Episodes

  • In this episode, Killian and Ciara Sill from Silly Hounds discuss essential tips for new puppy owners, covering everything from preparing your home and establishing routines to the importance of socialisation and understanding puppy behaviour. They emphasise the significance of setting up a safe environment, the need for consistent training, and the value of having a support network of professionals to guide you through the challenges of puppy ownership.

    Find out more about Silly Hounds :

    Instagram: @sillyhoundscork

    Website: www.sillyhounds.ie

    Find out more about Ruby Reese:

    Instagram: @rubyreeseofficial

    Website: www.ruby-reese.com

    Please Note: In the interest of keeping episodes conversational and entertaining we will make broad generalisations that may not reflect you, your situation or your pet. If you have any concerns please consult a certified professional who will assess your individual needs.

    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction to Puppy Preparation

    04:51 Setting Up Your Home for a New Puppy

    07:42 First Days with Your Puppy

    10:42 Establishing Routines and Toilet Training

    13:41 Understanding Puppy Sleep Needs

    16:37 The Importance of Socialisation

    19:51 Socialisation Strategies for Puppies

    23:47 Navigating Vaccinations and Socialisation

    26:42 Common Mistakes in Puppy Training

    28:50 The Importance of Play in Puppy Development

    33:19 When to Seek Professional Training

    36:31 Creating a Support System for New Puppy Owners

    38:13 Outro

  • In this conversation, Nicole Hanniffy, a pet dog trainer, discusses the importance of muzzle training for dogs with Killian. She emphasises that muzzles are not just for aggressive dogs but are essential for safety in various situations, including vet visits and public outings. Nicole addresses the stigma associated with muzzles and highlights the need for education to change perceptions. She provides practical advice on finding the right muzzle fit, training techniques, and guidelines for safe muzzle use. The conversation aims to empower dog owners to incorporate muzzle training into their pet care routines, ensuring a safer and more enjoyable experience for both dogs and their owners.

    Find out more about 4 Furry Paws Galway :

    Instagram: @4furrypawsgalway

    Website: https://www.4furrypawsgalway.com/

    Find out more about Ruby Reese:

    Instagram: @rubyreeseofficial

    Website: www.ruby-reese.com

    Please Note: In the interest of keeping episodes conversational and entertaining we will make broad generalisations that may not reflect you, your situation or your pet. If you have any concerns please consult a certified professional who will assess your individual needs.

    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction to Muzzle Training

    07:06 Muzzles as a Safety Tool

    09:00 Addressing Stigma Around Muzzles

    11:28 Changing Perceptions of Muzzles

    13:22 Finding the Right Muzzle Fit

    20:09 Training Your Dog to Wear a Muzzle

    28:04 Guidelines for Muzzle Use

    30:10 Misconceptions About Muzzles

    32:31 Outro

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  • In this conversation, Caroline and Killian discuss Hoopers, a low-impact dog sport that is accessible to dogs of all ages and fitness levels. They explore the benefits of Hoopers for joint health, the inclusivity of the sport, and the personal journey of Caroline as a trainer. The discussion also covers training techniques, engagement strategies, and how to get started with Hoopers, making it a comprehensive guide for dog owners interested in this activity.

    Find out more about Caroline and Dogsercise :

    Instagram: @dogsercise.ie

    Website: https://dogsercise.ie/

    Find out more about Ruby Reese:

    Instagram: @rubyreeseofficial

    Website: www.ruby-reese.com

    Please Note: In the interest of keeping episodes conversational and entertaining we will make broad generalisations that may not reflect you, your situation or your pet. If you have any concerns please consult a certified professional who will assess your individual needs.

    00:00 Intro

    07:04 What is Hoopers?

