Barks from the Bookshelf – Details, episodes & analysis

Hey there Bookshelvers! 

A midweek podcast extra!? What’s going on? Well…we’re going off piste a little today but with good reason. 

Many of you may know that there is a lot of division within the dog training industry (what’s new we hear you cry). Lately there has been a call for unity and a call for people with different training styles, ethics and core beliefs to come together and talk it out for the good of the dogs and humans. Here at PACT headquarters we thought we would record an episode talking through some of key points that are being debated and, more importantly, what we think about the question of unity and whether or not, we feel having these conversations/debates is useful. 

We decided to predominantly record this for our PACT members and, of course, for anyone else that is listening that is a professional in the dog training industry, has an interest in becoming a dog trainer in the future or just loves dogs and wants what is best for them and their guardians moving forward. Having become directors of one of the training organisations that seem to be looked down upon in these discussions we thought we should go on the record and fight the good fight for animal welfare, wellbeing and ethics. 

I would imagine that most of our listeners are pretty clear on where our ethical standards are. Those who listen will also have a good idea of what the science, especially welfare sciences, are informing us about the use of aversive methods on ALL individuals. So although we thought we’d discuss these topics this certainly isn’t a bridge to try to combine our ethical approach with one that we do not support. On top of that we are also individuals with different takes on different things so we really hope you enjoy this episode. Topics we cover include: 

·       What does regulation mean to us?

·       What are ethics vs morals and how should that inform the decisions we make when interacting with animals?

·       Is there an issue with a lack of practical training being offered by organisations. Is the landscape too theoretical?

·       Should we have discussions between camps?

·       Gish gallop & unfair debating tactics we see

·       Time it takes to train purely positively 

·       Boundaries. Where are the lines in the sand?

·       What makes an excellent trainer?

We have titled this talk “Le Chat Part un” I hope this is taken in the good hearted and tongue in cheek way it is intended and we have more to talk about so let us know if you’d be up for us recording a “Le Chat Part Deux” and we’ll get on it.

Join us this week Bookshelvers for a special episode with our BFF from across the pond Melissa McCue McGrath! There's SO much love we have for Melissa and we were thrilled to catch up with her to talk about everything that's happened between her last appearance and now (including her triumphant DOGx talk in 2023). Full of laughs and love we hope you'll enjoy this informal catch up. Slight trigger warning if you don't feel like hearing a story about a (narrowly avoided) septic tank disaster is Corrin and Steve's garden you might want to skip a little bit of this. As for those robust listeners... You're welcome! 

Hey Hey Hey Bookshelvers!

We hope this podcast finds your eyes well :) We have a treat in store today for you listeners. We are talking to the wonderful Ryan Dillon who will be presenting at this years DOGx 2024. We chat all things dog research, how to work in a team, self reflection and a bit of bakery to make us all hungry. Nat, Corrin and Steve also talk through what they thought of the recent APBC conference. Hope you all enjoy!

Ryan Facts:

Ryan is the owner of Oxfordshire Animal Behaviour and Training (OABT) and has worked with over 1,000 clients and their pets. Because of his enthusiastic and upbeat approach to teaching, he often leads the puppy classes which have gained popularity around Abingdon. Ryan also takes on behaviour consultation cases with Charlotte, runs OABT’s behaviour rehab training sessions and produces tutorial videos and handouts for clients. His empathetic and supportive approach makes Ryan popular amongst his clients.

Ryan is a qualified dog trainer with the Professional Association of Canine Trainers (PACT) and a recognised animal training instructor with the Animal Behaviour and Training Council (ABTC). He is currently recognised as a pre-certified clinical animal behaviourist with the Association for the Study of Animal Behaviour (ASAB) and a candidate member of the Fellowship of Animal Behaviour Clinicians. He is working towards full membership of both organisations (certified clinical animal behaviourist and full member, respectively).

Ryan earned a distinction in the BSc(hons) Animal Behaviour and Welfare degree at Oxford Brookes University in 2019 and a distinction in the Clinical Animal Behaviour Master’s degree at the University of Lincoln in 2020. He plans to start a PhD in Animal Behaviour and Cognition in the next few years.

Alongside running OABT, Ryan is also a lecturer at Oxford Brookes University and Abingdon and Witney College, teaching on the animal behaviour-related degrees. He is also a tutor and assessor at PACT, whereby he teaches and supports students on their journey to becoming qualified dog trainers.

Link to buy DOGx tickets: https://www.pact-dogs.com/dogx2024/

Link to sign up to PACT Lunches: https://www.pact-dogs.com/

Link to FREE Canine Body Language course: https://pact-course.thinkific.com/courses/PACTtastercourse

BRACE YOURSELVES BOOKSHELVERS... FOR THE APOCALYPSE COMETH!

