a dog's life with anna webb by Anna Webb, Mike Hanson
Pet abandonment has reached record highs, and this week we're joined by Linda Cantle, Director of Operations of Woodgreen, explaining why pet rescue shouldn't start at the point of relinquishment. We talk about the Charity’s hard hitting campaign that revealed why a third of Brits have given up a pet, but nearly three quarters didn't want to!
This week we're joined by ex-RAF pilot, Jamie Everett, about his new venture, Vicuna Air, which allows pet parents to travel with their pets in the cabin of the private plane. Catering for dogs and cats of all sizes, Vicuna Air travels directly to New York, London, Los Angeles, and San Francisco plus a host of indirect destinations.
We’re joined by Emma Leeke, the UK Commercial Director at Antinol UK. We chat about the Green Lipped Mussel oil capsules, and why I am a fan of the product as a source broad-spectrum source of Omega-3. We chat about the brand’s success at this year’s Crufts, and why the top canine sports dogs across Agility and Flyball choose to take Antinol. Make no mistake it's not just for these canine athletes, all dogs and cats can benefit from Antinol.
Anna is joined by documentary film maker, Alessio Schiazza, and executive producer, Sadie Frost, about their new film, Rescue, a powerful new film chronicling the endeavours to rescue various animals in Ukraine from the Russian war, including domestic pets like dogs and cats, but also farm animals.
We’re joined by Debbie Wilson of the International Animal Coalition (IAWPC) and Actor, Animal Activist and Advocate, Peter Egan discussing the latest on the campaign to end the violent and inhumane killing of street dogs in Morocco. Thousands of stray street dogs have been killed by either by extreme violence, being shot or poisoned. The reason - the forthcoming FIFA World Cup in 2030, which Morocco is co-hosting alongside Portugal and Spain. Despite being informed by the International Coalition - IAWPC that Morocco is in clear breach of all recognised and acceptable standards of civilised behaviour in relation to the humane treatment, welfare and protection of dogs, as well as in clear breach of the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child., FIFA has refused to comment or take action. It's a moment to remember what Mahatma Gandhi famously said: “The greatness of a nation and its moral progress can be judged by the way its animals are treated."
We’re joined by Dr Greger Larson of Oxford University who specialises in studying Ancient DNA, discussing the remains of a jawbone, which proved that dogs were living with humans in Britain almost 15,000 years ago. As a landmark find with DNA confirming its identity as not being a wolf, it proves that humans and dogs were co-habiting more than 5,000 years earlier than previously thought. At a time before humans had become farmers, these dogs clearly played a big part in these human communities, with proof they were even buried beside their people - man’s best friend.
We’re joined by Cinema journalist, Toby Rose, proud founder of the Palm’ Dog who is highlighting the wins for dogs in films at this year’s Cannes Film Festival. In a historic moment, the ceremony's two big prizes went to films directed by women - and also to female dog characters. The Palm Dog Award is held annually at a beachfront location on the last Friday of the Cannes Film Festival. It celebrates canine performances in all films screened at Cannes and is the world’s longest running ceremony of its kind. Founded in 2001 by film journalist Toby Rose with a mission to give equal celebration to Canines at Cannes as their human co-stars. The sister ceremony, the FIDOS (For Incredible Dogs on Screen) is held annually in London, since 2007 for canine performances across all UK film releases in any given year. Former winners include Kodi from Dog on Trial, Messi from Anatomy of a Fall, Brandy from Once Upon a Time in Hollywood, Smurf from Sightseers and Uggie from The Artist.
This week we’re joined by Kristian Maris, co-Founder of Dogs and Horses (D&H): the London leather dog collar makers. Chatting about the business in its 20th anniversary year, Kristian highlights how the brand caters for all breeds and all coat types, offering the WOW factor for your dog and you. It's all about the look, the feel, the smell of a beautifully made, reliable leather collar, in a wide range of colour options. Hand made in the London workshops’ D&H is synonymous with quality. From Princesses to Prime Ministers, D&H is no stranger to the red carpet, and was selected by Selfridges & Disney as the official leather dog collar makers for their 2025 Christmas windows — Lady & The Tramp & 101 Dalmatians!
We’re joined by Award-winning landscape gardener, Matt Keightley, talking about his showcases at this year’s Chelsea Flower show. In addition to his inspiring garden designs, he’s also launching anew APP called Space Lift - all about helping people get the best out of their outdoor space. Whether in the country or urbania, a ‘garden' should be a haven that promotes positive experiences, which goes for your dogs and cats too. The app is a simple tool to help everyone from choosing appropriate plants to optimising the space available. It aims to help Brits who a re keen to create the perfect outdoor space, in fact, in some research Matt discovered that a third of Brits (35%) dream of a calming sanctuary, while others prioritise family-friendly spaces (27%), outdoor dining (23%) and entertaining areas (22%). As warmer weather arrives, over half (56%) planning to dust off the shovel and shears this upcoming May bank holiday.
This week we're joined by trainer and founder of Priestlands Dogs, Emma Newth-West, discussing the rise of dog ownership (over 15 million dogs in the UK now!) and the impact that has on behaviour. We discuss the importance of setting boundries, choosing the right breed, what a good 'starter' dog is, the patience needed for puppy training, and the crucial principle of 'Adopt Don't Shop'.
We’re joined by UK Pet Food’s, Sara Hormozi, and Chris Broadbent from Naturaw who are chewing the fat on the latest Pet Population Survey, which reveals the UK’s dog population has increased by three million in the past five years! With 15.5 million dogs and an increasingly younger dog owning demographic there’s never been more choice in the dog food market. How do you make the best choice for your budget, your lifestyle, your accommodation and your individual dog?
We’re joined by William Grand the founder of Nutrifusion, a supplement company specialising in a blend of fruit and vegetable blends designed for dogs. It is manufactured with a conscience offering the functional health benefits of natural vitamins and minerals. Minimally processed this blend includes shiitake mushroom, broccoli, orange, pumpkin, spinach, green algae (Chlorophya), blueberry and more. However there are no synthetic ingredients or GMO. It's been designed to cater for the needs of health conscious pet parents who want the best from their holistic dog food.
We’re joined by Author and Photographer, Paul Koudounaris, who has previously been on the show talking about Pet Cemeteries in his book Faithful unto Death. Today we’re chatting about railroad dogs and his latest book called Go West Young Dog. As a really fascinating read, the book uncovers a somewhat hidden pocket of canine history about some brave, vagabond dogs that became famous by traveling - alone- on the world's first rail networks. Paul concentrates on the American dogs, not that there weren’t ‘railroad’ dogs in other continents. Many of these dogs gained ‘celebrity’ status - their stories are funny, heartwarming, triumphant, and tragic, or all at the same time. As Paul says: 'I believe that within those stories, these dogs have some lessons to teach us.'
We’re joined by former RSPCA Chief Veterinary Officer, Dr Caroline Allen, who has launched Pet Lighthouse, an independent, ‘second opinion’ consultancy. Caroline is concerned by reports that the profession has lost the confidence and trust of many pet owners. Dr Caroline hopes to help pet owners navigate the fog of modern pet-care. Helping to find clarity beyond the clinical diagnosis and put animal welfare and family needs at the heart of the conversation.
