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Soul Touched by Dogs

Anke Herrmann

Welcome to the Soul Touched by Dogs Podcast, the show for dog lovers who see dogs not as toys or tools, but as wise souls worth our respect and care.
The 30-minute interviews with "Pawsome Humans", people who do great work for dogs and their people, you're listening to here on the podcast are one of the ways we celebrate the human-canine connection and advocate for holistic approaches to canine health and well-being.

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  • 25 episodes
  • weekly
  • Avg 33 min
  • English

Episodes 25

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  • Yesterday · 38 min

    Dog Training Starts With You: Boundaries and Connection with Miranda van der Heijden

    Prefer video? Watch on YouTube. Setting boundaries with your dog isn't about being harsh—it's about creating safety, connection and calm for both of you. In this conversation, Dutch dog trainer Miranda van der Heijden walks us through the delicate balance between unconditional love and healthy limits, and why the struggles we see in our dogs often mirror the patterns we carry ourselves. WHAT YOU'LL LEARN Why setting boundaries for your dog is an act of love, not control—and how it helps them feel safer when you're not around How your dog's behaviour often mirrors your own fears, hesitations and resistance to change What it really takes to help a fearful dog move through something new (and why avoiding discomfort keeps them stuck) Why one-to-one training allows for deeper transformation than group classes—for both dogs and their people How agility, scent work and other activities can become therapeutic mirrors for personal growth The unexpected emotional work that comes with teaching people to train their dogs What it means to be connected with your dog without becoming enmeshed—and why that distinction matters A FAVOURITE MOMENT "I'm always training the person… because things don't change if you as a person do not change." — Miranda ABOUT MIRANDA VAN DER HEIJDEN Miranda van der Heijden has been training dogs in the Netherlands since 1987. After years of working with groups, she shifted her focus entirely to one-to-one sessions, where she can look beyond behaviour and into the relationship between dog and human. She's spent over three decades in competitive agility and now works with her own Border Collie in scent detection and mantrailing. Her training centre, located near 's-Hertogenbosch, is a space where dogs learn—and people discover what their dogs have been trying to teach them all along. CONNECT WITH MIRANDA VAN DER HEIJDEN Website: gehoorzamehuishond.nl Instagram: @miranda_gehoorzamehuishond Facebook: De Gehoorzame Huishond Facebook: Hand in Poot Email: gehoorzamehuishond@yahoo.com CONNECT WITH SOUL TOUCHED BY DOGS To find out more about Soul Touched by Dogs, visit soultouchedbydogs.com. And if you're a dog lover who wants community, trusted expert resources and coaching to create a calmer, happier, healthier life with your dog, come find us at planetcalm.co—the Ultimate Hub for dogs and the people who love them.

  • September 5 · 28 min

    Learn From Your Dog: 13 Life Lessons That Actually Work with Bruce Littlefield

    LINK TO YOUTUBE Prefer video? Watch on youtube. Learning from dogs isn't just sentimental—it might be the most practical life advice you'll get this year. Bruce Littlefield, bestselling author and self-described "professional appreciator of American fun," stumbled into this truth one morning when his dog Felix was having the best day ever while Bruce was having the worst. What followed was a notebook full of observations that became a book, and a shift in how he approaches his entire day. WHAT YOU'LL LEARN How one melted shirt on book launch day taught Bruce to shake things off—literally—the way dogs do when something goes wrong Why dogs wake up with enthusiasm every single morning, and what happened when Bruce decided to try doing the same thing The surprising side effect of taking 10-minute rest breaks during the day, inspired by watching Felix relax without guilt How a dog's patient vigil by the door reveals something deeper about waiting for what matters without complaint Why learning a few tricks—whether you're a dog or a human—keeps life playful and gives you something to share at parties How Felix's morning patrol around the property became a lesson in checking in, staying grounded, and knowing your boundaries What loyalty looks like in both dog and human form, and why Bruce says it's one of the most important traits we can cultivate A FAVOURITE MOMENT "Felix was like, 'Hey, this is the best day ever.' And so I thought, you know what? I'm going to follow Felix today." — Bruce ABOUT BRUCE LITTLEFIELD Bruce Littlefield is a bestselling author, television personality, designer, and the co-author of 20 books spanning everything from garage sales to Airstream trailers to dog wisdom. His newest book, Everything You Need to Know About Life You Can Learn from a Dog, published by Penguin Random House, is a funny and heartfelt celebration of dogs as the life coaches we never knew we needed. Bruce lives in New York and on his farm in the Catskills with his rescue dog Felix, a border collie/cattle dog mix who inspired the book after helping him shake off a very bad morning. CONNECT WITH BRUCE LITTLEFIELD Website: brucelittlefield.com Illustrator Maribel Lechuga: @maribellechugaillustration Publisher: @penguinkids CONNECT WITH SOUL TOUCHED BY DOGS To find out more about Soul Touched by Dogs, visit soultouchedbydogs.com And if you're a dog lover who wants community, trusted expert resources and coaching to create a calmer, happier, healthier life with your dog, come find us at planetcalm.co - the Ultimate Hub for dogs, the people who love them.

