
mercredi 26 août 2026 • Durée 47:28
What makes Westies so special? Are they really stubborn? What should you know about Westie health, nutrition, behaviour, training and ageing? And why was Westies & Besties created in the first place?
In this special episode of The Westies & Besties Podcast, Alex Griffin steps away from the usual guest format and answers questions submitted by Westie guardians from across the UK and around the world.
From Westie behaviour and training to health, nutrition, gut health, dental care, senior Westies and choosing your first Westie, Alex shares what he has learned through years of living with Westies, researching the breed and building Westies & Besties alongside Kim.
The conversation also explores the story behind Westies & Besties and how one very special Westie, Buffy, became the inspiration behind the UK's only publication dedicated to the West Highland White Terrier.
🐾 The Westies & Besties Podcast brings together leading experts, veterinarians, breeders, behaviourists and passionate Westie owners to help you give your Westie the happiest, healthiest life possible. Subscribe for new episodes.
🐾 Listen. Learn. Stay curious. And give your Westie the best life possible.
Chapters
00:00 – Welcome to a Special Westies & Besties Q&A Why Alex is answering questions from Westie guardians around the world.
01:00 – What Makes Westies Such Special Dogs? Personality, intelligence, loyalty, independence and the famous “Westitude”.
04:50 – The Fascinating History of the West Highland White Terrier Colonel Malcolm, Clan Malcolm and the Scottish roots of the breed.
06:30 – How Do You Train a Stubborn Westie? Positive reinforcement, consistency, patience and understanding the terrier instinct.
How Pumpkin’s Biggest Update Is Changing Everything!
Saison 1 · Épisode 29
mercredi 12 août 2026 • Durée 01:09:18
In this episode, Tammy Fox, Tony Hofstetter, and Alex Griffin discuss the inspiring journey of Pumpkin, the disabled Westie, and the impactful work of the Pumpkin and Friends charity. They explore the success of the Disability Dog Walk, plans for a retreat, and the importance of responsible pet ownership and animal welfare laws.
🐾 Listen to The Westies & Besties Podcast for expert conversations covering Westie health, nutrition, wellbeing, natural care, business and everything that makes our dogs part of the family.
The success of the Disability Dog Walk event and its impact Tammy Fox's vision for a retreat and respite center for disabled animals
The connection between Tony Hofstetter and Pumpkin and its emotional significance
The state of animal welfare laws in the UK and US and the need for stronger legislation
The importance of education and responsible pet ownership for disabled dogs
Plans for expanding the charity's reach internationally and locally
From a Farmer’s Secret Remedy to a Global Animal Health Brand… What Happened Next?
Saison 1 · Épisode 28
jeudi 30 juillet 2026 • Durée 01:12:53
Can nature really provide a different approach to animal health and wellbeing?
In this fascinating episode of The Westies & Besties Podcast, Alex Griffin sits down with Sean Cooney, founder of Botanica International, to discover the story behind a natural health brand that began with farming, traditional remedies and a simple philosophy: go back to nature.
Sean shares how his upbringing on a farm shaped his approach to animal care, and how an unexpected challenge involving a customer’s persistent foot problem led to the creation of what would eventually become Botanica.
From horses and dogs to elephants, Sean explains the thinking behind his natural formulations, why he believes synergy between ingredients is so important, and how listening to customer experiences helped him refine his products over the years.
The conversation also explores Westie skin health, natural versus conventional approaches, non-toxic pet care, prevention, animal wellbeing and the importance of educating pet owners about what they're putting on their animals.
And then there's the incredible story of how Botanica entered the Chinese market despite being told it was a crazy idea.
If you're interested in Westie health, natural pet care, animal wellbeing, herbal products, equine health, dog skin problems and the story behind successful natural health brands, this is an episode you won't want to miss.
🐾 Listen to The Westies & Besties Podcast for expert conversations covering Westie health, nutrition, wellbeing, natural care, business and everything that makes our dogs part of the family.
🔑 Key Takeaways
1. Sometimes the best ideas start with a problem
Botanica's story began when Sean was challenged to find a natural solution for a customer's persistent foot problem—and that unexpected experiment became the beginning of something much bigger.
2. Nature was at the heart of Sean's upbringing
Can Your Dog Really Become a £500,000 Brand? The Truth Every Pet Owner Needs to Hear!
Saison 1 · Épisode 27
mercredi 15 juillet 2026 • Durée 56:41
Could your dog become the next big pet influencer?
In this fascinating episode of The Westies & Besties Podcast, branding expert Will Green (Marketing Made Clear) reveals what really separates successful pet brands from the thousands of accounts that never grow.
You'll discover why some dogs generate hundreds of thousands of followers—and even lucrative brand partnerships—while others struggle to gain traction. From storytelling and consistency to AI, social media algorithms, authenticity, and monetisation, this episode is packed with practical advice for anyone dreaming of building a successful dog brand.
