The Dog Mum

Aneka Johnson
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  • PETS & ANIMALS
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In 2016, Aneka Johnson found herself struggling with illness, depression, and a strong desire to heal. Then Chubbs, her dog son, came into her life, bringing her hope and a renewed purpose. He was the companion she never knew she needed, and he truly rescued her. Without him,  Aneka doubts she would be here today to share her journey or other inspiring stories of fellow dog parents. Getting a dog is just the beginning of an incredible adventure. With over eight years of experience as a devoted dog mum, Aneka shares her insights and knowledge to eliminate the guesswork. Your ultimate guide to raising happy and healthy dogs, from puppyhood to their senior years. This way, you can spend more quality time with your furry friend and less time searching for how to be the best dog parent. Allow The Dog Mum to help you!

  1. Dognappings, Surprise Puppies, and Healing: Annabel Karmel’s Journey as a Dog Mum

    4 DAYS AGO

    Dognappings, Surprise Puppies, and Healing: Annabel Karmel’s Journey as a Dog Mum

    In this deeply moving and inspiring episode, Aneka Johnson sits down with the incredible Annabel Karmel, bestselling author, entrepreneur, and devoted mum to five dogs. Annabel opens up about her profound journey of turning unimaginable personal tragedy into a lifelong purpose, detailing how the loss of her first child inspired her global children's food empire. KEY TAKEAWAYS Dogs act as incredible therapists, sometimes even better than the human kind. They offer unmatched, selfless love that can help us navigate the darkest and most difficult periods of our lives, acting as quiet, comforting companions when we need them most. Annabel channeled the tragic loss of her daughter, Natasha, into a global mission to help other parents feed their children healthy, nutritious food. Her story is a testament to how immense grief can be transformed into a legacy that helps millions. Just like babies and toddlers, dogs thrive on fresh, nutritious, and minimally processed ingredients. Annabel advocates for feeding dogs whole foods over long-life, highly processed options, noting the direct link between diet and longevity. Annabel's terrifying experience of having her dogs stolen from a dog walker's van highlights the devastating reality of dog theft. It brings to light the difficult moral conundrum owners face regarding reward money. Whether it's advocating for child health, writing a dog cookbook, or starting a completely new business venture, true success comes from pursuing what you authentically love and care about.  BEST MOMENTS "I always say that everyone thinks they've got the best dog, and none of them are wrong. Because they are all the best dogs." "It's like a weight on your head. I can't explain it. It's not like a normal unhappiness; it's like you cannot even function."  "I don't think I could ever live without a dog now. Never... they give you so much love. You feel so happy with your dog and he's sort of... I mean, dogs are like your therapists, but better. A lot better." "The thing is, like, if you don't give a reward, you probably wouldn't get your dog back. But you feel bad about giving a reward, because why should you reward somebody who stole the dogs? It's a very difficult conundrum." "If you have a passion and you believe in it, and you believe in yourself, you should go for it. Because eventually, people took me seriously." To Connect with Annabel Karmel: Recipe App: https://apps.apple.com/gb/app/annabel-karmel-kids-recipes/id409157308 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/annabelkarmel/ Website: https://www.annabelkarmel.com/ VALUABLE LINKS @anekajohnsonofficial https://thecuddleclubuk.com/  Website: https://www.woofabout.uk/  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/woofabout  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the4leggedfoodies/  ABOUT THE HOST Aneka Johnson, founder of The Cuddle Club and co-founder of London Dog Week, is a purpose-driven entrepreneur and devoted dog mum to her French bulldog, Chubbs. Her journey as a ‘pet-preneur’ began while battling health challenges, anxiety, and depression - until Chubbs changed her life. Aneka now inspires others through her relatable, uplifting approach to dog parenthood and therapy. Under Aneka's guidance, the Cuddle Club has been featured in prominent media outlets like London Live, The Lorraine Show, Forbes, Evening Standard, Marie Claire, Daily Mail, and BBC Radio London.

