The Dog Mum – Details, episodes & analysis

In this very first episode of The Dog Mum, Aneka shares her heartfelt journey of transformation through her beloved French Bulldog, Chubbs. She recounts a challenging period in her life marked by severe health issues, anxiety, and depression, during which Chubbs entered her world and became her source of motivation and healing. The episode explores the profound bond between dogs and their owners, highlighting how Chubbs inspired her to reclaim her life and ultimately led her to create the Cuddle Club, where therapy dogs bring joy and comfort to various settings. KEY TAKEAWAYS The journey of healing and personal growth can be significantly influenced by the presence of a pet, as illustrated by the profound impact Chubbs had on the speaker's life during a challenging time. Owning a dog can provide a sense of purpose and motivation, encouraging individuals to engage in activities and routines that promote their well-being, even when they feel unwell or overwhelmed. Aneka transitioned from a career in the entertainment industry to working with therapy dogs, aiming to create positive experiences for others by sharing the joy and comfort that dogs can bring. The podcast will explore the bond between dogs and their owners, highlighting how this relationship can enhance health and happiness, and foster a sense of community among dog lovers. The focus of the podcast is to celebrate the unique bond between dogs and their humans, sharing tips, stories, and advice that emphasise how dogs contribute to making us better individuals. BEST MOMENTS "I honestly believe that Chubbs saved my life and want to dive into what exactly that means and how a dog can save a person's life." "Even on the days when I literally had zero energy, I still had to get up for him." "I wanted to turn my pain into purpose, something positive, and create a space where people could experience what I had with Chubbs." "Every single time, I see the same thing. People light up, they laugh, they relax. They just feel better." "This is about celebrating the bond we have with our dogs and how they honestly make us better humans." ABOUT THE HOST Aneka Johnson, founder of The Cuddle Club and co-founder of London Dog Week, is a purpose-driven entrepreneur and devoted dog mum to her French bulldog, Chubbs. Her journey as a ‘pet-preneur’ began while battling health challenges, anxiety, and depression - until Chubbs changed her life. Aneka now inspires others through her relatable, uplifting approach to dog parenthood and therapy. Under Aneka's guidance, the Cuddle Club has been featured in prominent media outlets like London Live, The Lorraine Show, Forbes, Evening Standard, Marie Claire, Daily Mail, and BBC Radio London. www.thecuddleclubuk.com @anekajohnsonofficial https://www.instagram.com/anekajohnsonofficial/ 

In this episode, Aneka speaks with special guest, Holly, the founder of Teddy Maximus, a luxury dog accessory brand inspired by her beloved dachshund, Teddy. They take a look at Holly's journey as a dog mum and entrepreneur, exploring the origins of her brand, which aims to make life easier for dog parents while ensuring their furry companions can join in on adventures. Holly shares her insights on building a community, the challenges of entrepreneurship, and the joy of creating high-quality, stylish dog accessories. KEY TAKEAWAYS The brand was inspired by the founder's love for her dachshund, Teddy, and the desire to create functional, stylish products that enhance the experience of being a dog parent while allowing for adventures in urban settings. Teddy Maximus emphasises luxury and craftsmanship, sourcing materials from UK artisans and ensuring that products are durable and sustainable, which aligns with the growing consumer demand for responsible pet products. Building a supportive community is crucial for the brand's success. Engaging with customers, listening to their feedback, and fostering relationships both online and offline have been key strategies in growing the brand. The journey of starting and running a business involves overcoming fears, making tough decisions, and maintaining persistence. The founder highlights the importance of staying true to one's values and mission, even during challenging times. Juggling responsibilities as a dog mom, human mom, and entrepreneur requires effective time management and prioritisation. Carving out quality time for family and pets is essential to maintain a healthy work-life balance. BEST MOMENTS "Teddy Maximus is all about fun, luxury British style. The real catalyst to setting up the business was getting my dashing Teddy." "We always say we're