Whether you own a Westie, Labrador, Spaniel, or any other breed, these branding principles apply to every pet owner looking to grow an audience online.
🐾 In this episode you'll learn:
How to build a memorable dog brand from scratch
Why storytelling beats cute photos alone
The biggest branding mistakes most owners make
How social media algorithms really work
How AI is changing content creation
When (and when not) to monetise your audience
The secret ingredient behind every successful pet influencer
Why authenticity will become more valuable than ever
If you've ever wondered whether your dog could become an influencer—or even a business—this episode is a must-watch.
🎧 Subscribe to The Westies & Besties Podcast for expert advice on dog health, behaviour, nutrition, branding, business and everything Westie.
Suggested Chapters
00:00 Can Dogs Really Become a Brand?
01:45 What Is Branding?
Why Coca-Cola Owns Christmas
Is your cleaning routine actually making your Westie itchier?
Saison 1 · Épisode 26
mercredi 1 juillet 2026 • Durée 01:05:17
What if the secret to healthier skin, fresher breath, and calmer ears isn't more cleaning, but the right kind of bacteria? In this episode, Alex sits down with Joe Flanagan, founder of Ingenious Probiotics, to unpack the fascinating world of your dog's microbiome and why wiping out bacteria might be doing more harm than good.
Joe breaks down the difference between prebiotics, probiotics, and postbiotics, explains why antibacterial products can trigger antimicrobial resistance, and reveals the surprising link between household chemicals and conditions like canine atopic dermatitis. He also shares his own experience with Tavati, a natural hibiscus bark oil used for generations in the Cook Islands to support joint mobility and tissue repair, and why he's now bringing it to UK and Irish dog guardians.
From ear infections to itchy skin, carpet chemicals to bedtime routines, this conversation is packed with practical, natural insights every guardian needs to hear.
Tune in and discover how balance, not bleach, could be the key to your dog's wellbeing.
🐾 The Westies & Besties Podcast brings together leading experts, veterinarians, breeders, behaviourists and passionate Westie owners to help you give your Westie the happiest, healthiest life possible. Subscribe for new episodes every week.
The Dog That Changed Animal Welfare Forever | Carolyn Lee
Saison 1 · Épisode 25
mercredi 17 juin 2026 • Durée 57:20
Join us as Carolyn Lee shares her inspiring journey of rescuing Kayla, a Westie from a puppy mill, and her ongoing fight against puppy mills through legislation, advocacy, and community efforts.
Discover how one dog's story can ignite a movement to end animal cruelty and promote responsible pet ownership.
🎥 More videos & Shorts: @WestiesandBestiesTV/shorts
Key topics
Kayla's rescue story from puppy mill Legislation to ban puppy mills in the US Community efforts and fundraising for rescue
The impact of social media in animal advocacy
The importance of responsible pet ownership
Sound bites
"Thanks for making my story matter."
"Kayla's story is a catalyst for change."
"It's an honour to share Kayla's story."
Unlock the Power of Red Light Therapy for Your Dog — Safely and Effectively!
Saison 1 · Épisode 24
mercredi 3 juin 2026 • Durée 54:46
Worried about how to treat your pet with new technology without causing stress or discomfort? Discover simple, proven steps to ensure your dog feels safe before, during, and after red light therapy sessions. Whether you’re a seasoned pet owner or a curious newcomer, learn how to make advanced treatment accessible, effective, and stress-free.
In this episode, we dive into the crucial first step many overlook: consent. Ruth Milner explains how to desensitize your dog to red light devices, minimizing anxiety and ensuring maximum benefit. She shares insights from her experiences working with wildlife, exotics, and domestic pets, revealing why comfort is key to successful therapy. You’ll hear how the latest silent devices make treatment quieter, reducing stress and improving outcomes for your furry friend.
We also explore the nuts and bolts of red light therapy. Ruth breaks down how long treatments should last—like the precise 31-second dose for pain relief—and how to target specific areas like a pro. Whether dealing with injuries like IVDD or general trauma, you’ll discover practical tips that turn a potentially intimidating process into a stress-free routine. Plus, get insider advice on demonstrating this therapy at shows and events, making pet health accessible to everyone.
Failing to prepare your dog for therapy can lead to greater anxiety, less effective healing, and missed opportunities for rapid recovery. On the flip side, understanding these simple techniques offers a chance for faster, more comfortable healing and a calmer pet. If you’re serious about giving your dog the best care possible, this episode is your essential guide.
Perfect for pet owners, veterinarians, and animal lovers eager to incorporate innovative therapy techniques safely. Whether you’re new to red light therapy or looking to refine your approach, this episode equips you with practical, science-backed insights to support your dog’s health confidently. Hit play and unlock the calm, healing power of light — your dog will thank you.
How Three Westies Changed My Life and Inspired My Crime Novels!