    1hr 4min
  2. Pacing for Two: How a Dachshund Changed an Olympian’s World

    31 MAR

    Pacing for Two: How a Dachshund Changed an Olympian’s World

    In this heartwarming episode, Aneka sits down with British Olympic sprinter Deseree to explore the profound bond she shares with her seven-year-old Dachshund, Henry. Deseree opens up about bringing Henry home during a difficult recovery from knee surgery and how he provided the emotional grounding she needed to navigate the pressures of elite athletics. From the challenges of international travel with a whining sausage dog to the joy he brings to her family, Deseree illustrates how being a ‘dog mom’ has taught her patience and discipline in ways the track never could. It’s an inspiring look at how unconditional love can fuel professional greatness. KEY TAKEAWAYS Deseree got Henry while recovering from knee surgery in the Netherlands; he helped her overcome the depression and loneliness of being unable to train. The patience and discipline required for potty training and teaching tricks to a stubborn Dachshund have directly mirrored and supported the discipline Deseree needs as an Olympic athlete. Traveling internationally with a pet is far more complex and expensive than most realise, involving specialised passports, medical records, and significant fees. Deseree prioritises Henry’s schedule, including raw food diets and dog dates, to ensure he has a full social life, which in turn helps her stay grounded. Seeing Henry’s excitement when she returns home from a race, regardless of her result, provides a unique emotional safety net that shields her from the high-pressure world of sports. BEST MOMENTS "Henry is the star of the show today. He's in his element, I'm in my element." "If I can stand in the rain to look after this dog, I can be patient when it comes to results that may come [on the track]." "I work so hard to provide a life that my dog can enjoy. My baby likes nice things!" "He doesn’t know his mom is an Olympian, and I don't even think he cares." "It’s okay to be a dog mom. Don’t let anyone convince you you’re saying it wrong. Own it." VALUABLE LINKS @anekajohnsonofficial https://thecuddleclubuk.com/ Website: https://www.woofabout.uk/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/woofabout Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the4leggedfoodies/ ABOUT THE HOST Aneka Johnson, founder of The Cuddle Club and co-founder of London Dog Week, is a purpose-driven entrepreneur and devoted dog mum to her French bulldog, Chubbs. Her journey as a ‘pet-preneur’ began while battling health challenges, anxiety, and depression - until Chubbs changed her life. Aneka now inspires others through her relatable, uplifting approach to dog parenthood and therapy. Under Aneka's guidance, the Cuddle Club has been featured in prominent media outlets like London Live, The Lorraine Show, Forbes, Evening Standard, Marie Claire, Daily Mail, and BBC Radio London.

    50 min
  3. The Reality of Dog Grooming and Building a Community: More Than Just Puppy Spas

    17 MAR

    The Reality of Dog Grooming and Building a Community: More Than Just Puppy Spas

    Today, Aneka sits down with Gaynor Jackson, the visionary behind Woofabout, to trace her inspiring evolution from a corporate HR career to becoming a cornerstone of London’s dog community. Gaynor shares the raw reality of the grooming industry, correcting the misconception that it's a ‘puppy spa day’, and discusses the physical toll that eventually led her to event planning. From the first social gathering in Fulham to the massive Big Woof festival at King’s Cross, Gaynor explains how her passion for supporting independent pet brands and fostering genuine human-canine connections has built a loyal, thriving community of Dog Mums and Dads. KEY TAKEAWAYS Gaynor transitioned from a 20-year corporate career in HR and recruitment to dog grooming at age 40, proving it’s never too late to follow a passion. Professional grooming requires immense patience and physical stamina; it is often stressful for dogs, and ‘four-week courses’ are rarely enough to master the craft. Post-pandemic, there has been a surge in ‘Dual Income, No Kids, With a Dog’ households, shifting the demand for high-quality, dog-friendly social events. A core mission of Woofabout and Big Woof is providing a platform for small, independent pet businesses that typically only exist online. Beyond the dogs, these events serve as a vital social fabric for humans, helping people (especially those new to the city) integrate into a supportive community. BEST MOMENTS “I can say for sure that that is not enough experience to do like a four-week course and say you're a dog groomer." "No dog likes being groomed. They leave the dogs there sometimes and I've had all sorts of comments like, 'Oh, you'll have a lovely time, you're having a day at the spa,' and it's like, no. That is not how the dog sees it." "London can be a lonely place. If you don't find your people and you don't find your community, it can become very isolating." "I noticed on the tube, the only time anybody would make any sort of eye contact with you or engage with you at all is if the dog was with you." "I could not love that dog any more than you love your children. It is exactly the love was exactly the same." VALUABLE LINKS @anekajohnsonofficial https://thecuddleclubuk.com/ Website: https://www.woofabout.uk/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/woofabout Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the4leggedfoodies/ ABOUT THE HOST Aneka Johnson, founder of The Cuddle Club and co-founder of London Dog Week, is a purpose-driven entrepreneur and devoted dog mum to her French bulldog, Chubbs. Her journey as a ‘pet-preneur’ began while battling health challenges, anxiety, and depression - until Chubbs changed her life. Aneka now inspires others through her relatable, uplifting approach to dog parenthood and therapy. Under Aneka's guidance, the Cuddle Club has been featured in prominent media outlets like London Live, The Lorraine Show, Forbes, Evening Standard, Marie Claire, Daily Mail, and BBC Radio London.

