Tails and Tones

This episode dives deep into the essential care and health considerations for French Bulldogs, exploring their rising popularity, common medical issues, and the importance of responsible breeding. Dr. Sarah Ramsey shares her expertise on early care, recognizing health problems, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle for these beloved pets. Listeners will gain valuable insights into the unique needs of French Bulldogs, from nutrition to veterinary care, ensuring a happy and healthy life for their furry companions.Guest Bio:Dr. Sarah Ramsey, originally from West Sussex in the UK, graduated from The Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies in Edinburgh in 2006 and also holds a degree in Parasitology from Glasgow University. She has practiced acupuncture since 2007, is a member of the ABVA, and earned her Certificate in Small Animal Medicine from the University of Liverpool in 2016, later achieving Advanced Veterinary Practitioner status in 2022. With a special interest in feline medicine, oncology, pain management, and end-of-life care, Dr. Sarah has held senior roles including Clinical Director of a two-site practice in the UK and Head of Medicine at a London small animal hospital. She relocated to the UAE in 2021 with her husband, two children, and a growing rescue family of cats, alongside her Bedlington Whippet, Snowy, and a tortoise named Taco. Beyond veterinary medicine, she is a passionate runner, ultramarathon finisher, yoga practitioner, and stand-up paddleboarder, with recent adventures in aerial gymnastics and a goal of completing a triathlon within the next year.Takeaways:French Bulldogs require special care due to their unique health issues.Research is crucial before bringing a French Bulldog home.Regular vet check-ups can help catch health issues early.Brachycephalic breeds like French Bulldogs often need BOAS surgery.Maintaining a healthy body condition is vital for their well-being.Feeding practices should be tailored to the individual dog's needs.Using an elevated feeding set up can really help this breed.Early socialization and training are important for French Bulldogs.Recognizing signs of pain or discomfort can lead to better health outcomes.Ethical breeding practices are essential to reduce health risks.French Bulldogs can live happier lives with proper care and attention.Relevant links mentioned in the episode:World Small Animal Veterinary Association (WSAVA) Body Condition Score CardDr Well Website, InstagramReview the podcast on PodchaserSign up to our Tails and Tones newsletter hereSign up to our Tails and Tones waiting list for our first product (Elevated Food System) hereFind Tails and Tones on our socials: Instagram / Facebook / TikTok / LinkedIn / WebsiteTimestamps to relevant points within the episode:[00:00]-Introduction to French Bulldog Care[05:15]- The Popularity of French Bulldogs[06:39]- Understanding French Bulldog Health Risks[10:18]- Choosing the Right French Bulldog[11:32]- Early Care for Your French Bulldog[14:55]- Recognizing Breathing Issues in French Bulldogs[16:34]- Understanding Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome (BOAS)[19:06]- The Importance of Early Intervention for French Bulldogs[21:36]- Assessing Surgical Needs in French Bulldogs[22:28]- Neutering and Its Timing for French Bulldogs[26:21]- Setting Up French Bulldogs for Success[30:26]- Understanding IVDD in French Bulldogs[34:13]- Emergency Responses to Proprioceptive Deficits[35:08]- The Importance of Imaging for Spinal Health[36:54]- Feeding Posture and the Benefits of an elevated feeding system for French Bulldogs[38:45]- Choosing the Right Puppy: Health Considerations[39:38]- The Impact of Breed Characteristics on Health[40:57]- Grooming and Maintenance for French Bulldogs[43:28]- Dietary Needs and Feeding Frequency for French Bulldogs[48:58]- Veterinary Care and Blood Work for French Bulldogs[49:14]- Importance of Baseline Health Checks[50:01]- Proactive vs Reactive Health Management[51:47]- Comprehensive Veterinary Checkups[53:09]- Recognizing Subtle Signs of Discomfort[55:49]- The Role of Research in Pet Ownership[57:44]- Ethical Breeding Practices[58:59]- Health Considerations for French Bulldogs[01:01:51]- Final Thoughts on French Bulldog CareBonus: Frenchie Nose-to-Tail Health Checklist👃 Nose & Breathing☐ Nostrils open and symmetrical☐ Breathing is quiet (no excessive snorting, wheezing, or rasping)☐ No panting at rest☐ No blue/pale gums☐ Able to exercise/play without stopping quickly👀 Eyes☐ No redness☐ No excessive tearing or staining☐ No squinting or blinking more than normal☐ Corneas look smooth & clear (no cloudy patches or scratches)☐ Check corners of eyes for any discharge🐶 Skin & Face Folds☐ Clean