    08:55 Low-Impact and Designed for All Dogs

    11:14 Handling and Communication

    13:25 Suitability for Dogs with Musculoskeletal Issues

    15:20 Age and Fitness Level Considerations

    17:23 Benefits of Hoopers Training

    19:08 Building a Strong Relationship

    21:37 Availability of Hoopers in Ireland

    25:14 Training Tips and Tricks

    27:48 Engaging and Fun Training Sessions

    30:51 Getting Started in Hoopers

    32:35 Outro

  • In this episode, Deirdre and Killian discuss osteoarthritis in dogs, exploring what it is, its prevalence, and impact on joint health. They delve into the signs and symptoms to look for, the importance of early diagnosis, and the multidisciplinary approach to treatment. Deirdre emphasises the significance of weight management, environmental adjustments, and appropriate exercise to help dogs live fulfilling lives despite the condition. The conversation highlights the need for pet owners to be proactive in managing their dogs' health and the importance of a supportive care team.

    Find out more about Pet Paws Physio :

    Instagram: @petpawsphysio

    Website: https://petpawsphysio.ie/

    Find out more about Ruby Reese:

    Instagram: @rubyreeseofficial

    Website: www.ruby-reese.com

    Please Note: In the interest of keeping episodes conversational and entertaining we will make broad generalisations that may not reflect you, your situation or your pet. If you have any concerns please consult a certified professional who will assess your individual needs.


    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction to Osteoarthritis in Dogs

    03:53 Understanding Osteoarthritis: Definition and Impact

    07:52 The Prevalence of Osteoarthritis in Dogs

    11:49 Identifying Risk Factors and Breeds Prone to Osteoarthritis

    13:49 Recognising Signs and Symptoms of Osteoarthritis

    17:55 Diagnosis of Osteoarthritis: What to Expect

    22:45 Multidisciplinary Approach to Treatment

    28:43 Managing Osteoarthritis: Lifestyle and Exercise

    37:57 Preventing Osteoarthritis: Proactive Measures

    43:56 Conclusion: Living Well with Osteoarthritis

    47:15 Outro and Outlook to next episode

  • In this week's episode, Lea and Killian delve into the complexities of separation anxiety in dogs, exploring its causes, effects, and management strategies. We discuss the importance of understanding canine behaviour, the impact of stress on dogs, and the misconceptions surrounding separation anxiety. Lea emphasises the need for a holistic approach to treatment, including the role of routine, environmental factors, and the potential use of medication. The conversation highlights the emotional toll on both dogs and their owners, advocating for patience and commitment in the recovery process.

    Find out more about Lea and Harmony 4 Paws :

    Instagram: @harmony4paws_dog_training

    Website: dog-training.ie

    Find out more about Ruby Reese:

    Instagram: @rubyreeseofficial

    Website: ruby-reese.com

    Please Note:In the interest of keeping episodes conversational and entertaining we will make broad generalisations that may not reflect you, your situation or your pet. If you have any concerns please consult a certified professional who will assess your individual needs.

    Chapters

    00:00 Intro

    00:17 The Impact of Cortisol and Stress on Humans and Dogs

    04:56 Understanding Separation Anxiety in Dogs

    10:16 Nature vs. Nurture: The Causes of Separation Anxiety

    15:17 Misconceptions About Separation Anxiety

    18:06 Impact of Separation Anxiety on Owners

    23:17 The Long Road to Recovery

    26:19 Preventing Separation Anxiety in Puppies

    28:16 Managing Destructive Behaviour

    32:16 The Role of Medication and Supplements

    38:04 Advice for Busy Dog Owners

    42:53 Engagement and Community Building

  • In this week's episode, Vanessa and Killian explore the fascinating connection between dogs and dolphins, discussing their behaviours, intelligence, and the unique bonds they form with humans. Vanessa shares her personal experiences with dolphins, particularly as a free-diver and marine biologist, highlighting their playful nature and the empathy they share with dogs. The discussion also touches on the ethical considerations of human interactions with dolphins, dolphin therapy and the importance of preserving marine life, especially in our beautiful Irish waters.