This week we’re joined by Neil Baker, of Baker and Bray, chatting about why the mantra of rest, restore and recovery is at the heart of his business. As the makers outstanding orthopaedic dog beds, the family run business prides itself on its eco-conscious manufacture and its commitment to promoting safe and comfortable lives for dogs. We chat about the detail in the beds’ design that begins with recycled plastic bottles, to being transformed into a lifestyle choice for modern pet parents investing in their dog's happy, healthy life through the benefits of good sleep.
This week we’re talking to Cheryl Quinn, the team captain of Junkyard Dogs, talking about winning the Crufts Flyball championship!
This week we’re joined by Dr. Judy Morgan DVM, CVA, CVCP, CVFT who has over 40-years-experience as an integrative veterinarian, acupuncturist, chiropractor, food therapist, best-selling author, international speaker, podcast host and owner of Dr Judy Morgan’s Naturally Healthy Pets. Her goal is to change the lives of pets by educating and empowering pet parents worldwide in the use of natural healing therapies, and minimising the use of chemicals, vaccinations, and poor-quality processed food. Clearly sharing a lot in common, we also chat about Dr Judy’s love of Cavalier King Charles Spaniels and their close relative the King Charles Spaniel, which is a Vulnerable British Breed in the UK -meaning they’re rarer than the giant panda.
We’re joined by Actor, Activist and Broadcaster, Peter Egan, who is talking about why he is campaigning and raising awareness for the seven million hens in the UK are kept in so-called “enriched cages”, where each bird has space roughly the size of an A4 sheet of paper, preventing them from fully stretching their wings, foraging or dust bathing. Campaigners say the UK is falling behind several European countries on animal welfare, with Austria banning enriched cages in 2020, France banning new cage systems in 2018 and Germany now fully cage-free. Peter also chats about his work as a huge advocate for dogs, not least in being a Patron for the charity that Anna is an Ambassador for - All Dogs Matter!
We’re joined by Danny Nelis-Rouse, founder of Tug E Nuff, the enrichment and training range of dog toys. Designed and made in the UK by the family run business, we chat about these toys are practical and great for all dogs. Helping owners to engage, have fun, and get the best out of the dog, simply by giving them great games of chase, tug, retrieve, searching and much more. They’re designed for pet parents to tap into their dogs natural instincts through ‘proactive playtime’. Adding enrichment to your dog’s day comes in many shapes and sizes. And depends on your dog’s individual personality, but dogs and dogs, and igniting their inner dog, will help you bond, and have fun both ways. Plus working both their mental and physical dexterity is so important, especially in senior pooches to help create focus and keep them on the ball.
With Crufts just three days away, we’re so excited to be chatting to Naturaw’s Founder, Jess Warneken, on the company’s sponsorship of the Flyball team, Junkyard Dogs.
Elise Finney, Canine Community Sports Coordinator, joins us from Antinol, the proud sponsor of A Dog’s Life. Elise talks us through why Antinol is so proud to be the sponsors of the Agility & Flyball at this year’s Crufts 5-8th March. Competing herself this year in Agility, Elise explains the in and outs of the sport and what its like running a course under pressure. Especially at Crufts with its huge arena, people, tannoys, noise, and a lot at stake! Not least when the equipment is all branded Antinol! We chat about why Antinol is the perfect partner for the canine sports, and how the brand promotes ‘Happiness in Motion.”
As it’s Valentine’s weekend, what could be better than to chat with author, Gillian Carrick, about her new book, ‘From Catnip to Cupid’. It’s a celebration of cats and how and why they are so multi talented! With strong emotional bonds to their people, cats want them to be happy and will do what they can with subtle tips and tricks to show what works, and what to avoid, in modern dating!
This week we're joined by Ancient DNA Specialist, Professor Greger Larson of Oxford University who has revealed that cats have only been domesticated for 4,000 years. Until very recently we have assumes this figure was 10,000 years.
This week we’re discussing why not all raw food is created equal. We're joined by Naturaw’s co-founders, Jess Warneken and Chris Broadbent, chatting about how setting up Naturaw was inspired by Jess’s first Rhodesian Ridgeback. We chat about how the company is spearheading the Rawvolution. Its success in offering nutrient dense, balanced and complete recipes is down to a real passion for helping pet parents feed as nature intended with confidence and a conscience. To date Naturaw has planted over 23,000 trees to off set its business footprint. The HQ uses solar power and the packaging is 100% plastic free. More than that, supporting British farmers, the range caters for everyone! The Original range is a wide selection of either single or complementary proteins, there’s the multi-award winning Forage range and the new Real Simple range which hits a competitive price point. We chat about when Jess met the King in receiving the prestigious King Award for Sustainable Development. Chris Broadbent highlights the staggering market statistics, that in an age where feeding fresh is a big growth sector, especially feeding raw, it couldn’t be more important to consider that not all raw is created equal.
This week we're joined by retired Orthopedic Surgeon, Gordon Maclellan. As the founder of the Pupscan Project, he’s talking about hip dysplasia in dogs and whether dysplasia is congenital or caused by environmental factors.
We’re joined by canine Nutritionist Emily Breslin all the way from the Mid-West in the USA! We chat about Emily’s journey to qualifying to offer nutrition advice to pet parents, and why she is a passionate advocate for feeding as nature intended with a raw, ‘species appropriate’ diet. We chat about the differences across the pond, as being more like similarities! Having begun her career as a Vet tech, Emily was a kibble feeder until the change in her own dogs’ health became so apparent on switching to raw, balanced and complete options.
This episode is powered by Antinol. We're super proud to be collaborating with them and you can enjoy at 10% discount on your purchase by using our promocode ANNAWEBB. Remember - you're supporting A Dog's Life by supporting our proud sponsor!
This week we’re joined by Cam Wimble aka The Dog Nutritionist, talking about his journey into the field of nutrition through his passion for dogs and their health. He chats about his range of products and supplements as well as desperately missing having a dog of his own. Ultimately its a conversation about : “You are what you eat, and so is your dog!”
Judging from the reaction this episode received, Katrina's return in 2025 to talk about all things poodles was your favourite!
We’re joined by Blue Cross Vet, Paul Manktelow, talking about how to keep your dog safe this Christmas. We chat about why despite being super vigilant, every year many dogs become a veterinary statistic. It's estimated that 10 per cent of Britain's dogs see a vet over the festive season. Paul highlights the main toxic foods from raisins, dark ‘posh’ chocolate, poinsettias, decorations, wrapping paper, sellotape, cooked turkey bones, and onions, not to mention the stresses of visitors and over excitement if your dog isn’t used to busy households. Christmas is hard to imagine from a dog’s point of view with their olfaction and hearing so much more acute than ours. Paul talks through how best to avoid your dog as a natural born scavenger and opportunist becoming a veterinary statistic this Christmas.
When once upon a time the term dog-friendly hadn’t been invented as we know it today!