    57 min
  4. Healing Paws and Human Posture: An Osteopath’s Guide to Thriving with Your Dog

    3 MAR

    Healing Paws and Human Posture: An Osteopath’s Guide to Thriving with Your Dog

    In this episode, Aneka sits down with James Davies, a premier osteopath who has worked with stars like David Beckham and Pink, dive into his transition from a professional 100m runner to a ‘magic-handed’ healer for both humans and dogs. James shares his heartwarming ‘convert story’ of going from a dog-skeptic to a devoted ‘dog dad’ to his miniature poodle, Justin Bobby.  KEY TAKEAWAYS Dogs offer a unique, non-verbal communication of love and energy that can significantly improve mental health and provide emotional grounding during low moments. The principles of healing, muscles, ligaments, and bones, apply to both humans and dogs; therapeutic touch and palpation can help pets recover from physical discomfort just as they help people. Frequent dog walking often leads to lower back, neck, and shoulder pain due to improper posture, looking down, or being pulled on a lead. Health doesn't require hours at the gym; focusing on your body for just 10 minutes a day (even in small 20-second bursts) can prevent chronic tension from escalating into a physical crisis. Walking on hard city streets requires supportive trainers with good shock absorbers; wearing flat shoes like Converse for long walks can lead to significant lower back and calf pain. BEST MOMENTS "I never realised that I could have so much love and affection for a dog. I’m a full convert now." "If you're good at the palpation skills, you can be therapeutic to any type of tissue. Dogs have muscles, human beings have muscles." "I feel we're all athletes, and we need to have a warm-up. Even to walk our dogs, we need to stretch." "Touch is safety and it's trust. I go into someone's house I've never met, I place my hands on an area, and they can see that I care." "Stress is a silent killer. We need to get out of the fight or flight at the end of the day and do a rest and digest, calm the body down." ABOUT THE GUEST Book: Back in Ten: The 10-Minute Method to Transform Your Back and Eliminate Pain https://amzn.eu/d/bzHWWSk Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jamesdhealth/  Website: www.jamesdhealth.com VALUABLE LINKS @anekajohnsonofficial https://thecuddleclubuk.com/ ABOUT THE HOST Aneka Johnson, founder of The Cuddle Club and co-founder of London Dog Week, is a purpose-driven entrepreneur and devoted dog mum to her French bulldog, Chubbs. Her journey as a ‘pet-preneur’ began while battling health challenges, anxiety, and depression - until Chubbs changed her life. Aneka now inspires others through her relatable, uplifting approach to dog parenthood and therapy. Under Aneka's guidance, the Cuddle Club has been featured in prominent media outlets like London Live, The Lorraine Show, Forbes, Evening Standard, Marie Claire, Daily Mail, and BBC Radio London.