    Find out more about Perfect Paws Dog Training :

    Instagram: @perfect_paws_dog_training_ire

    Find out more about Ruby Reese:

    Instagram: @rubyreeseofficial

    Website: www.ruby-reese.com

    Please Note: In the interest of keeping episodes conversational and entertaining we will make broad generalisations that may not reflect you, your situation or your pet. If you have any concerns please consult a certified professional who will assess your individual needs.


    00:00 Introduction

    09:12 The Evolutionary Connection Between Dogs and Dolphins

    14:57 Unraveling the Intelligence of Dolphins

    19:50 Dolphins' Remarkable Perception and Communication

    22:27 The Energetic Connection Between Humans, Dogs, and Dolphins

    24:09 The Incredible Senses of Dolphins

    26:56 Dolphins in the Wild vs. Captivity

    30:24 Protecting Dolphins and Dogs

    41:14 Outro

  • In this episode, Michael and Killian explore the intricacies of running small businesses in Ireland, particularly focusing on the behind-the-scenes efforts that go into organising large events like Pet Expo. We discuss the evolution of Pet Expo over the years, the challenges faced in event planning, the importance of communication with exhibitors and visitors, and the sheer scale of the event. Michael shares insights into the trends in the pet industry and memorable moments from past events, highlighting the dedication of both exhibitors and attendees.


    Pet Expo 2024 Dublin

    National Show Centre Swords

    October 19th and 20th 2024

    11am - 6pm

    Online Tickets available here

    Find out more about Pet Expo :

    Instagram: @pet_expo

    Website: www.petexpoireland.com

    Find out more about Ruby Reese:

    Instagram: @rubyreeseofficial

    Website: www.ruby-reese.com

    Please Note: In the interest of keeping episodes conversational and entertaining we will make broad generalisations that may not reflect you, your situation or your pet. If you have any concerns please consult a certified professional who will assess your individual needs.


    Chapters

    00:00 Intro

    00:16 Behind the Scenes at PetExpo

    10:52 The Evolution of PetExpo

    20:30 Event Planning and Logistics

    33:46 Engaging the Community

    40:30 Trends and Challenges in the Pet Industry

    51:13 Closing Remarks

    53:17 Outro

  • In this conversation, Anne and Killian discuss the implications of breed specific legislation (BSL) in Ireland, particularly focusing on the upcoming XL Bully ban. We explore the flaws of BSL, the misconceptions surrounding dog behaviour, and the impact of such legislation on responsible dog owners and the dogs themselves. We discuss the need for community-based solutions, education, and awareness to improve dog safety and welfare, rather than punitive measures that unfairly target certain breeds and their owners.

    Find out more about AniEd :

    Instagram: @aniedireland

    Website: www.anied.ie/

    Find out more about Dog in Society:

    Instagram: @dogs_in_society

    Statement of the ineffectiveness of BSL

    Find out more about Ruby Reese:

    Instagram: @rubyreeseofficial

    Website: www.ruby-reese.com

    Book Recommendation: “Pit Bull” by Bronwen Dickey

    Please Note: In the interest of keeping episodes conversational and entertaining we will make broad generalisations that may not reflect you, your situation or your pet. If you have any concerns please consult a certified professional who will assess your individual needs.

    00:00 Introduction to Breed Specific Legislation

    02:19 Understanding Breed Specific Legislation in Ireland

    05:12 The Impact of Media on Dog Breed Perception

    08:16 The Role of Upbringing and Training in Dog Behaviour

    11:14 The Misconception of Dangerous Breeds

    14:06 The Limitations of Breed Identification

    17:16 Behavioural Nuances in Dogs

    20:09 The Stigma Surrounding Certain Breeds

    23:13 The Effect of Legislation on Responsible Dog Owners

    26:14 The Ineffectiveness of Breed Specific Legislation

    29:10 The Societal Impact of Dog Ownership

    32:23 Alternatives to Breed Specific Legislation

    35:11 Community-Based Solutions for Dog Safety

    38:07 The Importance of Education in Dog Ownership

    41:21 The Role of Policymakers in Dog Welfare

    44:27 Conclusion and Call to Action

    58:25 Outro

  • In this week's episode, Claire Quinlan joins us to discuss the fascinating world of gundogs, exploring their history, evolution, and the differences between show lines and working lines. She emphasises the importance of understanding a gundog's needs, the challenges they may face in homes as pets, and how to choose the right breed of gundog. The conversation highlights the significance of matching a dog's energy with the owner's lifestyle and the potential for a rewarding relationship when their needs are met.

