Therapy Dogs Australia Podcast

Samantha King
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For anyone working or interested in animal-assisted services, particularly with therapy dogs, this is the podcast for you! Samantha King is a Psychologist, accredited dog trainer and industry expert in the field of Animal Assisted Therapy with over 10 years of experience. Sam and co-host Max (Therapy Dogs Australia head of creativity) chat amongst themselves and to guests to highlight some of the challenges and golden moments experienced by those working in the industry. We regularly have animal assisted therapists and professional dog trainers on to share their knowledge with us, and you. Our goal is to provide a free resource for professional development and our input on the professional standards related to involving animals in therapy and educational settings.

  1. FEB 10

    S5:E2 If Your Dog Is Growling...

    S5:E2 If Your Therapy Dog Is Growling In this episode, Sam shares some exciting wins from the Therapy Dogs Australia community- including the impressive scores of our latest graduates and celebrating the 2026 Australia Dog Of The Year who happens to be one of our teams! We also take a deeper look at why your therapy dog or pet dog may be growling, including what it really means, why it happens, and how to respond. Whether you’re a new handler or an experienced one, this episode offers valuable reminders for reading behaviour and advocating for your dog, as well as your clients in real-world situations. Please remember to subscribe, follow and like this podcast if you enjoy it, a good review will help us a lot too. Request A Topic Or Join Us On The Therapy Dogs Australia Podcast Here: https://form.jotform.com/253357419361056 Join Pat's Online 'Skool' Community here: https://www.skool.com/seriousdogbusiness/about?ref=ddd6fa0b6f784fe4924e5dff44923781 Pat has kindly offered our community a huge $500 off the course! Find the discount code and link below! PAT'S COURSE: https://a4rnm3xvf0.krtra.com/t/mcxyHlsIUGlF FOR $500 OFF USE CODE: TDAUS SUBSCRIBE! Interested in Animal-Assisted Therapy / Animal-Assisted Services and studying with Therapy Dogs Australia? Visit our website www.therapydog.com.au for more information or get in touch with us today by emailing info@therapydog.com.au and one of the Therapy Dogs Australia team will be there to help! Raise your future therapy dog with us! Join our Juniors Mentoring program (puppy & adolescent programs available) and set you and your dog up for success by training the right foundations early, more info here: https://therapydog.com.au/juniors-mentoring-program Follow Us! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/therapy_dogs_australia/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/therapydogsaus/ Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@TherapyDogsAustralia/featured LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/therapy-dogs-australia/ #therapydog #therapydogsaustralia #animalassistedtherapy #animalassistedservices Music License: QY4DTPGULEHBT4UH

    1h 31m

  2. JAN 27

    S5:E1 'What Is A Good Dog?' with Pat Stuart

    S5:E1 'What Is A Good Dog?' with Pat Stuart In the first episode of Season 5 of the Therapy Dogs Australia Podcast, Sam dives into a conversation with dog training expert Pat Stuart. Kicking off 2026, Sam and Pat discuss balancing high energy and drive in dogs, the importance of suitable breed selection, and effective management strategies for adolescent dogs. Pat introduces his new online community designed to offer a safe forum for dog training enthusiasts. Throughout the episode, they explore practical training techniques, the challenges of maintaining discipline, and the nuances of canine behavior management. Please remember to subscribe, follow and like this podcast if you enjoy it, a good review will help us a lot too. Join Pat's Online 'Skool' Community here: https://www.skool.com/seriousdogbusiness/about?ref=ddd6fa0b6f784fe4924e5dff44923781 Pat has kindly offered our community a huge $500 off the course! Find the discount code and link below! PAT'S COURSE: https://a4rnm3xvf0.krtra.com/t/mcxyHlsIUGlF FOR $500 OFF USE CODE: TDAUS SUBSCRIBE! Interested in Animal-Assisted Therapy / Animal-Assisted Services and studying with Therapy Dogs Australia? Visit our website www.therapydog.com.au for more information or get in touch with us today by emailing info@therapydog.com.au and one of the Therapy Dogs Australia team will be there to help! Raise your future therapy dog with us! Join our Juniors Mentoring program (puppy & adolescent programs available) and set you and your dog up for success by training the right foundations early, more info here: https://therapydog.com.au/juniors-mentoring-program Follow Us! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/therapy_dogs_australia/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/therapydogsaus/ Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@TherapyDogsAustralia/featured LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/therapy-dogs-australia/ #therapydog #therapydogsaustralia #animalassistedtherapy #animalassistedservices Music License: ZIGBLHMGYAXKYPZE

