Love, Dog: The Podcast

In this episode, hosts, Mark Drucker and Drew Webster have a moving conversation with Zach Skow, the founder of Marley's Mutt's, a shelter for rescued dogs located in Tehapachi, CA. Skow shares his personal journey of addiction, trauma, and recovery, highlighting the role that dogs played in saving his life, and his healing process over Skow discusses his early experiences with alcohol and drugs, the impact of childhood trauma on his relationships, and his struggle with liver failure. His father plays a crucial role in his recovery, advocating for his son's life and helping him navigate the medical system. Skow's story is a testament to the power of resilience, support, and the healing bond between humans and dogs. He started Marley's Mutts with the goal of making proactive societal change and addressing the issues of animal welfare. Marley's Mutts has several sectors, including a 20-acre rescue ranch, a therapy program called Miracle Mutts, and a program called Positive Change that pairs dogs with incarcerated individuals for training and rehabilitation. In the final part of the conversation, the three discuss the importance of addressing the root causes of shelter euthanasia and the need for massive spay and neuter programs and education. They also explore the parallels between the incarcerated individuals in Zach's programs and the animals they work with, highlighting the value of social support and the potential for rehabilitation and reform. SHOW SPONSOR JOPE Hip & Joint Chews⁠, veterinarian-crafted, made with UC-II collagen along with high quantities of Omega-3 and curcumin to improve mobility. LINKS ⁠MARLEY'S MUTTS⁠ ⁠PAWSITIVE CHANGE⁠ ⁠MIRACLE MUTTS ⁠THERAPY DOG PROGRAM ⁠MUTT MOVERS⁠ GUEST BIO Zach Skow, Marley’s Mutts founder, rescued Marley, a Rottweiler-Pit Bull from the Mojave Shelter in 2002 at eight weeks old. He used to carry him around in a backpack with just his head poking out. When Zach was diagnosed with end-stage liver disease, it was Marley who helped pull him from despair and into the fight. It was his relentless love, omnipresent affection, and “today can be the best day of our life” mentality, that helped Zach live again. Zach founded Marley’s Mutts in 2009. Nonprofit, tax-exempt 501(c)(3) status was granted in 2010. Growing from a nonprofit about dog rescue, providing second chances, and rescuing the unrescuable dogs were the Pawsitive Change® Prison Program and Miracle Mutts® Therapy Dog Program. Sadly, Marley was diagnosed with cancer at the age of 15 and fought a courageous battle. He crossed over the Rainbow Bridge in 2016. Marley’s Mutts and the Mutt Militia are his legacy. all. CONNECT WITH US On Instagram: @lovedognews On Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lovedognews VIA Email: podcast@lovedog.com Disclaimer Our podcasts are for your enjoyment and for general education and information purposes only. We interview veterinarians, scientists, behavior consultants, dog trainers, influencers, etc. You must always consult with your own [credentialed] canine and pet practitioners before implementing any training program or course of medical diagnosis and/or treatment.

