Soul Touched by Dogs

What do mathematics and misbehaving mutts have in common?This week on the Soul Touched by Dogs podcast, I sit down with Grisha Stewart, a self-described behaviour nerd who made the leap from math lecturer to world-renowned dog trainer. Yep, from numbers to nosework 😛Grisha created BAT (Behavior Adjustment Training), a beautifully intuitive method that helps reactive and anxious dogs find calm - not through bribery or correction, but by giving them agency. It’s training as a gentle dance, not a tug-of-war.We talk about the heartbreak of having a dog who “doesn’t behave” in public, the magic of working with a dog’s instincts (instead of muscling against them), and why the real secret sauce often lies in helping humans breathe, pause, and trust.You’ll also hear how her soulmate dog, Peanut, taught her more than any seminar could, and why the path to healing sometimes involves therapy dogs, awkward cabinets, and a few emotional meltdowns (from both species).If you’ve ever felt judged at the end of a leash, or wondered if your dog was just “too much”, this one’s for you. Come for the insights, stay for the laughs, and leave feeling a little more seen.🐾 Hit play, and let’s explore the softer side of behaviour science.To find out more and connect with Grisha:Website: https://school.grishastewart.comBio: My name is Grisha Stewart and my family tree has more dogs than humans!I'm best known among dog trainers for developing Behavior Adjustment Training (BAT), a humane, trauma-informed, attachment-informed technique for dog aggression, frustration, and fear. I also love teaching all kinds of life skills, so this online school covers a lot of different subjects.Through my international dog seminars, DVDs, books, and my in-person and online training schools, I've helped well over 200,000 dogs and their people thrive.Some of the links.https://school.grishastewart.comhttps://school.grishastewart.com/courses/bat2https://school.grishastewart.com/courses/leash-walkinghttps://school.grishastewart.com/courses/humanhttps://StellarVillage.comAs always, all about Soul Touched by Dogs at https://soultouchedbydogs.com

Lisa Waggoner – Dogs and Second Chances: Rehabilitation Behind BarsA heart-opening conversation about connection, compassion, and the power of second chances—for both people and dogs.In this episode, I sit down with Lisa Waggoner to explore a truly inspiring program where incarcerated men and shelter dogs transform each other’s lives through the power of positive reinforcement.We talk about how the Jail Dog Program started, what makes it so effective, and how it’s changing lives .. not just for the men involved and the dogs they train, but also for families, communities, and even the prison system itself.You’ll hear stories that will melt your heart, spark your curiosity, and maybe even inspire you to get involved. Whether you're a dog lover, a changemaker, or someone who believes in the magic of kindness .. you’ll want to listen to this one.What we cover in this episode:00:00 – Introduction and Warm Welcome00:49 – Introducing the Jail Dog Program01:35 – Lisa’s Personal Journey and Inspiration04:43 – How the Program Got Started06:23 – Powerful Impact and Real-Life Success Stories14:10 – Program Expansion and Additional Life Skills Training17:10 – Challenges, Dog Selection, and Application Process22:16 – How You Can Get Involved + Growing the Movement28:51 – Final Reflections and Hope for the Future🐾 Find out more about Lisa and the Rescued Program:Website: https://www.coldnosecollege.comBio: Lisa Lyle Waggoner is a passionate advocate for humane, science-based, force-free dog training. She’s the author of The Original Rocket Recall™: Teach Your Dog to Come. She’s a Certified Professional Dog Trainer-Knowledge Assessed, a Pat Miller Certified Trainer-Level 2, Certified Separation Anxiety Trainer, and faculty member of the Victoria Stilwell Academy for Dog Training and Behavior, and an Ordained Interspecies Animal Chaplain. Lisa is the founder of Cold Nose College and well-known for her clear, compassionate, and engaging teaching skills and is dedicated to helping dogs and their owners form a strong bond and enjoy their lives together. Lisa, along with her husband and business partner, Brad Waggoner, were the professional dog trainers in the RESCUED jail dog program (“Saving Detainees and Dogs One Life at a Time), at the Colwell Probation Detention center in Georgia. They are two-time recipient of the Volunteer of the Year Award by the Georgia Department of Corrections.She lives in western North Carolina in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains and shares her life with her best friend, husband, and business partner, Brad, and their Australian Shepherd, Keaton. Here’s the link for downloading the article: https://www.coldnosecollege.com/download-ppg-cover-story Rescued Program Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/RescuedProgramA free gift for you: https://www.coldnosecollege.com/12-rules-of-rocket-recall Social media links: https://www.facebook.com/coldnosecollege https://www.instagram.com/coldnosecollege/ As always, all about Soul Touched by Dogs at https://soultouchedbydogs.com💛 If this episode moved you, please share it with someone who needs to hear it. And if you’d like to help bring programs like this to more communities, stay tuned for how you can support.

