Soul Touched by Dogs

Anke Herrmann
Soul Touched by Dogs

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 20-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, well-being and education.

  1. Kimmy Brown - Canine First Response Teams to the Rescue

    6 DAYS AGO

    Kimmy Brown - Canine First Response Teams to the Rescue

    All about Soul Touched by Dogs at https://soultouchedbydogs.com Don't forget to check out the shop at https://shop.soultouchedbydogs.com if you love wearing your love for dogs on your sleeve. Today's episode: Canine First Response Teams to the Rescue with Kimmy Brown In this episode of the Soul Touched by Dogs Podcast, I chat with Kimmy, a dedicated canine first responder based in Maine, USA. She shares her incredible journey from a therapy dog handler to becoming a crucial part of first response teams for critical incidents. We discuss the unique roles these specially trained dogs play in providing comfort to those affected by trauma, the extensive training processes for both handlers and dogs, and the deep emotional connections formed. Kimmy also offers insights into the qualities that make a good canine first responder, her self-care strategies for handling emotionally intense situations, and the rewarding nature of this work. Whether you're a dog lover, interested in therapy and response teams, or just someone who wants to hear an inspiring story, this episode offers a heartwarming and insightful conversation. 00:00 Introduction to the Podcast00:24 Meet Kimmy: A Canine First Responder00:46 The Role of Canine First Responders03:08 Kimmy's Journey into Canine Therapy08:22 Training and Certification Process11:53 Characteristics of a Good Therapy Dog17:45 Emotional Impact on Dogs and Handlers21:15 How to Get Involved23:10 Conclusion and Contact Information Find out more and connect with Kimmy: Website: https://www.kimberlyhelene.com/ Bio: Meet Kimberly BrownKimberly Brown is a dedicated Public Speaker, K9 First Responder, Fitness Competitor, and Wellness Coach, committed to strengthening communities through impactful initiatives. As a representative of K9 First Response, Maine, she plays a crucial role in providing emotional and psychological support to first responders and communities during critical incidents. Her passion for health and wellness extends beyond her professional life, as she actively competes in fitness events and empowers others as a Wellness Coach. Kimberly’s dynamic approach and deep commitment to service in helping others through her specially trained K9’s make her a powerful advocate for resilience and well-being in both body and mind. Free gift: 7 Daily Practices:https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/sl/oT3lJVG/7DailyPracticesReduce Anxiety:https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/sl/JRH4aLw Social media links:Facebook K9 First Response  Instagram K9 First Response

    24 min
  2. Drayton Michaels - Debunking Pitbull Myths: Educate, Don't Legislate

    NOV 17

    Drayton Michaels - Debunking Pitbull Myths: Educate, Don't Legislate

    All about Soul Touched by Dogs at https://soultouchedbydogs.com Browse calendars, t-shirst and hoodies at our shop https://shop.soultouchedbydogs.com In this episode, I sit down with Drayton, a seasoned dog trainer from Red Bank, New Jersey. Drayton shares his 24-year journey in dog training, starting as a dog walker in New York City to becoming certified at the Academy for Dog Trainers. He's been a strong advocate for positive, force-free training methods and emphasizes dealing with behavior in a humane way. Drayton speaks passionately about his efforts to debunk misconceptions about Pitbulls, including his documentary 'The Pit Bull Hoax' and his involvement in 'Beyond the Myth.' We delve into the adverse impacts of breed-specific legislation and discuss the importance of education over fear and prejudice. Drayton also touches on his new book, 'The Puppy Parent’s Handbook,' aimed at guiding new puppy owners with humane and effective training methods. You'll hear fascinating insights into the world of dog training and advocacy, making this episode a must-listen for all dog lovers. 00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome00:07 Guest Background and Experience01:30 Advocacy for Pit Bulls04:00 Debunking Myths and Misconceptions09:08 Training Philosophy and Methods11:06 Challenges in Dog Training15:37 Media Influence on Dog Training17:48 Remote Consultations and Services18:36 New Book Announcement19:24 Final Thoughts and Farewell Find out more and connect with Drayton: Website: Urbandawgs.comThe book: https://a.co/d/aK1Hy4y Bio: Drayton Michaels, CTC has been working with dogs professionally for over 20 years. He is a staunch advocate of force free positive reward based dog training. In 2009 he released the Pitbull Hoax documentary, which was the first ever documentary defending Pitbulls. Drayton works with roughly 400 dogs a year, conducts on average 3 to 4 puppy kindergarten classes every month. Social media links:@urbandawgs IG@moderndogtraining YouTube @draytonmichaels Facebook The Pitbull Hoax video: https://youtu.be/KtqXudr7qAQ?si=aVo5mmIVdRLsnb-w