    Find out more about Snout and About Kerry :

    Instagram: @snoutandaboutkerry

    Website: https://snoutandabout.ie/

    Please Note:

    In the interest of keeping episodes conversational and entertaining we will make broad generalisations that may not reflect you, your situation or your pet. If you have any concerns please consult a certified professional who will assess your individual needs.

    00:00 Introduction

    04:28 The Origins and Evolution of Gundogs

    08:54 The Distinction Between Working Lines and Show Lines

    13:39 Training Gundogs for Other Roles and Sports

    19:20 Gundogs as Pets: Challenges and Considerations

    25:10 The Rise of Working Line Dogs in Pet Homes

    33:43 Enrichment and Fulfilling Breed-Specific Desires

    50:30 Conclusion and Outro

  • In this conversation, Killian from Little Woofers joins Killian from Ruby Reese to discuss the importance of holistic health for dogs, focusing on the often-overlooked aspect of pain and its impact on behaviour. The discussion covers various topics including the subjective nature of pain, the connection between pain and behavioural issues, signs of pain in dogs, the role of gait analysis, common conditions affecting dogs, and the importance of advocating for your dog's health. Killian emphasises the need for pet owners to observe their dogs closely and to take proactive steps in managing their health and well-being.

    Find out more about Little Woofer :

    Instagram: @littlewoofersdogtraining

    Website: www.littlewoofersdogtraining.ie

    Please Note:

    In the interest of keeping episodes conversational and entertaining we will make broad generalisations that may not reflect you, your situation or your pet. If you have any concerns please consult a certified professional who will assess your individual needs.

    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction

    05:43 Understanding Pain in Dogs: Subjectivity and Challenges

    07:43 The Link Between Pain and Behavioural Issues in Dogs

    12:25 Recognising Signs of Pain in Dogs

    14:13 Exploring the Connection Between Pain and Aggression

    23:46 Assessing Pain through Gait Analysis

    24:05 The Importance of Gait Assessment

    26:30 Understanding the Relationship Between Pain and Behaviour

    32:25 Practical Tips for Preventing and Mitigating Pain

    39:10 Being an Advocate for Your Dog's Health

    47:46 Outro

  • In this episode we are joined by Louise Griffey, grief recovery specialist, to discuss the topic of grieving the loss of a pet. We explore how grief is emotional pain and that the depth of grief experienced when losing a pet can be just as intense as losing a human. Louise emphasises that every relationship with a pet or human is unique and should not be compared. She encourages us to seek the right kind of support from safe people in your inner circle or from professionals specialising in pet loss. Louise also discusses with Killian the common emotions experienced during grief, such as guilt and regret, and suggests coping strategies, including reframing guilt and finding ways to honour and remember the pet. For friends hoping to support others, we cover how it is important to listen without judgment and criticism, and check in on the person weeks, months, and even years later. We discuss different myths around grief including the stages of grief concept as well as the myth that time alone will heal. Is it really necessary to actively process and feel the pain and how do numbing behaviours impact the healing process. We touch on the questions when is it the right time to get a new pet, how we speak to children around pet loss and where people can look to receive support.

    Find out more about Light after Loss :

    Instagram: @Lightafterloss

    Website: https://www.lightafterloss.ie/

    Please Note:

    In the interest of keeping episodes conversational and entertaining we will make broad generalisations that may not reflect you, your situation or your pet. If you have any concerns please consult a certified professional who will assess your individual needs.