‘Alright Pet’! That’s the hugely successful podcast by BBC Broadcaster, Anne-Marie Wallace who joins me on A Dog’s Life to chat about her passion for all animals, especially retired Greyhounds. Anne -Marie broadcasts on BBC Radio Ulster and BBC NI and launched Alright Pet that airs on BBC Sounds and is about to start its seventh series. Co-hosted by specialist Vet, Rob Adams, together they chat to famous pet owners and celebrate the bond we have with our pets. Beginning with dogs and cats, the podcast soon diversified to cover all animals. We chat about the real life stories that have touched Anne-Marie the most, not least her concerns about dogs in rescue at record levels and why to adopt not shop is the right thing to do. Plus one of Anne-Marie’s guilty pleasures - horse riding - and we’ve made a pact to one day ride around Hyde Park together.
This week we're joined by film Director, Heidi Ewing, of Loki Films , chatting about Folktales the latest release. When modern life becomes too loud, a group of teens escape to the Arctic wilderness for an unconventional gap year. Guided by patient teachers and a pack of Alaskan huskies, they learn resilience and form meaningful connections with nature, animals, and one another. Set in northern Norway close to the Russian border, Folktales follows the journey of some teenagers on a’gap’ year at a traditional folk high school. Navigating the challenges of the remote environment, they must rely on themselves, each other, and a loyal pack of sled dogs.
This week we're joined by Bio-Archeologist, Dr Carly Ameen, who has been part of a team studying the emergence and diversification of dog morphology. Looking at the remarkable difference in over 600 dog’s skulls from as far back as 11,000 years ago, the team discovered a huge variety of skull shapes and sizes. This proves that dogs were very different from wolves at this point in time. But the missing link as to when wolves became dogs is still unclear. But this research confirms it was more than 11,000 years ago! The variety of skull shapes in what is generically termed a 'canid’ also dispels the myth that the Victorians created the range of dog breeds we see today. The extreme modern exaggeration of features was not apparent in the skulls analysed, but they do prove that dogs had been shaped, being created for the different purposes whether guarding, hunting, or simply being ‘lap dogs’. We chat about the Romans and how there are graves dedicated to dogs in the UK dating back to the Roman empire, again proving the huge impact dogs have had on our lives for centuries. The question of when wolves became dogs may never be answered as for many years the wolves - a strain of Grey Wolf, long extinct, would have remained as wolves for likely hundreds of years. before they changed shape. What we do know is that these early dogs saw something in us early humans that inspired them to become man’s best friend.
This week we're joined by Solicitor, Ben Evans from Co-Op Legal Services who is talking about why lawyers are recommending that couples think about a ‘Pet-Nup’ agreement when taking on a pup. With 42% of all marriages in the UK ending in divorce, it’s not uncommon for the dog to be caught up in the break up.
This week we’re joined by Esther Logue, Content and Communications Manager at Paleo Ridge, catching up on the latest developments at one of the UK’s fastest growing raw food brands.
This week Anna chats to the ‘House Plant Doctor, Joe Bagley, on the huge benefits of bringing house plants into our homes, adding that important Vitamin G - for green!
This week Anna is chuffed to have chatted to Journalist and Author, Sophia Money-Coutts, about her new book - The Year of the Dog.
In this classic episode (and Anna's personal favourite) the eminent biologist and author of Dogs That Know When Their Owners Are Coming Home talks to Anna about the science behind our pets' 'sixth sense'.
We’re joined by Dr Nick Thompson talking about the integrative principle, based on a holistic viewpoint where different modalities including diet, acupuncture, herbs, homeopathy, red light therapy and physical therapies combine to offer a tool kit to help the natural healing process, whilst keeping your pet’s body burden to a minimum. We discuss the building blocks of species appropriate nutrition and the confusion in the market with so many pet foods brands, that it's no wonder ‘pet parents' get confused! Being a huge advocate for feeding a raw, balanced and complete diet, Dr Nick explains why, in a world where climate change and farming arguments can get confused with what dogs and cats should eat, he vehemently advises against feeding dogs and cats as Vegans. Dr Nick helps de-mystifying supplements, highlighting his ‘go-to’s ,which includes Antinol as a broad spectrum source of Omega-3 - an essential addition for pets and their people as our bodies don’t make themselves. We discuss overall wellness and vitality, which can be affected by human stress transferring to our pets, along with the vast array of indoor pollutants that can also contribute to the ‘body burden’ overtime. And why prevention is always better than cure!
We’re joined by Lisbet Stuer-Lauridsen and Amber Synnott from Cloud 9 Vets who have launched a service dedicated to offering at home euthanasia for all pets, but mainly dogs and cats. They conducted a survey recently that revealed that two thirds of pet owners had no idea that it was possible to help your pet cross to the rainbow bridge at home. Cloud 9 Vets operates as a national network of vet practices that service all the main hubs around the UK. These practices have been cherry picked by Amber and Lisbet as upholding the best practice for compassion and care. The benefits of at home euthanasia include the pet staying happy and calm with their family and other pets close by . The Cloud 9 team work closely with all pet parents to make the crossing smooth from choosing a special location to taking time with deep understanding of the emotional situation. Cloud 9 ’s hope is for more pet parents to be aware that at home euthanasia is an accepted part of vet practice, and they step in where many practices do not offer this very valuable and inevitable part of all pet ownership.
In this classic episode from the archive, we’re joined by Dr Paul Koudounaris talking about his book ‘Faithful until Death’. As a first in terms of investigating Pet Cemeteries all around the world, Paul admits this was a labour of love of 11 years. Revealing the history of pet ownership as in the late Victorian era industrialisation meant more folk moved into cities, creating a new kind of pet husbandry, which included giving them a ’good’ death. Paul explores Cemeteries, and tombs from as far afield as Thailand, across Europe, in the UK and across the USA. We chat about the ridiculous thought that animals do not have souls, as an illogical concept of theology. We talk about the resistance to burying pets in churchyards, and the people who helped make change with setting up/ building dedicated pet cemeteries. As a massive animal lover, Paul became a pet bereavement councillor for several years as well as tracking down the author of iconic poem : The Rainbow Bridge, and in revealing one of the greatest mysteries, of the Paris Pet Cemetery called Le Cimitières des Chiens in Paris where the iconic canine film legend, RIn Tin Tin, is said to be buried. We chat about Tawny the ex circus lion who lived in Beverley Hills and rests in the cemetery in LA, and more! The book takes you on an emotional journey, through which there's comfort in how many have grieved their pets, for a loss that is means losing apart of oneself, and how Pet Cemeteries set in history our love for all animals. As the late Queen famously said: “Grief is the price of Love.”
In this classic episode, Anna talks to Chocolatier, Paul A. Young in his small shop in Camden Passage, Islington, London. As well as the UK's leading maker of fine chocolate, Paul is an author and more importantly proud dad to Billy, a minature Dachshund. Chocolate is obviously bad for dogs but not for Pet Parents. Paul and Anna sample some of his treats and talk about how he needs to keep 'his work' away from Billy.