    48 min
  5. How Truly Understanding Your Dog’s Language Can Save Their Life

    3 FEB

    How Truly Understanding Your Dog’s Language Can Save Their Life

    In this episode, Aneka dives deep into the essential foundation of pet ownership: truly knowing your dog. Moving beyond basic needs and commands, Aneka reflects on her nine-year journey with her Frenchie, Chubs, sharing how their relationship evolved from ‘chaos’ to a profound, intuitive connection. She offers listeners practical advice on decoding body language, aligning energy levels, and establishing meaningful routines that build trust.  KEY TAKEAWAYS Understanding who your dog is, rather than just what they are ‘supposed’ to do, is the foundation for successful training and a deeper bond. Body language is complex; for instance, a wagging tail can signal nervous excitement rather than happiness, and a yawn can be a sign of stress rather than tiredness. Pay attention to how your dog responds to your mood; matching your energy to what they need, whether it’s high praise or calm stability, is vital for their sense of safety. Bonding isn't about being together 24/7; it’s about intentional quality time, such as let-the-dog-lead walks and consistent morning rituals. Being intimately familiar with your dog's physical quirks and typical temperament allows you to spot subtle changes early, which can be life-saving in medical situations. BEST MOMENTS "It all works better when you actually understand who your dog is, not just what they're supposed to be doing, but what they're actually trying to tell you." "Once you really understand your dog, everything just clicks." "A wagging tail isn't always happy, a yawn isn't always tiredness. The more you notice, the more you'll understand." "Bonding is quality time, not just quantity. It's not about being with him 24/7, it's about how you spend the time." "Those subtle changes can only be spotted when you really know what your dog's normal is." ABOUT THE HOST Aneka Johnson, founder of The Cuddle Club and co-founder of London Dog Week, is a purpose-driven entrepreneur and devoted dog mum to her French bulldog, Chubbs. Her journey as a ‘pet-preneur’ began while battling health challenges, anxiety, and depression - until Chubbs changed her life. Aneka now inspires others through her relatable, uplifting approach to dog parenthood and therapy. Under Aneka's guidance, the Cuddle Club has been featured in prominent media outlets like London Live, The Lorraine Show, Forbes, Evening Standard, Marie Claire, Daily Mail, and BBC Radio London. www.thecuddleclubuk.com @anekajohnsonofficial

    7 min
  6. The Emotional Highs of Senior Dog Adoption with Abbie Dewhurst

    27 JAN

    The Emotional Highs of Senior Dog Adoption with Abbie Dewhurst

    In this heartwarming episode, Aneka sits down with broadcaster and fellow dog mom Abbie Dewhurst to discuss her journey rescuing Ruby, a 7-year-old French Bulldog. Abbie opens up about the serendipitous timing of Ruby’s arrival just before the pandemic, the unique joys and challenges of adopting a senior dog with health issues, and how Ruby transformed from a breeding dog into a beloved family member. They dive deep into the vetting process of rescue charities, the guilt dog moms feel about their pets' happiness, and why Abbie believes rescuing an older dog was the best decision she ever made. KEY TAKEAWAYS While many people want puppies, adopting a senior dog like Ruby (who was 7 at the time) can mean getting a pet that is already calm, toilet-trained, and perfectly suited to a busy lifestyle. Rigorous vetting by charities is essential to ensure a dog fits your lifestyle. Abby emphasises that while the process can be lengthy, it ensures a successful match for both the dog and the owner. Ruby’s transition wasn’t instant; it took patience and understanding of her past trauma. Abby advises that you shouldn’t expect immediate fireworks of love, building a bond takes time. Adopting older breeds like Frenchies often comes with health complications (e.g., spinal issues). Abby highlights the importance of having comprehensive pet insurance immediately upon adoption. Abby discusses the common guilt owners feel when their dogs aren't doing enough. She learned to accept that Ruby is happiest just being near her humans, sleeping, and doing absolutely nothing. BEST MOMENTS "We drove to Milton Keynes and just walked through the door, and this little bundle of joy, Ruby, ran straight up to me. I sat down, and she just put her little bottom on my knee, and I nearly burst into tears." "In hindsight, that was perfect. We both have really busy lives. We don't have the time to puppy train. Actually, a 7-year-old was perfect. She was already calm." "It's madness that you can go and just buy a puppy and nobody's checked what your garden's like. I think the rigorous process that you have to go through for a charity is absolutely suitable." "Don't panic if you're not immediately in love with that dog. It wasn't immediate love, it was sussing each other out. Trust the process, the relationship will blossom.” "I feel very proud that we've shown her the world. We've taken her to Wales, the Cotswolds, Scotland... I feel like we have given her a lot of love, and a lot of other people who love her." ABOUT THE HOST Aneka Johnson, founder of The Cuddle Club and co-founder of London Dog Week, is a purpose-driven entrepreneur and devoted dog mum to her French bulldog, Chubbs. Her journey as a ‘pet-preneur’ began while battling health challenges, anxiety, and depression - until Chubbs changed her life. Aneka now inspires others through her relatable, uplifting approach to dog parenthood and therapy. Under Aneka's guidance, the Cuddle Club has been featured in prominent media outlets like London Live, The Lorraine Show, Forbes, Evening Standard, Marie Claire, Daily Mail, and BBC Radio London. www.thecuddleclubuk.com @anekajohnsonofficial