    22 min
  3. Dr. Marlene Siegel - Vital Wellness: Healing Pets Naturally

    NOV 10

    Dr. Marlene Siegel - Vital Wellness: Healing Pets Naturally

    All about Soul Touched by Dogs at https://soultouchedbydogs.com Today: Dr. Marlene Siegel - Vital Wellness: Healing Pets Naturally In this episode, I had an enlightening conversation with Dr. Marlene Siegel, a holistic veterinarian based in Tampa, Florida. We dived deep into what holistic veterinary care truly means, clearing up common misconceptions that it's 'woo woo' medicine. Dr. Siegel explained her approach to bioregulatory medicine, which takes into account the entire biology of the animal, focusing on both deficiencies and toxicities that affect overall health. We touched on the importance of essential vitamins, minerals, amino acids, and fatty acids, and the pitfalls of synthetic additives in pet foods. Dr. Siegel also emphasized the significance of a healthy gut and the alarming rise in chronic degenerative diseases due to modern lifestyles and environmental toxins. She shared actionable steps for pet parents, from education and testing to diet and detoxification practices. Tune in to learn how to support your pet’s health and longevity naturally! 00:00 Introduction and Welcome00:31 Understanding Holistic Veterinary Medicine03:06 The Importance of Vitamins and Minerals06:25 The Role of Fatty Acids in Pet Health08:02 The Decline in Pet Lifespan11:31 Steps to Improve Pet Health15:43 Detoxification and Healing19:40 Empowering Pet Parents20:18 Final Thoughts and Resources Find out more and get in touch with Dr. Marlene: Website: https://www.drmarlenesiegel.com https://www.evolovestore.com Bio: Dr. Marlene Siegel is a pioneer in the field of integrative medicine for over 20 years and has been practicing veterinary medicine for over 40 years. She is a respected author, international lecturer, researcher for integrative veterinary technologies, and a clinical practitioner. She has special expertise in Ozone Therapy, Photodynamic Therapy, and Detoxification. Her veterinary hospital has the widest array of alternative therapies in the world. Dr. Siegel’s focus is on BioRegulatory Medicine—identifying the root cause of disease and establishing safe and effective solutions. As a problem solver, she has developed online courses for pet parents to learn how to integrate a holistic lifestyle and therapies for their fur babies. Additionally, Dr. Siegel offers online courses for veterinarians who want to integrate these services into their mainstream practices. She also developed her own raw food and essential supplements company and is preparing to launch S’Paws Family Wellness Centers, which are detox centers for pets and their human parents. Free gift: https://courses.transformingvetmedicine.com/free-ebook-1143 Social media links:https://www.facebook.com/DrMarleneSiegelHolisticVethttps://www.instagram.com/drmarlenesiegel/?hl=enhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/drmarlenesiegel/

    29 min
  4. Noelle Bellagamba - Breaking the Human-Canine Stress Cycle: The Art of Healing Dogs and Their Humans

    NOV 4

    Noelle Bellagamba - Breaking the Human-Canine Stress Cycle: The Art of Healing Dogs and Their Humans