    1h 50m

  3. 11/04/2025

    S4: E20 Critical Thinking with Pat Stuart

    S4:E20 Critical Thinking with Pat Stuart In this episode of the Therapy Dogs Australia Podcast, Sam sits down with the one and only Pat Stuart, a professional dog trainer, co-host of The Canine Paradigm podcast, and owner of Serious Dog Business. Pat shares his journey from the Army to professional dog training, reflecting on how critical thinking and behavioural science have shaped his philosophy. Together, Sam and Pat discuss the importance of understanding each dog as an individual, staying adaptable in your methods, and cutting through the noise of short-form training advice online. Plus, Pat also walks us through his online learning platform, Serious Dog Business, and has kindly offered our community a huge $500 off the course! Find the discount code and link in the description below and in our upcoming newsletters. This episode is an insightful chat for therapy dog handlers, dog trainers, and anyone else who's passionate about dog training. Let's get into it! Please remember to subscribe, follow and like this podcast if you enjoy it, a good review will help us a lot too. PAT'S COURSE: https://a4rnm3xvf0.krtra.com/t/mcxyHlsIUGlF FOR $500 OFF USE CODE: TDAUS FOLLOW! Interested in Animal-Assisted Therapy / Animal-Assisted Services and studying with Therapy Dogs Australia? Visit our website www.therapydog.com.au for more information or get in touch with us today by emailing info@therapydog.com.au and one of the Therapy Dogs Australia team will be there to help! Raise your future therapy dog with us! Join our Juniors Mentoring program (puppy & adolescent programs available) and set you and your dog up for success by training the right foundations early, more info here: https://therapydog.com.au/juniors-mentoring-program Follow Us! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/therapy_dogs_australia/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/therapydogsaus/ Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@TherapyDogsAustralia/featured LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/therapy-dogs-australia/ #therapydog #therapydogsaustralia #animalassistedtherapy #animalassistedservices Music License: UV9NCM5DXCP76FQR

    1h 44m

  4. 10/22/2025

    S4:E19 Planning a Training Session for Your Dog

    S4:E19 Planning a Training Session for Your Dog In this episode of the Therapy Dogs Australia Podcast, we break down how to plan and structure an effective training session for your dog — no matter what stage of training you’re in. Sam shares practical advice on creating a consistent training plan, using marker words correctly, and focusing on control positions over flashy obedience. You’ll learn how to correctly use reinforcement tools, manage your dog to set them up for success, and integrate training seamlessly into your daily routine. We also touch on the benefits of keeping a training journal, reviewing filmed sessions, and maintaining a positive, enjoyable environment that helps both you and your dog succeed. Please remember to subscribe, follow and like this podcast if you enjoy it, a good review will help us a lot too. Enjoy! SUBSCRIBE! Interested in Animal-Assisted Therapy / Animal-Assisted Services and studying with Therapy Dogs Australia? Visit our website www.therapydog.com.au for more information or get in touch with us today by emailing info@therapydog.com.au and one of the Therapy Dogs Australia team will be there to help! Raise your future therapy dog with us! Join our Juniors Mentoring program (puppy & adolescent programs available) and set you and your dog up for success by training the right foundations early, more info here: https://therapydog.com.au/juniors-mentoring-program Follow Us! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/therapy_dogs_australia/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/therapydogsaus/ Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@TherapyDogsAustralia/featured LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/therapy-dogs-australia/ #therapydog #therapydogsaustralia #animalassistedtherapy #animalassistedservices Music License: US6ZJOY4A8RU6GZH

    21 min

  5. 09/30/2025

    S4:E18 Insights From Assessing Teams with K9 Essence (Guest: Brianna Mackay)

    S4:E18 Insights From Assessing Teams with K9 Essence (Guest: Brianna Mackay) In this episode, Sam sits down with Brianna Mackay from K9 Essence, one of our locum dog trainers who conducts temperament assessments for Therapy Dogs Australia teams. Brianna shares valuable insights from her work with handlers and their dogs at different stages of their journey, whether just starting out, or freshly graduated. This episode includes tips on building strong handler-dog relationships, phasing out food rewards, and tailoring training to each dog’s needs. It’s an encouraging and informative listen for anyone preparing to work with their therapy dog. Please remember to subscribe, follow and like this podcast if you enjoy it, a good review will help us a lot too. Enjoy! Get In Touch With Brianna Mackay from K9 Essence: https://www.k9essence.com.au/ Follow K9 Essence On Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/k9essence/ SUBSCRIBE! Interested in Animal-Assisted Therapy / Animal-Assisted Services and studying with Therapy Dogs Australia? Visit our website www.therapydog.com.au for more information or get in touch with us today by emailing info@therapydog.com.au and one of the Therapy Dogs Australia team will be there to help! Raise your future therapy dog with us! Join our Juniors Mentoring program (puppy & adolescent programs available) and set you and your dog up for success by training the right foundations early, more info here: https://therapydog.com.au/juniors-mentoring-program Follow Us! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/therapy_dogs_australia/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/therapydogsaus/ Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@TherapyDogsAustralia/featured LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/therapy-dogs-australia/ #therapydog #therapydogsaustralia #animalassistedtherapy #animalassistedservices Music License: US6ZJOY4A8RU6GZH

    1h 33m

  6. 09/16/2025

    S4:E17 Creating Impactful Therapy Dog Programs (Guest: Chakera Houtby)