    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction

    03:19 Understanding Grief and Pet Loss

    05:11 The Intensity of Grief: Comparing Pet Loss to Human Loss

    08:18 The Bond with Pets and the Difficulty of Understanding

    14:27 Finding Support During Pet Loss

    19:38 Guilt and Regret in Pet Loss

    23:45 Coping with Guilt and Regret

    27:43 Honouring and Remembering a Pet

    32:03 Supporting Someone Who Has Lost a Pet

    39:00 The Myth of the Stages of Grief

    42:42 Time Does Not Heal All Wounds

    50:00 Supporting Other Household Pets and Children

    54:34 Considering a New Pet After Loss

    58:59 Coping with the Loss of a Pet

    01:01:48 Outro

  • In this conversation, Killian and Suzi Walsh discuss the emotional lives of dogs. They explore how dogs experience emotions and the scientific evidence that supports this. They also debunk misconceptions about spoiling dogs and emphasise the importance of meeting their emotional needs. The conversation highlights the role of nature and nurture in shaping a dog's emotions and the significance of positive experiences in their daily lives. Ongoing research is focused on understanding facial expressions in dogs and their unique ability to communicate with humans.

    Find out more about Suzi and Dogbehaviour.ie:

    Instagram: @dogbehaviour.ie

    Website: dogbehaviour.ie

    Please Note:

    In the interest of keeping episodes conversational and entertaining we will make broad generalisations that may not reflect you, your situation or your pet. If you have any concerns please consult a certified professional who will assess your individual needs.

    00:00-Introduction and Overview

    05:42-Scientific Evidence of Dogs' Emotional Experiences

    11:33-Common Emotions Displayed by Dogs

    16:40-The Role of Upbringing and Environment in Shaping Dog Emotions

    21:38-Forming Emotional Bonds with Other Animals

    25:42-Processing Loss and Grief in Dogs

    28:29-Helping Dogs Cope with Negative Emotions

    31:47-The Importance of Positive Emotions in Dogs' Lives

    34:45-Dispelling the Myth of Spoiling Dogs and Behaviour Problems

    37:04-Understanding Dog Behaviour for Effective Training

    37:34-The Power of Positive Reinforcement in Dog Training

    38:18-Seeking Professional Help for Complex Behaviour Issues

    38:27-Outro

  • Caroline from Dogsercise joins the podcast this week to talk about the dog sport flyball. Flyball is a fast-paced relay race where dogs jump over hurdles, trigger a flyball box to release a ball, and retrieve the ball back over the hurdles. Caroline explains that flyball is suitable for all breeds of dogs that are healthy and socially capable. She emphasises the importance of proper training and body awareness to prevent injuries. Flyball is still relatively new in Ireland, but Caroline hopes to see more teams and competitions in the future.

    Find out more about Dogsercise :

    Instagram: @dogsercise.ie

    Website: https://dogsercise.ie/flyball/

    Please Note:

    In the interest of keeping episodes conversational and entertaining we will make broad generalisations that may not reflect you, your situation or your pet. If you have any concerns please consult a certified professional who will assess your individual needs.

    00:00-Introduction to Fly Ball

    10:34-Training and Socialisation

    15:14-Suitable Dog Breeds

    19:58-Building a Strong Bond

    28:39-Injury Prevention

    35:14-Growing Fly Ball in Ireland

    35:16-Prioritising Mental Health for Dogs

    35:45-Supporting Small Businesses

    36:14-Insights from the Irish Dog Community Survey

    36:21-Outro

  • This week, Killian and special guest Vanessa Fagan discuss the topic of finding the right fit when choosing a dog. They highlight the importance of considering factors such as lifestyle, energy levels, size, age, grooming, and maintenance requirements when selecting a dog breed. They caution against choosing a dog based solely on looks or popular trends, and emphasise the need for thorough research and understanding of the breed's characteristics. They also discuss the advantages and disadvantages of getting a puppy versus adopting an older dog. The conversation covers various topics related to dog ownership, including the importance of honesty and communication between trainers and owners, the development of the dog culture in Ireland, the behavioural characteristics of crossbreeds, the suitability of different breeds for families, the impact of work schedules on dog ownership, and the financial commitment of owning a dog. The key takeaway is that thorough research, open communication, and proper training are essential for successful dog ownership.