  • August 29 · 39 min

    Dobermans as Family Dogs: What Nobody Tells You Before You Get One with John Walter

    Prefer video? Watch on YouTube. Doberman owners often wonder why their high-energy, intelligent dog seems harder to train than other breeds—or why four hours of daily walks still leave them with a restless, sometimes destructive companion. John Walter, founder of Doberman Planet, shares what makes this breed different, how they think in patterns and multi-step sequences, and why mental stimulation matters just as much as physical exercise when raising a loyal, balanced family Doberman. WHAT YOU'LL LEARN Why Dobermans are called emotional mirrors and what that means for daily life with them How their pattern recognition can actually work against traditional training methods (and what to do instead) The surprising differences between male and female Dobermans in bonding, maturity and temperament Why over-exercising a Doberman can backfire and what they need mentally to truly settle What makes this breed both incredibly loyal and sometimes misunderstood How to know if a Doberman is the right fit for your family and lifestyle The importance of routine, consistency and full integration into family life for this breed A FAVOURITE MOMENT "Dobermans think in patterns. They don't learn 'I got in position, I got the treat.' They learn 'I pulled, I went in position, then I got the treat.'" — John ABOUT JOHN WALTER John Walter is the founder of Doberman Planet, a leading online educational platform devoted exclusively to the Doberman Pinscher. Through hundreds of videos, in-depth articles, original breed studies and hands-on work with Dobermans and their families, John helps owners better understand this intelligent, sensitive and often misunderstood breed. With nearly 300,000 subscribers on YouTube and a combined audience of more than 700,000 across all platforms, his work focuses on practical training, behaviour, health and strengthening the bond between Dobermans and the people who love them. CONNECT WITH JOHN WALTER Website: dobermanplanet.com YouTube: youtube.com/dobermanplanet Dobie Masters Season 2 Playlist: Watch here Facebook: facebook.com/DobermanPlanet TikTok: tiktok.com/@thedobermanplanet CONNECT WITH SOUL TOUCHED BY DOGS To find out more about Soul Touched by Dogs, visit soultouchedbydogs.com. And if you're a dog lover who wants community, trusted expert resources and coaching to create a calmer, happier, healthier life with your dog, come find us at planetcalm.co - the Ultimate Hub for dogs, the people who love them.

  • August 22 · 44 min

    Holistic Dog Nutrition and Healing: Trust Your Dog's Wisdom with Dr. Alexia Mellor

    Prefer video? Watch on youtube. Canine nutrition goes far beyond what sits in the bowl. When your dog won't eat, struggles with chronic health issues, or shows puzzling behavioral patterns, the answer might lie in how we understand nourishment itself. Dr. Alexia Mellor shares how her own dog's health crisis led her to question everything she thought she knew about feeding dogs—and ultimately transformed how she understands the bond between dogs and their people. WHAT YOU'LL LEARN Why "balanced and complete" is a marketing term, and what bioavailability actually means for your dog's ability to absorb nutrients How to start improving your dog's diet without overwhelm, beginning with simple fresh toppers that address what's missing from kibble The FETCH methodology for observing your dog holistically—from tracking behaviors at specific times of day to understanding what environmental factors might be affecting their wellbeing Why restlessness at 11 PM, nibbling at certain times, or seasonal changes in appetite might be telling you something about your dog's internal health How Chinese medicine principles and energetics can unlock puzzling health or behavior patterns that conventional approaches haven't solved What it means to work in partnership with your dog rather than treating them as an optimization project How curiosity about what your dog is showing you can become an entry point for deeper understanding—and why there's rarely just one root cause A FAVOURITE MOMENT "They are gateways to our own spiritual evolution." — Alexia ABOUT DR. ALEXIA MELLOR Dr. Alexia Mellor is a holistic canine nutrition consultant on a mission to transform how we nourish our dogs, ourselves, and the world we share. Through Mystic Dog Mama, she explores what it truly means to be nourished—using dogs as both teacher and guide. Her work brings together canine nutrition, holistic health, systems thinking, and the wisdom of the human-animal bond. With a background in participatory art, design, and climate research, Alexia approaches dog health with curiosity, compassion, and a deep respect for the partnership between dogs and their people. CONNECT WITH DR. ALEXIA MELLOR Website: mysticdogmama.com Podcast: Search for "Mystic Dog Mama" wherever you listen to podcasts Free Resource: Mystic Dog Mama Nourishment Starter Kit at mysticdogmama.com CONNECT WITH SOUL TOUCHED BY DOGS To find out more about Soul Touched by Dogs, visit soultouchedbydogs.com And if you're a dog lover who wants community, trusted expert resources and coaching to create a calmer, happier, healthier life with your dog, come find us at planetcalm.co - the Ultimate Hub for dogs, the people who love them.

  • August 19 · 30 min

    Your Dog Heals You: Heart Synchronization to Transform Your Health with Michael Priv

    Prefer video? Watch on YouTube. Your dog heals you in ways you may not fully realize. The simple act of having a dog in your life already offers measurable health benefits, but there's a whole world of untapped potential in that relationship. This conversation explores how the human-dog bond can become a deliberate pathway to better physical health, emotional balance, and everyday wellbeing. WHAT YOU'LL LEARN How synchronizing with your dog creates what Michael calls a "cocoon"—an energy system that amplifies wellbeing for both human and dog The measurable health benefits dogs offer, from increased oxytocin and serotonin to reduced cortisol, lower blood pressure, improved immune function, and even potential cancer prevention Why walking your dog while staring at your phone means you're missing the most healing part of the walk How simple rituals like placing your hand on your dog while visualizing love can calm an anxious or traumatized rescue dog The concept of "sniff walks" and why letting your dog lead the pace and choose what to investigate is actually mindfulness practice for you How dogs act as mirrors, reflecting back our own mental and emotional states in ways that can reveal what we need to address in ourselves Why setting too many boundaries with your dog—no couch, no bed, no jumping—might mean you're missing out on the deeper healing potential of the relationship A FAVOURITE MOMENT "Dogs are uniquely attuned to us all the time. We look at our dog, and we see our own mental state as a reflection." — Michael ABOUT MICHAEL PRIV Michael Priv is a wellness innovator, writer, and former energy healer who has spent decades exploring how the human-dog bond can become a powerful pathway to better health and emotional balance. He is the creator of HoundHeart, a human-dog synchronization app that uses paired wearable devices and AI-supported insights to help people unlock the wellness benefits of the relationship they already have with their dog. Michael believes those benefits can be strengthened, measured, and made more intentional through technology and simple daily rituals. CONNECT WITH MICHAEL PRIV Website: michaelpriv.com HoundHeart: houndheartwellness.com Facebook: facebook.com/michaelprivauthor LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/michaelpriv CONNECT WITH SOUL TOUCHED BY DOGS To find out more about Soul Touched by Dogs, visit soultouchedbydogs.com. And if you're a dog lover who wants community, trusted expert resources and coaching to create a calmer, happier, healthier life with your dog, come find us at planetcalm.co — the Ultimate Hub for dogs, the people who love them.