about fun, luxury, British style. The thing that makes us different is our attention to detail and the craftsmanship." "You really have to take a chance. You have to listen to your gut and be true to yourself." "I think also that understanding that you have with each other when you have a dog is very special." "It's about creating things that look good in your home too, not having to compromise on style." ABOUT THE HOST Aneka Johnson, founder of The Cuddle Club and co-founder of London Dog Week, is a purpose-driven entrepreneur and devoted dog mum to her French bulldog, Chubbs. Her journey as a ‘pet-preneur’ began while battling health challenges, anxiety, and depression - until Chubbs changed her life. Aneka now inspires others through her relatable, uplifting approach to dog parenthood and therapy. Under Aneka's guidance, the Cuddle Club has been featured in prominent media outlets like London Live, The Lorraine Show, Forbes, Evening Standard, Marie Claire, Daily Mail, and BBC Radio London. www.thecuddleclubuk.com @anekajohnsonofficial https://www.instagram.com/anekajohnsonofficial/ 

In this episode, Aneka chats with fellow dog lover Neil, who shares his heart warming journey as a dog parent to Crumble and Chorizo. They take a look at the joys and challenges of integrating dogs into family life, especially during the pandemic, and the importance of responsible pet ownership. Neil discusses his transition from city living to boat life, highlighting the benefits of being close to nature and how his dogs have adapted to their new environment. KEY TAKEAWAYS When introducing a new dog to the household, it's important to take time and ensure a smooth transition. This can involve allowing the existing dog to get familiar with the new dog's scent before direct introductions. Monitoring a dog's diet and bowel movements is crucial for their health. Adjusting their food based on their digestive health can help maintain their well-being. Dogs provide significant emotional support, especially during challenging times like the COVID-19 pandemic. They can help alleviate feelings of loneliness and provide companionship. There is a strong belief in the importance of creating dog-friendly spaces in public areas, as this fosters community and connection among dog owners and enhances the overall experience of having a pet. Balancing work, family, and personal interests is essential. Engaging in creative projects, spending quality time with family, and enjoying the simple pleasures of life, such as dog walks, contribute to overall happiness and fulfilment. BEST MOMENTS "Dogs just bring people together. They do. And no, it's lovely and Chubbs is here, so." "Crumble is a mixture of toy poodle, shih tzu and chihuahua. I used to love saying she looks like an Ewok." "I think it's one of those things that I get, you can have people that are allergic to dogs, but I still believe we should allow dogs everywhere." "I call it the pet parent pound. If you know that there's a place where your dog is going to be loved on, you're going to be loyal." "I think it's really important. We always say that with my other half as well, we're getting married next year." ABOUT THE HOST Aneka Johnson, founder of The Cuddle Club and co-founder of London Dog Week, is a purpose-driven entrepreneur and devoted dog mum to her French bulldog, Chubbs. Her journey as a ‘pet-preneur’ began while battling health challenges, anxiety, and depression - until Chubbs changed her life. Aneka now inspires others through her relatable, uplifting approach to dog parenthood and therapy. Under Aneka's guidance, the Cuddle Club has been featured in prominent media outlets like London Live, The Lorraine Show, Forbes, Evening Standard, Marie Claire, Daily Mail, and BBC Radio London. www.thecuddleclubuk.com @anekajohnsonofficial https://www.instagram.com/anekajohnsonofficial/ 

In this episode, Aneka interviews Selling Sunsets's Amanza Smith on her heartfelt journey with dogs, beginning with a childhood experience that initially instilled fear but ultimately blossomed into a deep love for the breed. She recounts her connection with her childhood dog, Leo, and how her relationship with a pit bull named Vegas transformed her perspective on the breed. Amanza discusses the emotional support she received from her adopted pit bull, Misty Copeland, during a challenging time in her life, and the heart-wrenching decision to rehome her after a biting incident. KEY TAKEAWAYS Amanza shares a transformative journey with dogs, starting from a traumatic experience at age five when she was bitten by a dog, to eventually becoming a passionate advocate for breeds like Pit Bulls and