Tuesday Talks with Ruby Reese

Ruby Reese

Ruby Reese is a dog brand from Cork in Ireland providing a range of high-quality products with short lists of clean ingredients. Tuesday Talks were born out of our love of learning new things about dogs and will contain not only our insights and perspectives of running a small business in this area but will also be joined by fantastic guests that are topic experts from the dog community. We hope you will join our journey learning all there is to know about dogs every Tuesday!

  1. From Guilt to Action: Understanding Dog Pain


    1d ago

    From Guilt to Action: Understanding Dog Pain


    In this episode of Tuesday Talks with Ruby Reese, host Killian is joined by Lea Chevalier from Calm That Snout to discuss the complex and emotional topic of pain in dogs. Lea shares both professional insights and personal experiences of living with dogs affected by chronic pain. Together, Killian and Lea explore how pain can change a dog’s behaviour, from increased sensitivity and lower tolerance to restlessness, bite behaviour, reactivity, or changes in mobility. They also discuss why signs of pain are often mistaken for quirks, habits, or training issues. A key part of the conversation focuses on the guilt many dog guardians feel when they realise their dog may have been in pain. Lea highlights that this guilt is understandable, but that owners can only act on what they know. The episode also covers gastrointestinal issues, musculoskeletal pain, exercise changes, professional collaboration, and the importance of finding a good vet, behaviour consultant, physiotherapist, nutritionist, or wider care team to create a clear plan forward. Find out more about Lea and Calm That Snout: Instagram: @calm_that_snout Website: https://dog-training.ie/https://dog-training.ie/ Find out more about Ruby Reese: Instagram: @rubyreeseofficial Website: www.ruby-reese.com Find out more about dognutrition.ie: Instagram: @dognutrition.ie Website: dognutrition.ie Please Note: In the interest of keeping episodes conversational and entertaining we will make broad generalisations that may not reflect you, your situation or your pet. If you have any concerns please consult a certified professional who will assess your individual needs. Chapters 00:00 - Introduction to Lea Chevalier and her work 01:01 - Why dog pain is such an emotional topic 02:46 - How chronic pain can change a dog’s behaviour 06:23 - Pain, quirks, habits, and missed signs 07:36 - Pain as a stressor and lowered tolerance 08:42 - Why guardians often feel guilt around dog pain 12:57 - Good intentions, guilt, and doing the best with what we know 14:34 - The human emotional impact of living with a dog in pain 16:07 - Why having a plan can bring relief 17:20 - When pain explains challenging puppy behaviour 21:57 - How pain can affect the human-dog relationship 23:59 - Simple changes that can make a big difference 24:54 - Gastrointestinal issues, giardia, and behaviour changes 26:43 - Musculoskeletal pain and exercise adjustments 28:09 - Working with vets, physios, nutritionists, and other professionals 31:13 - How to advocate for your dog when pain is suspected 32:34 - Pain trials and what they can help identify 38:22 - Low-impact exercise and enrichment ideas 41:14 - Grieving the dog you thought you would have 43:29 - Advice for guardians who suspect their dog is in pain 46:27 - Why professional collaboration matters 47:55 - Turning knowledge into action 50:48 - Final thoughts and where to get support