  • August 15 · 32 min

    Dog-Friendly Offices Boost Productivity and Retention with Emily Birch

    Dog-friendly offices aren't just a perk—they're a productivity strategy. If you've ever declined a job because you couldn't bear to leave your dog at home, or felt your stress spike during a late meeting knowing your pup had been alone all day, this conversation is for you. Emily Birch walks us through how companies can thoughtfully introduce dogs into the workplace in a way that benefits everyone—dogs, employees, and the business itself. WHAT YOU'LL LEARN How dog-friendly offices actually increase productivity and employee retention, backed by peer-reviewed research Why predictability matters more than enthusiasm when it comes to managing dogs (and people) in shared workspaces The traffic light system that helps dogs settle and prevents over-excitement without feeling restrictive What makes a dog suitable for office life—and the one non-negotiable that rules a dog out entirely How to address common concerns like allergies, phobias, and the myth that offices will turn into chaotic doggy daycares Why some dogs need a "red light" approach even when they're friendly, and how that sets them up to succeed What happens when new management takes over, and how to make the case for keeping dogs in the office A FAVOURITE MOMENT "I counted and I was like, 'We've got 18 dogs in here,' and yet you wouldn't know. Every dog was just fast asleep under the table." — Emily ABOUT EMILY BIRCH Emily Birch is the Owner and Director of The Office Dog, where she helps organisations introduce dogs into the workplace in a structured, safe, and genuinely beneficial way. She also runs a canine consultancy focused on behaviour work. Based in Stroud, Gloucestershire, Emily has been pioneering dog-friendly office environments since 2014, working with businesses at every stage—from policy creation and training through to implementation and probation sign-off. CONNECT WITH EMILY BIRCH Website: theofficedog.org CONNECT WITH SOUL TOUCHED BY DOGS To find out more about Soul Touched by Dogs, visit soultouchedbydogs.com And if you're a dog lover who wants a calmer, happier dog, come find us at planetcalm.co. The Ultimate Hub for dogs, the people who love them, and the businesses they build.

  • August 12 · 37 min

    Fear-Based Training Creates Shutdowns: What You're Really Seeing | with Annie Grossman

    Is your well-behaved dog actually shut down? A calm, compliant dog might look like the goal — but fear-based obedience isn't the same as trust. In this conversation, journalist-turned-dog-trainer Annie Grossman explains why understanding how your dog feels matters more than getting them to behave, and how a little science goes a long way in building the relationship you both deserve. WHAT YOU'LL LEARN Why a dog who looks calm and well-behaved might actually be scared and shut down — and how to tell the difference What classical conditioning really means, and why it matters more than you think when it comes to how your dog experiences the world How punishment (yes, even "just a correction") can create hidden fallout you won't see in a 30-second Instagram video Why dog body language is so misunderstood — and what that little tongue flick actually means How focusing on what you want your dog to do instead of what you want them to stop changes everything Why there's no such thing as "just dog training" — it's all rooted in the science of behaviour, whether people know it or not What questions to ask before choosing a trainer, a method, or even a viral training hack A FAVOURITE MOMENT "A shut down dog can look like a well-behaved dog." — Annie ABOUT ANNIE GROSSMAN Annie Grossman is a dog trainer, journalist, and the author of How to Train Your Dog With Love + Science. A lifelong New Yorker, she spent over a decade running School For The Dogs, a storefront training centre in the East Village where she worked with thousands of dogs and their people. Before diving into dog training, Annie worked as a journalist and producer, writing for outlets like The New York Times and The Boston Globe. She's a graduate of the Karen Pryor Academy and a passionate advocate for positive reinforcement rooted in behavioural science. These days, she writes Don't Be a Dick to Your Dog on Substack and speaks at conferences about making dog training less jargon-heavy and more human. CONNECT WITH ANNIE GROSSMAN Website: anniegrossman.com Instagram: @anniegrossman Facebook: @annie4thedogs Substack: dogtraining.substack.com Get the free guide on How Not To Be A Dick To Your Dog: https://dogtraining.substack.com/p/guide CONNECT WITH SOUL TOUCHED BY DOGS To find out more about Soul Touched by Dogs, visit soultouchedbydogs.com And if you're a dog lover who wants a calmer, happier dog, come find us at planetcalm.co. The Ultimate Hub for dogs, the people who love them, and the businesses they build.