between facial folds☐ No redness or moisture☐ No smell from folds☐ No crusting or irritation☐ Chin and lip folds clean and dry👂 Ears☐ No redness☐ No odor☐ No waxy buildup☐ Dog is comfortable when ears are touched🦷 Mouth & Teeth☐ Gums pink and healthy☐ No broken or loose teeth☐ Breath smells normal☐ No difficulty chewing🧴 Body & Skin☐ No redness, dry patches, or hotspots☐ No new lumps or bumps (if found, note location + size)☐ Coat looks healthy & shiny☐ No excessive itching or licking🦴 Spine, Posture & Mobility☐ Walks normally (no stiffness, limping, or hopping)☐ Able to jump up/down as usual☐ No hesitation on stairs☐ When running/playing, no signs of pain☐ No sensitivity when gently feeling along the spine🐾 Paws & Feet☐ Between toes clean☐ No interdigital cysts or swelling☐ Nails an appropriate length☐ Paw pads clean and free of cracks💩 Tummy & Toileting☐ Stool normal (note soft, loose, mucus, blood, or changes)☐ No vomiting/regurgitation☐ Eating normally☐ Drinking normal amounts⚖️ Weight & Body Condition☐ Rib check: Can feel ribs without pressing hard☐ Waist visible from above☐ Belly tuck visible from side☐ Compare with WSAVA Body Condition Score chart🛁 Grooming Reminders☐ Quick rinse after beach or sand☐ Weekly brush-out☐ Bath only as needed (mild dog-specific wash)☐ Clean folds, underarms, groin if needed☐ Check nails weekly❤️ Behavior & Mood☐ Normal energy levels☐ No sudden clinginess or hiding☐ No unusual aggression or irritability☐ Sleeping and playing normally

In this episode of Tails and Tones, Mariska Nell sits down with science writer and longtime National Geographic contributor Jennifer S. Holland to explore what it really means to be “dog smart.” Jennifer shares stories and insights from her latest book, Dog Smart: Life-Changing Lessons in Canine Intelligence, including why an estimated 85% of the world’s dogs aren’t pets, how street dogs adapt and thrive, and what search-and-rescue and cancer-detection dogs reveal about canine superpowers. They dive into everyday intelligence—like the quiet genius of a dog waiting at the window—why so-called “bad dogs” are often just misunderstood or under-exercised, how ear cropping and tail docking can impact communication, and why letting dogs sniff, move, and “be dogs” is one of the most loving things we can do. The conversation blends science, personal stories (including Mariska’s Frenchie Piper and Jennifer’s dog Monk), and practical takeaways for modern pet parents who want to better understand and support their dogs’ emotional and cognitive lives.Guest Bio:Jennifer S. Holland is a science and nature writer with a long career as a staff writer at National Geographic. Her work focuses on animals, conservation, and the natural world, and she is the bestselling author of the Unlikely Friendships book series, which shares true stories of surprising bonds between animals. Her latest book, Dog Smart: Life-Changing Lessons in Canine Intelligence, examines what it means to be smart in the world of the dog, weaving together cutting-edge research, field reporting, and stories from trainers, working dogs, and beloved pets. Jennifer lives with her dog Monk and continues to write, speak, and share about the rich inner lives of animals.Takeaways:Dogs are communicators first. Body language, subtle signals, and redundancy matter, cropped ears/tails can limit canine “tools,” so supervise thoughtfully.85% of the world’s dogs aren’t pets. Street/roaming dogs occupy a valid ecological niche—adaptability is a form of intelligence.Genius comes in many forms. From cancer detection to waiting at the window, “smart” includes problem-solving, emotional attunement, and connection.Training ≠ obedience only. Many “bad behaviors” are unmet needs or misdirected intelligence. Compassionate, consistent training (and the right trainer) changes outcomes.Exercise is non-negotiable. Physical AND cognitive work reduce frustration and destructive behaviors.Let dogs be dogs. Sniffing is learning; exploration builds optimism. Partnership > possession.Talking buttons are a fun extra. Useful for enrichment and cause-effect learning—while we keep prioritizing dog-forward communication.Humility helps. Understanding dogs well can make us better, more observant humans.Relevant links mentioned in the episode:Jennifer’s websiteDog Smart the bookJennifer's Unlikely series books Jennifer on social: Instagram/TikTok / Facebook Sign up to our Tails and Tones newsletter hereSign up to our Tails and Tones waiting list for our first product (Elevated Food System) hereFind Tails and Tones on our socials: Instagram / Facebook / TikTok / LinkedIn / WebsiteTimestamps to relevant points within the episode:[00:00]- Intro[02:00] – Welcome, Jennifer’s intro[03:40] – Jennifer’s origin story & “why dogs”[07:30] – 85% of dogs aren’t pets; street-dog intelligence[10:55] – Monk’s bed-spot trick: everyday problem-solving[12:48] – Talking buttons: cause/effect & connection[15:49] – Dogs in MRI machines—how they trained it[22:00] – Search-and-rescue scent tracking story[20:15] – Signals, cropped ears, and stepping up for our dogs[27:57] – “Bad dogs” as misdirected intelligence[30:01] – Exercise is everything (physical & cognitive)[31:56] – Responsibility: sniffing, breed needs, partnership[35:51] – A deeper truth about intelligence & existence value[39:04] – Signature takeaway: “Let dogs be dogs”[41:00] – Jennifer's one message to every pet parent[42:31] – Outro