    55 min
  2. Management as a Dog Training Tool

    Jun 2

    Management as a Dog Training Tool

    In this episode of Tuesday Talks with Ruby Reese, host Killian is joined by returning guest Darina Strong from Polaris Dog Training to talk about management as a dog training tool. Darina explains that management means controlling the environment as much as possible to prevent unwanted behaviours from being practised. This might include using a long line while recall is still being trained, putting frosted film on windows to reduce barking, keeping food off counters, using baby gates, tidying away shoes, or offering appropriate chewing outlets. Killian and Darina explore why management is often undervalued, even though many training plans are unlikely to succeed without it. They also discuss safety, especially around children, resource guarding, bolting out doors, or dangerous household behaviours. The conversation highlights how management can work alongside training, enrichment, scent work, routines, and realistic expectations to help dogs succeed in a human-centred world. Course: The Basics of Dog Food and Nutrition - for Dog Professionals Exclusive Discount: For your loyal podcast listeners we created a special €30 off discount code to save on the course. Use Podcast30 at checkout or click on the link above and the discount will be added automatically at checkout. Find out more about Darina and Polaris Dog Training: Instagram: @polarisdogtraining Website: https://polarisdog.training/ Find out more about Ruby Reese: Instagram: @rubyreeseofficial Website: www.ruby-reese.com Find out more about dognutrition.ie: Instagram: @dognutrition.ie Website: dognutrition.ie Please Note: In the interest of keeping episodes conversational and entertaining we will make broad generalisations that may not reflect you, your situation or your pet. If you have any concerns please consult a certified professional who will assess your individual needs. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and episode overview 01:40 Introducing Darina and her dog training background 02:37 Defining management in dog training 03:46 Using management alongside training for effective results 05:03 Managing counter-surfing and resource guarding behaviours 06:44 Why management is often undervalued by dog owners 08:57 The importance of environment management for long-term success 11:08 Can management alone resolve behavioural issues? 13:03 Management in dangerous or high-risk situations 15:28 Practical management tools: baby gates, leashes, and environment control 20:31 Managing natural behaviours like digging and chewing 26:38 Management in public settings and social environments 34:34 Overcoming resistance to management strategies 37:19 Handling opinions and societal judgments about dog management 43:20 Preemptive management and planning for safety 44:26 Closing remarks and thanks

    46 min
  3. When to Involve a Dog Trainer or Behaviourist

    May 19

    When to Involve a Dog Trainer or Behaviourist

    In this episode of Tuesday Talks with Ruby Reese, host Killian is joined by returning guest Suzy White of Snout and About Kilkenny to explore when it makes sense to involve a dog trainer, a behaviour consultant, or both. Suzy explains the key difference between the two roles: trainers help dogs learn new skills, while behaviour consultants focus on understanding and modifying existing behaviours by identifying the root cause. The conversation covers common training needs such as loose-lead walking, recall, and everyday communication, as well as behavioural concerns like reactivity, aggression, resource guarding, separation anxiety, fear, pain, and emotional dysregulation. Killian and Suzy also discuss why behaviour cases often require collaboration between vets, trainers, physiotherapists, nutritionists, and other professionals. They highlight the importance of decompression, enrichment, scent work, dog sports, and rebuilding the human-dog relationship. This episode is especially helpful for dog guardians who are unsure where to start or what kind of professional support their dog may need. Find out more about Suzi White and Snout and About Kilkenny: Instagram: @ the_dogcentre Website: https://www.thedogcentre.ie/ Find out more about Ruby Reese: Instagram: @rubyreeseofficial Website: www.ruby-reese.com Find out more about dognutrition.ie: Instagram: @dognutrition.ie Website: dognutrition.ie Please Note: In the interest of keeping episodes conversational and entertaining we will make broad generalisations that may not reflect you, your situation or your pet. If you have any concerns please consult a certified professional who will assess your individual needs. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Canine Behaviour Consulting 05:23 Understanding the Role of Trainers vs. Behaviour Consultants 07:55 Identifying Behavioural Issues in Dogs 10:10 The Importance of Addressing Root Causes 12:38 Collaboration Between Professionals 15:49 The Role of Emotional Regulation 18:33 Navigating Training and Behaviour Consulting 21:15 The Impact of Dog Sports on Behaviour 24:28 Understanding Dog Emotions and Enrichment 27:31 Distinguishing Between Training Needs and Behavioural Issues 30:23 Life Stages and Their Impact on Behaviour 33:16 Credentials and Qualifications in Dog Training 36:14 Finding the Right Professional for Your Dog 38:53 Conclusion and Resources for Dog Owners 41:04 Outro

