Unpacking Canine Trauma with Dr. Laura Donaldson
In this enlightening episode, I sit down with Dr. Laura Donaldson to delve into the crucial topic of becoming trauma-informed when it comes to our dogs.
Dr. Donaldson shares her extensive knowledge on what trauma is, how it manifests in dogs, and the often-overlooked microtraumas that can significantly impact their well-being.
We discuss the parallels between human and canine trauma responses and the fundamental importance of ensuring safety and trust for traumatised dogs.
Dr. Donaldson offers practical advice on recognising signs of trauma, the importance of respecting a dog's need for agency, and ways to create a healing environment. Lastly, she highlights some valuable resources, including her Thinkific webinar, 'Why Becoming Trauma Informed Will Change Everything You Do With Dogs,' for those interested in a deeper dive into the subject.
00:00 Introduction and Welcoming Dr. Laura Donaldson
01:08 Dr. Laura's Background and Life in Upstate New York
03:37 Understanding Trauma in Dogs
05:48 Recognizing and Addressing Trauma Responses
09:35 Microtrauma and Its Impact on Dogs
17:08 Building Trust and Safety for Traumatized Dogs
21:10 Practical Steps for Trauma-Informed Dog Care
39:00 Resources and Further Learning
42:00 Conclusion and Farewell
Find out more and connect with Dr. Donaldson:
Website: https://fourpawsfourdirections.com
Bio: Dr. Laura Donaldson, PhD, CDBC, KPA CTP, CCUI is a Professor Emeritus from Cornell University located in Ithaca, New York, northeastern United States. She is an award-winning writer on dog behavior who has worked as a canine behavior specialist for 20+ years. Laura is a Certified Dog Behavior Consultant (CDBC), a Karen Pryor Certified Training Partner (KPA CTP) and a Certified Trauma Professional.
She created the popular program called Slow Thinking is Lifesaving for Dogs®. Laura currently resides in upstate New York with her husband, two dogs, three cats, and an African Gray Parrot named Obi. When she isn’t speaking, teaching or writing, you will find Laura partnering with her working Border Collies to tend her flock of Navajo Churro sheep.
Your FREE gift: Free Webinar on GROUNDING: dogs healing from trauma. To register, click on this link: https://laura-s-school-1f3f.thinkific.com/courses/grounding-dogs-healing-from-trauma
Social media links:https://www.facebook.com/ledonaldson
Additional resources:
Dr. Laura Donaldson's almost-free webinar:
Why Becoming Trauma Informed Will Change Everything You Do With Dogs
https://laura-s-school-1f3f.thinkific.com/courses/why-becoming-trauma-informed-will-change-everything-you-do-with-dogs
The series of articles on canine trauma for Happy, Healthy Dog mentioned during the episode
Hidden in Plain Sight: Is Your Dog Experiencing Microtrauma?
https://happyhealthydog.org/drlauranov
Traumatized Dogs Need Empathy, Not Toxic Labels
https://happyhealthydog.org/drlauraddec
Why Becoming Trauma Informed Should Be Your 2025 New Year’s Resolution
https://happyhealthydog.org/drlaurajan
The Neurobiology of Trauma: Why It Is Important & What You Need to Know
https://happyhealthydog.org/drlaurafeb
And as always, all about Soul Touched by Dogs at https://soultouchedbydogs.com
In this enlightening episode, I had the pleasure of speaking with Lisa Waggoner, co-founder of Cold Nose College, about her journey in dog training and the importance of positive reinforcement.
We discussed everything from her rural North Carolina base to the impactful work she and her husband Brad do through the Victoria Stilwell Academy.
Lisa shared how important it is to make dogs feel physically and emotionally safe, the value of mental enrichment, and how her personal experiences have shaped her training methods.
We also touched upon her popular book, Rocket Recall, and the misunderstandings around dog needs. Join us for a heartfelt conversation filled with valuable advice for dog parents and trainers alike.