Well that's not strictly true BUT what if it did? What if a cataclysmic event wiped us hoomans off the face of the earth and left our dogs to fend for themselves without us? What would happen??? This is the premise of the wonderful book "A Dog's World" written by returning guest Jessica Pierce and co-authored with Marc Bekoff. We always say that BFTBS is NOT a review show, it's a recommends show and Nat and Steve couldn't recommend this book enough. A fascinating topic and super clever premise that opens up a world of learning about our canid companions. Not only do we delve deep into this topic with Jessica herself, we also talk about our presence and experience at Crufts, sagittal crests, dog bed addiction and answers some bloomin' wonderful bookshelver questions. We also have a very special "Story Time With Steve" section at the end all about Steve's recent trip to Crete where he befriended a free roaming dog called Bella. Put it in your head dog lovers! 

Sign up to recieve our "PACT LUNCHES": https://www.pact-dogs.com/

Book a spot at DOGX 2024 and meet us in person: https://www.pact-dogs.com/dogx2024

HEY, HEY, HEY BOOKSHELVERS! You're going to want to get this episode in your eardrums like a man trailing Bloodhound vacuums scent into their nostrils!

Not only is Tamsin Durston... 1. A returning guest... 2. An all round wonderful human being... 3. An excellent writer who has authored an excellent book we all need in our lives... But on top of ALL this Tamsin is a confirmed speaker at this years DOGX conference! Tamsin talks all things well-being in this in depth and fascinating episode which is a must for all dog professionals and anyone looking to be kind to themselves and those around them.

As well as all the usual segments we use to delve into Tam's book, Nat, Corrin and Steve also spend far too long discussing whether the eye is a part of the brain, Jay's best joke ever, the etymology of the phrase "your toast" and other standard "Barks from" madness.  So pull up a chair, rub a dog and submerge your earholes.

Tamsin Facts:

Tam is a Registered Veterinary Nurse, Clinical Animal Behaviourist, and accredited Dog Training Instructor with 27 years experience working predominantly for Blue Cross and Dogs Trust. She has also undertaken an MSc in Human Behaviour Change, in order to underpin animal welfare activity with evidenced behavioural science, and is currently studying for an MSc in Human-Animal Interaction and Wellbeing. Employed full-time as Dogs Trust’s Veterinary Intervention Development Manager, Tam leads a team working to embed canine behavioural principles within veterinary practice. This commitment includes steering the Dog Friendly Clinic initiative to optimise veterinary care provision for dogs, owners, and veterinary teams alike. As well as providing emotional support for animals, Tam is keen to optimise human workplace mental and emotional health and has researched and authored a book, ‘Emotional Well-being for the Animal Welfare Professional’.     

Link to Tamsin's book: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Emotional-Well-being-Welfare-Professionals-Concise/dp/1789247799

Link to register interest in DOGX 2024: https://www.pact-dogs.com/dogx2024/

Well slobber us up like a St. Bernard's dinner Bookshelvers!

Another returning guest this week at Barks from Headquarters! Corrin and Steve are joined by the amazing Andrew Hale to talk through LOADS and LOADS of great stuff.

We delve into the Crufts conundrum, helpful tips on coaching guardians, how to care for yourself in the sector and how we can apply a 'dog-centric' approach to training with a firm eyeball on the individual experience (of all the beings involved).

Big topics indeed (with a little Dolly Parton and road rage stories thrown in for good measure). On top of all that we hear how primal screaming therapy helped Corrin and Steve overcome the Tuesday jitters and try to come to the bottom of why Corrin can't stop saying Howdy doody!?!?!

We love chatting to Andrew and hope you Bookshelvers will feel as refreshed and invigorated as us after listening.

Andy Facts:

Andrew Hale BSc, ISCP.Dip.Canine.Prac is a Certified Canine Behaviourist. He is the behaviour consultant for Pet Remedy, and proud to be an expert advisor for Canine Arthritis Management and a Kids Around Dogs Trainer. He also works to support many dog welfare and rescue organisation.
With a background in Human Psychology, Andrew is passionate about exploring the emotional experience that lies behind behaviour, both in dogs and the humans around them.
Andrew has played a leading role in the UK Dog training and behaviour community, having been the chair of the Association of INTODogs, and was the driving force behind the UK Dog Behaviour and Training Charter.
In 2020, Andrew started Dog Centred Care (https://www.facebook.com/groups/dogcc) which focusses on supporting a dog led, emotionally centred, approach to providing the best care and support for dogs and their caregivers. On this platform, he has been hosting on-line conversations with some of the world’s leading scientists, researchers, trauma experts, dog professionals and veterinarians.  
Andrew has been invited to speak at many of the leading behaviour conferences and has presented at esteemed events such as the London Vet Show and the Association of Cats and Dogs conference. Andrew has also appeared on many of the leading podcasts and been invited to write for leading publications.