    43 min
  4. Gentle Euthanasia & Supporting Grieving Pet Owners

    May 5

    Gentle Euthanasia & Supporting Grieving Pet Owners

    In this heartfelt episode of "Tuesday Talks with Ruby Reese," host Killian delves into the sensitive and often challenging topic of pet euthanasia and grief support. Joined by Louise Griffey from Light After Loss and Dr. Megan Anderson from Rainbow Bridge Vets, the discussion offers a compassionate exploration of how to support pet owners through one of the most difficult times they may face. Louise and Dr. Megan share their personal journeys into the field of grief and euthanasia support, revealing the experiences and motivations that led them to dedicate their careers to this vital work. They discuss the significant gaps in veterinary training regarding end-of-life conversations and provide insights into how these can be addressed to improve care for both pets and their owners. The conversation emphasises the importance of compassion, patience, and validated communication during pet euthanasia. Louise and Dr. Megan offer practical advice on creating a safe emotional space during difficult consultations, ensuring that pet owners feel supported and understood. Listeners will learn about various memorialisation options available for pet owners, such as jewellery and prints, which can play a crucial role in the grieving process. The episode also covers how to support pet owners through anticipatory grief and post-loss coping, providing strategies to help them navigate their emotions. For veterinary staff, the episode offers practical tips on handling end-of-life discussions ethically and empathetically. Louise and Dr. Megan highlight the role of community and resources in normalising grief and reducing stigma, encouraging open conversations around pet loss. Finally, the episode explores the development of training courses designed to equip veterinary professionals with the soft skills needed for pet death conversations, ensuring that they can provide the best possible support to grieving pet owners. Course: Fundamentals of Gentle Euthanasia & Supporting Grieving Pet Owners (https://training.premierskillsinstitute.com/course-detail/on-demand-fundamentals-of-gentle-euthanasia-supporting-grieving-pet-owners/?id=297&schedule_id=) Course: The Basics of Dog Food and Nutrition - for Dog Professionals Exclusive Discount: For your loyal podcast listeners we created a special 20% OFF discount code to save on the course. Use Podcast20 at checkout or click on the link above and the discount will be added automatically at checkout. Find out more about Louise Griffey and Light After Loss : Instagram: @_lightafterloss Website: www.lightafterloss.ie  Podcast: The Pet Loss Journals Find out more about Dr. Megan Anderson and RAINBOW BRIDGE VETERINARY SERVICES: Instagram: @rainbowbridgevetsireland Website: www.rainbowbridgevets.ie  Find out more about Ruby Reese: Instagram: @rubyreeseofficial Website: www.ruby-reese.com Find out more about dognutrition.ie: Instagram: @dognutrition.ie Website: dognutrition.ie Please Note: In the interest of keeping episodes conversational and entertaining we will make broad generalisations that may not reflect you, your situation or your pet. If you have any concerns please consult a certified professional who will assess your individual needs. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Technical Setup 01:52 Meet the Guests: Louise and Megan 02:48 Understanding Pet Loss and Support Services 03:24 The Journey to Pet Euthanasia and Grief Support 15:47 Supporting Grieving Pet Owners: Strategies and Insights 22:05 Creating Emotional Safety in Consultations 25:50 The Importance of Language in Grief 33:22 Memorialisation and Remembering Pets 40:08 Support Systems for Grieving Pet Owners 51:20 Outro