  • August 8 · 31 min

    Pet Health Coaches and Vets Working Together for Your Dog with Dr. Ruth Roberts

    Pet health coaches offer support that many veterinarians simply don't have time to provide. When your dog faces a serious diagnosis or chronic condition, the clinical visit might last 15 minutes—but the questions, confusion, and overwhelm can last for weeks. This conversation explores how certified pet health coaches are stepping in to bridge that gap, working alongside veterinary care to help guardians make informed, confident decisions for their dogs. WHAT YOU''LL LEARN Why veterinarians often don't have time to answer all your questions, and how pet health coaches fill that critical gap without replacing veterinary care What actually happens during a pet health coaching session—from reviewing your dog's medical history to creating a personalized plan you can realistically follow How to know when your dog needs emergency veterinary attention versus when you can manage a health concern with lifestyle changes and support The questions you should be asking your vet to make appointments more efficient and effective for everyone involved Why lifestyle medicine matters for chronic conditions like kidney disease, allergies, and cancer—and where conventional treatments still play an essential role How to approach your veterinarian with information about integrative care without creating conflict or defensiveness What credentials to look for when choosing a pet health coach, and why real-world experience matters as much as education A FAVOURITE MOMENT "If Janet had not had me, Rosie would've been dead a year too early." — Ruth ABOUT DR. RUTH ROBERTS Dr. Ruth Roberts is an integrative veterinarian with over 30 years of experience and the creator of The Original CrockPet Diet. After retiring from clinical practice, she founded Holistic Pet Health Coach, an educational institution that trains and certifies professionals to become trusted guides for pet guardians navigating chronic illness and complex health decisions. Her work emerged from witnessing too many pets lose precious time because their guardians had nowhere to turn for reliable, personalized support beyond the exam room. CONNECT WITH DR. RUTH ROBERTS Website: drruthroberts.com Instagram: @dr.ruthroberts Facebook: @Crockpetdiet YouTube: @DrRuthRoberts Free guide: When Not to Go to the ER Vet CONNECT WITH SOUL TOUCHED BY DOGS To find out more about Soul Touched by Dogs, visit soultouchedbydogs.com And if you're a dog lover who wants a calmer, happier dog, come find us at planetcalm.co. The Ultimate Hub for dogs, the people who love them, and the businesses they build.

  • August 1 · 27 min

    Turmeric for Dogs: From Cancer Diagnosis to Three Extra Years with MaryBeth Powers

    Natural remedies for dogs facing cancer, arthritis, inflammation and allergies are becoming a lifeline for pet parents looking beyond pharmaceuticals. This conversation with MaryBeth Powers began with a devastating cancer diagnosis and turned into a mission to help dogs live healthier, more comfortable lives through carefully chosen herbs, spices and whole-food ingredients. WHAT YOU'LL LEARN How MaryBeth developed a turmeric-based blend when her dog Teddy was given only weeks to live, and what happened when his aggressive sarcoma disappeared after four months on the formula Why ingredients like turmeric, ginger, flaxseed and medicinal mushrooms work synergistically to support healing, reduce inflammation and boost overall wellness in dogs What signs to watch for when introducing natural remedies, including how dogs sometimes signal what their bodies need through their appetite and interest in certain ingredients How to start incorporating anti-inflammatory support into your dog's routine, whether they're dealing with a health crisis or you want to support them preventatively Why natural flea and tick repellents made with essential oils can be an alternative to chemical-based collars and treatments What pet owners report back after trying turmeric blends, from improved mobility and energy to relief from chronic allergies and skin conditions How to navigate the conversation between holistic approaches and traditional veterinary care, and when pharmaceuticals may still be necessary A FAVOURITE MOMENT "He didn't even want to walk, so we decided we didn't want him to die like that. Within two or three days he started walking." — MaryBeth ABOUT MARYBETH POWERS MaryBeth Powers is the founder of Teddy's Turmeric Tamer, a Virginia-based pet wellness company born from her determination to save her beloved Newfie mix, Teddy, after he was diagnosed with an aggressive sarcoma. What started as a desperate search for natural ways to help one dog has grown into a business that supports hundreds of dogs facing cancer, arthritis, inflammation and allergies. After a 30-year career in event planning, MaryBeth now dedicates herself to creating all-natural, human-grade wellness products and educating pet owners about the power of whole-food ingredients. A portion of every sale goes back to dogs in need through rescues and shelters. CONNECT WITH MARYBETH POWERS Website: teddysturmerictamer.com Instagram: @teddysturmerictamer Facebook: Teddy's Turmeric Tamer LinkedIn: Teddy's Turmeric Tamer TikTok: Teddy's Turmeric Tamer Use code SOUL for 10% off your order CONNECT WITH SOUL TOUCHED BY DOGS To find out more about Soul Touched by Dogs, visit soultouchedbydogs.com And if you're a dog lover who wants a calmer, happier dog, come find us at planetcalm.co. The Ultimate Hub for dogs and the people who love them.

  • July 25 · 31 min

    Milton Makes a Move: Teaching Kids Bravery Through Adorable Pugs with Jonathan Graziano

    Senior dog adoption isn't just about giving an older dog a home—it's about discovering a personality who's already fully themselves, no training required. When Jonathan Graziano adopted Noodle, a seven-and-a-half-year-old pug, he had no idea this little dog would redefine his life, teach millions about self-care, and leave a legacy that continues to inspire kids and adults alike. This is a story about love, loss, and the unexpected joy that comes from saying yes to a dog who's already lived a full life before you even meet them. WHAT YOU'LL LEARN Why adopting a senior dog can be one of the most rewarding decisions you'll ever make, even if you never expected to become a pug person How Noodle's simple "Bones or No Bones" routine became a global phenomenon during lockdown, and what made it resonate so deeply with people who needed hope What it's really like to navigate grief when your dog was beloved by millions, and how fostering became a healing path forward How Jonathan used his platform to raise awareness for dog rescue while keeping the focus on what mattered most: his dogs' comfort and wellbeing Why Milton, his fifth foster pug, turned out to be the perfect fit—not because he replaced Noodle, but because he brought his own quiet, uncompromising personality to the family How Jonathan turned viral moments into children's books that teach kids about asking for help, taking care of themselves, and being brave in the face of change What it means to keep your day job while your dog becomes internet-famous, and why that boundary mattered so much A FAVOURITE MOMENT "Being brave can be hard, but everything is a little easier with a friend by your side." — Jonathan ABOUT JONATHAN GRAZIANO Jonathan Graziano is a number one New York Times bestselling author and the devoted caretaker of some of the internet's most beloved pugs. His late dog, Noodle, captured hearts worldwide with the "Bones or No Bones" series during lockdown, teaching millions that it's okay to take a day for yourself. Jonathan has since fostered and adopted Milton, another pug with his own distinct personality, and continues Noodle's legacy through children's books that celebrate kindness, bravery, and the importance of rescuing senior pets. He works in communications and social media marketing and is based in Rochester, New York. CONNECT WITH JONATHAN GRAZIANO Website: jonathangraziano.com Instagram: @jongraz TikTok: @jongraz Preorder Milton Makes a Move (out August 4): Simon & Schuster CONNECT WITH SOUL TOUCHED BY DOGS To find out more about Soul Touched by Dogs, visit soultouchedbydogs.com And if you're a dog lover who wants a calmer, happier dog, come find us at planetcalm.co. The Ultimate Hub for dogs, the people who love them, and the businesses they build.