In this episode of Tails and Tones, Mariska Nell and Tori Mistick discuss the journey of turning a passion for dogs into a thriving business. Tori shares her experiences in building her brand, Wear Wag Repeat, and offers insights on monetizing pet accounts, the importance of authenticity, and the evolving landscape of pet influencing. They emphasize the significance of community, effective branding, and the resurgence of long-form content in engaging audiences. Tori also highlights the necessity of starting an email list and building genuine relationships within the pet industry.Guest Bio:Tori Mistick is a dog mom, blogger, podcast host, and the founder of Wear Wag Repeat. With over a decade of experience creating content for pet lovers, Tori helps pet parents enrich their dogs’ lives and supports “petpreneurs” in growing their businesses online. She’s also a Certified Canine Enrichment Technician and recently launched her limited-series podcast Dog Enrichment with Tori Mistick, which dives deep into the science and joy of helping dogs live their best lives.Takeaways:Believing in your passion is the first step to success.Collaboration is key in building relationships in the pet industry.Monetization can be slow; passion is essential for longevity.Follower count does not equate to revenue in pet influencing.Authenticity in content creation builds trust with your audience.Long-form content is making a comeback in the digital space.Building an email list is crucial for long-term engagement.Branding should evoke feelings and connect with your audience.Networking and genuine outreach can foster community growth.Diversifying income streams is important for pet influencers.Relevant links mentioned in the episode:Tori's Website Wear Wag Repeat, Wear Wag Repeat Podcast Dog Enrichment with Tori Mistick PodcastMental Enrichment Activity Pack ($19)Instagram: @wearwagrepeat @tmistickTimestamps to relevant points within the episode:[00:00]-Intro[02:30] – Tori’s Origin Story[03:44] – Hobby vs. Business Moment[05:11] – First Paid Campaign[07:16] – Passion vs. Profit (Early Challenges)[09:05] – Where to Start Monetizing[10:46] – Reality Check on Earnings[14:57] – Diversify[16:04] – Mindset Shift to “Brand”[18:25] – Safety & Responsibility[20:01] – Be Authentically Where You Are[22:05] – Funding & Founder Transparency[23:36] – What Branding Really Means in Pets[26:08] – Content Quality & “Post the Bad Stuff”[28:10] – Consistency System[29:54] – Platforms, AI & Owning Your Audience[32:01] – Community That Lasts[36:19] – Long-Form Comeback[39:31] – One Thing to Do Today[39:38] – Where to Find Tori[40:52] – Tori’s Enrichment Podcast

In this episode of Tails & Tones, host Mariska Nell and Tori Mistick of Wear Wag Repeat explore how daily enrichment transforms your dog’s emotional health and confidence. Learn simple, practical ways to enrich your dog’s day, strengthen your bond, and bring more joy to both of your lives.Guest Bio:Tori Mistick is a dog mom, blogger, podcast host, and the founder of Wear Wag Repeat. With over a decade of experience creating content for pet lovers, Tori helps pet parents enrich their dogs’ lives and supports “petpreneurs” in growing their businesses online. She’s also a Certified Canine Enrichment Technician and recently launched her limited-series podcast Dog Enrichment with Tori Mistick, which dives deep into the science and joy of helping dogs live their best lives.Takeaways:Enrichment is connection, not distraction. It’s about understanding your dog’s emotions, not just keeping them busy.Small choices build confidence. Let your dog pick between treats, directions on a walk, or how they’d like to spend time with you.Balance is key. Mix active enrichment (sniff walks, games) with calm bonding (gentle petting, sound baths).DIY can be powerful. Muffin tins, towel burritos, and busy boxes make enrichment easy and low-cost.Presence matters most. True enrichment starts when we slow down and meet our dogs where they are.Relevant links mentioned in the episode:Tori's Website Wear Wag Repeat, Wear Wag Repeat