    1 hr
  7. Doga, Healing & Activism: The Truth Behind Dog Yoga with Mahny Djahanguiri

    20 JAN

    Doga, Healing & Activism: The Truth Behind Dog Yoga with Mahny Djahanguiri

    In this episode, Aneka sits down with Mahny Djahanguiri, the UK founder of Doga (Dog Yoga) and author of ‘Doga: Yoga for You and Your Dog’. Mahny shares her incredible journey, starting from her transformative experience volunteering with children at Kids Company to the serendipitous moment she discovered the healing power of yoga with dogs while living in Los Angeles. She opens up about how her rescue dog, Robbie, became the catalyst for Doga in the UK, leading to international media attention and an appearance on Britain's Got Talent.  KEY TAKEAWAYS Doga wasn't just a business idea; it was born out of Mahny's personal need for healing and her discovery that dogs, like children, respond profoundly to calmness and consistency rather than forced control. Mahny’s dog Robbie came into her life in an extraordinary way, rescued from a difficult situation in the Middle East and essentially smuggled to safety, proving that the bond between human and dog often defies logic and borders. True Doga is about the owner and dog bonding in a calm, shared space. It is not about forcing dogs into poses or using them as props for social media, but rather about "passive activism" and mutual relaxation. Mahny strongly distinguishes her practice from the trendy "Puppy Yoga" classes, which often involve breeders, unvaccinated puppies, and stressful environments. She highlights the ethical concerns regarding animal welfare and treating living beings as commodities. Despite facing backlash or silence from some institutions, Mahny continues to speak out against unethical animal practices, using her platform to educate dog owners on the importance of verifying the source and welfare of animals in any ‘pet service’. BEST MOMENTS "I always said, 'Well, if I break it down and just work with one, then slowly just become me, become yoga, become calm. If I can become calm, it somehow starts working. There's a divine glue, there's a divine connection in that calmness.'" "It was all about being authentic and not trying too hard to create something or achieve something. The more you try to achieve something and get people involved, the less it would work." "You earn their respect that they felt safe with you. And how do you get that? Through consistency. Beginning, middle to end. Time. Show up, show up, show up." "I tell you why the UK government hasn't stopped it, because they're making money. It is very difficult to legislate for stupidity." "Puppy Yoga came from Ontario. It was clearly a platform to present breeds. It's a showcase. This is not about lifting puppies, they were showcasing them properly in Canada." ABOUT THE HOST Aneka Johnson, founder of The Cuddle Club and co-founder of London Dog Week, is a purpose-driven entrepreneur and devoted dog mum to her French bulldog, Chubbs. Her journey as a ‘pet-preneur’ began while battling health challenges, anxiety, and depression - until Chubbs changed her life. Aneka now inspires others through her relatable, uplifting approach to dog parenthood and therapy. Under Aneka's guidance, the Cuddle Club has been featured in prominent media outlets like London Live, The Lorraine Show, Forbes, Evening Standard, Marie Claire, Daily Mail, and BBC Radio London. www.thecuddleclubuk.com @anekajohnsonofficial