Saison 1 · Épisode 23
mardi 28 avril 2026 • Durée 59:45
Join us as we dive into the heartwarming and inspiring journey of Madeleine Eskedahl, a bestselling author whose love for Westies has not only enriched her life but also inspired her gripping crime novels. Discover the secrets behind her dogs' long, happy lives and how a simple change in diet transformed their health. Plus, get a glimpse into her unique life in New Zealand, filled with stories of dogs, penguins, and creativity.
Pumpkin's Journey: A Westie's Fight Against Disability!
Saison 1 · Épisode 22
mardi 14 avril 2026 • Durée 01:06:25
This episode features Tammy Fox sharing the inspiring story of Pumpkin, a disabled Westie who has become a symbol of resilience and compassion. Discover how Pumpkin's journey has led to raising awareness, supporting charities, and transforming lives through innovative animal rehabilitation and charity work.
🐶 Like this video, subscribe, and hit the bell 🔔 to never miss Westie tips, health advice, and dog owner stories! 💬 Comment below with your questions we love hearing from our community! 🔗 Share this video with friends who love Westies and dogs!
🔥Key Topics
Pumpkin's rescue story and disability
The role of wheelchairs and rehabilitation in animal recovery
Tammy Fox's charity work supporting disabled animals
🔥Sound bites
"Six vets to find help for Pumpkin"
"Bond with Pumpkin is like no other"
"Pumpkin as a calming therapy dog"
🔥Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Pumpkin's Journey
01:56 The Adoption Story of Pumpkin
04:58 Overcoming Medical Challenges
09:28 The Role of Community Support
12:24 Pumpkin's Global Impact and Following
15:19 Establishing a Charity for Disabled Animals
19:04 Providing Rehabilitation and Support
20:55 Pumpkin as a Therapy Dog
24:38 Advocacy in Parliament for Disabled Animals
08:40 – Westie Health: What Owners Should Know Skin allergies, digestion, dental health, Westie lung disease, ageing and mobility.
10:30 – Westies, Nutrition & The Gut Microbiome Why gut health, probiotics and prebiotics have become such important topics.
12:00 – Why Was Westies & Besties Created? The story of Buffy and the search for trusted Westie-specific information.
15:00 – From Magazine to Westie Media Network How Westies & Besties has expanded across print, digital, podcast, YouTube and social media.
16:50 – Building a Global Westie Community Why Westies & Besties has grown far beyond the UK.
18:40 – Why Not Just Google Your Westie Question? The importance of trusted, expert-backed and breed-specific information.
21:00 – Caring for a Senior Westie Ageing, mobility, cognitive changes, dental care and supporting older dogs.
23:30 – Are Westies Really Difficult Dogs? Understanding independence, behaviour and what owners can sometimes misunderstand.
25:40 – Thinking About Getting Your First Westie? Breeders, rescues, nutrition, dental care and lessons learned from Buffy.
30:30 – Why Westie Nutrition Matters Conflicting advice, fresh food, raw feeding and the importance of researching your options.
35:15 – How Westies & Besties Chooses Its Topics Listening to Westie owners and finding experts to answer their questions.
40:10 – What Is The Bigger Vision For Westies & Besties? The magazine, website, podcast, YouTube and the future of the Westie community.
42:25 – Is Westies & Besties Becoming A Global Community? Supporting Westie guardians and charities around the world.
The role of social media in raising awareness and support for disabled animals
The emotional and personal stories behind Pumpkin and her supporters
Future events and projects including Pumpfest and Pumpkin's children's book
The importance of community, authenticity, and perseverance in charity work
sound bites
"Pumpkin's story has touched people worldwide"
"Pumpkin has shown me resilience and courage"
"Addressing childhood trauma through Pumpkin's story"
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and guest introductions
01:01:21 The importance of action, authenticity, and community support
01:07:29 Tony’s personal story and the tattoo of Pumpkin
01:14:46 Closing remarks and future outlook
Growing up on a farm gave Sean an early appreciation for natural approaches to caring for animals and people.
3. Synergy is central to his philosophy
Sean explains his belief that ingredients should work together rather than against one another—like multiple horses pulling a cart in the same direction.
4. Customer feedback can shape a product
Sean describes how customers returning with their own experiences helped him continually refine and develop his formulations.
5. Natural animal care isn't limited to one species
The conversation explores applications ranging from horses and dogs to some truly unexpected animals, including elephants.
6. Education is becoming increasingly important
The episode explores how social media and access to information are changing the way pet owners research animal health and wellbeing.
7. Prevention matters
Alex and Sean discuss whether better daily care could help owners take a more preventative approach to common skin issues in dogs.
✅ Don't try to appeal to everyone—find your tribe.
✅ Build trust before trying to monetise your audience.
✅ AI should enhance creativity, not replace authenticity.
✅ The strongest pet brands are built around genuine passion and community.
✅ Focus on becoming interesting—not famous.
🐾 The Westies & Besties Podcast brings together leading experts, veterinarians, breeders, behaviourists and passionate Westie owners to help you give your Westie the happiest, healthiest life possible. Subscribe for new episodes every 2 weeks.