    Find out more about Perfect Paws Dog Training :

    Instagram: @perfect_paws_dog_training_ire

    Please Note:

    In the interest of keeping episodes conversational and entertaining we will make broad generalisations that may not reflect you, your situation or your pet. If you have any concerns please consult a certified professional who will assess your individual needs.

  • This week we speak with Petra from wellbehaved.ie all about agility for dogs. Agility is a team sport that involves a dog and a handler navigating through various obstacles. It originated in the 1970s as a form of entertainment and has since evolved into a professional sport in many countries. Some of the best-known countries for agility are Germany, Czech Republic, and Austria. In Ireland, there are multiple organisations where people can compete in agility. Any dog can participate in agility, but certain breeds are more commonly seen - a dog's physical ability and fitness is usually the more limiting factor. The benefits of agility training include strengthening the bond between the dog and handler, improving physical fitness, and enhancing obedience and behaviour. Basic equipment for agility training can be created at home, and competitions are open to the public and can be watched on platforms like YouTube.

    Find out more about Wellbehaved.ie :

    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wellbehaved.ie/

    Website: wellbehaved.ie

    Please Note:

    In the interest of keeping episodes conversational and entertaining we will make broad generalisations that may not reflect you, your situation or your pet. If you have any concerns please consult a certified professional who will assess your individual needs.

  • In this episode, Darina and Killian discuss the predatory sequence in dogs, picking up from where they left off in part 1. They explore the remaining steps of the sequence and highlight how predatory instincts are still present in out pet dogs but are expressed very differently. We learn how the instincts can be channeled and enriched in the modern world and Darina and Killian emphasise the importance of individualising enrichment activities based on each dog's preferences and needs.


    Find out more about Polaris :Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/polarisdogtraining⁠Website: ⁠https://polarisdog.training/⁠ Please Note:In the interest of keeping episodes conversational and entertaining we will make broad generalisations that may not reflect you, your situation or your pet. If you have any concerns please consult a certified professional who will assess your individual needs. 00:00-Introduction and Recap of Part 1

    03:09-Catch and Grab-Bite

    08:20-Kill-Bite and Kill

    10:21-Ways to Fulfil Predatory Needs

    13:40-Parade

    15:56-Dissection

    24:11-Consume

    26:46-Applying the Predatory Sequence in Training

    32:02-The Predatory Sequence Helps Understand Dog Behaviour

    35:10-Conclusion and Closing Remarks

  • In this conversation, Killian and Darina discuss the fascinating topic of predation and the predatory sequence in dogs. We explore the genetic instinctual need of dogs to hunt and how it originated from their ancestral cousins, wolves. We explain the different stages of the predatory sequence and discuss how certain breeds of dogs have been selectively bred for specific traits related to predation. The conversation highlights the importance of providing dogs with natural outlets to satisfy the modern remnants of their instinctual need to hunt and offers suggestions for enrichment activities. This episode explores the different stages of the predatory sequence in dogs, focusing on orienting, sight, stalk, and chase. A second episode will cover the remaining segments of the sequence.

    Find out more about Polaris :

    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/polarisdogtraining

    Website: https://polarisdog.training/

    Please Note:

    In the interest of keeping episodes conversational and entertaining we will make broad generalisations that may not reflect you, your situation or your pet. If you have any concerns please consult a certified professional who will assess your individual needs.

    00:00-Introduction and Background

    08:11-Understanding Predation and the Predatory Sequence

    11:41-Orientate

    21:33-Sight

    26:59-Stalk

    32:41-Chase

    40:04-Outlook to Part 2

  • In this episode we are joined by Andy from Fluffy Paw's Doggie Daycare in Naas to discuss the topic of socialising dogs. Andy knows first-hand the importance of socialisation for both the dogs and their humans, as it makes their lives easier and helps them navigate social events and interactions. Andy is a big fan of an individualised approach to socialisation, taking into account each dog's energy, temperament, and experiences. Andy and Killian discuss the challenges of socialising dogs during different life phases, such as the teenage phase when hormones can affect behaviour. Check out this episode for tips and insights into all things socialisation.