  • July 18 · 25 min

    Dog Coaching for Leadership and Personal Growth with Frank van Nimwegen

    Dog-assisted coaching brings leadership development out of the boardroom and into a space where authenticity can't be faked. Frank van Nimwegen, Dutch agility handler turned coach, uses dogs to help corporate teams and individuals develop confidence, clear communication, and grounded leadership. Because dogs respond to who you really are, not who your business card says you should be. WHAT YOU'LL LEARN How dogs reveal the gap between who we pretend to be and who we actually are, and why that matters for leadership and personal growth Why people-pleasing patterns show up instantly when working with dogs, and what a simple bowl of treats can teach you about setting boundaries How mental state affects performance in dog sports, and what that means for managing your own reactions under pressure The difference between demonstrating dominance and offering genuine leadership, as dogs will always choose the highway over an inflexible handler Why starting with the basics matters, whether you're learning agility for fun or aiming for competition level What happens when corporate teams work through exercises with dogs instead of staring at PowerPoint slides How fear and discomfort can shift when someone gets to approach dogs at their own pace, without pressure or pretence A FAVOURITE MOMENT "There's only one nervous creature allowed in the ring, and the dog has already chosen." — Frank ABOUT FRANK VAN NIMWEGEN Frank van Nimwegen is a Dutch agility handler, instructor, and coach who has competed internationally with Belgian Shepherds and served as team manager of the Dutch agility team. After decades in dog sports, he became increasingly interested in how dogs can help people develop confidence, communication, and leadership. Today, he combines his competition experience with coaching methodologies like NLP and mBIT to offer dog-assisted coaching for agility handlers, corporate teams, and professionals seeking greater performance and personal growth. CONNECT WITH FRANK VAN NIMWEGEN Website: www.qynnect.nl LinkedIn: Frank van Nimwegen Additional: www.caniquest.com CONNECT WITH SOUL TOUCHED BY DOGS To find out more about Soul Touched by Dogs, visit https://soultouchedbydogs.com And if you're a dog lover who's also building a business - or just want a calmer, happier dog - come find us at Happy Pupcakes. Happy dogs, thriving businesses, and a community that gets both.

  • July 11 · 35 min

    Dog Diet Changes Everything: Medical Rescue and Whole Foods | with Wendy Brown

    Dog food and canine nutrition can feel like a minefield when your vet tells you one thing, but your dog's body is telling you something completely different. If you've ever stood in the pet food aisle overwhelmed, or watched your dog struggle with skin issues, digestive problems, or low energy despite "doing everything right," this conversation will give you clarity, confidence, and a path forward that makes sense. WHAT YOU'LL LEARN Why kibble alone might be contributing to your dog's skin issues, digestive upset, and low energy, even if it's the expensive "vet-approved" brand How to transition your dog from kibble to whole foods without shocking their system or second-guessing every meal What "gently cooked" actually means and why it might be easier than you think to feed your dog real, nutrient-dense food The role histamine levels play in your dog's inflammatory response and why the way food is cooked matters more than you realised How to know if you're feeding too much or too little when you switch from kibble to whole foods Why rotating proteins matters and how to keep meals simple, affordable, and genuinely nourishing Where to find support and trustworthy guidance when you're ready to go against the grain and trust what your dog's body is telling you A FAVOURITE MOMENT "Your dog's probably not allergic to chicken. It's highly unlikely." — Wendy ABOUT WENDY BROWN Wendy Brown has spent over 25 years in medical and behavioural dog rescue, including a decade as Vice President of a rescue organisation. Her work with dogs facing serious medical challenges sparked a deep interest in canine nutrition, and she now shares what she's learned through her dog food cookbook and her children's book series, Inspired by Lily. Wendy believes that simple, whole foods can transform a dog's health and that every dog deserves meals as nourishing as the love we have for them. CONNECT WITH WENDY BROWN Website: wendychowbrown.com YouTube: youtube.com/@wendychowbrown Instagram: @chowdownwithwendybrown Facebook: facebook.com/wendychowbrown TikTok: @kitten.atomic CONNECT WITH SOUL TOUCHED BY DOGS To find out more about Soul Touched by Dogs, visit soultouchedbydogs.com