The conversation in this episode delves into the cruelty of puppy mills, the impact these mills have on dogs, and how to avoid supporting the puppy mill industry. It also explores the work of Colorado Citizens for Canine Welfare (3CW) and their efforts to educate the public about this serious issue. Pam Dickerson and Cheryl Saipe from 3CW describe the bleak, often filthy, and sometimes dangerous conditions in puppy mills, the ongoing trauma experienced by parent dogs, and the importance of ethical breeding practices. A portion of the conversation focuses on education, advocacy, and awareness, both nationally and state-by-state. The guests provide insights into the work being done in Colorado and the need for national action to address the issue. They also discuss the common health issues in dogs from puppy mills and the importance of responsible breeding practices. Bottom line: Puppy mills are bad for dogs. Visit our website ⁠lovedog.com⁠ for in-depth articles, adoptions, and great online shopping! Shop for the pup in our store: ⁠Woof & Wear: The Shop⁠ **** OUR SPONSOR ⁠JOPE Hip & Joint Chews⁠, veterinarian-crafted, made with UC-II collagen along with high quantities of Omega-3 and curcumin to improve mobility. **** ABOUT 3CW Colorado Citizens for Canine Welfare (3CW) is dedicated to the idea that dogs are lifelong companions who deserve love, respect, and concern for their health and welfare. 3CW supports the efforts of ⁠responsible dog breeders⁠ , ⁠dog-rescue groups⁠, and ⁠animal shelters ⁠ by serving as a “Find a Dog” resource for people who want to offer a good home to a puppy or adult dog.Their goal is to see every dog in his or her rightful place in this world—in our homes and in our hearts. 3CW operates with an all-volunteer staff, and 100% of donations are used to support their public education and public policy efforts. CHAPTERS 00:00 Introduction to the Cruelty of Puppy Mills 03:45 Advocacy for Dog Welfare and Ethical Breeding Practices 10:38 Understanding Puppy Mills and How to Avoid Supporting Them 38:41 Combatting Puppy Mills: Advocacy and Education 43:51 The Impact of Puppy Mills on Dog Health 51:24 Common Health Issues in Dogs from Puppy Mills 59:36 Promoting Responsible Breeding Practices SHOW LINKS 3CW- Colorado Citizens for Canine Welfare CHIC - Canine Health Information Center AKC - American Kennel Club The Humane Society of The United States , THE HORRIBLE HUNDRED Pet Animal Care and Facilities Act (PACFA) Their Incredible Journey, by Steve Duno on lovedog.com The Functional Dog Collaborative Goldies Act National Mill Dog Rescue, Peyton, CO Bailing out Benji USDA - List of Active dog breeders and dealers National Parent Club BREEDING FOR HEALTH The consumer deserves to be able to purchase a puppy that has been bred for long life and health. Puppies sold through pet stores come from commercial breeders who DO NOT BREED FOR LONGEVITY AND HEALTH. We know this with 100% certainty. You may wonder how a person could possibly know if a puppy for sale had been bred for longevity and health. Below are some things that responsible, preservation breeders do that COMMERCIAL BREEDERS DO NOT DO. 1. Prior to breeding, both the sire and the dam have ALL the known breed-specific health tests (in accordance with the AKC parent breed club). 2. Those health test results are used by both the breeder and the buyer. Those results are registered in the Canine Health Information Center (CHIC) database and are accessible to the public. · All responsible breeders conduct the breed-specific health tests and register the results on the CHIC site. · No commercial breeders, AKA puppy mills, are known to have registered in CHIC the results of a single pair of dogs designated for breeding. Interpret that the health tests were not conducted at all. · With simply the AKC registration numbers or the complete names of the parent dogs, the above information is verifiable at https://ofa.org/chic-programs/ 3. Follow-up with puppy buyers over the life of the dog – Responsible breeders stay in contact with their puppy buyers and gather health information over the life of the dog. In addition to the breed-specific health tests, breeders use discoveries/information from follow-up contact with the buyers to fold back into their breeding program to improve their selections in order to produce the best puppies possible destined for longevity and health. Since commercial breeders do not even know who is buying their puppies, they have no way to track the health of the puppy/dog over its lifetime to take advantage of new information on their “off-spring”. From a consumer protection standpoint, it takes regulation and laws to prevent the public from being hoodwinked by a pet store owner who falsely claims that they buy puppies for resale from only good, responsible breeders. All it takes to discover this transgression in breeding for health (or lack thereof) is to look up the AKC registration numbers of the parent dogs on the CHIC database. If there is no listing for the parent dogs, the breeder did not do the breed-specific health tests and register the results appropriately. The public and the puppies pay the ultimate price for poor breeding. The consumer deserves better than this. YOU'RE INVITED TO HOWL WITH US On Instagram: @lovedognews On Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lovedognews VIA Email: podcast@lovedog.com Disclaimer: Love, Dog: The Podcast is intended for your enjoyment and for general information purposes only. We often interview veterinarians, scientists, behavior consultants, dog trainers, etc. You must always consult with your own credentialed canine and/or pet practitioners before implementing any training program or course of medical diagnosis and/or treatment.