00:00 Welcome and Introduction
00:16 Lisa's Background and Cold Nose College
01:54 The Importance of Emotional and Physical Safety for Dogs
04:50 Lisa's Journey to Positive Reinforcement Training
10:09 Understanding Dog Body Language
18:44 The Significance of Time and Enrichment for Dogs
26:06 Debunking Dominance Theory
31:25 Conclusion and Resources
Find out more and connect with Lisa:
Website: https://www.coldnosecollege.com
Bio: Lisa Lyle Waggoner is a passionate advocate for humane, science-based, force-free dog training. She’s the author of The Original Rocket Recall™: Teach Your Dog to Come. She’s a Certified Professional Dog Trainer-Knowledge Assessed, a Pat Miller Certified Trainer-Level 2, Certified Separation Anxiety Trainer, and faculty member of the Victoria Stilwell Academy for Dog Training and Behavior, and an Ordained Interspecies Animal Chaplain.
Lisa is the founder of Cold Nose College, a labor of love that blossomed into a world-renowned center of education for both dog owners and professional trainers. She’s well-known for her clear, compassionate, and engaging teaching skills and is dedicated to helping dogs and their owners form a strong bond and enjoy their lives together.
She lives in western North Carolina in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains and shares her life with her best friend, husband, and business partner, Brad, and their Australian Shepherd, Keaton.
Lisa's FREE gift: https://www.coldnosecollege.com/12-rules-of-rocket-recall
Are you tired of calling your dog’s name into thin air only to be met with indifference? Say goodbye to frustration and hello to harmony with our exclusive free resource: The 12 Rules of Rocket Recall Quick Reference Guide.
Social media links: https://www.facebook.com/coldnosecollege https://www.instagram.com/coldnosecollege/
The Special Valentine's offer:
60% savings on both offerings found on the website (both coupon codes are the same) and both valid Feb 9 through February 16, 2025.
- Rocket Recall Instructor’s Handout Kit, Coupon Code LOVE2024
- The Rocket Recall Self-Paced Online Program LOVE2024
As always, all about Soul Touched by Dogs at https://soultouchedbydogs.com
In this episode, I sit down with Annie Phenix, a seasoned dog trainer and best-selling author based in Utah, to discuss her journey and extensive experience in working with dogs, particularly those with traumatic backgrounds.
Annie shares her transition from Texas to Utah, her long-standing involvement in dog rescue, and her unique insights into canine behavior.
We delve into her experiences fostering over 400 dogs, the lessons learned from shelter dogs, and her acclaimed books that address aggressive and reactive behavior in dogs.
Annie emphasizes the importance of understanding canine trauma, the impact of genetics, and the necessity of creating a safe and nurturing environment for dogs. She also introduces her 30-day reset program and her community platform designed to help dog owners heal their pets from trauma.
Join us as we explore the profound ways in which trauma influences dogs and how positive reinforcement and compassionate care can lead to recovery and deeper connections.
00:00 Welcome and Introduction
00:23 Annie's Journey to Utah
01:33 Rescue Work and Dog Training
03:34 Writing and Teaching
05:35 Understanding Dog Trauma
09:23 Trauma Responses in Dogs
11:58 Genetics and Trauma
15:19 Adopting and Adjusting Dogs
20:16 Understanding Safety and Bonding with Your Dog
20:48 The Controversy of Shock Collars
21:13 Training Techniques and Emotional Regulation
21:36 Addressing Trauma in Dogs
22:07 Dealing with Pain and Behavioral Issues
22:45 The Importance of Growling and Communication
23:10 Cooperative Care and Nail Clipping Challenges
25:28 Adolescence and Behavioral Changes
26:51 The 30-Day Reset and Healing Steps
28:49 Reactive Dogs and Trauma Signs
32:33 The Impact of Trauma on Dogs
34:05 Conclusion and Resources for Dog Owners
Find out more and connect with Annie:
About Annie: Trainer and Bestselling Author Annie Phenix knew a lot about dogs when she took in her two Heeler-Border Collie brothers Finn and Cooper.