Podcast Dog Enrichment with Tori Mistick PodcastMental Enrichment Activity Pack ($19)Instagram: @wearwagrepeat @tmistickTimestamps to relevant points within the episode:[00:00]-Intro: What true enrichment means[01:44] - Meet Tori Mistick & her canine journey[05:03] - Redefining enrichment beyond puzzles[08:13] - Building your dog’s confidence through small choices[10:30] - Trick training as a confidence booster[13:59] - Enrichment for puppies, adults & seniors[17:15] - Burt’s story: From anxiety to confidence[21:14] - Enrichment as therapy for anxious dogs[23:44] - Using music and calm environments for recovery[25:06] - Meeting emotional needs & avoiding overstimulation[27:47] - Enrichment for busy pet parents[31:37] - 3 Low-cost DIY enrichment ideas[34:01] - The one toy worth splurging on[35:07] - Tori’s biggest enrichment advice for pet parents[36:29] - One small action to help your dog feel seen[37:23] - The Mental Enrichment Activity Pack[38:22] - Where to find Tori?[39:23] - Outro: Turning love into enrichment

In this episode of Tails and Tones, host Mariska Nell discusses the importance of choosing the right dog walker for your furry friend. She emphasizes understanding your dog's unique needs, the qualities to look for in a dog walker, and the importance of building a relationship with them. The episode also includes a product review of a dog bed and heartwarming stories about dogs making a difference in their communities.Takeaways:Choosing the right dog walker is crucial for your dog's well-being.Understand your dog's needs before selecting a walker.Look for reliability, experience, and communication in a dog walker.Trial walks can help determine if a walker is a good fit.Trust your dog's instincts when meeting a new walker.Communication with your dog walker is essential for your dog's happiness.Be aware of red flags when vetting potential walkers.Your dog is part of your family; choose wisely.Building a relationship with your dog walker is important.A good dog walker can provide peace of mind for pet parents.Relevant links mentioned in the episode:Fetch or Forget: Snooza Cotton Canvas FutonWhere Tails meet hearts - Litter LogiePaw-lebrity of the Week -Winston and Cooper aka the Doods, Dood WinstonTimestamps to relevant points within the episode:[00:00]-Intro[02:14]- Choosing the Right Dog Walker[04:57]- Qualities of a Good Dog Walker[07:54]- Vetting Potential Dog Walkers[10:29]- Trial Walks and Red Flags[13:50]- Building a Relationship with Your Dog Walker[16:40]- Fetch or Forget: Snooza Cotton Canvas Futon[19:31]- Where Tails meet hearts - Litter Logie[20:37]- Paw-lebrity of the Week -Winston and Cooper aka the Doods, Dood Winston[22:36]- Final Thoughts

In this episode, Dr. Sarah Ramsey shares her extensive experience in veterinary medicine, discussing the importance of specialized care for pets, emergency preparedness, and essential first aid skills for pet owners. She emphasizes the need for proper veterinary care, including routine check-ups and vaccinations, while also providing practical advice on creating emergency kits and knowing when to seek professional help. Dr. Ramsey's insights aim to empower pet owners to take proactive steps in ensuring their pets' health and safety.Guest Bio:Dr. Sarah Ramsey, originally from West Sussex in the UK, graduated from The Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies in Edinburgh in 2006 and also holds a degree in Parasitology from Glasgow University. She has practiced acupuncture since 2007, is a member of the ABVA, and earned her Certificate in Small Animal Medicine from the University of Liverpool in 2016, later achieving Advanced Veterinary Practitioner status in 2022. With a special interest in feline medicine, oncology, pain management, and end-of-life care, Dr. Sarah has held senior roles including Clinical Director of a two-site practice in the UK and Head of Medicine at a London small animal hospital. She relocated to the UAE in 2021 with her husband, two children, and a growing rescue family of cats, alongside her Bedlington Whippet, Snowy, and a tortoise named Taco. Beyond veterinary medicine, she is a passionate runner, ultramarathon finisher, yoga practitioner, and stand-up paddleboarder, with recent adventures in aerial gymnastics and a goal of completing a triathlon within the next year.Takeaways:Dr. Sarah Ramsey has nearly 30 years of experience in veterinary medicine.Understanding veterinary specializations helps in choosing the right care for pets.Emergency kits for pets should include saline, gauze, and vet wrap.Basic first aid skills can save a pet's life in emergencies.Knowing when to seek veterinary care is crucial for pet health.Routine veterinary check-ups are essential for early detection