In this conversation, Dr. Randy Aronson discusses the science — and significance — of a holistic/integrative approach to pet health and wellness, one he frequently combines with an Allopathic — traditional western medicine — modality to get the best outcome for his patients. The conversation explores the new and emerging frontier — and the challenges— for veterinarians as they become more open to combining holistic and integrative approaches to animal wellness. Dr. Aronson, shares his personal journey of learning and acquiring certifications in acupuncture, Chinese herbal medicine, and rehabilitation. He emphasizes the importance of proper nutrition, biome, exercise, training, and stress reduction (PETS) in promoting longevity and quality of life for animals. The discussion also touches on the significance of the gut-brain connection, the role of food sensitivity testing, et al., in improving animal health. Visit Our Website: ⁠lovedog.com⁠ for in-depth articles, adoptions, and great online shopping! Join us in Denver on June 2nd for a podcast recording in front of a live audience: ⁠Tickets available here!⁠ Shop For The pup in our store on lovedog.com: ⁠Woof & Wear: The Shop⁠ Support The Podcast with a ⁠donation here⁠. Dog thanks you . . . and so do we! SHOW SPONSORS Our newest Sponsor: ⁠JOPE Hip & Joint Chews⁠, veterinarian-crafted, made with UC-II Collagen along with high quantities of Omega-3 and Curcumin to improve mobility. Presenting Sponsor: ⁠3CW⁠: Colorado Citizens For Canine Welfare: A group of remarkably devoted humans dedicated to public education, guidance in finding a new dog from a humane source, and animal welfare advocacy. Their goal is to shut down all puppy mills in Colorado and to stand side-by-side all organizations across the country with a similar goal.: ⁠3CW⁠: Colorado Citizens For Canine Welfare: A group of remarkably devoted humans dedicated to public education, guidance in finding a new dog from a humane source, and animal welfare advocacy. Their goal is to shut down all puppy mills in Colorado and to stand side-by-side all organizations across the country with a similar goal. ABOUT THE GUEST Dr. Randy Aronson graduated from the University of Pennsylvania in 1980 after being awarded the top honor of his class, the Leonard Pearson Prize. He completed a rotating internship at the small animal hospital in medicine and surgery 1981. Dr. Aronson started the Animal Care Center of Green Valley in 1984 and sold it to his partner in 2005. P.A.W.S. Veterinary Center, his current practice, was started with his wife, Dr. Geren Thurston, in 2008 and employs thirty-two in staff and five veterinarians. In 2011 they won the American Animal Hospital Practice of the Year award and the Veterinary Economics Merit Hospital winner. Dr. Aronson utilizes an integrative approach to diagnostics and therapies, combining Western or allopathic medicine with holistic modalities. He completed the International Veterinary Acupuncture Society’s acupuncture course, numerous Chinese herbal courses, and many traditional Chinese medicine and nutrition programs. He is certified by the Canine Rehabilitation Institute to perform physical therapy on cats and dogs. He utilizes food therapy, ozone, pulsed electromagnetic therapy, shock wave, therapeutic laser, and underwater treadmill to help attain health and wellness for his patients. Dr. Aronson is a keynote speaker and lecturer. His website drrandypetvet.com contains many podcasts and articles on Integrative veterinary Medicine. Recently he has been speaking to the students of veterinary schools about utilizing integrative approaches in everyday veterinary medicine. He also enjoys educating pet parents on wellness and longevity. CHAPTERS 00:00 The show opens 13:50 The Integration of Western and Holistic Medicine 29:21 The Path to Becoming an Integrative Vet 30:45 Challenges in Incorporating Holistic Approaches in Veterinary Practice 38:38 The Importance of Proper Nutrition, Biome, Exercise, Training, and Stress Reduction 53:00 The Significance of the Gut-Brain Connection in Animal Health 57:40 Addressing Imbalances in the Gut Microbiome for Improved Animal Health 01:01:52 The Importance of a Holistic Approach to Pet Health 01:02:51 The PETS Acronym: Prevention, Exercise, Training, and Stress Reduction 01:06:04 Building a Strong Foundation in Pet Health 01:19:47 Case Study: The Positive Outcomes of a Holistic Approach to Pet Care LINKS Dr. Randy Aronson American Holistic Veterinary Medical Association (AHVMA) Helpspotrun.com; Dr. Marie Bartling, The Dog Aging Project Morris Animal Foundation; Mark Morris Journey To Healing; Linda Johns, animal communicator Andrew Weil Center for Integrative Medicine Animal Biome Testing Gut Restore NutriScan Food Sensitivity Test; Jean Dodds Animal Medical Center in New York City Walky Dog Plus Bicycle Exercise Dog Leash BOOKS The Ultimate Pet Health Guide, by Gary Richter, M.S., D.V.M. The Forever Dog; by Rodney Habib and Dr. Karen Shaw Becker Four Paws Five Directions; by Cheryl Schwartz YOU'RE INVITED TO HOWL WITH US On Instagram: @lovedognews On Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lovedognews VIA Email: podcast@lovedog.com Disclaimer: Our podcasts are for your enjoyment and for general education and information purposes only. We interview veterinarians, scientists, behavior consultants, dog trainers, influencers, etc. You must always consult with your own [credentialed] canine and pet practitioners before implementing any training program or course of medical diagnosis and/or treatment.