From Dog Training to Artistry: The Inspirational Journey of DeniseIn this episode, Denise shares her heartfelt journey from being a dog trainer to founding her own graphic design business, Mighty Dog Graphics. She discusses her early work with guide dogs and her deep involvement with charitable organizations that train assistance dogs. Denise shares her inspiring story of how her dog Jeffrey's medical challenges led to the founding of her art-based business, which has since thrived for over a decade. She also talks about her ongoing engagement with the dog training community through consultancy work and her leadership role in the Inter Dogs association. Denise emphasizes the importance of ethics and a holistic approach in dog training, and she highlights her work in creating custom art and illustrations for books and clients in the dog training community. Tune in for an uplifting story of resilience, passion, and creativity.00:00 Welcome and Introductions00:12 Life in Dublin and Phoenix Park00:36 Journey into Dog Training00:53 Volunteer Work and Guide Dogs03:55 Challenges with a Special Dog07:27 Founding Mighty Dog Graphics08:32 Current Work and Reflections12:00 Into Dogs Association16:05 Art Projects and Collaborations17:24 Conclusion and Contact InformationTo find out more and connect with Denise:Website: https://www.intodogs.netBio: Certified Behaviourist & Trainer. Denise is the Director of Mighty Dog Graphics since 2015, Co-Director of INTODogs LTD, the UK Dog Charter and 'Puppy Power- Training & Behaviour'. She also holds distinctions in Canine Bereavement support and Assistance dog training. Professional member of PPGBI, ISAP, ICAN and the DWA. She has been heavily involved with The Irish Dogs for the Disabled for over a decade working as a behaviour advisor, providing puppy classes to socialisers, pilot training programs, a socialiser and fundraiser. Her background was in film, animation, graphics, and stage and enjoys combining her love of dogs with her past and present work having had a few of the assistance dogs she worked with on stage and on camera. She currently illustrates books, logos and infographics for others in the field along with providing bereavement support and behaviour advice in 1-2-1 online sessions.Social media links: https://www.facebook.com/mightydoggraphicshttps://www.facebook.com/TheAssociationofINTODogsAll about Soul Touched by Dogs at https://soultouchedbydogs.com

In this episode, I am joined by canine behavior experts Lisa Hird and Dale McLelland, who share their journey and mission in the dog training industry. Lisa, who operates the Dog Behavior Clinic in Lincolnshire, and Dale, who runs Being Canine in Scotland, have collaborated to create Without Worry Canine Education, aimed at improving dog-owner relationships through practical, respect-based training. We discuss the importance of understanding dog body language, common misconceptions around dog obedience, and the critical role of observation and consistency. Lisa and Dale emphasize the need for hands-on experience, critical thinking about traditional training methods, and fostering two-way communication with dogs. Tune in to learn how their innovative approach is reshaping canine education and helping dog owners understand their pets better.00:00 Welcome and Introductions00:28 Lisa's Background and Passion for Rescue Dogs01:30 Innovative Canine Education05:12 Dale's Journey and Philosophy07:25 Questioning Traditional Dog Training Methods12:38 Understanding Dog Behavior and Communication23:04 The Importance of Practical Experience35:39 Final Thoughts and Where to Find UsTo find out more and connect with Lisa and Dale:Website: https://www.withoutworrycanineeducation.co.ukBio: Without Worry Canine Education is the brainchild of Lisa Hird and Dale McLelland, accredited canine behaviour specialists with over 40 combined years of teaching experience.Dale McLelland specialises in complex or challenging behaviours in dogs. Based in Ayrshire, Scotland, she runs her own business "Being Canine" as a practising canine behaviourist. She is an accredited Fear Free Dog Training Professional.Lisa Hird is a practising canine behaviourist and runs her own business "Dog Behaviour Clinic", in Lincolnshire, working closely with local vets and several dog rescues. She is an accredited Fear Free Dog Training Professional.Lisa believes in relationship-centred training and consideration for the individual dog.Social media links: https://www.facebook.com/withoutworryceAll about Soul Touched by Dogs at https://soultouchedbydogs.com