Rottweilers. The bond with her dog, Mixty, provided significant emotional support during challenging times, particularly during a breakup. The connection with pets can be healing and comforting, showcasing the deep emotional ties humans can have with animals. The decision to rehome Mixty after a biting incident highlights the importance of responsible pet ownership. It emphasises the need to consider the safety of both the pet and children, and the emotional toll of such decisions. Amanza discusses her newfound passion for painting and how it serves as a therapeutic outlet. This creative expression has become a significant part of her life, allowing her to channel her experiences and emotions into her art. There is a clear desire to continue evolving as an artist and to potentially incorporate dog-themed art into her work. BEST MOMENTS "I actually didn't have the greatest experience with dogs when I was like around five years old. I actually got bit by a dog and I still loved them." "I think it's fascinating how quickly that turnaround happened for you, because for a lot of people that takes years and years and years." "I never not once was I scared because Mixty would never. I knew if anybody ever tried to come in and do anything, I would be protected." "I think the dog always comes into your life for a reason and at the right time." "I was devastated. The kids were devastated. Even Walker, who got bit, was devastated. Nobody wanted to do this." ABOUT THE HOST Aneka Johnson, founder of The Cuddle Club and co-founder of London Dog Week, is a purpose-driven entrepreneur and devoted dog mum to her French bulldog, Chubbs. Her journey as a ‘pet-preneur’ began while battling health challenges, anxiety, and depression - until Chubbs changed her life. Aneka now inspires others through her relatable, uplifting approach to dog parenthood and therapy. Under Aneka's guidance, the Cuddle Club has been featured in prominent media outlets like London Live, The Lorraine Show, Forbes, Evening Standard, Marie Claire, Daily Mail, and BBC Radio London. www.thecuddleclubuk.com @anekajohnsonlove https://www.instagram.com/anekajohnsonofficial/ 

In this heartfelt episode, Aneka sits down with disability activist and presenter Samantha Renke to explore the profound emotional connections between humans and their pets. Samantha shares her personal journey, reflecting on her childhood experiences with her beloved dog Tessa, who provided unwavering love and support during challenging times. KEY TAKEAWAYS Emotional Support from Animals: The bond between humans and animals, particularly dogs, provides significant emotional support, helping individuals feel worthy of love and companionship, especially during challenging times. Impact of Disability on Relationships: Growing up with a disability can lead to feelings of isolation and being a burden. Having a pet, like Tessa, can create a safe space where one does not have to justify their existence or abilities. Unconditional Love: Animals offer a form of unconditional love that transcends societal biases and judgments. They do not see disabilities or differences, allowing for a pure and accepting relationship. Responsibility of Pet Ownership: Owning a pet is a significant commitment that requires understanding and respecting the animal's needs and boundaries. Not everyone is suited to be a pet owner, and it's essential to consider the animal's well-being. Navigating Public Spaces: For individuals with disabilities, taking a service dog into public spaces can present logistical challenges, including navigating accessibility issues and societal perceptions.  BEST MOMENTS "I think having Tessa and having, you know, an animal in general, you know, they allow you to have that safe space where you don't have to justify yourself in any way, shape or form." "I think when you're disabled, I've always said that my life is kind of seven years behind all my peers... it's taken me so much longer to achieve something." "Did Tessa pick you, do you feel, in terms of, were you her favourite in the house?" "I think it's a no-brainer that we have emotional support animals... animals are, they don't have prejudice. Animals can sense kind, loving humans." "Just because you can doesn't mean you should... having any animal in your world is a big commitment and a big responsibility." ABOUT THE HOST Aneka Johnson, founder of The Cuddle Club and co-founder of London Dog Week, is a purpose-driven entrepreneur and devoted dog mum to her French bulldog, Chubbs. Her journey as a ‘pet-preneur’ began while battling health challenges, anxiety, and depression - until Chubbs changed her life. Aneka now inspires others through her relatable, uplifting approach to dog parenthood and therapy. Under Aneka's guidance, the Cuddle Club has been featured in prominent media outlets like London Live, The Lorraine Show, Forbes, Evening Standard, Marie Claire, Daily Mail, and BBC Radio London. www.thecuddleclubuk.com @anekajohnsonofficial