We’re joined by Author Grace Olson who is talking about her latest series of children’s book about her sheep. These are sheep that have turned into therapists and work alongside Grace in helping people. Complementing Grace’s horses that have for many years been offering intuitive comfort and healing to Grace’s human clients. We talk about how sheep have different personalities and are all individuals like dogs or cats, and how her flock of six have taken Grace on an emotional journey too. Famous for being regular contributors on the acclaimed TV show The Yorkshire Vet , Grace’s sheep can run agility courses and are not shy of the limelight. We also discuss the concept of telepathy and why Grace believes that its is possible for animals to pick up human intentions. Her horses have shown Grace that like dogs, they have the ability to ‘smell’ cancer, so this episode is celebrating all animals as sentient, and it might just make you think twice before eating a lamb casserole ever again!
This week we’re joined by Jason Cortis who facilitates courses for Blue Cross and works directly with police forces. Dog-related incidents reported to police have risen sharply, up from 30,500 in 2023 to over 32,500 in 2024, with the broader category of dogs being out of control, including injuries to people, adding another 23,000 cases annually.
Thank you to the good people at Antinol. We're super proud to be collaborating with them and you can enjoy at 10% discount on your purchase by using our promocode ANNAWEBB. Remember - you're supporting A Dog's Life by supporting our proud sponsor!
This week Anna chats to Olga Jones who is talking about how her passion for training her own dogs, English Springer Spaniel, Bonnie and Simba, her Border Collie. Passionate about training tricks, Olga began competing in Canine Freestyle seven years ago, and with a strings of wins, competing at Crufts and more. Away from competitions, Olga’s dogs have been signed up for a host of TV appearances, photo-shoots and even playing a role in Mozart’s Marriage of Figaro at the Royal Opera House. Olga has always been interested in the Guinness Book of Records and talks about the records she has set and won!
In today’s episode we’re digging into puppy sales online and the founders of a new verification app called Pet Proov. Following a tragic experience Kate Margolis teamed up with Garry Clarke to invent a new system that can verify a breeder online to offer peace of mind that you won’t be scammed. Along with their aim to stop unscrupulous breeding, profits and scamming, Pet Proov helps re-homing centres verify their adopters. The technology can help in verify dog sitters, walkers, trainers and the whole sector that’s currently lacking in regulation.
This week we dig into the archive for this classic episode where Anna is joined by Will Green MA, Executive MBA Programme at the University of Winchester and Sales and Marketing Director of Paleo Ridge. We discuss sustainability in the pet industry, focusing on the model adopted by Paleo Ridge as a raw food firm supplier, setting eco-standards in terms of making feeding raw not only ‘peace of mind for your dog', but also for the planet. In an age where Veganism is being suggested for dogs we discuss why ethical farming is needed to save the planet and maintain the bio-diversity without which the planet cannot thrive. And why of course dogs need to eat meat! Will explains the different aspects in Paleo Ridge’s production that offsets Co2, and why we shouldn’t consider dog ownership as contributing to global warming, but consider the offsets in Co2 that can be achieved simply with the the mantra: reuse, reduce and recycle. And never underestimate a dogs role as man’s best friend, helping to better our physical and mental health.
This week we talk to singer-songwriter and animal lover, Skip Ewing, all the way from his ranch in Wyoming, USA. We talk about his free-roaming dogs, horses, and his new song 'Road Dog.'
When we’re talking about manners and in-dining etiquette with King Charles III former butler, Grant Harrold. As Dine Out week draws to a close , Grant explains why he is passionate about reviving dining etiquette and that involves dogs too! With the rise of ‘dog-friendly’, canny entrepreneurs are catering for our four-legged friends, but this means etiquette for our pooches too. Grant offers a gentle reminder that table manners aren’t about snobbery, they are about connection, confidence, and class. Offering a guide to modern etiquette blends tradition with tact, it’s food for thought that dogs need to learn manners too. Grant is the proud ‘dog dad’ to six Miniature Dachsies, who all enjoy spot of fine cuisine and dog friendly experiences.
This week we’re joined by Dog Behaviourist, Ross McCarthy from the Cambridge Institute of Dog Training and Behaviour (CIDBT). Ross has over 25 years experience of working with dogs nationwide and is London based. We chat about the old days when we met as being Ambassadors for the raw food company, Natural Instinct. We discuss why 70% of Britain’s dogs are currently suffering from anxiety, why the rescues are now literally bursting, and why dogs are facing euthanasia through no fault of their own, just from a lack of appropriate training and understanding. We focus on the positives of how ‘things can only get better’ looking at how the CIDBT offers accessible training and behaviour courses for dog owners to learn how to help others in a professional capacity to get the best out of their dogs. We talk about Ross’s passion for Rottweilers, and how they’ve taught him so much on his own dog journey, and why experience enhances learning. Ross’s aim is to make the world of dogs a happier, safer and better place - one thought is to introduce a test for new dog owners, in away like a driving test before you get behind the wheel.
We’re joined by Lucy Eldred from Canine Partners talking about the urgent need for funding and volunteers!
We’re joined by Tyler Whitnall, a passionate conservationist who presents TV series One Zoo Three and is a zookeeper at Hertfordshire Zoo where he grew up alongside his two brothers, we chat about the history of this family run Hertfordshire based Zoo, and its sister Big Cat Sanctuary in Kent. Discussing the challenges of keeping the animals cool in a heatwave and how Ocado donates ‘wonky’ fruit and vegetables or dented cans to the Zoo. Thanks to Ocado’s food ‘bank’ donation, the Zoo saves over £30,000.00 a year on food bills , so far allowing over £400K to be channelled into conservation and welfare projects. As Lemurs lick on fruit ice lollies, and Sun bears smash open watermelons and tomatoes , we talk about this family run Zoo and is dedicated to education and conservation.
This week we’re joined by Cathryn Michon- film-maker, actor, comic and nationally best selling author. Cathryn is the only American woman screenwriter with two films released globally in 2019 (A Dog’s Way Home and A Dog’s Journey - the sequel to A Dog’s Purpose).
This week we're joined by singer-songwriter and dog lover, Nick Celino, talking about his new music and his Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, Charlie, who is the latest in the line of previous doggies, Tino, Billy, and Prince.
Our Archive Wellness season continues, again focusing on the Microbiome. Anna is joined by CEO of Ingenious Probiotics about what represents an explosion in the science of healthy bacteria. We discuss probiotics in an external environment rather than an internal one. Based on our knowledge, albeit recent and expanding, we understand the vital role of probiotics as balancing bacteria in our microbiome. Joe discusses how we can use probiotics as a cleaning product to kill pathogens indoors with out adding chemicals. Too many chemicals in the home environment can make your indoor environment 100 times more toxic than outdoors. The issue with dogs is that the explore the world nose first, and sadly overtime many chemicals used in the home leach / off gas very toxic ‘endocrine disruptors’ that can play havoc at a cellular level. Choosing a more natural option to work symbiotically with nature can also be used to clean ears, remove tear stains, and clean teeth. Joe talks about the range of products from shampoos to sprays for the coat. Thinking about how the enzymes also work we discuss how the the probiotics actually work to keep good bacteria in the environment and react accordingly to the pathogens in the environment. As an emerging science , this episode clarifies we’ve just begun to scratch the surface of pro-biotics in the context of us having lived in a very sterile world.