    52 min
  5. Munchausen by Animal Proxy

    Apr 21

    Munchausen by Animal Proxy

    Understanding Munchausen by Animal Proxy: A Deep Dive into Psychological Abuse in Pets Disclaimer: This episode discusses topics that may be disturbing to some listeners, including elements of psychological abuse. In this compelling episode, Killian is joined by Vanessa Fagan, an experienced dog trainer and canine behaviourist, to delve into the unsettling world of Munchausen by Animal Proxy. This psychiatric disorder involves pet owners fabricating or inducing illness in their animals to gain attention or sympathy. Vanessa shares her unique insights and experiences, shedding light on the challenges faced by veterinarians and other professionals in identifying and addressing this form of abuse.Listeners will gain an understanding of the disorder's definition and history, as well as the behavioural cues and signs that may indicate its presence. The conversation also explores the role of social media in amplifying attention-seeking behaviours and the ethical dilemmas faced by those in the veterinary field. Through real-world examples and case studies, Vanessa emphasises the importance of professional collaboration and awareness to combat this growing issue.This episode is essential listening for anyone involved in animal care, psychology, or veterinary medicine, offering valuable resources and links for further exploration. Join us in raising awareness and fostering a more informed community to protect vulnerable animals and their owners. Dying to Be Ill by Mark Feldman This episode aims to raise awareness about a critical issue in animal welfare and mental health. Listen, share, and stay informed to help prevent harm to vulnerable animals and their owners. Find out more about Vanessa and Perfect Paws Dog Training : Instagram:   https://www.instagram.com/perfect_paws_dog_training_ire/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@perfect_paws_training Find out more about Ruby Reese: Instagram: @rubyreeseofficial Website: www.ruby-reese.com Find out more about dognutrition.ie: Instagram: @dognutrition.ie Website: dognutrition.ie Please Note: In the interest of keeping episodes conversational and entertaining we will make broad generalisations that may not reflect you, your situation or your pet. If you have any concerns please consult a certified professional who will assess your individual needs. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to a Difficult Topic 04:28 Understanding Munchausen by Animal Proxy 08:37 Recognising Symptoms in Pet Ownership 12:27 The Complexity of Vet Shopping 15:09 The Darker Aspects of the Disorder 17:06 Raising Awareness and Professional Vigilance 20:11 Understanding Veterinary Perspectives on Animal Health 22:15 Identifying Behavioural Cues in Dogs 24:11 The Importance of Early Diagnosis 27:10 Challenges in Reporting Animal Abuse 30:09 The Complexity of Munchausen by Animal Proxy 33:11 Distinguishing Between Concerned Owners and Abusers 36:08 The Need for Collaboration in Animal Welfare 39:53 Outro

    40 min
  6. Blame and Guilt in Dog Training

    Apr 7

    Blame and Guilt in Dog Training

    Explore the emotional dynamics of dog training with Killian and expert Catherine Griffin as they delve into blame, guilt, and shame.In this insightful episode, host Killian and guest Catherine Griffin, a certified dog behaviour consultant, tackle the complex emotions that often accompany dog training. They explore how feelings of blame, guilt, and shame can hinder effective training and understanding between humans and their canine companions.Catherine shares her expertise on how societal pressures and unrealistic expectations can lead to feelings of inadequacy among dog owners. She explains that dogs do not share our moral compass, and those guilty looks are often appeasement signals rather than signs of remorse.  This episode highlights the importance of recognising these emotions and understanding their impact on training and behaviour management.Listeners will learn why the "cookie-cutter" approach to dog training is a myth and how each dog is a unique individual with different motivations. Catherine discusses how social media can fuel perfectionism and create false expectations of "good" dog behaviour. This episode offers practical strategies to shift from blame to curiosity, providing a fresh perspective for those frustrated with contradictory advice or feeling judged in public.Perfect for dog owners and professionals alike, this episode emphasises the importance of trauma-informed, non-judgmental communication. By fostering trust and embracing imperfections, listeners can improve their confidence and their dog's well-being. Catherine's insights offer a roadmap to a healthier, more understanding relationship with dogs, transforming both approach and bond. Find out more about Snout and About : Instagram: @snoutandaboutcork Website: https://snoutandabout.ie/ Find out more about Ruby Reese: Instagram: @rubyreeseofficial Website: www.ruby-reese.com Find out more about dognutrition.ie: Instagram: @dognutrition.ie Website: dognutrition.ie Please Note: In the interest of keeping episodes conversational and entertaining we will make broad generalisations that may not reflect you, your situation or your pet. If you have any concerns please consult a certified professional who will assess your individual needs. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Blame, Shame, and Guilt in Dog Training 04:45 Understanding the Dynamics of Blame and Guilt 07:23 The Complexity of Dog Behaviour and Owner Expectations 10:20 The Sentience of Dogs and Human Emotions 13:30 The Impact of Shame on Seeking Help 16:30 Cultural and Societal Expectations in Dog Ownership 20:39 Understanding Dog Ownership Challenges 26:26 The Impact of Social Media on Dog Training 33:05 Contextualising Dog Behaviour 38:20 Shifting Mindsets in Dog Training 41:48 Outro