I’ve got a very special guest for you today. She’s retired after over 5 decades of teaching people how to better understand dogs, the magnificent creatures by our side. But the lovely Lisbeth Borg de Waard from the Nordic Education Centre for Ethical Dog Trainers offered to make an introduction and she said Yes - Turid Rugaas.“The worst thing modern dog owners do is micromanage their dogs,” she says.“We underestimate our dogs. They’re a lot smarter than humans. They understand us better than we understand ourselves but many humans don’t even speak the basics of their language.”This week’s Pawsome Human: Turid Rugaas - Your Dog Is Smarter Than YouIn this enlightening episode, Turid shares invaluable insights about fostering natural and healthy relationships with dogs. We delve into cultural differences in dog ownership, emphasizing the importance of allowing dogs to live naturally and freely. Turid challenges conventional dog training methods and stresses the significance of letting dogs develop their natural abilities and social skills. Key takeaways include the benefits of giving dogs freedom, the importance of slow-paced walks, and debunking the myth of imposing control and commands on dogs. Tune in for a thought-provoking discussion on nurturing a dog's true potential and wisdom.Grab a cuppa and join us (and yes, please like and subscribe to help the baby YouTube channel grow 🙏) 00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome00:33 Discussing Dog Cultures Around the World02:34 Challenges of Dog Ownership in the US05:19 The Importance of Freedom for Dogs09:10 Natural Dog Development and Intelligence15:43 Raising Puppies and Adult Dogs22:34 Encouraging Natural Dog Behaviors24:28 Freedom at Home for Dogs25:03 The Dangers of Fetching Games25:55 Walking at Your Dog's Pace28:43 The Harm of Constant Eye Contact30:51 Letting Dogs Be Dogs35:06 Trusting Dogs Over Experts40:33 Changing Your Mindset41:22 Resources for Dog Owners45:08 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsTo find out more and connect with Turid:Website: http://en.turid-rugaas.no/Bio: Turid Rugaas is a legend in the dog world. Based in Norway, she’s been working with dogs for over 50 years and is best known for discovering and popularizing what she calls "calming signals" - he subtle ways dogs communicate to avoid conflict and keep the peace. If you've ever seen a dog yawn or turn their head and wondered why - they're not just tired, they're talking. And Turid helped us understand what they’re saying.She’s the author of the international classic On Talking Terms with Dogs: Calming Signals, along with other go-to guides like My Dog Pulls. What Do I Do? and Barking: The Sound of a Language. Her work has helped dog lovers all over the world better understand and connect with their pups - without force, fear, or frustration.Turid has taught trainers and pet parents in over two dozen countries, founded the Pet Dog Trainers of Europe, and even received the King’s Badge of Honour in Norway for her contributions to animal welfare. She’s all about respectful, kind, and science-backed ways of working with dogs, and it was an honor to have her on the show.Social media links:https://www.facebook.com/T.Rugaas/Book: Get a copy of On Talking Terms with Dogs: Calming Signals https://a.co/d/4o8MEgGAs always, all about Soul Touched by Dogs at https://soultouchedbydogs.com

Navigating the End-of-Life Journey with AnimalchemyIn this episode, I am joined by Monique from Animalchemy, who shares her profound insights into the natural end-of-life process for pets. Monique's expertise blends animal medicine with spiritual teachings, providing a unique perspective on how we can offer support during our pets' final stages. She emphasizes the importance of understanding the predictable phases of dying, recognizing signs that may be misinterpreted as pain, and the crucial role of staying calm and present. Monique also highlights how learning about the dying process can deepen our bond with our pets, helping us to offer a peaceful and conscious end-of-life experience. Listeners will gain practical advice on recognizing the last cycle of life and letting nature