of health issues.Vaccination schedules may vary by region and should be discussed with a vet.Pet owners should be aware of their pets' specific health needs and risks.Regular blood work can help monitor chronic conditions in pets.Creating a customized emergency kit for pets is important for preparedness.Emergency Kits:At-Home Emergency KitGloves (latex or nitrile) – to keep your hands clean and safe.Saline pods/pipettes – safe for cleaning wounds and eyes.Sterile gauze – apply pressure and stop bleeding.Vet wrap (self-adhering bandage) – to secure gauze/dressings (sticks to itself, not fur).Muzzle or strong tape for a makeshift muzzle – for safety if your pet is in pain.Tick hook – safe removal of ticks without leaving parts behind.Tweezers – for removing thorns, splinters, or foreign bodies.Cotton buds – useful for cleaning small areas, like removing grass seeds.Styptic powder - to stop bleeding from nails, ears, or tails.Elizabethan collar (cone) – to prevent licking/ingesting toxins or cleaning wounds.On-the-Go / Walk & Travel Kit (Mini Version)Saline pod – for quick wound or eye cleaning.Sterile gauze – for immediate coverage of cuts or stings.Vet wrap – to hold gauze in place.Muzzle tape – lightweight safety option.Antihistamines (chlorphenamine / “Piriton”) – especially if your dog has known allergies (4mg tablet for medium/large dogs, ½ tablet for small dogs/cats; expect drowsiness as a side effect).Water bottle – for flushing wounds, burns, or helping with heat stroke.(Optional for hikes/desert walks: extra antihistamines, spare bandage, tick hook.)Special Additions / Situational ItemsChronic condition meds – e.g., seizure medication for epileptic dogs.Burn care – clean water only (never dressings).Heatstroke care – water, shade, portable fan, cooling jacket/towel (used correctly).Allergy-prone pets – antihistamines carried at all times.Snake bite care – saline for flushing, never tourniquets.Relevant links mentioned in the episode:Dr Well Website, InstagramTimestamps to relevant points within the episode:[00:00]-Intro [02:04]- Understanding Veterinary Specializations[03:57]- Emergency Preparedness for Pets[10:03]- Essential Items for Pet Emergency Kits[15:59]- First Aid Skills Every Pet Parent Should Know[23:40]- Essential First Aid Techniques for Pets[25:31]- Handling Toxic Ingestions and Heat Stroke[29:47]- Real-Life Emergency Scenarios and Preparedness[31:31]- Understanding Snake Bites and Prevention[33:34]- Customizing First Aid Kits for Different Pets[36:39]- When to Seek Veterinary Help[40:01]- Routine Veterinary Care and Vaccination Schedules

In this episode of Tails and Tones, host Mariska Nell speaks with Yvonne Senden, the founder of Doggie Adventures, about her journey in creating a dog-friendly community in the UAE. They discuss the challenges of dog ownership in the region, the importance of public etiquette, and the exciting initiatives like Leash Explorer and WoofStock that promote responsible pet ownership and community engagement. Yvonne shares her insights on how to make the UAE more dog-friendly and the responsibilities that come with being a dog owner.Where can you find Yvonne?Doggie Adventures (Website, Instagram, Youtube)Leash Explorer (Website, Instagram)WoofStock (Website, Instagram)Takeaways:Doggie Adventures was founded to create a better life for dogs in the UAE.Public etiquette is crucial for responsible dog ownership.Leash Explorer offers exciting adventures for dogs and their owners.WoofStock is a festival dedicated to dogs and their well-being.Community engagement is key to making the UAE more dog-friendly.Dog owners must respect public spaces and other people's comfort.Education about dog behavior is essential for both owners and the community.Creating a directory of dog-friendly places helps pet owners navigate the UAE.Yvonne emphasizes the importance of responsible pet ownership.Future initiatives aim to enhance the dog-friendly community in the UAE.Timestamps to relevant points within the episode:[00:00]- Introduction to Yvonne and Doggie Adventures[03:23]- The Journey of Doggie Adventures[06:04]- Challenges of Dog Ownership in the UAE[08:50]- Public Etiquette and Responsibility of Dog Owners[11:26]- Community Engagement and Advocacy for Dog-Friendly Spaces[14:19]- Navigating Dog Etiquette in Public Spaces[19:36]- Consultations and Community Engagement[20:22]- Introducing Leash Explorer[21:51]- The Annual Challenge and Activities[23:17]- Inclusivity in Dog Activities[25:29]- Planning Hikes for All Dogs[27:27]- Creating Wolf Stock: A Dog Festival[31:48]- Making Communities Dog-Friendly[35:46]- Future Plans and Community Feedback[38:16]- The Power of One: Inspiring Change Through Love[39:07]- Creating Welcoming Spaces for Dogs and Humans