Welcome to Working Like Dogs

Marcie Davis on Pet Life Radio


Working LIke Dogs features podcasts about working animals. In this working animal podcast, we cover everything from how to get started as a trainer of working animals or how to acquire a working animal to how to take care of your animal companion. In these podcasts, you will learn what it means to work side by side with an animal. We cover working animals such as service dogs, guide dogs, hearing dogs, police dogs, search and rescue dogs, drug dogs, seizure dogs, military dogs, etc. In addition to dogs, we talk about working horses, elephants, pigeons, and the list goes on and on. We discuss topics such as equipment, grooming, nutrition, training, traveling with your working companion, veterinary issues, retirement, and behavior.

Our working animal podcasts include guests in every field of the working animal world. Trainers, handlers, veterinarians, working animal experts, and animal communicators give you the inside scoop on everything you’ve always wanted to know about working animals.

Episode 192 -

Coming soon


Show Notes

Episode 191 -

Coming soon


Show Notes

Episode 190 - How Many Dogs Work for the United States (U.S.) Government?

Steve Morris from the Government Accountability Office (GAO) visits with Marcie and Fenway about his office’s recent report focusing on the working conditions of Uncle Sam’s working dogs. Dozens of federal agencies employ working dogs to fulfill their missions, including Homeland Security and the Department of State. Dogs are deployed throughout the U.S. and abroad. Keeping these dogs healthy and ensuring their quality of life is paramount and this recent report suggests that federal agencies need to do a better job addressing the health and welfare of their working dogs.

Listen to Episode #190 Now:

Show Notes

Episode 189 - Extending the Lifespan of Our Dogs

Marcie and Fenway welcome Dr. Brennen McKenzie to the show to learn about his groundbreaking research with Loyal for Dogs on medical treatments that will potentially expand the lifespan of large breed dogs. The concept of doubling dogs’ current lifespan is no longer science fiction. It is becoming a scientific fact! Dr. McKenzie talks about the hormonal changes identified in large breed dogs and how lifechanging drugs may soon be available to address the accumulation of the harmful effects of aging and substantially extend our dogs’ lives. He shares information about what you can do right now to keep your dog healthy for longer. And, Dr. McKenzie discusses the clinical trials currently underway and how you and your dog might be able to participate.


Show Notes

Episode 188 - A Dog’s Devotion: True Adventures of a K9 Search and Rescue Team

Suzanne Elshult, K9 search and rescue professional volunteer, and her K9 Keb stop by to visit with Marcie and Fenway about their many intense search and rescue missions, adventures and new book, A Dog’s Devotion: True Adventures of a K9 Search and Rescue Team. Suzanne discusses the active crime scenes, wilderness, avalanches, mudslides, and other dangerous terrains she and her dogs traverse to find missing individuals or remains. She shares information about the different types of search and rescue trainings, including the fascinating historical training, that ensured her and her K9 search and rescue dogs’ success in the field. Suzanne graciously provides practical insights into how you too can become a sought-after search and rescue dog handler.


Show Notes

Episode 187 - Rescued by Ruby

Executive Producers SQuire Rushnell and Louise Duart Rushnell stopped by to talk with Marcie and Fenway about their upcoming Netflix feature movie, Rescued by Ruby which tells the remarkable TRUE STORY of a shelter dog that was saved from being put down, made history by becoming the first shelter dog to earn a spot on the Rhode Island State Police K9 unit, and then went on to make a rescue so incredible, and unlikely, that it earned Ruby the honor of being named as the nation’s “Search and Rescue Dog of the Year.” You don’t want to miss one inspirational and heartwarming moment of this conversation!


Show Notes

Episode 186 - Transforming Trauma

Dr. Philip Tedeschi, Director Emeritus and Founder of the University of Denver’s Institute for Human-Animal Connection and co-author of the new book Transforming Trauma Resilience and Healing Through Our Connections with Animals, visits with Marcie and Fenway and discusses the power of animal-assisted interventions. Dr. Tedeschi describes the pioneering and innovative ways canines support humans through trauma recovery, isolation, and loneliness.