take its course while avoiding the unnecessary stress of forced interventions. Whether you're preparing for a pet's passing or simply want to strengthen your connection with your animal companion, this conversation is a compassionate guide to one of life's most challenging moments.00:00 Welcome and Introductions00:25 Monique's Background and Business01:09 Journey into End-of-Life Care02:03 Daya's End-of-Life Story04:15 Understanding the Natural End-of-Life Process04:46 The Last Cycle and Predictable Stages12:29 The Role of Pain and Discomfort19:21 Recognizing the Last Cycle in Pets19:46 The Importance of Education and Preparation23:24 Understanding the Dying Process in Pets24:48 The Importance of Staying Present27:28 Trusting Nature and Letting Go28:26 Course Information and Benefits32:13 The Role of Pet Death Doulas37:20 Dealing with Guilt and Grief39:31 The Sensitivity of Dying Pets43:39 Final Thoughts and PreparationTo find out more and connect with Monique:Website: https://animalchemy.com/Bio: Monique left the glamorous role of personal assistant to a prince to follow her true love—animals and a deep fascination for the unseen. With her multi-sensory abilities she has helped hundreds of pet parents deepen their bonds with their beloved animals. But the loss of her beloved cat, Rami, sparked a decade of study of the natural end-of-life process, shaping her unique approach. By integrating emotional and spiritual principles, she guides peaceful, pain-free transitions—creating a loving bridge across forever.Today, Monique trains aspiring pet death doulas, empowering them to facilitate end-of-life journeys free of regret. Guided by animals—our gurus at teaching us how to become better humans in life and in death —her mission is to support the journey of awakening of pet parents and doulas bringing them home to themselves so they can become a light for both pets and the world.Your Free gift: https://training.animalchemy.com/free-gift-wyphSocial media links:https://www.facebook.com/animalchemy1/https://www.facebook.com/monique.brignoni/https://www.instagram.com/animalchemy/https://www.linkedin.com/in/monique-brignoni/As always, all about Soul Touched by Dogs at https://soultouchedbydogs.com

Understanding and Mitigating Stress in Dogs with Diane from Canine Transformations Learning CenterIn this episode, I have an insightful conversation with Diane, a specialist in canine behavior and stress management, currently based in Langley, Washington. With over 25 years of experience, Diane shares her journey from her early days in dog obedience training to her current focus on stress and behavior problems in dogs. We discuss the evolution of dog training over the decades, highlighting the shift from aversive techniques to positive reinforcement methods. Diane elaborates on how modern urban environments can exacerbate stress and reactivity in dogs and provides practical advice on managing and mitigating these issues. We delve into specific cases, such as dealing with over-arousal in walks, the importance of problem-solving exercises for mental stimulation, and ways to ensure dogs get adequate rest and relaxation. Diane also introduces her systematic approach to stress release, detailed in her book, and announces upcoming works on resource guarding and a more comprehensive guide on canine stress detox. For dog owners looking to better understand and support their pets, this episode is packed with valuable insights and actionable strategies.00:00 Introduction and Welcome00:17 Diane's Background and Journey02:36 Changes in Dog Training Over the Decades04:46 Understanding Reactivity and Aggression07:16 Case Study: Managing Over-Arousal09:48 Effective Training Techniques21:49 Problem Solving and Mental Stimulation27:09 Conclusion and ResourcesTo find out more and connect with Diane:Website: https://www.caninetlc.comBio: Owner Canine Transformations Learning, Education, ProductionAuthor/WriterSpeakerGuild Certified Tellington Touch PractitionerProfessional Canine Trainer- Accredited PCTAFounding Member PPGCharter Member PACOnline course, 8 weeks, Resource Guarding, Grisha Stewart’s Canine AcademyBehavior Analyst/ConsultantMaster Certification Canine NutritionSocial media links: https://www.facebook.com/cTLC3The book: Stress Release: For Dogs: The Canine Emotional Detox https://a.co/d/hC3qVGhAs always, all about Soul Touched by Dogs at https://soultouchedbydogs.com