For more info on PACT, DogX or to join our mailing list go to: www.pact-dogs.com

BOOM BOOM BOOKSHELVERS! Nat & Steve are back for another show and this week we are talking to the amazing Stephanie Rousseau about her wonderful book HOW TO RAISE A PUPPY: A Dog-centric Approach which she co-authored with the legendary Turid Rugaas. This really is a  wonderful book for dog professionals and care givers alike. We delve deep into all the things we love about the book as well as an fun and informative interview with Steph about insights into the book and the process of writing. We also answer the Bookshelvers questions, ponder the hazards of leaving handbrakes off AND challenge everyone to use two words in an everyday sentence. So sit back grab a coffee and bathe your ears in Barks From Banter!!! 

How are you Bookshelvers!?

We are back for another informative, fun packed episode talking all things rescue with the funny, clever and, occasionally, dapper Tom Candy. Tom is yet another amazing speaker appearing at the DOGx conference this year so we thought we better catch up and find out more about him and the important work he does on a daily basis. Little did we know the topic of sea slugs in flamboyant outfits would emerge but far be it for us to avoid a little sluggy tangent. Don't forget to book your spot at DOGx 2023 to come see us all in the flesh as well as hear from some of the best minds in dog training and behaviour.

To grab your ticket follow this link:  https://www.pact-dogs.com/dogx2023

Tom Facts:

Tom Candy is a Senior Training and Behaviour Advisor for the UK's largest dog welfare organisation. Tom is responsible for overseeing the training and behaviour at multiple rehoming centres across the UK. His duties include assessment, management, and behaviour modification.

A passion for animal welfare and training led Tom to undertake a BSc (Hons) in bio-veterinary science, and an MSc in clinical animal behaviour from the University of Lincoln, UK.

Having started volunteering in rescue at the age of 15, Tom has been involved in a variety of aspects of rescue, Since graduating from university, Tom worked as a training and behaviour advisor at DogsTrust, locuming across 7 centres before moving to the senior training and behaviour team.

Tom is a Clinical Animal Behaviourist with the Animal Behaviour and Training Council, a Certified Dog Behavior Consultant and Certified Shelter behaviour specialist with the IAABC as well as a Full CAB member of the APBC.

What's cooking Bookshelvers!?

This episode we are super excited to have the absolutely wonderful Dr Amber Batson joining us. It isn't everyday that you find a personality in the dog world who is both insanely interesting and ridiculously funny! We were thrilled to have Amber agree to talk at last years PACT Connecting Communities Conference, where she was a highlight for everyone who attended. This year Amber is returning to our conference (now rebranded as DOGx) and we know it's going to be just as great (if not better).

To grab your ticket follow this link:  https://www.pact-dogs.com/dogx2023

Amber facts:

Dr Amber Batson graduated from the Royal Veterinary College in 1999. She quickly became very interested in behaviour and undertook a number of qualifications about canine, feline and equine behaviour and welfare. Amber currently works primarily in providing education to owners and professionals in order to improve our understanding of behaviour both to aid our relationships with animals and also to better recognise and address any health/welfare issues. She feels passionately about bridging the gap between up to date science and practical applications of that information. She also continues to work in clinical practice as a behaviourist and as a vet.

Settle in. Grad a beverage and, most importantly, enjoy! 

• Ambers Understand Animals Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/understandanimals/

Good Morning, afternoon or, indeed, evening Bookshelvers!

We have a stonker of an episode for you this week. Nat and Steve have been wanting to talk to the amazing human that is Sindhoor Pangal for a while now and we finally got our wish. Steve took Sindhoors book "Dog knows" on his holidays last year and smashed through it in a few days and since then has waxed lyrical about what a wonderful read it is. In this episode we get to talk to Sindhoor about why it's a dog book with a difference, how her life influences her writing style, how humilty is of the upmost importance, humour, messy conversations and, of course, the world of streeties and the best way we can merge the disciplines of ethology and behaviourism (if at all) for the benefit of all canines. A truly wonderful conversation and well worth your time (If we do say so ourselves... Which we do).

Sindhoor will also be joining us via Zoom at this years DOGx conference book tickets here https://www.pact-dogs.com/dogx2023

Sindhoor facts:

Sindhoor is a canine behaviour consultant, Galen myotherapist, an independent ethology researcher, an engineer by qualification and an educator in Bangalore, India. She is a TEDx speaker, the author of the book, Dog Knows and an independent ethology researcher studying the free-living dogs in India. Sindhoor is the founder of BHARCS. BHARCS offers a UK-accredited level 4 diploma on canine behaviour and ethology and boasts of students from all parts of India and across the globe. Sindhoor is currently pursuing her masters in Anthrozoology from Exeter University (UK).

Settle in. Grad a beverage and, most importantly, enjoy! 

• Sindhoors Tedx talk : https://youtu.be/KLot7DmLKMo 
• Bharcs : www.bharcs.com
• FB : https://www.facebook.com/bharcs
• BLOG : https://bharcsblog.wordpress.com/

Lives of streeties project : www.livesofstreeties.com