Soul Touched by Dogs

• Dr. Nancy Kay - From Trusting to Questioning: A Vet’s Call for Smarter Dog Advocacy

  Speaking for Spot: Becoming the Advocate Your Dog Deserves with Dr. Nancy KayWhat if the biggest difference you could make in your dog’s life isn’t about training or nutrition, but learning to ask better questions?In this heartfelt, information-packed episode, I sit down with Dr. Nancy Kay - veterinarian, author, and passionate animal welfare advocate - to explore what it really means to "speak for Spot".From her own story of medical advocacy that sparked a bestselling book, to the eye-opening realities of veterinary culture, to her bold new mission to educate kids about puppy mills, Nancy brings deep expertise, compassion, and a refreshing willingness to challenge outdated norms.Whether you're navigating a tricky diagnosis or just want to be a more empowered guardian, this conversation will leave you feeling inspired, better informed, and more confident in your role as team captain for your dog’s well-being.Key Takeaways- Why “just trust the vet” is outdated adviceLearn why a collaborative, relationship-centered approach to your dog’s health is not only possible but essential.- How to navigate conflicting advice with clarity and confidence - Why asking for second (or third!) opinions isn’t just okay, it’s smart and necessary.- What most dog lovers don’t know about spaying and neuteringTiming and method matter more than you think. Nancy shares breed-specific insights and surprising facts that many vets don’t mention.- The truth about overnight careWhy assuming someone is with your dog at the clinic overnight can lead to heartbreaking consequences, and what to ask instead.- Educating the next generation about puppy millsHow Nancy’s latest book A Dog Named 647 is using storytelling to empower kids to stand up for animal welfare when adults have failed to do so.💬 Favorite Quote“You are the team captain of your dog’s healthcare team. The vet is one of your players, not the coach.” – Dr. Nancy KayEnjoy!00:00 Welcome and Introduction00:15 Nancy's Background and Career in Veterinary Medicine02:06 Inspiration Behind Writing Books05:58 Advocacy and Veterinary Care09:50 Challenges in Veterinary Practices16:07 Nancy's Third Book and Puppy Mills21:45 Connecting with Nancy and ConclusionAbout Dr. Nancy KayDr. Nancy Kay is a board-certified veterinary specialist in small animal internal medicine, the author of Speaking for Spot and Your Dog’s Best Health, and a long-time advocate for animal welfare. Her newest middle grade novel, A Dog Named 647, aims to raise awareness among kids about the cruelty of puppy mills—and how they can help change the world for animals.When she’s not writing or advocating, Nancy enjoys life in Northern California with her family and her beloved 17-year-old dog, Quinn.🔗 Find out more and connect with Dr. Nancy:Website: https://speakingforspot.comSubstack: https://kayn.substack.comFacebook: https://facebook.com/speakingforspotNPR’s Fresh Air interview: Listen here https://freshairarchive.org/segments/veterinarian-advises-how-speak-spotAs always, to find out all about Soul Touched by Dogs, go to https://soultouchedbydogs.com

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• Marilyn Mele - Stop Desensitizing Your Sensitive Dog: A Fresh Perspective