In this conversation, Part 2 of this series, Dr. Kathy Murphy discusses a wide range of topics related to canine neuroscience, including brain development during both puppyhood and adolescence; the impact of spaying and neutering; the behavioral implications of sleep disruption; whether or not dogs really do dream; and the vital role of play for both dog and human. Dr. Murphy emphasizes that puppy socialization should focus on building resilience and tolerance, rather than just tolerance. In adolescence, she explains that the dog brain goes through changes that lead to increased risk-taking and decreased impulse control. It is important to understand that the adolescent brain struggles with impulse control more than the puppy brain. Recognizing the challenges of adolescence can help set dogs up for success and prevent frustration and abandonment. Visit Our Website: ⁠lovedog.com⁠ for in-depth articles, adoptions, and great online shopping! Shop For The pup in our store: ⁠Woof & Wear: The Shop⁠ Support The Podcast with a ⁠donation here⁠. Dog thanks you . . . and so do we! SHOW SPONSORS PRESENTING SPONSOR: ⁠3CW⁠: Colorado Citizens For Canine Welfare: A group of remarkably devoted humans dedicated to public education, guidance in finding a new dog from a humane source, and animal welfare advocacy. Their goal is to shut down all puppy mills in Colorado and to stand side-by-side all organizations across the country with a similar goal. ⁠Wonder Walker & Co⁠. The original "No Pull" harness, handmade since 2003 by the same family in Seattle. A premium quality, safer, more comfortable harness for your dog. GUEST BIO Dr Kathy Murphy qualified as a veterinary surgeon from the Royal Veterinary College in 1999. After spending several years in mixed practice she moved to the University of Oxford where she completed two specialised clinical qualifications and was awarded a Wellcome Trust Fellowship for her PhD in behavioural neuroscience. Kathy is the director of Barking Brains, a platform sharing information about neuroscience with animal trainers, behaviourists and interested dog owners. Additionally she is the Chief Scientific Officer for Behavior Vets LLC and Oversight Committee member for the UK Dog Behaviour and Training Charter. CHAPTERS 00:00 Introduction and Sponsor Messages 03:24 Building Resilience and Tolerance in Puppyhood 11:36 Understanding the Adolescent Brain 38:17 Training in Puppyhood 39:04 Defining Adolescence and Adulthood 42:32 The Impact of Spaying/Neutering 53:38 Disrupted Sleep and Behavior 01:02:54 The Role of Play in Canine Brain Function YOU'RE INVITED TO HOWL WITH US Follow on Instagram AND TikTok: @lovedognews Email with questions, comments, and suggestions: podcast@lovedog.com Disclaimer: Our podcasts are for your enjoyment and for general education and information purposes only. We interview veterinarians, scientists, behavior consultants, dog trainers, influencers, etc. You must always consult with your own [credentialed] canine and pet practitioners before implementing any training program or course of medical diagnosis and/or treatment.