Carol Hughes is back for part two of her chat about the Microbiom as our archive wellness season continues. Carol’s journey began being commissioned by the Welsh Government to research plant compounds, in particular natural occurring steroids. Carol explains how this naturally moved into researching animals microbiomes as part of her parent company Phytorigins. It was this research that brought Carol into focusing on the Microbiome. With technology advancing particularly with Artificial Intelligence. We discuss how working with leaders in the field at Aberystwyth University, how her team has conducted the first in-depth observation of different ‘biomes: cats, horses, and of course, dogs. We talk about her first study relating to obesity in dogs, and the bacteria - in fact a natural plant steroid that stimulates a pathway to the brain that could help reducing a tendency for obesity. Highlighting that you are what you eat, we explore how the microbiome responds to different hormones, and the lack of them, and the fact that it's a very delicate eco-system that relies on so many factors. Carol believes the microbiome shows everything in your dog, when you know how to read the picture presented. What she has discovered is that dogs in the UK are not well, and that their’ biomes are more compromised that cats and horses. Her research can highlight why spaying and neutering can affect the biome, and how antibiotic resistance is very obvious, along with other bacteria that are missing, painting a sad picture.
As we continue our Wellness season we bring you another classic from the archive when we’re joined by Carol Hughes talking about the Microbiome. Carol’s journey began being commissioned by the Welsh Government to research plant compounds in particular natural occurring steroids. Carol explains how this naturally moved into researching animals microbiomes as part of her parent company Phytorigins. We discuss how science namely Artificial Intelligence has moved forwards combined with working with leaders in the field at Aberystwyth University, how her team has conducted the first in-depth observation of different ‘biomes: cats, horses and of course dogs. We talk about her first study relating to obesity in dogs, and the bacteria that indicate and prove why dogs are getting porkier. You are what you eat!!!!! Carol believes the microbiome shows everything in your dog, when you know how to read the picture presented. What she has discovered is that dogs in the UK are not well. In fact they are less healthy than horses and cats. We discuss the many reasons as to why this is the case, revealing that Carol’s research is a honey pot of information that could help Britain’s dogs be healthier.
Our archive wellness season continues with this classic episode where Anna is joined by Dr Nick Thompson, known as the Holistic Vet. We chat about vaccines, but also about minimising chemicals in your home. Science proves that indoor environments can be 100 times more toxic than outdoors. With this in mind Dr Nick talks about his experience using ‘probiotic therapy’. We chat about his experience with his own dogs in terms of Dental Care and with Dog Dental Month upcoming, it's a timely reminder that tooth brushing is not always the full proof answer in dogs or indeed humans. This why diet plays a major role. Dr Nick has long championed feeding a raw balanced and complete diet and we chat about why keeping your dog’s mouth full of good bacteria, rather than creating a sterile environment created by sterile diets, is so easy yet important! Biscuit kibble gets stuck in dogs gums, and tiny particles remain overtime to create a pro-inflammatory reaction and gum disease. Conversely, feeding raw fuels the digestive system, the microbiome, and creates an environment in the mouth for good bacteria to flourish and counter any bad bacteria, which helps keep disease at bay. This coupled with regular treatment with Ingenious Probiotics’ Dental Spray has Dr Nick’s thumb’s up. Similarly for dogs fed on kibble diets especially adding some Collar-gen will replenish what is missing from a sterile biscuit diet. Collagen depletes in all mammals with age, and as a structural protein is essential for strong bones, and healthy soft tissue, including teeth and gums.
We kick off our wellness season with this classic from the Dog's Life Archive. Dr Lise Hansen talks about the benefits of the Titre Test.
As we continue our short literary season, we replay one of our favourite shows: Anna's chat with Dr Zazie Todd - CompanionAnimal Psychology - talking about her book Purr. In our conversation on cats , the lack of science on their behaviour (compared to dogs), she recount several hilarious anecdotes on Gremlin, which will make you realise why she named him Gremlin, the lengths he went for to help Molly when she was poorly, and why Gremlin was quite a cat for someone’s first feline! He is so missed, but we hope is he is reunited with Molly across that rainbow bridge.
As our Literary season continues, in this classic episode from the archive, children’s author, Jane Elson, joins Anna to discuss why animals, especially dogs, feature in her books. Dyslexic herself, Jane writes for those with reading difficulties, highlighting how animals - dogs in particular - help children in so many ways, not least in learning to read out loud. In her multi award winning ‘Moon Dog’ , she depicts the horrors of the puppy farming trade. Raising awareness for the next generation of dog owners, she worked with the charity All Dogs Matter to convey the horrific details, and the effects of losing a puppy on the whole family. In her latest novel Storm Horse, inspired by the racehorse Seabiscuit, who in the 1930’s represented hope for the Americans struggling through the Depression; and why history can inspire the present. Jane also highlights why horses help build children’s confidence, helping them learn to read and be in the moment. Weaving characters through her series, she’s inspired by London and the legacy of her own kitten called Crayon who sadly died very young.
As we continue our Literary season, Anna talks to best selling author, Marika Cobbold, in this classic episode from the archive about her latest novel, On Hampstead Heath, where a small dog, Gillie, plays a central role in driving the plot. Gillie is based on her own dog, Gilbert, who was stolen and later found dead in another part of London in 2019.
To launch our Literary Season, we revisit our chat with author Simon Garfield about his book Dog's Best Friend, from January 2020.
To mark the start of flea season we bring you this classic episode from the archive. Vet and Environmental campaigner, Andrew Prentis is also a ‘fellow’ at Imperial College. He is amongst the team of scientists that have advised pet owners to be more sparing in their use of toxic flea and tic treatments, warning that they are entering watercourses and damage aquatic ecosystems. Reviewing 160 scientific papers on the impact on aquatic ecosystems of imidacloprid, a pesticide used in 138 pet treatments sold in the UK. They found that “one monthly flea treatment for a large dog contains enough imidacloprid to kill 25 million bees". In the decade up to 2019, the sale of the pesticide for veterinary use in the UK increased 152 per cent. In that year, 2,500kg of the substance were sold for veterinary use, not much less than the 4,000kg used in 2014 for combined agricultural and veterinary use. We discuss how we can change our approach to parasite control in our pets by adopting a Test Before You Treat approach that’s used in Scandinavia where Vets only prescribe treatments if an animal actually has fleas. Certainly where wormers are also concerned (similarly penetrating waterways and the landscape), there’s an easy alternative simply by testing your pet’s poop. If no worms are found, why give your dog a wormer? One of the sticking points of the discussion is that the market for parasite control in the vet industry is valued at £170 million. We chat about how practices could recoup this revenue in other proactive ways.
When we’re chatting to Dom Burke, Behaviour Officer at Dogs Trust about the Charity’s advice for dog owners wanting to travel safely and responsibly on trains with their dogs.