  • July 4 · 32 min

    Dog Sleep Health: Why Your Pup Needs Rest as Much as You Do | with Lauren Davis

    Sleep quality for dogs isn't something most of us think about — until now. We obsess over their food, their exercise, their training. But what about the 14 hours a day they spend resting? Dr Lauren Davis, a vet turned pet sleep expert, reveals why the bed your dog sleeps on could be just as important as the one you sleep on — and how we're missing some of the earliest signs that something's wrong. WHAT YOU'LL LEARN Why your dog needs around 14 hours of sleep a day, and what happens when they don't get it The earliest warning signs of osteoarthritis — long before limping starts — including those small hesitations we tend to write off as quirks What makes a good dog bed actually good: firmness, height, materials, and why those fluffy beds often backfire Why a dog bed should last as long as a human mattress, and how to tell if yours is doing its job How sleep and chronic pain are linked — and why good rest can slow the progression of arthritis Simple, low-cost changes you can make at home to support your dog's joints and sleep, from rugs on slippery floors to where you place their bed Whether dogs should sleep in your bed (spoiler: it depends — and Lauren's answer is refreshingly practical) A FAVOURITE MOMENT "By the time they're limping, they're really struggling." — Lauren ABOUT DR LAUREN DAVIS Dr Lauren Davis is a vet and pet sleep expert, as well as the founder of VetRelieve, a company specialising in orthopaedic pet beds and sleep hygiene for dogs at home, on the move, and in clinics. After spending five years as commercial director of a human medical mattress company, Lauren returned to her roots in veterinary medicine and combined her two worlds. Now she lectures, advocates, and designs products that support healthy sleep — a keystone of wellness, performance, and part of the toolbox against chronic pain conditions like osteoarthritis. CONNECT WITH DR LAUREN DAVIS Website: https://www.vetrelieve.co.uk LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thesleepvet/ Instagram: www.instagram.com/vetrelieveuk Facebook: www.facebook.com/vetrelieveuk Special offer for listeners: Use code STBD20 for £20 off any purchase at www.vetrelieve.co.uk CONNECT WITH SOUL TOUCHED BY DOGS To find out more about Soul Touched by Dogs, visit https://soultouchedbydogs.com

  • June 27 · 33 min

    Service Dog Training from Day One: Building Confidence and Independence | with Christina Reiser

    Service dog training begins long before you might imagine—and the journey from newborn puppy to life-changing companion involves far more than teaching basic commands. For people with disabilities, the right service dog can mean the difference between needing round-the-clock care and living independently, but the process of matching dog to human requires insight, patience, and a deep understanding of what both species need to thrive. WHAT YOU'LL LEARN Why service dog training actually starts on day one of a puppy's life, and what those earliest lessons look like when you're preparing a dog for such important work How trainers can tell as early as five or six weeks old whether a puppy might have the right temperament for service work—and why that assessment keeps changing as the puppy grows What makes Labs and Golden Retrievers particularly well-suited for service work, and why a "neutral" temperament matters more than you might expect How foster families bond deeply with puppies for six months, then find the strength to give them back—and why that emotional connection is actually essential to the training process The surprising range of tasks service dogs can perform, from detecting allergens in a room before their person enters to retrieving medication and placing it directly in someone's mouth What happens to puppies who don't make it through the service dog programme, and why being "released" as a pet doesn't mean they've failed How the fundraising process works for families who need a service dog, and why organisations like ECAD never want cost to be a barrier A FAVOURITE MOMENT "We are starting their training from day one. It's my responsibility to make them feel comfortable and make them have fun." — Christina ABOUT CHRISTINA REISER Christina is the Early Puppy Developer at ECAD (Educated Canines Assisting with Disabilities), a nonprofit organisation in Connecticut that has placed around 500 service dogs over the past 30 years. She manages all aspects of care, development and socialisation for puppies eight months and younger, preparing them for lives of meaningful work with people who have disabilities. Before joining ECAD, Christina worked as a marine mammal trainer at an aquarium on Long Island, where she learned the psychology of positive reinforcement training. In her free time, she loves to bake and spend time outside with her dog, Indy. CONNECT WITH CHRISTINA REISER Website: ecad1.org Watch live puppy updates: Search "ECAD Explore" on explore.org (live every Wednesday at 10 AM EST) Facebook: Search for ECAD CONNECT WITH SOUL TOUCHED BY DOGS To find out more about Soul Touched by Dogs, visit soultouchedbydogs.com And if you're a dog lover who wants a calmer, happier dog—come find us at planetcalm.co. The Ultimate Hub for dogs, the people who love them, and the businesses they build.

  • June 20 · 31 min

    Animal Communication Opens Deeper Conversations with Your Dog | Emily Snyder

    Animal communication isn't magic, and you don't need to be born with a gift to do it. If you've ever wondered what your dog really thinks about that new bed you bought, why they keep digging in the same spot, or how to support them through a tough vet visit, this conversation will show you that the answers might be closer than you think. WHAT YOU'LL LEARN How to start hearing what your dog is already trying to tell you—and why talking to them out loud actually matters for their mental health What dogs typically want to communicate about, from the simple (bacon under the table) to the soul-deep (whether they want to fight through cancer treatment) Why your emotions can block the channel when you need it most, and what to do instead How smell becomes a fifth sense in dog communication—and what it means when your dog keeps making you think about poop The difference between hearing your own dog versus someone else's, and how to tell which one is "speaking" in a multi-dog home What dogs on the other side want their people to know, and why there's never guilt from that side of the veil How to practice animal communication in a grounded, practical way that doesn't require fifty rituals or years of meditation A FAVOURITE MOMENT "I cannot underestimate how much just talking to your pet all the time does for their mental health, for their understanding of their environment." — Emily ABOUT EMILY SNYDER Emily Snyder is a psychic medium for pets and people based in Brooklyn, New York. Trained at the UK's Arthur Findlay College—the oldest school of mediumship in the world—she works through her practice, Connected Intuition, to help dogs and their humans have deeper, soul-level conversations. She's currently writing her first book and teaches animal communication classes for people ready to start hearing their own animals. When she's not in conversation with the unseen, she's raising two kids in Brooklyn. CONNECT WITH EMILY SNYDER Website: connectedintuition.com Instagram: @connectedintuition TikTok: @connectedintuition YouTube: @connectedintuition Free resource: Animal Communication Guide CONNECT WITH SOUL TOUCHED BY DOGS To find out more about Soul Touched by Dogs, visit soultouchedbydogs.com And if you're a dog lover who's also building a business - or just want a calmer, happier dog - come find us at fetchhappystore.com. Happy dogs, thriving businesses, and a community that gets both.