Sara Carson, a dog trainer and performer, shares her life's journey . . . everything from being a dog trainer to teaching dogs to perform to living out of an RV for most of the year to a near crushing blow on America's Got Talent. Sarah also talks about how she selects dogs for performance, why she holds them accountable, knowing when to retire a dog, and Instagram stardom! Visit our website: ⁠lovedog.com⁠ for in-depth articles, adoptions, and great online shopping! Shop for the pup in our store: ⁠Woof & Wear: The Shop⁠ SHOW SPONSORS ⁠Wonder Walker & Co⁠. The original "No Pull" harness, handmade since 2003 by the same family in Seattle. A premium quality, safer, more comfortable harness for you dog. ⁠Fig & Tyler⁠. Single ingredient, human grade, premium quality treats. GUEST BIO Sara Carson is considered one of the top trick dog instructors in the world and is certified through "Do More With Your Dog!" She has been nationally recognized for showcasing her achievements such as the CW Dog Honors 'top trick' award in 2020, The Great Mats 'Dog Trainer of the Year' in 2017. Her dogs have earned a multitude of working and sport titles such as agility, dock diving, barn hunt and tricks. She has also placed across the board in disc dog competitions and taught the art form of canine freestyle dance. You can learn much more about Sara ⁠here⁠. CHAPTERS 00:00 Show Opens 04:07 Sarah Carson's Journey on America's Got Talent 06:14 Sarah Carson's Career as a Dog Trainer 09:37 Training Dogs for Performances 12:57 Training Behaviors for Shows 21:00 Sarah Carson as an Instagram Star 26:05 Dog Tricks and Training 30:20 Success in Dog Training 31:48 Retirement of Working Dogs 34:12 Holding Dogs Accountable 35:09 Training Dogs for Performance 36:36 Life on the Road with Dogs 38:55 Finding Inspiration for Tricks and Routines 43:41 Training Service Dogs for Veterans 46:31 Working Dogs vs. Pet Dogs 51:10 Utilizing Dogs' Natural Behaviors 55:39 Rapid Fire Questions 58:31 Puppr App LINKS America's Got Talent Audition - an unprecedented moment for her and AGT Sara's Website: thesupercollies.com Sara's Instagram: @thesupercollies and @thesupercolliesmom The Puppr App for dog training CONNECT WITH LOVE, DOG Follow us on Instagram: @lovedognews Email us with questions, comments, and suggestions: podcast@lovedog.com

In this conversation, hosts Mark Drucker and Drew Webster interview globally renowned dog aggression expert Mike Shikashio and discuss the importance of understanding and addressing dog aggression. Mike shares his background and philosophy in working with aggression cases, emphasizing the importance of creating a safe space for clients and dogs. They discuss the challenges and solutions in managing and resolving aggression cases, including the possibility of removing dogs from aggressive situations. They explore the role of behavior science in understanding aggression and changing behavior. The conversation touches on the misrepresentation of pit bulls and the impact of breed-specific legislation. They also discuss the behavior of street dogs in different cultures and the role of environment in shaping dog behavior. SHOW SPONSOR Today's show is sponsored by ⁠Fig & Tyler⁠, makers of the highest quality, one-ingredient, human-grade dog treats that are a favorite of professional dog trainers. Pet parents are also urged to give these treats a try. Generous discounts have been arranged for both professionals and all dog lovers. Visit ⁠Fig & Tyler⁠. GUEST BIO Mike Shikashio is an internationally sought after keynote speaker and presenter on the topic of dog aggression at numerous events, conferences, and universities worldwide. He has mentored and presented to thousands of animal professionals in twelve different countries and has been a guest at every major dog training conference in the U.S. and Mexico, including the APDT, IAABC, FDSA, Clicker Expo, Victoria Stilwell’s DBC, PPG, CICA, IACP, Owners of Dog Daycares, and The Aggression in Dogs Conferences. LINKS From The Episode Visit Mike Shikashio's website, aggressivedog.com. Listen to Mike's podcast. The Bitey