This week we’re discussing dysplasia in dogs with Orthopedic surgeon Gordon Maclellan. He is highlighting the Pupscan project which has studied whether dysplasia is congenital or caused by environmental factors. The research studying over 70 breeds , hundreds of litters suggests in line with ground breaking studies in Sweden that the evidence reveals that there is no genetic influence on dysplasia in dogs as has already been confirmed in people.
I’m chatting to Beverley Cuddy, editor of Dogs Today Magazine and Patron of the Stolen and Missing Pets Alliance. Pet Detective, Wayne May, Police Liaison officer for Dogs Lost, about these worrying statistics and that clearly the legacy of dog theft and the thousands of tragic cases that peaked in 2021 with 2,760 dogs stolen with barely 19% of dogs ever being reunited with their families.
This week Anna pops back briefly from this year's Crufts in Birmingham to update Mike who couldn't make it up there himself (again!)
This week Anna chats about one of her favourite subjects - Bone Broth!
We’re joined by the Cinema Journalist, Toby Rose who is the founder of the FIDO Awards, which celebrates the roles of dogs in film. The FIDOS 2025, staged today on February 23rd will unleash the winners of the best canine capers in cinemas at a special ceremony held at British Film Institute in London.
As it was Valentine's just the other day we thought we'd share again this episode from 2021.
We’re joined by Esther Logue from Paleo Ridge talking about the company’s latest additions Paleo Puppy and Paleo Senior - both of which are industry firsts by containing Reishi Mushroom tincture along with a host of health boosting ingredients, not least the brand’s ethical and sustainably reared meats. We chat about why feeding a natural whole food unprocessed diet is peace of mind in a bowl as a way of boosting cellular function. Fulfilling a demand for a puppy choice, Paleo Puppy also contains added superfoods like wheatgrass and butternut squash, simply to add additional antioxidants that can help a puppy’s rapid growth and cellular development. The Paleo Senior is adapted with older dogs in mind with slightly less bone content and a slightly higher inclusion of Paleo Ridge’s superfood boost called Berry Good. Discussing medicinal mushrooms as a burgeoning area drawing on Traditional Chinese Medicine and the on going discovery of foods as being medicine. We touch on the microbiome, its role as triggering immune system function and why feeding whole foods naturally support the trillions of bacteria needed for a robust and diverse microbial colony.
We’re joined by Catriona Lowry from The Hilltop Sanctuary in Ireland. Catriona gave up a career in fashion to dedicate her life to helping animals. Not just dogs, but pigs, donkeys, chickens and a lot of horses. In a country where there appears to be an abject negligence to the health and welfare on many animals, it was a Fortune Teller that predicted Catriona’s journey. Setting up the Hilltop Sanctuary has changed Catriona’s life, and made her realise the importance of helping creatures with no voice. Whilst a baptism of fire for her, this episode certainly highlights that some animals can indeed benefit from the luck of the Irish. We chat about her ongoing campaigns to fund this not for profit organisation, highlighting some terrible cases, but always with a smile on her face and a touch of lipstick. Tirelessly campaigning for Animal Welfare in Ireland, Catriona supports Dog Advocacy Ireland and is vehemently against the cruel puppy farming trade that earns the Irish Government over 2 Million Euros in tax money annually!
We’re joined by award winning Animal Physiotherapist, Donna Wills (RVN, PgCert A Physical, MIRVAP(VP), discussing her book, The Best Goodbye, which is a true story of love and farewell. Written as a life tribute to her dog, Logan, a rescued Border Collie, Donna talks about why it was so emotional to write but cathartic at the same time. It is a book about Logan and Donna’s special journey together, like a journey that all dog owners experience, but for Donna Logan was her ‘heart’ dog. Having been her constant companion through relationships, her marriage, and the birth of her children, it is a roller coaster and an emotional read as it will resonate with everyone who has loved and lost a dog. Understanding this Donna has dedicated the book to everyone who has lost a pet. Whilst talking about her own experience which pulls at the heart strings, Donna highlights top tips for making the inevitable as pain free as possible, with points to remember like caring for yourself as you grieve. Whilst sad and resonating outwards, it is also a celebration to remember the good times, the experiences, and ‘mountains' climbed together that will never leave as they are memories fixed into your heart.
When we’re exploring why the New Year triggers thoughts of new interiors and maximising space.
We’re joined by Savita Nutan who is discussing her own educational organisation ‘Medicine without Cruelty, the aim of which is promoting non animal testing as animal testing is outdated, ineffective and needs to be stopped. The big question being why is it still going on? Savita explains why the law is regulated by ASPA Animals (Scientific Procedures) and it licences the use of animals despite there being so much information highlighting that there are other ways! The obvious question is how can a rat’s metabolism be compared to a human's? And with the rise of Artificial Intelligence could it be the time to end the pointless suffering of animals in laboratories when technology could replace them.
We’re joined by Interior Designer and TV Presenter, Laurence Llewelyn-Bowen, giving advice on top home improvement ideas transforming your home in 2025. We chat about Heat pumps as a an energy efficient way to heat our homes. We chat about why the New Year inspires interior changes and suggests opting for some colour and bold stripes. As a huge animal lover we chat about his cats and dogs, and why up-cycling can be beneficial to your budget and the health of our pets. Laurence is aware of VOCs (volatile organic compounds) that can emit from pre-fab furniture, and why plenty of succulents, a fresh draft, natural light and air purifiers contribute to our positive wellbeing and that of our pets.
This week we dive into the archive where Anna is joined by Will Green MA, Executive MBA Programme at the University of Winchester and Sales and Marketing Director of Paleo Ridge. We discuss sustainability in the pet industry, focusing on the model adopted by Paleo Ridge as a raw food firm supplier, setting eco-standards in terms of making feeding raw not only ‘peace of mind for your dog', but also for the planet. In an age where Veganism is being suggested for dogs we discuss why ethical farming is needed to save the planet and maintain the bio-diversity without which the planet cannot thrive. And why of course dogs need to eat meat! Will explains the different aspects in Paleo Ridge’s production that offsets Co2, and why we shouldn’t consider dog ownership as contributing to global warming, but consider the offsets in Co2 that can be achieved simply with the the mantra: reuse, reduce and recycle. And never underestimate a dogs role as man’s best friend, helping to better our physical and mental health.
We’re joined by Lizzie Charnock, Dog Matching Officer, at Wood Green Pets Charity, talking about Christmas and its impact on impulse puppy purchases that often lead to young adults being handed into the charity. We chat about the rise in abandonment since the pandemic, and why Wood Green’s service to match the right dog to a prospective owner is key. Since 2019, Channel 4’s The Dog House has been capturing hearts across the nation. We chat about the programme and why it's helped so many understand how the Wood Green teams turn dogs’ lives around, and the prospective owners whose lives are enriched by the power of the dog. Lizzie explains that this wildly successful series follows our four-legged friends’ search for their perfect match, and it’s always an emotional roller coaster. From heartbreaking backstories to happy endings, there’s never a dull moment. But behind every success story is a team of passionate people at Wood Green working to turn a pet’s life around. And, as a new series is unleashed, the charity and The Dog House’s production team are looking for candidates, people wanting to adopt a dog in 2025, and might make the grade to contribute to the show. If that might be you, please follow the link below to contact Five Miles Films.