Wishful Thinking Isn't PlanningIn this episode, I am joined by Peggy Hoyt, an estate planning attorney and animal lover with homes in Virginia and Florida. Peggy shares her insights on the importance of creating a pet trust to ensure that pets are cared for in the event of the owner's death or disability. She passionately shares her own experiences with her numerous pets and her motivation to write a book about pet trusts. Peggy emphasizes the need for assigning both short-term and long-term caregivers, preferably including trustworthy individuals and organizations, to safeguard pets' future well-being. She highlights the importance of appropriately funding the trust and considering the legal framework in your jurisdiction. Our discussion concludes with practical advice on building relationships with potential caregivers and exploring animal-related organizations as viable options. This eye-opening conversation urges pet owners to plan well in advance and ensure continuity of care for their beloved animals.00:00 Welcome and Introductions00:14 Peggy's Background and Passion for Pets01:18 The Concept of Pet Trusts03:09 Creating a Pet Trust: Key Considerations05:30 Funding and Legal Aspects of Pet Trusts07:24 Choosing the Right Caregivers11:17 Legal and Practical Challenges14:59 Organizations for Long-Term Pet Care16:45 Building a Network for Pet Care23:27 Final Thoughts and ResourcesTo find out more and get in touch with Peggy:Website: https://www.hoytbryan.com; https://www.act4pets.orgBio: Peggy is a lifelong animal advocate, pet mom, author, and attorney. She is a founding partner of The Law Offices of Hoyt & Bryan, a Central Florida estate planning and elder law firm. She and her law partner hold the distinction of being the only Florida law firm with two members who are dual certified by the Florida Bar in Wills, Trusts, and Estates and in Elder Law.  Peggy is the founder of Animal Care Trust USA, Inc., a national nonprofit, whose mission is to keep loved pets in loving homes by educating pet parents about the importance of protecting their pets with a Pet Trust. The organization also provides Pet Trust and Pet Trustee services.  You can learn more about her charitable work at Act4Pets.org.  She is the host of the weekly Pawcast All My Children Wear Fur Coats and author of the book of the same name.  The podcast is available on Buzzsprout and wherever you get your favorite podcasts.  Her books are available on Amazon.com. In addition to practicing law, Peggy has written numerous books that include niche estate planning topics and gratitude marketing.  Her newest book, 101 Ways to F$$k Up Your Estate is an Amazon bestseller in seven categories.    Peggy enjoys spending time with her husband, Joe, eight dogs, a cat, and four horses.  As always, to find out more about Soul Touched by Dogs, go to https://soultouchedbydogs.com

This week's Pawsome Human: Mark Bridger-Pescott - BoneCanis - Barks 'n Words: Better Communication Between Humans and DogsIn this fun and informative episode, I chat with Mark Bridger Pescott, founder of Bone Canis, a dog training and behavior company based in West Sussex, UK. Mark introduces his talented team and shares how they've been helping dogs and their owners both locally and internationally via Zoom. We delve into the common behavioral issues he encounters, such as anxiety, and the importance of understanding dog body language. Mark also explains how dogs can be taught to read and discusses the amazing cognitive abilities dogs possess. He emphasizes the importance of training methods being fun, engaging, and rewarding both for the dogs and their owners. Tune in for an episode filled with giggles, insights, and plenty of practical tips for improving your relationship with your furry friend.00:00 Welcome and Introduction00:23 Meet Mark Bridger Pescott and Bonne Canis01:33 Services Offered by Bonne Canis02:55 Understanding Dog Behavior and Body Language07:53 Challenges in Dog Training and Behavior10:50 Innovative Training Techniques18:33 Rewarding and Managing Dog Behavior21:47 Where to Find More Information23:03 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsFind out more and connect with MarkWebsite: https://www.bonecanis.comBio: "Bone Canis is owned, and run, by me , Mark Bridger-Pescott. We are a modern, force-free team