    Never miss a treat at Soul Touched by Dogs .. sign up for the weekly newsletter and free virtual events at https://soultouchedbydogs.com Today's episode In this episode, I had the pleasure of chatting with Noelle, a pet minder and dog wellness expert based near Perth, Western Australia. Noelle specializes in caring for dogs with challenges such as anxiety and reactivity and merges healing practices with her pet minding services. We discussed how stress is often a shared experience between dogs and their owners and how addressing human stress first can lead to better outcomes for both. Noelle shared insightful tips on calming practices before walks and explained the unique retreats she offers that focus on nature, healing, and fun for both dogs and their owners. Tune in to discover a fresh, holistic approach to improving the well-being of both you and your dog. 00:00 Introduction and Warm Welcome00:19 Guest Introduction and Business Overview01:55 Understanding Stress in Dogs and Humans05:28 Breaking the Cycle of Stress08:51 Personal Experiences and Lessons Learned11:38 The Importance of Individualized Dog Care14:40 Retreats and Online Programs17:51 Conclusion and Contact Information Find out more and connect with Noelle: Website: https://www.noellesanimalcare.com.au Bio: Dedicated rescue dog parents hire me to end their struggle with their challenging furbabies, and finally feel empowered and proud as dog parents to create a life together they love, because they are concerned about their dog's reactivity and constantly worry about their wellbeing. They are sick and tired of trying all these methods that hadn't work for their dog and feel the impact it has on both their quality of life. So I help them gain calm and confidence to make their furbaby's care effective, fun and enjoyable. Bottom line, these rescue dog parents achieve a calmer more joyful life with their pups with more ease, both bringing their best for a stronger bond and happier experiences together guaranteed Online interactive workshop : "Live an easier happier life with your furkid without stress ruining your efforts with your dog"  3 dates and times Thursday 6.45pm AWST, Saturday 12.30pm AWST, Sunday 8.30am AWST (GMT+8) every 1st week of the month A gift for you : Paws of Serenity, 14mins of blissful mindfulness to share with your doghttps://tinyurl.com/PawsOfSerenity Social media links:https://www.facebook.com/noellesanimalcarehttps://www.facebook.com/dogsattheirbestwahttps://www.facebook.com/group/dogsattheirbesthttps://www.instagram.com/dogs.at.their.best

    21 min
  5. Vrushali and Blossom - Bypass the Steep Cost of Regret

    OCT 27

    Vrushali and Blossom - Bypass the Steep Cost of Regret

    All about Soul Touched by Dogs at https://soultouchedbydogs.com Fostering Harmony: Conversations on Pet Parenting with Vrushali & Blossom In this heartwarming episode, I chat with Vrushali who is passionate about creating loving and harmonious relationships with our furry companions. Vrushali, a remote consultant from India, supports career-oriented pet parents in the US and Europe. She shares her journey with her dogs, Blossom and Marshall, and offers tips on integrating rescue pets into your family, emphasizing the need for compassion and quality time. In my conversation with Vrushali, we explore the importance of giving dogs space, love, and discipline tailored to their unique needs. Vrushali also provides insights into common mistakes new pet parents make and offers gentle approaches to better understand and train dogs. She offers invaluable advice on fostering beautiful relationships with your dog. Tune in for essential tips and heartfelt stories to help you create a stress-free and loving environment for your furry friend! 00:00 Welcome and Introduction00:27 Vrushali's Background and Work01:05 Understanding Pet Parents' Needs02:18 Common Questions from Pet Parents05:42 The Journey of Adopting Marshall09:09 Common Mistakes in Dog Training09:27 Understanding Your Dog's Behavior10:36 Starting Training from Day Zero11:16 The Concept of Discipline11:53 Tailoring Training to Your Dog's Needs13:14 Non-Negotiables in Dog Training14:12 Listening to Your Dog14:42 Where to Find More Resources17:08 Final Thoughts and Farewell Find out more and connect with Vrushali: Website: https://vrushaliandblossom.com/does-a-rescue-dog-need-training/ Bio: Early on, I decided if my child can be well mannered without having candy everytime he throws a tantrum, then my dogs don't need treats either. We welcomed Golden Retriever puppy girl Blossom in April 2018 and Marshal, our very own rehomed adult Catalan Sheepdog rescue, our secret Santa in December 2018. The no-treats formula took time, modification, patience and hard work on my part- but I can confidently attest- it worked for us! I like to say "I had 6 months of hard work for many many honeymoon years!" My name is Vrushali, Operations Manager with Blossom my Telepathy energy partner at vrushaliandblossom.com Together we are your personal mentors for properly goofing off. Sifting through a superficial lifestyle to get to the sparkle of living a rich, meaningful life. With a little help from your very own fur buddies. Lead magnet: 1. Purchase of the 9$ guidebook includes a 45 minute discussion (with complimentary 7 days chat support) with me about dog parenting!https://airtable.com/app3SxMslk20TkTsh/pagKRXb9KIQkYLqRs/form 2. For Anke's listeners, like a post on my IG and then DM me with any dog parenting concerns you may have at no-cost! Social media links: LI for career-oriented dog parents: https://www.linkedin.com/in/vrushalijadhav/IG for dog parenting fun: https://www.instagram.com/vrushali_2woofs/YT for dog parenting informative + lifestyle videos: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCsVtQnCCRZkJZDbn1sgJCOw