They were taken from their mother at 5 weeks of age and thrown into a backyard with no supervision or enrichment. They came to her with several types of worms and fear in their eyes and little bodies.
Finn and Cooper were a LOT of work for Annie and her husband. But they were happy to put the time into showing them they were safe. Eventually (it took 7 months) they believed them and now they are thriving.
It's what inspired Annie to focus on what comes BEFORE training and develop the Phenix Healing Protocol where she takes dog owners through the process of healing their dogs - in just a 5-10 minutes a day, one tiny step, one day at a time.
Your first step: 7 Steps for Quick Healing
https://choosetotrainhumane.com/7-steps
Need step-by-step help with a new puppy or rescue dog, or to help your dog feel safe and calm again after a scary incident:
Check out The 30-Day Canine Trauma Reset
https://choosetotrainhumane.com/30-day-trauma-reset
The website: https://choosetotrainhumane.com/
The books: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Annie-Phenix/author/B09R9PN18Z
On Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/phenixdogs
https://www.facebook.com/groups/1713528972260741
For professionals: https://www.facebook.com/phenixadvocacycenter/
As always, all about Soul Touched by Dogs at https://soultouchedbydogs.com
Exploring the World of Pet Bubbles with John Ryder
In this engaging episode, I sit down with John Reider from St. Louis, Missouri, the creative mind behind innovative pet bubbles.
John shares his journey from discovering fascinating technobubbles to creating fun and safe bubble products for pets.
We dive into the origins of his business, the unique scents like peanut butter and smoky bacon that excite pets, and the numerous benefits of using bubbles for exercise and mental stimulation.
John also hints at exciting future developments, including calming aromatherapy bubbles and catnip sprays. Tune in to learn about this delightful and enriching toy for your furry friends!
00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome
00:47 Discovering the Bubble Business
02:17 From Fun to Pet Industry
06:07 The Science and Safety of Pet Bubbles
12:58 Expanding the Bubble Horizons
21:16 Where to Buy and Final Thoughts
Find out more and connect with John:
Website: https://atomicBubbles.com
Bio: John Reider, known as "The Bubble Man," developed the Atomic Bubbles® brand over the past two decades. His bubbles, including a popular line for pets, are locally crafted in St. Louis, MO and are shipped all over the world. Entrepreneurs by nature, John and his wife, Beth, began the Bubble Bus® in 2005 and have franchises in several states. So many Bubble Bus® customers have asked over the years, "Where can I buy your bubbles? They are SO much better than the bubbles in the local stores!"
John has since created many bubble products, including a popular line for pets called Puppy Love® Bubbles and Kitty Love® Bubbles.
Atomic Bubbles got its start in 2005 as Bubble Bus®. Founders John and Beth Reider now have franchises in several states, and John is known affectionately around St. Louis as “The Bubble Man.” Customers frequently express their preference for Atomic Bubble products, often asking, 'Where can I buy your bubbles? They are SO much better than those we buy!'"
Atomic Bubbles’ commitment to quality and engagement was recently recognized when they were chosen as one of the "Most Engaging and Informative" booths at the 2024 Global Pet Expo in Orlando, FL.
Over the years, Atomic Bubbles has proudly committed to giving back to the community, actively supporting charities like Make A Wish Foundation, Ronald McDonald House, Kids Rock Cancer, The PVA (Paralyzed Veterans of America), Autism Speaks, and Purina Farms.
Some of Atomic Bubbles’ most popular products include Bubble Love, its signature base and formula for most other products, and PHATMAN! Bubbles, capable of producing bubbles up to 20 feet long.
Like all Atomic Bubbles products, PUPPY LOVE® and KITTY LOVE® are handcrafted with love for the ones we love most! We thank you for your interest as our bubble creative team continues to produce the most unique bubble products ever.
