Dog Chats

Ever spotted a wandering pup and felt unsure what to do next? In this episode, we break down the essential steps to safely help a lost dog—from how to approach it without scaring it off, to checking for tags, using social media, and working with local shelters. Whether you're a dog lover or just someone trying to do the right thing, this episode will give you the tools to reunite a lost pet with their family.

Remember when summer felt endless—when every day was an invitation to explore, get a little sunburned, and create memories with your favorite people? In this episode, Emma and Kirsten take you back to those golden days and challenge you to bring that same spirit of joy, freedom, and fun into the time you spend with your dog. From creative ways to beat the heat to spontaneous backyard adventures, it’s all about making the most of these sun-soaked days with your four-legged best friend. After all, summers with your pup are precious—and there are never quite enough of them. So grab the leash, fill the water bowl, and let’s make this summer unforgettable.

What comes to mind when you see a dog wearing a muzzle?Chances are, we already have a good idea of your response. Unfortunately, muzzles often carry a negative stigma in our culture—despite being incredibly valuable tools for promoting safety, freedom, and overall well-being in dogs.
In this episode, Emma and Kirsten address common misconceptions about muzzles and explain why they deserve a more positive reputation. They’ll guide you through the different types of muzzles, their appropriate uses, and how to begin the process of muzzle acclimation.
Tune in to gain a fresh perspective and practical insights on this often misunderstood topic.
Kirsten’s favorite muzzles- The Muzzle Movement
Check out these videos on muzzle use and acclimation:
Video of Kirsten’s dog Mick 
Michael Shikashio’s Muzzle Acclimation 
Chirag Patel’s Muzzle Acclimation 
More videos here…
Excellent resources and info also on this website
The Muzzle Up! Project
 

Did you know that dogs can't see anything that is 12-18 inches in front of their face?  Or that the size of their skull affects their ability to hear different frequencies?  During this episode, Emma and Kirsten share the details of how your dogs are taking in information in their environments by using their visual, olfactory, auditory, taste, tactile and awareness sensory perception faculties.  By understanding how our dogs take in information, we get a clearer picture of how they think and feel.  Ready to see the world through your dog's brain?
 
Interested in learning more about dog behavior?  Check out Kirsten's Canine Behavior Education courses at
www.caninebehavior.com or send her an email at kwhappydogs@gmail.com

In this episode, Emma and Kirsten dive into essential tips and strategies for preparing your pets for any emergency or disaster. Whether it’s a hurricane, fire, or earthquake, keeping your furry friends safe is a top priority. We’ll cover everything from emergency kits to evacuation plans, and how you can make sure your pets stay calm and secure during stressful times. Tune in for practical, positive steps to ensure your pets are disaster-ready!
Key Takeaways:
Create an Emergency Pet Kit: What to pack for your pets, including food, water, medications, leashes, and identification.
Pet-Friendly Evacuation Plans: How to safely evacuate your pets, whether you're at home, traveling, or at a shelter.
Identification Tips: The importance of collars, microchips, and updated IDs to reunite with your pets if separated.
Pet Safety During Disasters: How to keep your pets calm and comfortable in chaotic situations.
Training & Preparedness: How to teach your pets to handle stress and new environments during an emergency.
Resources Mentioned:
AKC pet evacuation plan
AKC recommended pet emergency kit items

In this episode, Emma and Kirsten sit down with Kim Brophey, an applied ethologist and a leading voice in the movement to transform the way we understand and interact with dogs. Kim shares her insights on the much-needed paradigm shift in the dog profession world—one that focuses on seeing dogs as sentient beings with their own needs, emotions, and agency. She delves into the concept of a "Good Life" for dogs, discussing how a deeper understanding of canine behavior, communication, and welfare can shape more humane, effective training and caregiving practices. Whether you’re a dog owner, trainer, or just passionate about animal welfare, this conversation offers a thought-provoking look at how we can better meet the needs of our canine companions and reimagine our relationships with them.
The Dogs Truth movie on youtube
https://www.familydogmediation.com/
https://www.instagram.com/familydogmediation/
Check out Kim Brophey's incredible courses here!

As Dr. Kelle Kearney says in this episode, veterinarians wear many different hats.  Our veterinarians are such an important part of our dog's team, and they offer so many important insights into our dogs' mental and physical health.  During this episode, Emma, Kirsten and Dr. Kearney unpack topics like how to prep your pup for a vet visit and trends in canine behavior over the past few years.  Listen up for great points to consider in terms of supporting your dog's health and well-being.  
 
Find Dr. Kelle Kearney at https://www.sangeronimovalleyvet.com/

Have you ever been in a new place- maybe a subway in another country or a county fair on a crowded holiday- and been overwhelmed with the sights, sounds and smells around you?  Sometimes our brain is so busy taking in sensory input, it can be hard to relax and process information.  This is also the case for our dogs.  In this episode, Emma and Kirsten discuss the impact of the environment on your dog's behavior and ways you can help to support them so they can learn and thrive.  

Have you ever listened to someone speak about their mission and felt chills and motivation to make positive change happen?  Listening to Dr. Christi during this episode will have you visualizing the power that compassionate care can evoke and give you a better sense of how we can move towards a viable solution for the many dogs in need of medical care and a safe home.  Compassion Without Borders is supporting animals and their humans both in the US and Mexico, and Emma and Kirsten felt so fortunate to learn more about this incredible rescue organization and the work they are doing during this episode.  

Dog training is an unregulated industry where anyone can call themselves a "trainer" and make an eye-catching website in order to sell you their quick fix services- sometimes at great cost to the welfare of your dog.  In a world where we have so many options, it is vital to educate yourself on the types of methods available and to consider how you want to teach and support your dog in a humane way.  In this episode, Emma and Kirsten unpack different training methodologies and ask the question:  "How can we best support our dogs' learning and well-being?"  Buckle your seatbelts because this is a courageous ride into the dichotomy of the dog training world.  Fear not as Emma and Kirsten are yet again your confident and wise guides.