    19 min
  6. Joanne Burton - ACE Free Work - The Power of Giving Your Dog Choices

    OCT 20

    Joanne Burton - ACE Free Work - The Power of Giving Your Dog Choices

    Find out more about Soul Touched by Dogs at https://soultouchedbydogs.com In this episode: Unveiling the Wonders of ACE Free Work: Transformative Dog Training Insights with Jo from Paw and Order Noosa In this engaging episode, I had the pleasure of chatting with Jo from Paw and Order Noosa, based in beautiful Queensland, Australia. Jo shares her inspiring journey into the world of dog training, initiated during the COVID-19 pandemic with the innovative Animal Centered Education (ACE) Free Work method developed by Sarah Fisher. We discuss the principles behind ACE Free Work, a technique that uses different sensory stimuli and environments to help dogs feel safe, relaxed, and naturally expressive. Jo delves into the practical aspects of setting up free work stations, recognizing individual dog needs, and the incredible benefits this method brings, especially for reactive dogs. By providing dogs with choices and observing their behaviors, caregivers can build stronger bonds, enhance trust, and potentially uncover hidden health issues. Jo's ongoing educational journey with Sarah Fisher aims to bring this unique approach to dog training in Australia, and she shares insightful advice for both novice and seasoned dog caregivers. Tune in to discover the magic of free work and how it can transform your relationship with your dog. 00:00 Welcome and Introductions00:11 Location and Business Background01:09 Specialization in Animal Centred Education (ACE)02:41 Understanding ACE Free Work03:54 Practical Applications of Free Work06:01 Observation and Engagement Techniques08:03 Learning and Teaching ACE Free Work10:04 Empowering Dog Owners10:36 Interactive Games for Dogs11:21 Understanding Free Work11:51 Recognizing Dog's Finishing Cues13:07 Setting Up Free Work Stations13:22 Consulting a Professional14:19 Customizing Free Work for Your Dog15:11 Affordable Free Work Solutions15:32 Incorporating Different Elements16:25 Chewing as a De-stressor17:01 Building Trust and Bonding17:48 Introducing Dogs to Each Other18:34 Finding More Information19:35 The Magic of Free Work19:57 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Find out more and connect with Joanne: Website: https://www.pawordernoosa.com.au Bio: I am the only authorised Australian offering Animal Centred Education (ACE) FREEWORK. I live with my dog Keetah (black labrador) and my Cat named Cat Burton in beautiful Noosa in Qld Australia.I offer one to one in home Canine Education sessions centred around Freework.Practicing a more dog centred rather than task orientate approach dog training.Lead magnet: Paw & Order Noosa monthly newsletter with give aways with each edition Social media links: https://www.facebook.com/pawnorder/https://www.instagram.com/pawandordernoosa/@joanneburton3137 youtube

    22 min
  7. Cindy Ojczyk - Two Lives Changed: The Mutual Benefits of Dog Fostering