that uses science-backed methods. We are proud members of and/or have been certified by The Association of INTODogs (https://www.intodogs.net);The Pet Professional Guild British Isles (https://ppgbi.com); The Dog Welfare Alliance (https://www.thedogwelfarealliance.co.uk); CAM advocate  https://www.facebook.com/CAMarthritis) British College of Canine Studies (https://www.britishcollegeofcaninestudies.com); Doggone Safe Educator (https://www.doggonesafe.com) and the UK Dog Behaviour And Training Charter (https://ukdogcharter.org).I have a degree-level qualification in Advanced Canine Behaviour (distinction) from Animal Jobs Direct. I serve as vice-chair for INTODogs, and I am the patron of German Shepherd Dog Welfare Fund (https://www.gsdwelfarefund.co.uk/ ). I have an extensive, multi-faceted background in working with dogs that spans over 30 years. I have worked with a variety of rescues, and my main aim is to help people and their dogs using a professional, force-free, kind, and safe approach that focuses on the welfare of the dog."Social media links: https://www.facebook.com/BoneCanisAs always, all about Soul Touched by Dogs at https://soultouchedbydogs.com

Unpacking Canine Trauma with Dr. Laura DonaldsonIn this enlightening episode, I sit down with Dr. Laura Donaldson to delve into the crucial topic of becoming trauma-informed when it comes to our dogs. Dr. Donaldson shares her extensive knowledge on what trauma is, how it manifests in dogs, and the often-overlooked microtraumas that can significantly impact their well-being. We discuss the parallels between human and canine trauma responses and the fundamental importance of ensuring safety and trust for traumatised dogs. Dr. Donaldson offers practical advice on recognising signs of trauma, the importance of respecting a dog's need for agency, and ways to create a healing environment. Lastly, she highlights some valuable resources, including her Thinkific webinar, 'Why Becoming Trauma Informed Will Change Everything You Do With Dogs,' for those interested in a deeper dive into the subject.00:00 Introduction and Welcoming Dr. Laura Donaldson01:08 Dr. Laura's Background and Life in Upstate New York03:37 Understanding Trauma in Dogs05:48 Recognizing and Addressing Trauma Responses09:35 Microtrauma and Its Impact on Dogs17:08 Building Trust and Safety for Traumatized Dogs21:10 Practical Steps for Trauma-Informed Dog Care39:00 Resources and Further Learning42:00 Conclusion and FarewellFind out more and connect with Dr. Donaldson:Website: https://fourpawsfourdirections.comBio: Dr. Laura Donaldson, PhD, CDBC, KPA CTP, CCUI is a Professor Emeritus from Cornell University located in Ithaca, New York, northeastern United States. She is an award-winning writer on dog behavior who has worked as a canine behavior specialist for 20+ years. Laura is a Certified Dog Behavior Consultant (CDBC), a Karen Pryor Certified Training Partner (KPA CTP) and a Certified Trauma Professional. She created the popular program called Slow Thinking is Lifesaving for Dogs®. Laura currently resides in upstate New York with her husband, two dogs, three cats, and an African Gray Parrot named Obi. When she isn’t speaking, teaching or writing, you will find Laura partnering with her working Border Collies to tend her flock of Navajo Churro sheep.Your FREE gift: Free Webinar on GROUNDING: dogs healing from trauma. To register, click on this link: https://laura-s-school-1f3f.thinkific.com/courses/grounding-dogs-healing-from-traumaSocial media links:https://www.facebook.com/ledonaldsonAdditional resources:Dr. Laura Donaldson's almost-free webinar:Why Becoming Trauma Informed Will Change Everything You Do With Dogshttps://laura-s-school-1f3f.thinkific.com/courses/why-becoming-trauma-informed-will-change-everything-you-do-with-dogs The series of articles on canine trauma for Happy, Healthy Dog mentioned during the episode Hidden in Plain Sight: Is Your Dog Experiencing Microtrauma?https://happyhealthydog.org/drlauranov Traumatized Dogs Need Empathy, Not Toxic Labelshttps://happyhealthydog.org/drlauraddec Why Becoming Trauma Informed Should Be Your 2025 New Year’s Resolutionhttps://happyhealthydog.org/drlaurajan The Neurobiology of Trauma: Why It Is Important & What You Need to Knowhttps://happyhealthydog.org/drlaurafebAnd as always, all about Soul Touched by Dogs at https://soultouchedbydogs.com