  • June 17 · 37 min

    Pet Longevity Science: How to Extend Your Dog's Life by Years | with Dr. Kevin Toman

    Pet longevity science is revealing how to help dogs and cats live up to 25% longer through a combination of advanced diagnostics, integrative care, and lifestyle changes most pet parents overlook. This conversation offers practical, evidence-based strategies to extend not just the years in your dog's life, but the quality of those years — especially for older pets facing cancer, chronic pain, or heart disease. WHAT YOU'LL LEARN Why dental care is the single most important longevity strategy for small dogs and cats, and how dental disease can shorten lifespan by up to 15% The truth about glucosamine and chondroitin (they don't work), and which supplements are actually proven to reduce joint pain as effectively as prescription drugs How two longevity drugs — rapamycin and acarbose — are being used to extend life in dogs, and what the research shows about their effectiveness Why standard kibble may be setting the table for cancer, inflammation and other chronic health issues, and what to feed instead Simple lifestyle changes that reduce cumulative joint damage — from yoga mats in high-traffic areas to avoiding stairs How keeping your dog lean is the single most powerful thing you can do to extend their life, backed by a landmark study showing thin dogs lived nearly two years longer What signs of arthritis appear long before limping, and how to recognize pain your dog is hiding A FAVOURITE MOMENT "The thinner your pet is, the longer and less painful they will live." — Kevin ABOUT DR. KEVIN TOMAN Dr. Kevin Toman has been a veterinarian for 40 years, and for the last decade has specialized in pet longevity — helping dogs and cats live longer, healthier lives through veterinary care, advanced diagnostics, integrative therapies, and longevity science. His work focuses on older pets dealing with cancer, chronic pain, or heart disease. He lives on the coast of California, and his own health journey opened his eyes to the power of combining traditional veterinary medicine with herbal therapy, acupuncture, and evidence-based supplements. CONNECT WITH DR. KEVIN TOMAN Website: https://www.helpingpetslivelonger.com Free 10-Minute Vet Call: https://www.freevetcall.com YouTube & Instagram: @TheLongevityVet CONNECT WITH SOUL TOUCHED BY DOGS To find out more about Soul Touched by Dogs, visit https://soultouchedbydogs.com And if you're a dog lover who's also building a business — or just want a calmer, happier dog — come find us at Happy Pupcakes - Happy dogs, thriving businesses, and a community that gets both.

  • June 13 · 30 min

    Disenfranchised Grief: Honoring Pet Loss Like It Matters | with Koryn Greenspan

    Pet loss and grief are rarely spoken about with the seriousness they deserve. When a beloved dog dies, many people find themselves lying to their employer, suppressing their heartbreak, or being told it's time to "just get another one." This conversation with Koryn Greenspan explores why grief for our animals is so misunderstood, what anticipatory grief really means, and how we can honour the bond that continues long after goodbye. WHAT YOU'LL LEARN Why pet loss often hits harder than losing a human, and why that's completely valid What anticipatory grief is and how recognising it can help you prepare emotionally for end of life The term "disenfranchised grief" and why society still doesn't fully acknowledge the toll pet loss takes How companies are slowly beginning to offer bereavement leave for pets and why that matters for your mental health and financial wellbeing What to do if you're struggling with guilt or the feeling that your dog's passing didn't honour their life How to navigate getting another dog after loss, and why that decision is far more complicated than people think Why grief is love and loss coexisting, and how you learn to move with it, not move on from it A FAVOURITE MOMENT "We are their entire everything. There is no way that that relationship can't affect you in a different way." — Koryn ABOUT KORYN GREENSPAN Koryn is the founder of The Parted Paw, a Toronto-based pet loss and grief support company helping pet parents navigate one of the most overlooked forms of loss. A Certified Pet Loss Bereavement Specialist and Certified End-of-Life Pet Doula, Koryn supports individuals, families, couples, and workplaces through anticipatory grief, active loss, and life after goodbye. Her work is grounded, compassionate, and practical, offering people the language and permission to grieve openly while honouring the bond that endures beyond goodbye. CONNECT WITH KORYN GREENSPAN Website: https://www.thepartedpaw.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/koryn Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thepartedpaw_griefsupport/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thepartedpaw?lang=en CONNECT WITH SOUL TOUCHED BY DOGS To find out more about Soul Touched by Dogs, visit https://soultouchedbydogs.com And if you're a dog lover who's also building a business - or just want a calmer, happier dog - come find us at fetchhappystore.com. Happy dogs, thriving businesses, and a community that gets both.