In this episode, Aneka welcomes Dr. Ineke Meredith, founder of Fur Love, to the podcast to discuss the often-overlooked topic of dog skincare and its importance for overall skin health. With a personal story about her own dog Charlie, who suffered from dermatitis, Dr. Meredith shares her journey from being a surgeon to creating a line of skincare products specifically designed for dogs. They discuss the cultural shift in dog ownership, the significance of proper skincare routines, and the science behind canine dermatitis. KEY TAKEAWAYS Just like humans, dogs can suffer from skin issues such as dermatitis, and proper skincare is essential for their health and comfort. Moisturisation plays a crucial role in managing skin conditions. There has been a significant change in how society views dogs, with many people treating them as family members rather than just pets. This shift has led to increased interest in dog skincare and overall well-being. Managing canine atopic dermatitis is a long-term commitment that requires patience and consistency. Dog owners should be prepared for a journey of trial and error, understanding that improvement takes time. Working with veterinarians is essential for developing effective skincare products for dogs. There is a growing recognition in the veterinary community of the importance of moisturisation and skincare in managing skin diseases. Implementing a straightforward skincare routine, such as regular washing with appropriate products and moisturising, can significantly improve a dog's skin health. Even small actions, like wiping down a dog after outdoor activities, can make a difference. BEST MOMENTS "Dogs and humans have the same skin at the level of pathology of dermatitis. But we know how to manage human dermatitis, and moisturisation is key." "If you know how much work it's actually going to take, you would never do it. I always say this about anybody that's an entrepreneur." "The single most important thing you can do is actually invest in some good skincare, good hygiene, moisturising skincare, skin barrier protection like we do for ourselves." "If dog parents could take away just one thing about their dog's skincare regime, it would be that it's a journey." "We can do that simply by instituting a good shampoo conditioner regime. It's not as hard as we think." ABOUT THE HOST Aneka Johnson, founder of The Cuddle Club and co-founder of London Dog Week, is a purpose-driven entrepreneur and devoted dog mum to her French bulldog, Chubbs. Her journey as a ‘pet-preneur’ began while battling health challenges, anxiety, and depression - until Chubbs changed her life. Aneka now inspires others through her relatable, uplifting approach to dog parenthood and therapy. Under Aneka's guidance, the Cuddle Club has been featured in prominent media outlets like London Live, The Lorraine Show, Forbes, Evening Standard, Marie Claire, Daily Mail, and BBC Radio London. www.thecuddleclubuk.com @anekajohnsonofficial

In this episode, Aneka is joined by fellow dog mum and influencer Sarah Gillis for a relatable chat about the highs, lows, and unexpected lessons of dog parenting, especially during lockdown. Sarah opens up about how she became the proud owner of two Cavapoos, Peanut and Pablo, and how they’ve been a constant source of comfort, companionship, and laughter through life’s twists and turns. Together, they explore the deep emotional bond between dogs and their humans, the importance of choosing a breed that truly fits your lifestyle, and what it’s like navigating dog parenthood in both London and Newcastle.  KEY TAKEAWAYS Dogs provide unconditional love and companionship, significantly impacting their owners' mental health and well-being. They can help individuals through tough times, offering comfort and a sense of purpose. The rise of dog-friendly venues and activities has transformed how dog parents engage with their pets. Many dog owners prioritise places that welcome their dogs, enhancing their experiences and adventures together. The journey of creating dog-related content began during lockdown, driven by a desire to share the joy of having a puppy. This led to unexpected growth and opportunities, including collaborations with brands and invitations to dog-friendly events. When dating, it's crucial to ensure that potential partners are dog-friendly and