We’re joined by Denise Elphick, co-founder of Pets Pyjamas, the UK’s dog friendly travel agent. We chat about the concept of dog friendly, the power of the ’Hound Pound’, and why the hospitality industry is opening their doors to dogs. Denise explains that every listing from a self catering cottage, a 5-star hotel or a pub has been curated by the Pets Pyjamas’ team. Offering clients peace of mind and assurance that their dog will be welcomed, not just tolerated. As stay-cationing has soared in popularity, with over 50% of all dog owners wanting to holiday with their pooch, hotel groups are becoming more inspired to welcome dogs with bespoke room service options, doggy menus, in-room hospitality from dogs beds, bowls, and toys offered. Dogs just love to be with their owners and the more proactive time together the better. Traveling to different places adds enrichment for your dog, and holidays will inevitably be more active and interactive with your dog. The majority of locations are situated close to train stations, and traveling by train can make for a less stressful journey. Plus Pets Pyjamas insists that dogs stay for free!
We’re joined by Les Ward and Debbie Wilson from the International Animal Coalition discussing the breach of animal welfare in Morocco all in the name of football! Les and Debbie explain why campaigners are calling on FIFA to strip Morocco of its World Cup bid after grisly footage has emerged showing the inhumane public slaughter of street dogs in preparation for the event. Dogs can be seen screaming and in pain in the harrowing footage, which shows the 'cleansing' efforts being carried out to support the World Cup bid. This announcement due on December 11th as to whether Morocco’s bid is accepted is a critical point to ending the planned but needless torture and slaughter of millions of street dogs. Despite the fact that the majority of dogs are ‘community' dogs that are vaccinated, neutered and chipped, and looked after by the community, they are being barbarically killed, shamelessly in public in front of children causing Amnesty International to also speak out. The worry is that even if Morocco does not get the bid to stage the 2030 World Cup tournament, the slaying of dogs will continue. The link to sign the petition is below.
Keef Yap the founder of YapYap.dog joins us this week to talk about her hugely successful events. Inspired by her own MaltiPoo called Buttons, Keef reached out to like minded people four years ago and has built a community of modern ‘pet parents’ who want to enjoy outings and events like the hugely successful Winter Woof with their dogs. We chat about the organisation that goes on and the creative thinking to make fun interactive features for the dogs to enjoy as much as the humans. We chat about what’s lined up for 2025 as well as the ups and downs of creating a successful brand.
We’re joined by Caroline Allen, Chief Veterinary Officer, RSPCA and Rob Denman, Head of Professional and Field Services Gas Safe Register discussing the silent killer that is carbon monoxide poisoning in our pets. Raising awareness as part of Carbon Monoxide Awareness Week (Monday 18th-Friday 22nd November 2024), the Gas Safety Register and the RSPCA have joined forces to raise awareness of the vital signs your pet has potentially been exposed to carbon monoxide, saving not only their lives but yours too! New figures show almost all pet owners (99%) are not able to correctly identify all the signs that indicate their pet could be suffering from poisoning from a carbon monoxide leak, despite pets often feeling the impact much earlier than humans due to their size.
Vet and Clinical Supervisor, Lara Howe, at Pet Blood Bank joins us to chat about this life saving charity. Founded in 2007, Pet Blood Bank is a charity that offers a blood bank service for dogs who run very similarly to the human blood service. Owners bring their dogs along to donate blood at one of their many sessions across the UK. The blood is then processed and stored ready to be sent out to vets when they need it. Every donation a dog gives can help to save the lives of up to four other dogs. Before Pet Blood Bank, vets would have to find a donor themselves, often in the middle of the night and with a very sick patient waiting. Setting up Pet Blood Bank means that vets now have immediate access to blood when they need it. We chat about which dogs make great donors, their necessary age, weight, the procedure, the number of times they can give blood in a year.We chat about the different blood types and why there is a demand for the less common negative blood type which belongs to only 30% of dogs. Just as giving blood for humans this is positive experience, and one that’s rewarded with treats, bandanas to become a fun experience. Pet Blood Bank operates nationally and is always looking for more donors!
With firework now upon us, we bring you our chat with Dr Sam Gaines of the RSPCA from 2022 about how you can start preparing your dog now to deal with fireworks that now start at Halloween, through Bonfire Night, Dwali, Christmas and New Year by learning to see the signs of stress in your dog and to create a safe space for them. Anna and Sam also talk about the progress (or lack there of) of various animal welfare bills currently in Parliament, the increase in dog biting, and a new media campaign to add more breeds to the list of Dangerous Dogs.
We’re joined by Chloe White (RVN BVNA Certsan ) discussing National Black Cat Day! We unpick all the myth and folklore surrounding these mystic cats , not least why black cats remain in rescue longer than any other coat colour! Discussing Chloe’s role at with Antinol, we chat about the fact that arthritis affects between 60 and 70 percent of all cats. The problem with cats is that they’re so good at disguising pain. Chloe discusses why Antinol’s Green Lipped Mussel is a supplement that provides a solution . As a new concept offering very clever minimally processed Green Lipped Mussel as an oil, encapsulated in gelatine as an easy ‘tablet’ to offer both cats and dogs. As a broad spectrum high potency Omega 3 , containing both DHA and EPA, its 100% ‘species appropriate’ and bio-available to cats and dogs. Apart from helping with joints and mobility, Omega 3 is an essential fatty acid that regulates the immune system, promotes a healthy skin and coat, and fuels bright cognition.
What is the difference between fear and anxiety?
Dr Dan O’ Neill, Associate Professor in Companion Animal Epidemiology at Royal Veterinary College, joins us to discuss the latest research from VetCompass on comparing three ‘designer’ cross breeds namely the Cavapoo, Cockapoo and the Labradoodle on whether they are healthier than their ‘pure bred’ parts. Revealing to some surprise that these three mixes are indeed no healthier than their pedigree parents, we chat about bias, stigma and trends that influence dog owners. We discuss the shift in dog ownership towards these new ‘breeds’, in the wake of much discussion on the health limiting over-exaggerated features of some pedigrees that has caused a shadow to fall across all purebreds. Dr Dan is passionate about ‘Innate Health’ which simply means dogs should be able to express themselves as dogs being able to breathe, run, and communicate as a dog is meant to! We discuss the work that Vet Compass is doing to paint a picture, a Demo-graph, on all aspects of modern post-pandemic dogs and their owners, including husbandry, which is coming soon!
