Soul Touched by Dogs

Anke Herrmann
  • 5.0 (1)
  • Pets & Animals
  • Updated Weekly

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.

  1. 1d ago

    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 differenceWhat classical conditioning really means, and why it matters more than you think when it comes to how your dog experiences the worldHow punishment (yes, even "just a correction") can create hidden fallout you won't see in a 30-second Instagram videoWhy dog body language is so misunderstood — and what that little tongue flick actually meansHow focusing on what you want your dog to do instead of what you want them to stop changes everythingWhy there's no such thing as "just dog training" — it's all rooted in the science of behaviour, whether people know it or notWhat questions to ask before choosing a trainer, a method, or even a viral training hackA 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.comGet 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.

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

  2. 5d ago

    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.

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

  3. Aug 1

    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.

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

  4. Jul 25

    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.

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

  5. Jul 18

    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 growthWhy people-pleasing patterns show up instantly when working with dogs, and what a simple bowl of treats can teach you about setting boundariesHow mental state affects performance in dog sports, and what that means for managing your own reactions under pressureThe difference between demonstrating dominance and offering genuine leadership, as dogs will always choose the highway over an inflexible handlerWhy starting with the basics matters, whether you're learning agility for fun or aiming for competition levelWhat happens when corporate teams work through exercises with dogs instead of staring at PowerPoint slidesHow fear and discomfort can shift when someone gets to approach dogs at their own pace, without pressure or pretenceA 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.

    Dog Coaching for Leadership and Personal Growth with Frank van Nimwegen

  6. Jul 11

    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

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

  7. Jul 4

    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

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

  8. Jun 27

    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.

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

About

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.

Information

  • Creator
    Anke Herrmann
  • Years Active
    2023 - 2026
  • Episodes
    132
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    ©2024 Soul Touched by Dogs
  • Show Website
    Soul Touched by Dogs

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