willing to embrace the role of a "dog dad." The compatibility between the partner and the dogs is essential for a successful relationship. Building a community around dog parenting can lead to meaningful connections with others who share similar experiences. Engaging with followers and receiving positive feedback fosters a supportive environment for both the creator and their audience. BEST MOMENTS "I think it's just that companionship; there's something about dogs. I didn't realise how good it was having a dog until I actually got a dog." "You really have to select the right breed for your lifestyle. And then you've got to have that longevity and that happiness together." "I feel like Peanut and Pablo have been by my side through various parts of my life. They're that consistent, like they have literally been there." "If it's not dog-friendly, it's almost like it doesn't exist to me. Can I just bring my dog?" “I think it breaks my heart that people got them for the wrong reasons. A dog's not just for Christmas, it's for life." ABOUT THE HOST Aneka Johnson, founder of The Cuddle Club and co-founder of London Dog Week, is a purpose-driven entrepreneur and devoted dog mum to her French bulldog, Chubbs. Her journey as a ‘pet-preneur’ began while battling health challenges, anxiety, and depression - until Chubbs changed her life. Aneka now inspires others through her relatable, uplifting approach to dog parenthood and therapy. Under Aneka's guidance, the Cuddle Club has been featured in prominent media outlets like London Live, The Lorraine Show, Forbes, Evening Standard, Marie Claire, Daily Mail, and BBC Radio London. www.thecuddleclubuk.com @anekajohnsonofficial

Today, Aneka sits down with Gaynor Jackson, the visionary behind Woofabout, to trace her inspiring evolution from a corporate HR career to becoming a cornerstone of London’s dog community. Gaynor shares the raw reality of the grooming industry, correcting the misconception that it's a ‘puppy spa day’, and discusses the physical toll that eventually led her to event planning. From the first social gathering in Fulham to the massive Big Woof festival at King’s Cross, Gaynor explains how her passion for supporting independent pet brands and fostering genuine human-canine connections has built a loyal, thriving community of Dog Mums and Dads. KEY TAKEAWAYS Gaynor transitioned from a 20-year corporate career in HR and recruitment to dog grooming at age 40, proving it’s never too late to follow a passion. Professional grooming requires immense patience and physical stamina; it is often stressful for dogs, and ‘four-week courses’ are rarely enough to master the craft. Post-pandemic, there has been a surge in ‘Dual Income, No Kids, With a Dog’ households, shifting the demand for high-quality, dog-friendly social events. A core mission of Woofabout and Big Woof is providing a platform for small, independent pet businesses that typically only exist online. Beyond the dogs, these events serve as a vital social fabric for humans, helping people (especially those new to the city) integrate into a supportive community. BEST MOMENTS “I can say for sure that that is not enough experience to do like a four-week course and say you're a dog groomer." "No dog likes being groomed. They leave the dogs there sometimes and I've had all sorts of comments like, 'Oh, you'll have a lovely time, you're having a day at the spa,' and it's like, no. That is not how the dog sees it." "London can be a lonely place. If you don't find your people and you don't find your community, it can become very isolating." "I noticed on the tube, the only time anybody would make any sort of eye contact with you or engage with you at all is if the dog was with you." "I could not love that dog any more than you love your children. It is exactly the love was exactly the same." VALUABLE LINKS @anekajohnsonofficial https://thecuddleclubuk.com/ Website: https://www.woofabout.uk/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/woofabout Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the4leggedfoodies/ ABOUT THE HOST Aneka Johnson, founder of The Cuddle Club and co-founder of London Dog Week, is a purpose-driven entrepreneur and devoted dog mum to her French bulldog, Chubbs. Her journey as a ‘pet-preneur’ began while battling health challenges, anxiety, and depression - until Chubbs changed her life. Aneka now inspires others through her relatable, uplifting approach to dog parenthood and therapy. Under Aneka's guidance, the Cuddle Club has been featured in prominent media outlets like London Live, The Lorraine Show, Forbes, Evening Standard, Marie Claire, Daily Mail, and BBC Radio London.