    OCT 13

    Cindy Ojczyk - Two Lives Changed: The Mutual Benefits of Dog Fostering

    All about Soul Touched by Dogs - free live masterclasses, The Weekly Treat newsletter, the podcast and more - at https://soultouchedbydogs.com A Journey of Fostering: Love, Loss, and Lessons In this episode of the Soul Touched by Dogs Podcast, I engage in a heartfelt and enlightening conversation with Cindy, a passionate dog lover and rescuer, living near Minneapolis, Minnesota. Cindy shares her deeply personal journey of coming into the world of dog fostering, starting with her accidental adoption of a dog named Snuka during college. We explore the emotional rollercoaster that fostering can be, as Cindy recounts her family's experiences in dealing with the grief of losing a pet and the therapeutic role fostering new dogs played in their lives. Cindy discusses how her family navigated fostering challenges, the impact of adopting pets after experiencing loss, and the bittersweet journey of letting go. She provides insight into the fostering process, its emotional demands, and the lessons learned in balancing family life with fostering responsibilities. Cindy also shares details about her newsletter 'Like People, Like Pets' on Substack, aiming to inspire potential fosters and adopters by showcasing the enriching symbiotic relationships between humans and pets. Tune in to hear how fostering can teach valuable life lessons and foster family bonds, even through tumultuous times. 00:00 Welcome to the Soul Touched by Dogs Podcast00:24 Meet Cindy: A Passionate Dog Lover01:42 Cindy's Journey with Dogs04:57 The Challenges and Joys of Fostering09:24 The Emotional Impact of Fostering11:56 Insights on Fostering and Adoption22:51 Connecting with Cindy and Final Thoughts To find out more and connect with Cindy: Website: https://cindyojczyk.substack.com/ Bio: Cindy Ojczyk muses about the parallels between people and pets in her weekly newsletter, Like People, Like Pets, at cindyojczyk.substack.com. She lives with her husband in Minnesota, U.S, two rescue pets, and a revolving door of foster animals. Her two adult children live independently with their own menageries. Social media links: / cindyocheck    / cindy.ojczyk

    25 min
  8. Ellen Whiteside - From Four-Legged Wisdom to Peaceful Getaways

    OCT 13

    Ellen Whiteside - From Four-Legged Wisdom to Peaceful Getaways

    All about Soul Touched by Dogs - free live masterclasses, The Weekly Treat newsletter, the podcast and more - at https://soultouchedbydogs.com Magical Retreats & Soulful Connections In this episode of the Soul Touched by Dogs Podcast, host Anke Herrmann is joined by Ellen from Gold Hill, North Carolina. Ellen shares her enchanting story about living on an 11-acre paradise, where she runs retreats and rents out Airbnbs surrounded by natural beauty and tranquility. Ellen recounts her connection with her dog, Murphy, and their involvement in the book project 'Pawthers'. They discuss the concept of dogs as wise souls and how they met through the project. Ellen talks about her potential retreat offerings for stressed dogs and their owners to find peace together in nature. The episode highlights the transformative power of the environment to help both people and dogs connect and heal. If this magical retreat with your furry companion sounds appealing, find out more at Ellen's Sacred Grove Retreat website. 00:00 Welcome to the Soul Touched by Dogs Podcast00:24 Meet Ellen: A Magical Life in North Carolina01:28 The Story Behind 'My Fur Baby' Book03:42 Murphy's Arrival and Connection07:58 The Healing Power of Nature for Dogs and Humans13:01 Creating a Dog-Friendly Retreat16:55 The Power of Collaboration and Connection22:25 Conclusion and How to Connect with Ellen24:08 Final Thoughts and Farewell Get the book at https://mybook.to/furbabybook Find out more and connect with Ellen: Website: https://sacredgroveretreat.com/ Bio: In May, 2006, I purchased Sacred Grove Retreat Center and moved there with my partner, Tim Beebe. We worked tirelessly to improve and beautify this magical land. I am a gracious hostess, and my superpower lies in effortlessly creating rapport with every visitor. I possess a natural talent for making anyone who sets foot on the land feel warmly welcomed. Affectionately referred to as the “Goddess of the Grove”, I take great pleasure in embracing this title. Social media links:https://www.linkedin.com/in/ellen-whiteside-58649911/

    25 min

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 20-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, well-being and education.

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