    41 min
  8. Life with Cavapoos: Sarah Gillis Shares Her Adventures in Dog-Friendly Living

    13 JAN

    Life with Cavapoos: Sarah Gillis Shares Her Adventures in Dog-Friendly Living

    In this episode, Aneka is joined by fellow dog mum and influencer Sarah Gillis for a relatable chat about the highs, lows, and unexpected lessons of dog parenting, especially during lockdown. Sarah opens up about how she became the proud owner of two Cavapoos, Peanut and Pablo, and how they’ve been a constant source of comfort, companionship, and laughter through life’s twists and turns. Together, they explore the deep emotional bond between dogs and their humans, the importance of choosing a breed that truly fits your lifestyle, and what it’s like navigating dog parenthood in both London and Newcastle.  KEY TAKEAWAYS Dogs provide unconditional love and companionship, significantly impacting their owners' mental health and well-being. They can help individuals through tough times, offering comfort and a sense of purpose. The rise of dog-friendly venues and activities has transformed how dog parents engage with their pets. Many dog owners prioritise places that welcome their dogs, enhancing their experiences and adventures together. The journey of creating dog-related content began during lockdown, driven by a desire to share the joy of having a puppy. This led to unexpected growth and opportunities, including collaborations with brands and invitations to dog-friendly events. When dating, it's crucial to ensure that potential partners are dog-friendly and willing to embrace the role of a "dog dad." The compatibility between the partner and the dogs is essential for a successful relationship. Building a community around dog parenting can lead to meaningful connections with others who share similar experiences. Engaging with followers and receiving positive feedback fosters a supportive environment for both the creator and their audience. BEST MOMENTS "I think it's just that companionship; there's something about dogs. I didn't realise how good it was having a dog until I actually got a dog." "You really have to select the right breed for your lifestyle. And then you've got to have that longevity and that happiness together." "I feel like Peanut and Pablo have been by my side through various parts of my life. They're that consistent, like they have literally been there." "If it's not dog-friendly, it's almost like it doesn't exist to me. Can I just bring my dog?" “I think it breaks my heart that people got them for the wrong reasons. A dog's not just for Christmas, it's for life." ABOUT THE HOST Aneka Johnson, founder of The Cuddle Club and co-founder of London Dog Week, is a purpose-driven entrepreneur and devoted dog mum to her French bulldog, Chubbs. Her journey as a ‘pet-preneur’ began while battling health challenges, anxiety, and depression - until Chubbs changed her life. Aneka now inspires others through her relatable, uplifting approach to dog parenthood and therapy. Under Aneka's guidance, the Cuddle Club has been featured in prominent media outlets like London Live, The Lorraine Show, Forbes, Evening Standard, Marie Claire, Daily Mail, and BBC Radio London. www.thecuddleclubuk.com @anekajohnsonofficial

    53 min
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About

In 2016, Aneka Johnson found herself struggling with illness, depression, and a strong desire to heal. Then Chubbs, her dog son, came into her life, bringing her hope and a renewed purpose. He was the companion she never knew she needed, and he truly rescued her. Without him,  Aneka doubts she would be here today to share her journey or other inspiring stories of fellow dog parents. Getting a dog is just the beginning of an incredible adventure. With over eight years of experience as a devoted dog mum, Aneka shares her insights and knowledge to eliminate the guesswork. Your ultimate guide to raising happy and healthy dogs, from puppyhood to their senior years. This way, you can spend more quality time with your furry friend and less time searching for how to be the best dog parent. Allow The Dog Mum to help you!

Information

  • Creator
    Aneka Johnson
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    14
  • Show Website
    The Dog Mum