The Lanternfly Hunters

"Problem-solving is hunting; it is savage pleasure and we are born to it.”
 – Dr. Hannibal Lecter, Silence of the Lambs

Join the Amys for a fascinating conversation with innovative dog trainer Melissa McCue-McGrath, who’s turning canine noses into powerful conservation tools… What started as a simple passion project for a research article has grown into a mission-driven crusade against the spotted lanternfly—one of America’s most destructive invasive species.

We explore how scent detection training works, why dogs are uniquely suited for this kind of environmental work, and how Melissa is bringing this training into shelters—giving dogs not only enrichment and purpose, but potentially a second chance at adoption. From the science of odor detection to the real-world impact on ecosystems and agriculture, this conversation bridges behavior, enrichment, and conservation in a truly inspiring way.

Whether you’re a trainer, veterinarian, or just someone who loves seeing dogs make a difference, this episode will leave you thinking differently about what our canine companions are capable of, and how they might just help save our trees.

Grab a cocktail, and get up to speed on the latest buzzzzzz, courtesy of your favorite VBees 🐝🐝, on the latest episode of Behavior Buzzzzzz with 2 Amys veterinary behavior podcast.

• Visit The Honey Pot at behaviorbuzzzzzz.com for episode references and more information about our bee-guiling guest, Melissa McCue-McGrath. Thanks, Melissa!

Bee Positive. Bee Informed.

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Thank you to our amazing sponsors:
PRN Pharmacal, makers of Reconcile®
Nestlé Purina PetCare, makers of Purina Pro Plan® Veterinary Diets & Purina Pro Plan® Veterinary Supplements
Malena DeMartini, Inc. founder, Certified Separation Anxiety Training (CSAT) & Mission POSSIBLE
Ceva Animal Health, makers of ThunderEase® & FELIWAY® products

Amy L. Pike, DVM, DACVB, IAABC-CDBC - Co-Host
Amy Learn, VMD, DACVB, IAABC-CABC - Co-Host
Teryn Blais, Executive Producer
John LaSala, Podcast Editor