    44 min
  7. The Challenges Of a High-Energy Dog

    Mar 24

    The Challenges Of a High-Energy Dog

    In this engaging episode of "Tuesday Talk with Ruby Reese," host Killian welcomes back Lea from Snout and About Dublin to discuss the intricacies of adopting and living with high-energy, high-drive dogs. Lea, a seasoned behaviour consultant, shares her personal journey with her newly adopted rescue dog, Albert, highlighting the challenges and triumphs of integrating a high-drive breed into a household. The conversation delves into the importance of understanding individual dog needs, the role of genetics, and the necessity of a strong management system to ensure a harmonious relationship. Lea emphasises the significance of patience, adaptability, and the willingness to make lifestyle changes to meet the dog's needs. The episode offers valuable insights for dog owners and enthusiasts, encouraging them to embrace the unique characteristics of their pets while fostering a supportive environment. Whether you're a seasoned dog owner or considering adoption, this episode provides practical advice and heartfelt stories that resonate with anyone navigating the complexities of pet ownership. Find out more about Lea and Snout and About Dublin : Instagram: @lea_snoutandaboutdublin Website: https://dog-training.ie/ Find out more about Ruby Reese: Instagram: @rubyreeseofficial Website: www.ruby-reese.com Find out more about dognutrition.ie: Instagram: @dognutrition.ie Website: dognutrition.ie Please Note: In the interest of keeping episodes conversational and entertaining we will make broad generalisations that may not reflect you, your situation or your pet. If you have any concerns please consult a certified professional who will assess your individual needs. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Dog Behaviour and Training 03:56 Understanding High Energy and High Drive Dogs 06:54 Challenges of Adopting Rescue Dogs 09:55 The Importance of Individual Dog Needs 12:33 Managing High Energy Dogs in Family Settings 15:30 Setting Up for Success Before Adoption 18:24 Implementing Management Systems for Behaviour Modification 21:28 Finding Productive Outlets for Dog Drives 24:27 Identifying Needs Behind Dog Behaviours 30:00 Navigating Health Challenges in Dogs 32:29 Finding Balance: Exercise and Pain Management 35:00 Understanding Stress and Enrichment Needs 37:56 Trial and Error: The Journey of Dog Training 42:36 Differences in Training High Drive vs. Low Drive Dogs 47:30 Compromise: Meeting Dog Needs in Human Environments 51:05 The Willingness to Adapt: A Key to Success 57:26 Outro

    59 min
  8. The 4 Golden Rules of Dogs

    Mar 10

    The 4 Golden Rules of Dogs

    In this episode, Killian reflects on recurring themes in dog behaviour and training, emphasising the importance of understanding breed traits, individual needs, and the limitations of quick fixes. He discusses how dogs are sentient beings with unique talents and needs, and offers insights on enriching their lives through natural behaviours and routines. Find out more about Ruby Reese: Instagram: @rubyreeseofficial Website: www.ruby-reese.com Find out more about dognutrition.ie: Instagram: @dognutrition.ie Website: dognutrition.ie Please Note: In the interest of keeping episodes conversational and entertaining we will make broad generalisations that may not reflect you, your situation or your pet. If you have any concerns please consult a certified professional who will assess your individual needs. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Reflection on Dog Topics 01:00 Listener Engagement and Podcast Feedback 02:14 Understanding Dog Breeds and Traits 03:42 Predatory Behaviours and Ancestry 05:05 Breed-Specific Behaviours and Individual Preferences 06:31 The Importance of Recognising Individual Dogs 07:14 The Myth of Quick Fixes and Silver Bullets 09:08 Holistic Approaches to Dog Health and Behaviour 12:05 Dogs Are Not Humans or Toys 13:47 Enrichment and Giving Dogs Agency 14:57 The Role of Nature and Senses in Enrichment 16:43 Dogs in Human-Created Environments 17:09 Respecting Dogs as Individual Sentient Beings 18:07 The Importance of Routine and Reliability 18:33 Dogs' Talents and Meeting Their Needs 19:56 Summary and Final Thoughts

    22 min

About

Ruby Reese is a dog brand from Cork in Ireland providing a range of high-quality products with short lists of clean ingredients. Tuesday Talks were born out of our love of learning new things about dogs and will contain not only our insights and perspectives of running a small business in this area but will also be joined by fantastic guests that are topic experts from the dog community. We hope you will join our journey learning all there is to know about dogs every Tuesday!