  If you’ve ever shared life with a sensitive, traumatized, or reactive dog, you know how heart-wrenching it is to see them struggle. You want to help, but so much of the advice out there feels like a quick fix and often makes things worse.In this episode, I sit down with Marilyn Mele, founder of Dog Wisdom Workshop and creator of the Emotionally Intelligent Dog Academy, to talk about what truly helps these dogs thrive. With over 40 years of experience teaching people and dogs, Marilyn has a gift for blending science, compassion, and practical tools that work.We dive into what’s really going on beneath the behavior, and why the usual “desensitization” approach can backfire. This is an eye-opening conversation that will change the way you look at your sensitive dog.What You’ll Learn in This Episode:Why “fixing” the behavior misses the point - and what to focus on instead.The role of predictability and safety in helping your dog feel secure.Why freedom of movement matters (and why the leash can make things worse).The truth about desensitization - why it often fails and what to do instead.One surprising skill you already have that can transform life with your dog.My Favorite Quote from Marilyn:"Feeling safe is something that happens inside the dog—you can’t train it, you can’t talk them out of fear. You have to create an environment where they believe they are safe."00:00 Welcome and Introductions00:11 Marilyn's Background and Journey01:18 Evolution in Dog Training02:56 Impact of COVID-19 on Dog Training04:52 Understanding Dog Sensitivity11:16 Importance of Predictability for Dogs15:38 Creating a Safe Environment for Dogs22:42 Challenges with Traditional Dog Training Methods23:23 Creating a Safe Environment for Sensitive Dogs24:20 Common Mistakes in Handling Sensitive Dogs26:06 Trusting Your Intuition with Your Dog27:51 Introducing the Mini Course: Stop Desensitizing Your Sensitive Dog29:19 Understanding Desensitization and Its Misuse31:32 The Three Pillars of the Mini Course34:37 Real-Life Example: Handling a Covid Puppy39:33 How to Connect and Work with MeFind out more about Marilyn:Marilyn Mele is the founder of Dog Wisdom Workshop and the creator of the Emotionally Intelligent Dog Academy. With more than 40 years of experience working with dogs and their humans, Marilyn specializes in helping sensitive, traumatized, and reactive dogs by teaching dog parents how to build confidence, resilience, and self-regulation.As a Healing Touch for Animals Practitioner, Marilyn also supports dogs energetically, emotionally, and behaviorally through remote energy sessions.How to Connect with Marilyn:Website: https://www.marilynmele.comA FREE gift for you 14 True Things About Dogs (Infographic): https://www.marilynmele.com/14-true-things-about-dogs-infographicFacebook Group: Dog Wisdom Workshop https://www.facebook.com/groups/dogwisdomworkshop/YouTube: Marilyn’s Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCyE6Otu_z1FueviGxl5mfHQ👉 Check out Marilyn’s mini-course: Stop Desensitizing Your Sensitive Dog: https://dogwisdomworkshop.thrivecart.com/stop-desensitizing-your-sensitive-dog/.. or email her at [email protected] always, to find out all about Soul Touched by Dogs, go to https://soultouchedbydogs.com.

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• Zazie Todd - The Science of a Happy Dog: What Every Guardian Should Know

  What does science say about how to make your dog happy? And how can understanding human psychology help us support our reactive or anxious dogs better?In this heartfelt and fascinating episode, I’m joined by Zazie Todd, PhD—animal behaviour expert, award-winning author, and creator of the Companion Animal Psychology blog. Zazie shares her journey from academic psychologist to beloved voice in the world of canine (and feline!) wellbeing. Her story—like so many of ours—started with a dog who needed a bit more help than expected.We talk about how her background in psychology blends with her passion for writing and animal behaviour to create practical, science-backed resources that help people understand and support their dogs (and cats) better. From the overlooked magic of letting dogs sniff, to why a safe space is a must in every home, this conversation is packed with insights that will change how you walk, live, and connect with your dog.Whether you're dealing with reactivity, a multi-pet household, or simply want to enrich your dog’s life, this one’s for you.Key takeaways:- the one behavior science principle every dog guardian is already using (but may not realize)- Why letting your dog sniff freely is one of the most powerful things you can do for their happiness- The overlooked importance of safe spaces—and why *not* entering that space matters- What psychology teaches us about behaviour—human or canine—and how to apply it at home- The surprising way Zazie’s first book came to life (it started with a blog... and a tweet)Favorite quote:“When you know what your dog needs and you provide what your dog needs, they’re going to be happier—and less likely to have behavior issues.” – Zazie ToddAbout Zazie Todd, PhDZazie Todd is an animal behaviour expert and the award-winning author of "Bark! The Science of Helping Your Anxious, Fearful, or Reactive Dog", "Wag: The Science of Making Your Dog Happy", and "Purr: The Science of Making Your Cat Happy". She’s the creator of the widely respected Companion Animal Psychology blog and also writes for "Psychology Today". With a background in human psychology and a passion for improving the lives of animals, Zazie brings warmth, clarity, and science-backed advice to every conversation.Connect with Zazie:Website: https://www.companionanimalpsychology.comNewsletter: https://www.companionanimalpsychology.com/p/newsletter.htmlBooks: Available wherever books are soldYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@companionanimalpsychologyInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/zazietoddFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/companionanimalpsychologyBluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/zazietodd.bsky.socialAs always, to find out all about Soul Touched by Dogs, go to https://soultouchedbydogs.com