    S4:E17 Creating Impactful Therapy Dog Programs (Guest: Chakera Houtby) In this episode, we sit down with Chakera Houtby to hear her inspiring journey into the world of animal-assisted therapy alongside her therapy dog, Alfie. 💜 We cover the realities of therapy dog visits – highlighting the challenges in different workplace settings to the costs and logistics of running professional animal-assisted services. Chakera also opens up about her business, Waggly Woofs, and developing animal-assisted therapeutic programs for children that are now available to purchase through her website. If you’re a therapy dog handler or considering stepping into the field, this episode is packed with practical advice and honest reflections. Enjoy! Please remember to subscribe, follow and like this podcast if you enjoy it, a good review will help us a lot too. Enjoy! Get In Touch With Chakera to purchase her therapy dog programs here: https://www.wagglywoofs.com.au/programs Follow Chakera and Alfie on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wagglywoofs/ SUBSCRIBE! Interested in Animal-Assisted Therapy / Animal-Assisted Services and studying with Therapy Dogs Australia? Visit our website www.therapydog.com.au for more information or get in touch with us today by emailing info@therapydog.com.au and one of the Therapy Dogs Australia team will be there to help! Raise your future therapy dog with us! Join our Juniors Mentoring program (puppy & adolescent programs available) and set you and your dog up for success by training the right foundations early, more info here: https://therapydog.com.au/juniors-mentoring-program Follow Us! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/therapy_dogs_australia/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/therapydogsaus/ Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@TherapyDogsAustralia/featured LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/therapy-dogs-australia/ #therapydog #therapydogsaustralia #animalassistedtherapy #animalassistedservices Music License: 07XAVXOC4BSAZG0D

    58 min

  7. 09/02/2025

    S4:E16 When Things Go Wrong (Part 2)

    S4:E16 When Things Go Wrong (Part 2) Listener discretion is advised: This episode includes references to self-harm and blood. In Part 2 of this episode, Sam and Max get into the spicier side of therapy dog work, sharing real, anonymously submitted stories where things really went off script. From intense client encounters to unexpected incidents involving blood, these are the kinds of moments that test your training, your boundaries, and your ability to think on your feet. Sam breaks it all down with practical insights and solid strategies to help you stay safe, professional, and adaptable when the unexpected happens. This episode is a must-listen for any handler who wants to be truly prepared for the realities of the role. Please remember to subscribe, follow and like this podcast if you enjoy it, a good review will help us a lot too. Enjoy! SUBSCRIBE! Interested in Animal-Assisted Therapy / Animal-Assisted Services and studying with Therapy Dogs Australia? Visit our website www.therapydog.com.au for more information or get in touch with us today by emailing info@therapydog.com.au and one of the Therapy Dogs Australia team will be there to help! Raise your future therapy dog with us! Join our Juniors Mentoring program (puppy & adolescent programs available) and set you and your dog up for success by training the right foundations early, more info here: https://therapydog.com.au/juniors-mentoring-program Follow Us! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/therapy_dogs_australia/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/therapydogsaus/ Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@TherapyDogsAustralia/featured LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/therapy-dogs-australia/ #therapydog #therapydogsaustralia #animalassistedtherapy #animalassistedservices Music License: 7OZNZOUC5KXHROXY

    45 min

  8. 08/19/2025

    S4:E15 How To Play With Your Dog (Part 2) Guest: Tim Pratt From Diverse Dogs.

    S4:E15 How To Play With Your Dog (Part 2) Guest: Tim Pratt From Diverse Dogs. Welcome back to Part 2 of How To Play With Your Dog with Tim Pratt from Diverse Dogs. In this episode, we dive deeper into the fundamentals of play, explore the prey sequence to make your play sessions more fulfilling, and highlight what to avoid when playing with your dog. Tune in to discover how purposeful play can strengthen your bond, build confidence, and make training more fun for both you and your dog. Please remember to subscribe, follow and like this podcast if you enjoy it, a good review will help us a lot too. Enjoy! Get In Touch With Tim via his website: https://diversedogs.com.au/ SUBSCRIBE! Interested in Animal-Assisted Therapy / Animal-Assisted Services and studying with Therapy Dogs Australia? Visit our website www.therapydog.com.au for more information or get in touch with us today by emailing info@therapydog.com.au and one of the Therapy Dogs Australia team will be there to help! Raise your future therapy dog with us! Join our Juniors Mentoring program (puppy & adolescent programs available) and set you and your dog up for success by training the right foundations early, more info here: https://therapydog.com.au/juniors-mentoring-program Follow Us! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/therapy_dogs_australia/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/therapydogsaus/ Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@TherapyDogsAustralia/featured LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/therapy-dogs-australia/ #therapydog #therapydogsaustralia #animalassistedtherapy #animalassistedservices Music License: FVKY35FUVNTBU08L

    1h 59m
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For anyone working or interested in animal-assisted services, particularly with therapy dogs, this is the podcast for you! Samantha King is a Psychologist, accredited dog trainer and industry expert in the field of Animal Assisted Therapy with over 10 years of experience. Sam and co-host Max (Therapy Dogs Australia head of creativity) chat amongst themselves and to guests to highlight some of the challenges and golden moments experienced by those working in the industry. We regularly have animal assisted therapists and professional dog trainers on to share their knowledge with us, and you. Our goal is to provide a free resource for professional development and our input on the professional standards related to involving animals in therapy and educational settings.

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