End of the Dog. The Muzzle Up! Project How about buying us a cup of coffee on Ko-Fi.com. It's a great way to donate to the show and support our efforts to keep-on!! Minimum donation: $4.00. CHAPTERS 00:00 Show opens 03:09 Importance of Addressing Dog Aggression 06:27 Mike Shikashio's Background and Expertise 07:37 Working with Aggressive Dogs and Reactive Dogs 10:14 Philosophy and Approach to Aggression Cases 11:38 Working with People in Aggression Cases 13:27 Hope and Improvement in Aggression Cases 14:50 Removing Dogs from Aggressive Situations 16:41 Preparing for Aggression Cases 19:03 Creating a Safe Space for Clients 22:20 Mediation and Conflict Resolution in Aggression Cases 23:55 When Dogs Need to be Removed or Euthanized 26:14 Increase in Aggression Cases with Spike in Adoptions 32:51 Expanding a Dog's World and Avoiding Excessive Management 36:10 Jealousy and Resource Guarding in Dogs 47:18 Understanding Aggression and Behavior Science 49:06 Coping with Difficult Cases and Finding Balance 52:55 Advice for Dog Guardians 56:19 The Misrepresentation of Pit Bulls 59:03 Aggression on Leash 01:03:53 Tools and Resources for Trainers 01:08:10 Street Dogs and Aggression Connect with Love, Dog Our website: Lovedog.com Our Online store: Woof & Wear: The Shop Follow us on Instagram: @lovedognews Email us with questions, comments, and suggestions: podcast@lovedog.com DISCLAIMER Our podcasts are for your enjoyment and for general education and information purposes only. We interview veterinarians, scientists, behavior consultants, dog trainers, influencers, etc. You must always consult with your own [credentialed] canine and pet practitioners before implementing any training program or course of medical diagnosis and/or treatment.

This Episode is sponsored by Fig & Tyler In Episode 2 of The Love, Dog Podcast, hosts Mark Drucker and Drew Webster interview internationally acclaimed canine nutritionist, Linda Case. Their conversation takes a deep dive into the most important topics related to feeding dogs, including the importance of feeding puppies a lean diet, the many different types of dog food available to pet parents and dog guardians, and the factors to consider when selecting dog food. The conversation also touches on the importance of managing weight, and the importance of adjusting diet as dogs age. As a Hot Topic, the hosts and guest discuss human food vs. pet food. They also discuss the current debate over grain-free diets, whether or not it’s ok to feed your dog chocolate, Et al. Links From Episode 1. If you enjoyed the show and found it helpful, we'd love it if you'd consider supporting the podcast with a donation of any amount Ko-Fi THANK YOU! 2. Linda Cases’s blog: thesciencedog.com 3. Canine research: BSM Partners Books by Linda Case: Dog Food Logic Chapters 00:00 Podcast opens 04:12 Intro by Mark Drucker 07:28 Guest Introduction: Linda Case 9:38 Stages of Development and Feeding Dogs 18:40 Switching from Puppy to Adult Food 19:40 Feeding Large and Giant Breeds 25:00 Understanding Dog Food Options 26:40 Factors to Consider in Dog Food Selection 39:44 Different Types of Dog Food 47:37 Variety in Dog Food and Enjoyment 49:29 Essential Considerations in Dog Food Selection 51:50 Dealing with Obesity in Dogs 52:55 Managing Weight in Older Dogs 58:05 The Importance of Adjusting Diet as Dogs Age 01:00:33 The Connection Between Weight and Pain in Dogs 01:02:37 Feeding Dogs During Training and the Importance of Portion Control 01:07:39 Hot Topic: Human Food vs. Pet Food 01:12:53 The Debate Over Grain-Free Diets 01:21:48 Can your dog eat chocolate? Connect with Love, Dog Follow us on Instagram: @lovedognews Email us with questions, comments, and suggestions: podcast@lovedog.com DISCLAIMER Our podcasts are for your enjoyment and for general education and information purposes only. We interview veterinarians, scientists, behavior consultants, dog trainers, influencers, etc. You must always consult with your own [credentialed] canine and pet practitioners before implementing any training program or course of medical diagnosis and/or treatment.