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• Kathy Callahan & Helen St. Pierre - Old Dog, New Dog: Supporting Your Aging Best Friend and Welcoming a New One

  What happens when you bring a playful puppy into a home shared with an aging dog? Is it a heartwarming tale of intergenerational friendship—or a recipe for resentment and overwhelm?In this deeply insightful and refreshingly honest conversation, I’m joined by Kathy Callahan and Helen St. Pierre, authors of Old Dog, New Dog: A Guide to Supporting Your Aging Best Friend and Welcoming a New One. We explore the emotional, practical, and soulful layers of combining puppy energy with senior dog wisdom—and what it really takes to make that transition harmonious for everyone involved.Helen brings her experience from running a senior animal sanctuary and navigating end-of-life care with grace and compassion. Kathy shares her joyful yet grounded perspective on puppyhood—why it often gets a bad rap, and how to set yourself and your new pup up for success.This episode is packed with laughter, raw truth, and beautiful reminders that dogs—young and old—have so much to teach us about living fully and letting go gently.🐶 In This Episode, You'll Discover:Why a peaceful senior-puppy combo takes more than wishful thinking—and what factors to consider before making the leap.How to assess your older dog’s bandwidth, physically and emotionally, before bringing a new dog into the mix.The truth about grief, quality of life, and making end-of-life decisions—and why "they'll tell you when it's time" isn’t always true.Why managing expectations (and having a few good gates and stuffed Toppls!) makes all the difference.The one crucial mistake even experienced dog lovers make when bringing home a puppy to an aging dog.Why your puppy will almost always choose your older dog over you—and how to prepare for that dynamic.🧡 Favorite Quote:“Regret and guilt are optional. Grief is not. But if you lean into today—fill it with connection, meet their needs—you make peace later that much easier.” — Helen St. Pierre00:00 Welcome and Introductions00:16 Kathy's Expertise in Puppies02:31 Helen's Journey with Senior Dogs05:22 Challenges and Joys of Puppyhood07:42 Writing the Book Together11:56 Integrating Puppies with Senior Dogs16:21 Managing Expectations and Practical Tips22:51 The Emotional Journey of Dog Relationships24:09 Understanding the Need for Separation25:26 Setting Realistic Expectations for New Puppy Owners27:13 Dealing with the Loss of an Older Dog31:29 Recognizing Signs of Decline in Senior Dogs35:35 Making the Difficult Decision of Euthanasia44:31 Living Regret-Free with Your Dogs48:10 Where to Find More Resources and SupportAbout Kathy and Helen:Kathy Callahan (🐾 https://puppypicks.com) is a Certified Professional Dog Trainer (CPDT-KA) and Family Dog Mediator (LFDM) who specializes in puppies. She’s also the author of Welcoming Your Puppy from Planet Dog and 101 Rescue Puppies. Kathy fosters rescue litters and helps families navigate puppyhood with joy, realism, and a lot of cheerleading.Helen St. Pierre (🐾 https://nomonkeybusinessdogtraining.com) is the founder of Old Dogs Go To Helen, a senior dog sanctuary, and an experienced trainer with over two decades in the field. She’s certified as a CPDT-KSA, CDBC, and LFDM and offers courses and consults on end-of-life care for pets, including her signature course The Good Death.Together, Kathy and Helen are the co-authors of Old Dog, New Dog: Supporting Your Aging Best Friend and Welcoming a New One—a practical and heartfelt guide for navigating this transition with compassion and clarity.🌐 Connect with Kathy & Helen:Kathy CallahanWebsite: https://puppypicks.comInstagram: @puppypicksFacebook: Kathryn G. CallahanYouTube: Kathy's ChannelHelen St. PierreWebsite: https://nomonkeybusinessdogtraining.comSanctuary: https://olddogsgotohelen.comFacebook: Old Dogs Go To Helen | No Monkey Business Dog Training | Helen’s Personal📚 Get the Book:Old Dog, New Dog: Supporting Your Aging Best Friend and Welcoming a New OneAvailable here https://a.co/d/j5SuTJP or wherever you buy your books!As always, to find out all about Soul Touched by Dogs, go to https://soultouchedbydogs.com