For more information about these and other products, visit atomicbubbles.com or email with inquiries at info@atomicbubbles.com.
Social media links:
Instagram.com/PuppyLoveBubbles
Instagram.com/KittyLoveBubbles
Instagram.com/Atomic_Bubbles.Stl
https://www.facebook.com/atomicbubblesstl
As always, all about Soul Touched by Dogs at https://soultouchedbydogs.com
Barking Up the Right Tree: A Conversation with Julia Hawkins and Barbara Patterson on Reactive Dog Training
In this episode, I chat with Julia Hawkins and Barbara Patterson, co-founders of 'Barking Up the Right Tree.' We discuss their journey in the world of dog training, especially focusing on reactive dogs. From their free festival featuring top experts to their innovative training programs, Julia and Barbara share invaluable insights on understanding and managing dog reactivity. We also explore the differences in dog training cultures across countries and the importance of a supportive community for both dogs and their owners. Join us to learn more about their comprehensive courses and how they aim to help dog owners worldwide.
00:00 Welcome and Introductions
00:31 The Origin of Barking Up the Right Tree
02:23 The Reactive Dogs Festival
02:43 Choosing Julia: A Serendipitous Partnership
05:50 The Importance of Understanding Dog Behavior
10:53 Global Perspectives on Dog Training
16:17 Challenges and Solutions in Dog Training
25:36 Connecting with the Community
27:36 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
To find out more and connect with Julia & Barbara:
Website: https://www.barking-up-the-right-tree.com
Bios:
Julia Hawkins, Msc, AdvDip (AAB Canine)
From mastering numbers to mastering positive dog training, Julia Hawkins has transitioned from being a math teacher to a guiding light for dog owners.
With her unique blend of skills as a trained educator for both humans and canines, Julia specialises in assisting families, particularly those with rescue dogs and children, navigate their dog training challenges.
Julia’s approach is all about support that is both educational and fun. Her primary goal is to foster happy, stress-free relationships between you and your dog, using the power of play. Julia believes that when the dynamics of play are perfectly balanced, not only will you and your dog feel great, but behaviour challenges will be easier to overcome. Join Julia in this journey of joyful learning and discover the transformative power of positive reinforcement and play.
Julia has an Advanced Diploma in Animal Behaviour (Canine), she is a full member of the International Society of Animal Professionals and is an approved trainer by the Dog Training Council. She is also an approved Family Dog Trainer as well as being a qualified teacher with 15 years experience
Barbara Paterson, PhD
Dr. Barbara's journey from conservation scientist to professional dog trainer took her from one form of care for animals to another. Barbara is dedicated to helping dog owners forge a profound connection with their high energy and reactive companions, guiding them towards a harmonious, fun-filled life together.
About a decade ago, she was desperately seeking help for her reactive agility dog. That's when she found Susan Garrett, who quickly became her mentor for all things dog-related. Barbara was so determined to learn from the best that she dragged her husband and dogs across the Atlantic to live in Canada, where she had the chance to train with Susan in person and rub shoulders with world-class dog handlers. Fast forward to today, and as well as being a Coach in Susan's online programs, she love inspiring her students to bring out the absolute best in their dogs.
As a Buddhist practitioner, Barbara infuses her training with principles of joy and compassion. Central to her philosophy is the idea that compassion is the cornerstone of deep connection, and that understanding our dogs’ needs by carefully listening to what dogs are communicating, is essential. Barbara firmly believes that this kind of thoughtful dialogue makes training effective and equally fun for dogs and their human counterparts.
Social media links: https://www.facebook.com/groups/barkfest2024
https://www.youtube.com/@Barking-Up-The-Right-Tree
https://www.instagram.com/barkingrighttree/
https://www.tiktok.com/@barkinguptherighttree1?lang=en
As always, all about Soul Touched by Dogs at https://soultouchedbydogs.com