Believe in Dog

What happens when the bond between a K9 handler and his retired working dog is tested by something no training can prepare them for? In this episode, federal law enforcement officer Chris Bingham shares the powerful, behind-the-scenes story of his retired K9 partner, Tambo — a dog who served with unwavering loyalty and is now facing one of the toughest battles a family can experience: hemangiosarcoma, a fast-moving and often terminal diagnosis in dogs. Chris describes how he and Tambo first became partners, how their bond deepened over years of working side by side, and what it really looks like to help a working dog transition into retirement after a lifetime of service. But what makes Chris and Tambo’s story especially compelling is how they’ve chosen to respond to hardship. Rather than turning inward, they’ve become a source of strength and encouragement for others — offering support to both dogs and humans facing life-altering health challenges. Their journey also highlights the critical role organizations like Project K9 Hero play in supporting retired working dogs who no longer have funding for their care.  This episode offers an intimate and honest look at the loyalty, responsibility, and deep connection between a handler and his dog. It’s a story of resilience in the face of devastating news, of a working dog’s enduring legacy, and of the unexpected ways humans and animals continue to lift one another up through the hardest chapters of life. Find links & show notes at:https://believeindogpodcast.com/episodes-1/episode134   Did you get the Pet Parent "Gut Check" yet? Get your Free Checklist: 12 Changes in Your Dog to Never Ignore (even if they seem small)   Support this podcast with a review: on Apple Podcasts or Podchaser.

Why are so many dogs today anxious, reactive, or struggling with behavior issues? In this episode, I’m joined by Kim Brophey, Applied Ethologist, Dog Behavior Expert and creator of the groundbreaking LEGS Framework and Family Dog Mediation Center, to explore the root causes behind dog behavior challenges — including anxiety and reactivity. When we step back and look at dogs through a wider, more compassionate lens, it becomes painfully clear how often our modern expectations clash with who our dogs actually are and what they truly need to thrive. Through Kim’s LEGS framework – Learning, Environment, Genetics, Self – we unpack how each element affects a dog’s behavior and how pet parents can begin making small but meaningful changes that honor who their dog truly is. I’ll even share what this has looked like in my own life with my own dogs. Whether you’re a pet parent, rescuer, shelter volunteer or trainer, this conversation may change the way you see dogs – and remind you just how much power we have to improve their lives by understanding who they are. Find links & show notes at:https://believeindogpodcast.com/episodes-1/episode133   Did you get the Pet Parent "Gut Check" yet? Get your Free Checklist: 12 Changes in Your Dog to Never Ignore (even if they seem small)   Support this podcast with a review: on Apple Podcasts or Podchaser.

When the world feels heavy — or your dog’s health or behavior challenges have you running on empty — how do you find your calm again? This episode is your reminder that your dog doesn’t need you to be perfect; they need you to be present. We’re rethinking self-care as something deeper than bubble baths and timeouts — it’s an energetic reset that helps both you and your dog feel more grounded and connected. In this episode, we’ll learn simple, free exercises to do right now — no equipment or experience needed. Raechel Winters shares why self-care is essential for dog moms and walks us through a powerful yoga breathing technique you can do anywhere, anytime. (19:21) Neurosomatic intelligence practitioner Sofia Ejaz explains the mind-body connection with two easy nervous system exercises (you’ll just need a cloth and a straw) (36:30). Writer and breathwork guide Katya Lidsky opens up about her unexpected lessons from dogs and breathwork — and guides us through an exercise we can do alongside our dogs (1:14:25). Whether it’s the chaos of the world or the stress of caring for your dog, this episode will leave you feeling more grounded, present and deeply connected — to yourself and your animals. Find links & show notes at:https://believeindogpodcast.com/episodes-1/episode132   Did you get the Pet Parent "Gut Check" yet? Get your Free Checklist: 12 Changes in Your Dog to Never Ignore (even if they seem small)   Support this podcast with a review: on Apple Podcasts or Podchaser.

What if “senior” didn’t mean the end—but the beginning of a whole new chapter with your dog? Today we’re joined by Helen St. Pierre, dog trainer and founder of Old Dogs Go to Helen Rescue. What started as a way to help dogs get adopted through training turned into a lifelong passion for giving senior dogs the love, dignity and care they deserve. Helen reminds us that senior does not mean the end — our older dogs can still live full, joyful lives (and yes, even learn new tricks!). We talk about how to recognize important senior dog behavior changes, shifts in tolerance toward children or other dogs, and physical signs that tell us it’s time to adjust care. Helen also shares practical, compassionate tips for making home adjustments for senior dogs—from mobility support to creating safer spaces—so our pets stay comfortable as they age. And when it’s time to face difficult decisions, Helen walks us through her three-pronged quality of life scale and what she calls “quality of death,” helping us advocate for our dog at the vet office and approach medical decisions with clarity and love. Whether you share your life with a senior dog now or want to be ready for the golden years ahead, Helen’s guidance will help ensure your dog ages gracefully.   Find links & show notes at:https://believeindogpodcast.com/episodes-1/episode131   Did you get the Pet Parent "Gut Check" yet? Get your Free Checklist: 12 Changes in Your Dog to Never Ignore (even if they seem small)   Support this podcast with a review: on Apple Podcasts or Podchaser.

What happens when one woman believes so deeply in the power of dogs to change lives that she builds a program to prove it — and keeps it alive even after the state stops funding it? Content Note: In this episode, there are mentions of child abuse and neglect and a juvenile case involving murder and the death of a dog. These topics are discussed only in passing, but we recognize they may be sensitive for some listeners. In this episode, we’ll meet Joan Dalton, author of the book Second Chances: The Transformative Relationship Between Incarcerated Youth and Shelter Dogs.  Joan is the founder of Project POOCH, a program pairing teens in juvenile detention with shelter dogs. What started as an idea grew into a transformative program that not only rehabilitates dogs in need of homes but also teaches young people the skills and compassion they need to heal and move forward. Joan & I discuss how the program began, the life-changing impacts she’s witnessed and the resilience it took to keep the program going when funding was pulled.  From trauma to trust, you'll hear how Project POOCH creates powerful paths to healing, empathy and redemption — for both humans and animals. Juvenile justice is something we should all care about, because these youths will return to society as adults. We have an opportunity — and a responsibility — to help them grow into contributing members of society. When we give people and animals the tools to heal, the results can transform lives and communities.   Find links & show notes at:https://believeindogpodcast.com/episodes-1/episode130 Did you get the Pet Parent "Gut Check" yet? Get your Free Checklist: 12 Changes in Your Dog to Never Ignore (even if they seem small) Support this podcast with a review: on Apple Podcasts or Podchaser.