We’re joined by Dr Paul Koudounaris talking about his book ‘Faithful until Death’. As a first in terms of investigating Pet Cemeteries all around the world, Paul admits this was a labour of love of 11 years. Revealing the history of pet ownership as in the late Victorian era industrialisation meant more folk moved into cities, creating a new kind of pet husbandry, which included giving them a ’good’ death. Paul explores Cemeteries, and tombs from as far afield as Thailand, across Europe, in the UK and across the USA. We chat about the ridiculous thought that animals do not have souls, as an illogical concept of theology. We talk about the resistance to burying pets in churchyards, and the people who helped make change with setting up/ building dedicated pet cemeteries. As a massive animal lover, Paul became a pet bereavement councillor for several years as well as tracking down the author of iconic poem : The Rainbow Bridge, and in revealing one of the greatest mysteries, of the Paris Pet Cemetery called Le Cimitières des Chiens in Paris where the iconic canine film legend, RIn Tin Tin, is said to be buried. We chat about Tawny the ex circus lion who lived in Beverley Hills and rests in the cemetery in LA, and more! The book takes you on an emotional journey, through which there's comfort in how many have grieved their pets, for a loss that is means losing apart of oneself, and how Pet Cemeteries set in history our love for all animals. As the late Queen famously said: “Grief is the price of Love.”
We’re joined by Microbiologist, Dr Carol Hughes, and Rachel Down, the founder of Boil and Broth, to discuss the ground breaking research project called the Biome Broth study. As a world first, the aim is to put Bone Broth to the test to see if adding this age old remedy to dogs’ diets will enhance their microbiome. With 29 dogs taking part, none of whom had had broth before, and on taking this powerful food for only four weeks, their biomes were tested again, and in all cases a remarkable improvement has been seen in this short time-frame. Notably the microbiomes as tested by Dr Carol at Aberystwyth University revealed the cases restoring to a natural balance with bad bacteria strains being reduced, and the good bacteria strains being enhance, along with an increase in the microbial diversity. The project aims to discover more about how Bone Broth interacts with the biome’s bacteria, helping to restore its natural ecosystem, which is responsible for 80 per cent of the immune system. Funds are needed to delve deeper, focus on a project around cats, even discover what is the magic ingredient of Bone Broth or simply a combination of all its natural assets! So we discuss the Prize Draw crowd funder which hopes to raise funds for further research along with awareness and education as to the health benefits of Bone Broth as a superfood. There’s a chance to win some amazing prizes including ‘free consultancy’ with Anna on achieving overall wellness.
This week Anna returns to Battersea to visit the cats at Battersea’s London HQ as the second in our double bill raising awareness for Wear Blue For Rescue at a time when the charity is at capacity for its cat residents. Chatting to JoAnna Puzzo , Cat Behaviourist and Training Manager to find out more about the growing number of abandoned cats in the Charity’s care, how they’re rehabilitated with behavioural and veterinary care. Particularly as Battersea is currently at capacity with the most abandoned, gifted and stray cats ever! With a look inside their new cat facility where the residents have amazing cabins, pods or studios packed with every aspect of enrichment. Rehabilitating up to 145 cats across the Charity’s three sites at any one time, JoAnna explains that she’s never surprised by the range of feline personalities. As a massive cat lover herself we discuss many of the cat traits that are still to be defined by science! In so much as cats are considered about 10,000 years behind dogs in their domestication. We talk about how cats decided to domesticate themselves! And about how the Charity matches cats to their forever homes, ensuring a match that is ‘forever’ and being aware of the fact that every cat is an individual. Even to how the cats at Battersea get named and about how people can apply to become a Battersea volunteer.
Celebrating Wear Blue for Rescue month at Battersea, Anna spent a morning at the London HQ to record a double bill! In this part one we’re talking to Lucy Stratton, the Dog Team Leader at Battersea. We have the pleasure of meeting Bil,l a 10 month old mix breed found abandoned, and now looking for his forever home. Lucy reiterates Battersea’s matching process, similar to a dating app that ensure that you and your prospective pooch are a match made in heaven for the best chances of a long happy life together. We discuss how every dog is an individual and how training and rehabilitation programs differ. With some dogs better suited to a more rural environment in either Battersea’s Brand's Hatch or Windsor facilities. With abandonment at record levels, Lucy explains how heart breaking it is if owners are forced, through no fault of their own, but down to circumstance, to handover their dogs. The team offer emotional support without any judgement and if the owners want can receive updates.
To conclude our August Archive Season, this week we’re joined by the legend that is Dr Jean Dodds talking about vaccines. As one of the pioneers to research the duration of immunity (DOI) of modern vaccines, Dr Jean has led the way for the WSAVA (The World Small Animal Veterinary Association) to recommend Titre Testing over annual boosters. Having studied how the DOI of initial puppy shots can last a minimum of three years, if not a life time, Dr Jean believes in #TestBeforeYouTreat and that’s for annual vaccines as well as wormers. A Titre tests picks up the serological immunity that your dog has developed against the core diseases: Parvo, Distemper and Hepatitis, and helps pet guardians manage their dog’s immunisation rather than over vaccinate. For over five decades Dr Jean has noted the side effects of many vaccines, not least from the ingredients or adjuvants that are added including Mercury. We chat about the difference between active vaccines and non-active vaccines, and the possible side effects from the latter, and what you can do to minimise the risks. We chat about the best time to vaccinate your puppy, and we also discuss Hemopet the blood bank Dr Jean founded in 1986 where bloods for Thyroid assessments are sent globally. In 2015 Dr Jean published the best selling book Canine Nutrigenomics - foods to heal your dog naturally. We also talk about environmental stressors and the food chain too!
As our August Archive Season continues Anna meets up with Author & Journalist, Genevieve Fox, and her Miniature Schnauzer, Pepper on Hampstead Heath. Retracing their time training on an ‘experience’ walk, where Anna highlighted some training tips. That walk was for an article in The Observer magazine about walking your own dog, and how it helps your dog’s and your own well-being. Passionate about punctuating your dog’s day, and building proactive games into an everyday walk for extra enrichment. Anna demonstrated how to connect with your dog and make the walk interactive. Genevieve and Anna chat sitting on a log that became a fun agility obstacle. They chat about why its important to train a perfect recall, so your dog is never a nuisance to other people or their their dogs. Why spending quality time with your dog means you get to know your dog. And why training and adapting life around your dog through their life stages helps keep them on the ball, and reduces anxiety. But they also discuss how dogs enrich our lives, often in times of crisis. Apart from highlighting how Pepper helped Genevieve and her family through the Lockdowns, but when Genevieve was diagnosed with cancer. We chat about her book, Milkshakes and Morphine and why Pepper helped the family cope and pull through this testing chapter. We talk about how social media influences are connections , even to dogs, but ultimately why a house is not a home without a dog!
To continue our August Archive Season, Anna is joined by Trainer & Behaviourist, Victoria Stilwell, all the way from Atlanta. At the time of re recording, Victoria’s second series of It’s Me Or The Dog was being aired, and we chat about this and the landmark first series that aired in the UK in 2005. Victoria explains that the doggy problems are the same as they were in the first series, but more intense as our lives have changed, not least because of the pandemic. If trained dogs are happy dogs, they make for happier pet parents! Victoria champions the term ‘teaching’ over ‘training, and about empowering pet parents with the skills to get the best out of your dog. And why in #NationalWalkYourDog month, getting out with your dog is the best way to be with your furry friend.