In this episode, Aneka sits down with James Davies, a premier osteopath who has worked with stars like David Beckham and Pink, dive into his transition from a professional 100m runner to a ‘magic-handed’ healer for both humans and dogs. James shares his heartwarming ‘convert story’ of going from a dog-skeptic to a devoted ‘dog dad’ to his miniature poodle, Justin Bobby.  KEY TAKEAWAYS Dogs offer a unique, non-verbal communication of love and energy that can significantly improve mental health and provide emotional grounding during low moments. The principles of healing, muscles, ligaments, and bones, apply to both humans and dogs; therapeutic touch and palpation can help pets recover from physical discomfort just as they help people. Frequent dog walking often leads to lower back, neck, and shoulder pain due to improper posture, looking down, or being pulled on a lead. Health doesn't require hours at the gym; focusing on your body for just 10 minutes a day (even in small 20-second bursts) can prevent chronic tension from escalating into a physical crisis. Walking on hard city streets requires supportive trainers with good shock absorbers; wearing flat shoes like Converse for long walks can lead to significant lower back and calf pain. BEST MOMENTS "I never realised that I could have so much love and affection for a dog. I’m a full convert now." "If you're good at the palpation skills, you can be therapeutic to any type of tissue. Dogs have muscles, human beings have muscles." "I feel we're all athletes, and we need to have a warm-up. Even to walk our dogs, we need to stretch." "Touch is safety and it's trust. I go into someone's house I've never met, I place my hands on an area, and they can see that I care." "Stress is a silent killer. We need to get out of the fight or flight at the end of the day and do a rest and digest, calm the body down." ABOUT THE GUEST Book: Back in Ten: The 10-Minute Method to Transform Your Back and Eliminate Pain https://amzn.eu/d/bzHWWSk Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jamesdhealth/  Website: www.jamesdhealth.com VALUABLE LINKS @anekajohnsonofficial https://thecuddleclubuk.com/ ABOUT THE HOST Aneka Johnson, founder of The Cuddle Club and co-founder of London Dog Week, is a purpose-driven entrepreneur and devoted dog mum to her French bulldog, Chubbs. Her journey as a ‘pet-preneur’ began while battling health challenges, anxiety, and depression - until Chubbs changed her life. Aneka now inspires others through her relatable, uplifting approach to dog parenthood and therapy. Under Aneka's guidance, the Cuddle Club has been featured in prominent media outlets like London Live, The Lorraine Show, Forbes, Evening Standard, Marie Claire, Daily Mail, and BBC Radio London.

In this episode, Aneka dives deep into the essential foundation of pet ownership: truly knowing your dog. Moving beyond basic needs and commands, Aneka reflects on her nine-year journey with her Frenchie, Chubs, sharing how their relationship evolved from ‘chaos’ to a profound, intuitive connection. She offers listeners practical advice on decoding body language, aligning energy levels, and establishing meaningful routines that build trust.  KEY TAKEAWAYS Understanding who your dog is, rather than just what they are ‘supposed’ to do, is the foundation for successful training and a deeper bond. Body language is complex; for instance, a wagging tail can signal nervous excitement rather than happiness, and a yawn can be a sign of stress rather than tiredness. Pay attention to how your dog responds to your mood; matching your energy to what they need, whether it’s high praise or calm stability, is vital for their sense of safety. Bonding isn't about being together 24/7; it’s about intentional quality time, such as let-the-dog-lead walks and consistent morning rituals. Being intimately familiar with your dog's physical quirks and typical temperament allows you to spot subtle changes early, which can be life-saving in medical situations. BEST MOMENTS "It all works better when you actually understand who your dog is, not just what they're supposed to be doing, but what they're actually trying to tell you." "Once you really understand your dog, everything just clicks." "A wagging tail isn't always happy, a yawn isn't always tiredness. The more you notice, the more you'll understand." "Bonding is quality time, not just quantity. It's not about being with him 24/7, it's about how you spend the time." "Those subtle changes can only be spotted when you really know what your dog's normal is." ABOUT THE HOST Aneka Johnson, founder of The Cuddle Club and co-founder of London Dog Week, is a purpose-driven entrepreneur and devoted dog mum to her French bulldog, Chubbs. Her journey as a ‘pet-preneur’ began while battling health challenges, anxiety, and depression - until Chubbs changed her life. Aneka now inspires others through her relatable, uplifting approach to dog parenthood and therapy. Under Aneka's guidance, the Cuddle Club has been featured in prominent media outlets like London Live, The Lorraine Show, Forbes, Evening Standard, Marie Claire, Daily Mail, and BBC Radio London. www.thecuddleclubuk.com @anekajohnsonofficial