    Find out more about Fluffy Paws:

    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fluffypaws.ie/

    Website: https://fluffypaws.ie/

    Please Note:

    In the interest of keeping episodes conversational and entertaining we will make broad generalisations that may not reflect you, your situation or your pet. If you have any concerns please consult a certified professional who will assess your individual needs.

  • In this episode, Catherine from “Snout & About” and I dive into the topic of difficult dogs. The definition of a difficult dog is of course highly subjective and often based on the owner's expectations. We discuss how modern society has shifted its expectations for dogs and the challenges that arise from exposing them to human-created, crowded and highly stimulating environments. We explore how to identify triggers and stress in dogs, the importance of managing said stress, and the concept of a cortisol holiday. Additionally, we touch on the impact of human expectations of our dogs and of training and how to handle other people's opinions about our dogs. We wrap up the episode by discussing desensitisation techniques, the importance of building a strong foundation, and why it is important to seek the help of a professional dog trainer or behaviourist sooner than later to help you on your journey.

    Find out more about Snout & About :

    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/snoutandaboutcork/

    Website: https://snoutandabout.ie/

    Please Note:

    In the interest of keeping episodes conversational and entertaining we will make broad generalisations that may not reflect you, your situation or your pet. If you have any concerns please consult a certified professional who will assess your individual needs.

  • In this engaging episode, I had a delightful conversation with Niamh from Polite Paws about the fascinating world of cats and dogs. We delved into the importance of understanding each animal as an individual and recognising their unique responses to each other. Our discussion highlighted the distinct social behaviours, body language, and predatory instincts of cats and dogs, emphasising that understanding these differences is crucial for fostering a harmonious relationship between the two species.

    We also touched on the risks and challenges posed by free-roaming cats, emphasising the need for responsible pet ownership. Introducing cats and dogs requires a structured approach, starting with scent swapping and progressing to supervised interactions in a divided space. This gradual process helps build tolerance and a calm coexistence. Proper training and preparation are essential, with dogs being trained in behaviours like hand targeting and settling, while cats become comfortable navigating high spaces and having escape routes.

    It's generally thought to be easier to introduce a dog into a cat's home, as dogs can be trained to respect the cat's space. However, cat tests for rescue dogs are not always reliable indicators of compatibility. In cases of aggression, the safety of both animals is paramount, and seeking veterinary care and professional guidance is crucial if necessary. With careful introduction and training, cats and dogs can influence each other’s behaviours positively and even form strong bonds.

    Join us in this episode to learn valuable tips and insights on creating a peaceful and happy environment for both cats and dogs.

    Find out more about Niamh and "Polite Paws":

    Instagram: @politepawsirl

    Website: www.politepaws.ie

    Find out more about us:

    www.ruby-reese.com

    Please Note:

    In the interest of keeping episodes conversational and entertaining we will make broad generalisations that may not reflect you, your situation or your pet. If you have any concerns please consult a certified professional who will assess your individual needs.

    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction to Very First Podcast Episode

    05:40 Introduction of Topic: Cats & Dogs

    07:30 Niamh’s Background

    09:22 Choosing the Topic: Cats and Dogs

    11:25 Differences Between Cats and Dogs

    13:21 Misunderstandings and Issues Between Cats and Dogs

    16:31 Challenges of Free-Roaming Cats

    20:26 Introducing Cats and Dogs Successfully

    24:59 Preparing Dogs and Cats for Introduction

    27:37 Introducing Dogs to Cats: Step-by-Step Process

    33:28 Introducing Cats to Dogs: Building Tolerance

    35:47 The Importance of Proper Introductions for Rescue Dogs

    40:02 Handling Aggression: Ensuring Safety for All

    43:29 The Power of Influence: How Cats and Dogs Impact Each Other

    47:21 Conclusions