  • June 6 · 28 min

    Grieving Senior Dogs: Finding Love Beyond Loss with Peggy Frezon

    Therapy dogs don't just comfort humans — they also help us understand grief, resilience, and the kind of love that doesn't end when a heartbeat stops. Peggy Frezon writes books that honour the human-animal bond, runs a retirement home for senior golden retrievers, and has learned how to hold space for both joy and loss at the same time. WHAT YOU'LL LEARN What makes a dog suited to therapy work — and why it's about temperament, not breed or size How rescue dogs who've lived through trauma can become certified comfort dogs for people in crisis Why some dogs thrive on being petted by strangers in schools and hospitals, and others don't What therapy dogs actually do in courtrooms, libraries, tax offices, and classrooms after tragedy How loving senior dogs — and losing them — can teach us something essential about grief Why getting another dog after loss isn't about replacement, but finding a new place for your love to go How people who can't bear to adopt again still find ways to stay connected to dogs A FAVOURITE MOMENT "He's 11, Mike. He's gonna break our hearts. But my husband just said, 'He needs us.'" — Peggy ABOUT PEGGY FREZON Peggy Frezon is a contributing editor for Guideposts and Angels on Earth magazines, and the author of several books exploring the bond between people and animals. She and her husband run BrooksHaven, a forever retirement home for senior golden retrievers in upstate New York. Her latest book, Goodbye to a Good Dog, is a guide for anyone navigating the grief of losing a beloved animal. Peggy also volunteers as a therapy dog handler, taking her dogs into schools, hospitals, and community spaces where comfort is needed most. CONNECT WITH PEGGY FREZON Website: peggyfrezon.com Facebook: facebook.com/PeggyFrezonBooks CONNECT WITH SOUL TOUCHED BY DOGS To find out more about Soul Touched by Dogs, visit soultouchedbydogs.com

  • May 26 · 38 min

    Assistant Dogs Transform Wheelchair Life: Daily Tasks and Freedom | with Claudia Hendrix

    Assistance dogs do far more than most people realise — not just guiding, but helping their humans shower, get dressed, and move through the world with dignity and independence. This conversation with Claudia Hendrix reveals what life with an assistance dog actually looks like when you're a wheelchair user living alone, and how a Labrador named Katya (yes, Cat) became the reason Claudia doesn't need round-the-clock care. WHAT YOU'LL LEARN How assistance dogs are trained from puppyhood through foster families, school, and personalised instruction — and why only about 80% graduate What daily tasks an assistance dog performs that most people never think about, from pulling wheelchair users upright in bed to pushing a shower chair out of spray range How the matching process works between dog and handler, and why it's more like dating than a waiting list What retirement looks like for working dogs, including how families are chosen and why handlers don't always get to keep their dogs How to navigate public spaces when not everyone understands the law around assistance dogs — and the creative ways Claudia educates as she goes Why assistance dogs wear specific harnesses and what's being developed across Europe to make identification clearer What happens during the transition period when a handler says goodbye to one dog and begins training with another A FAVOURITE MOMENT "Do you expect me to leave my wheelchair outside also? Because that's what you're asking me to do." — Claudia ABOUT CLAUDIA HENDRIX Claudia Hendrix is a connector, speaker, and advocate living with chronic illness and using a wheelchair in Alkmaar, Netherlands. She's an ambassador for KNGF Guide Dogs, where she speaks openly about how her assistance dog Katya makes independent living possible. Claudia also works as a coordinator at Stichting Still, supporting families navigating the loss of a child or parent. She previously founded JouwTransformatie and made her online academy freely available. Her writing and speaking bring warmth, gentleness, and a touch of humour to difficult topics, creating space for real conversation and hope. CONNECT WITH CLAUDIA HENDRIX Website: https://claudiahendrix.nl Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HulphondKatya Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/positiviteitshotje and https://www.instagram.com/claudiahdrx Become a puppy foster family: https://geleidehond.nl/word-puppypleeggezin/ Free online academy: https://academy.claudiahendrix.nl/courses CONNECT WITH SOUL TOUCHED BY DOGS To find out more about Soul Touched by Dogs, visit https://soultouchedbydogs.com

  • May 12 · 32 min

    Holistic Dog Health Beyond Symptoms and Pills with Dr. Jeff Feinman

    Holistic veterinary medicine isn't about rejecting science—it's about expanding it to include what we already know works: energy, joy, and the body's innate ability to heal. In this episode, Dr. Jeff Feinman shares how shifting focus from symptoms to something he calls BEAM (Behavior, Energy, Appetite, and Mood) can transform how we support our dogs' health and happiness. WHAT YOU'LL LEARN Why symptoms are clues, not problems—and what your dog's body is really trying to tell you when something feels off How energy balance at the cellular level affects everything from red ears to excessive water drinking, and why these "normal" things might not be normal at all What BEAM stands for and why tracking these four simple things matters more than focusing on individual symptoms How micro-engagements—short bursts of joy like sniff walks or play—can support healing and improve quality of life in measurable ways Why prescribing happiness (yes, really) might be more effective than reaching for medication first What the "happiness protocol" is and how it upgrades mitochondrial function through what your dog loves most How to start making holistic, informed decisions that work alongside—not against—your regular vet care A FAVOURITE MOMENT "We ignore the most accomplished doctor in the room, and that is Doctor Mother Nature." — Jeff ABOUT DR. JEFF FEINMAN Dr. Jeff Feinman has been a veterinarian since 1985 and is the founder of Holistic Actions!, a movement bringing compassionate communication and practical veterinary spirituality to pet care. With over 30 years of experience, his mission is to bridge the gap between holistic and conventional veterinary medicine through nature-inspired, energy-driven actions. He empowers pet parents with resources, webinars, and a supportive community, and is the author of a new book that merges molecular biology with indigenous wisdom to help animals live healthier, happier lives. CONNECT WITH DR. JEFF FEINMAN Website: https://www.holisticactions.com YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@HolisticActions Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/holisticactions/ Free Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/holisticactions/ Free Self-Care Package: https://www.holisticactions.com/self-care-package-signup/ — Three inspiring webinars to guide you to a more connected place within yourself so you can be the best guardian for your animal. CONNECT WITH SOUL TOUCHED BY DOGS To find out more about Soul Touched by Dogs, visit https://soultouchedbydogs.com

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