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• Nora Lenz - Your Dog’s Dinner Might Be the Problem (and the Cure)

  What If the Food You Feed Your Dog Is the Root Cause (and the Cure) for Their Illness?In this episode, I’m joined by Nora Lenz, creator of Rotational MonoFeeding (RMF), to explore a radical – and radically simple – idea: that feeding dogs according to their biological needs not only prevents disease but can actually reverse it.Nora’s journey started back in the 80s when she studied human nutrition and discovered the powerful connection between food, health, and emotional well-being. It didn’t take long for her to apply those insights to her own dogs and the results? Nothing short of transformative.We talk about how the pet food industry (and, sadly, often the veterinary system) pushes kibble, chemicals, and confusion – when in fact, the body knows how to heal. It just needs the right conditions.If you’ve ever wondered what’s really in your dog’s bowl and how it might be affecting their health, this episode is a must-listen.🦴 In This Conversation, We Explore:Why mixing meat and plants in one meal disrupts digestion for both dogs and humansWhat “rotational mono feeding” is and how it mimics what wild dogs eat in natureHow a dog’s vibrant health depends on removing the causes of disease – not adding more remediesThe mistake most dog guardians make when transitioning away from kibble – and how to do it safelyWhy symptoms like skin issues, digestive problems, or even kidney disease can often be resolved through diet aloneHow Nora’s feeding model turns conventional wisdom upside down – and empowers you to stop relying on the sick pet industry💬 Favorite Quote:“The beauty is, once you remove the cause, the body does the healing. You don’t need substances. You don’t need remedies. You just need to get out of the way.” – Nora Lenz00:00 Introduction to the Podcast00:24 Guest Introduction: Nora's Journey with Dogs01:34 The Importance of Dog Nutrition03:21 Understanding Rotational Mono Feeding (RMF)04:22 Common Misconceptions About Dog Aging and Disease15:18 Transitioning Your Dog to a Healthier Diet24:58 The Role of Vets and the Pet Food Industry33:27 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsAbout Nora LenzNora Lenz is the creator of Rotational MonoFeeding (RMF), a feeding philosophy that mirrors the natural diet of wild dogs and prioritizes biologically appropriate nutrition to prevent and reverse disease. She began her journey in the 1980s, studying human nutrition, and soon turned her attention to the animals in her care.Through her website, book, and vibrant Facebook community, Nora shares powerful – and often eye-opening – insights into how food affects health and why the standard pet care advice might be doing more harm than good. Her mission? To give dog and cat guardians the tools to step away from dependency on medication, vet bills, and commercial food… and reclaim true health for their animals.Learn More & Connect with Nora📚 Get Nora’s book + learn more: https://www.RotationalMonoFeeding.comJoin the RMF Community: RMF Facebook Group + Lead MagnetYouTube & Social: Just search “Rotational MonoFeeding” or find her on FacebookAs always, to find out all about Soul Touched by Dogs, go to👉 https://soultouchedbydogs.com

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