Show Notes

Episode 185 - Facility Dogs – Supporting Children

Dr. David Crenshaw, Clinical Director of the Children’s Home of Poughkeepsie, stops by to talk with Marcie and Lovey about the many ways highly-trained facility dogs are supporting children and youth who have experienced trauma. Dr. Crenshaw shares his experiences and how it all began with a canine named Rosey. Rosey, trained by Educated Canines Assisting Disabilities, was the first dog to comfort a witness in a criminal trial in New York State. Dr. Crenshaw discusses the myriad of ways that facility dogs are serving young people today in all types of criminal justice and therapeutic environments.


Show Notes

Episode 184 - Pure Love!

Carol-Ann Doyle, Paws With a Cause service dog handler, visits with Marcie and Lovey about the joys and realities of being partnered with a service dog. Carol-Ann shares personal stories and experiences about all of her service dogs – Cal, Breeze, and Winnie – and how each of these self-less canines contributes to her quality of life.


Show Notes

Episode 183 - Pet Partners and National Therapy Animal Day

Ashley Drew, National Director, Special Events, at Pet Partners drops by to talk with Marcie and Lovey about the fun of becoming a registered Pet Partner volunteer team in the United States or in 15 countries around the world! She announces lots of exciting opportunities for you to join in on the celebration of this year’s National Therapy Animal Day Ashley dishes on the types of animal species that can participate in Pet Partners’ training and creative ways you and your pet can volunteer in your community!


Show Notes

Episode 182 - K-9 Officers’ and Memorial Hermann Life Flight®

George Tarver III and Rudy Cabrera stop by to visit with Marcie and Lovey about Houston’s Memorial Hermann Life Flight®’s new K9-Casualty Care Course (K9-CCC) and Transportation Service.  This innovative Life Flight program is the first air ambulance service in the United States to provide training, treatment and transportation for injured K9 officers.


Show Notes

Episode 181 - Guiding Eyes for the Blind

What a pleasure to visit with Andrea Martine, a Guide Dog Mobility Instructor from Guiding Eye’s for the Blind based in Yorktown Heights, New York, about the innovative ways they are training canines to support people who are blind and deaf/blind. Andrea’s enthusiasm for her work is infectious as she shares how Guiding Eye’s gets to know each person and their specific needs and how they can match the perfect dog to their needs and interests. Their graduate teams live exhilarating lives as runners, travelers, entrepreneurs and leaders in many fields! Andrea also tells us about her personal journey to become an advanced trainer and how you can you can create your path.


Show Notes

Episode 180 - 4 Paws for Ability!

Karen Shirk, Founder of 4 Paws for Ability and Ericha Flateau, proud mom of Austin and his 4 Paws for Ability dog, Paris, visit with Marcie and Lovey about 4 Paws for Ability--a leading service dog organization. Karen shares her own personal challenges that led her to creating 4 Paws, an organization that specializes in placing dogs with children with disabilities and veterans who have lost use of limbs or hearing who might otherwise not be able to realize their dream of being partnered with a service dog. Karen also tells us about 4 Paws for Ability’s fortuitous participation in Netflix’s popular documentary, Dogs.


Show Notes

Episode 179 - Legendary Dog Show Broadcaster David Frei

David Frei, the expert analyst on NBC’s National Dog Show broadcast every year on Thanksgiving, stops in to chat with Marcie and Lovey about the 2020 show and the upcoming National Dog Show Therapy Dog Symposium at Rowan University. David has been an advocate for service dogs and therapy dogs for decades. His experiences and heartwarming stories are endless! The New York Times called him “…one of the most famous human beings in the dog universe...”


Show Notes

Episode 178 - Making the Connection – The Clothier Way

International renowned trainer and New York Times best-selling author, Suzanne Clothier visits with Marcie and Lovey about what we can learn from our dogs and how we can better communicate with them. She talks about how to deeply connect with our canine partners through her Relationship Centered Training™ approach. She offers sage advice for people who want to self-train their own service dog and to seasoned guide and service dogs handlers who want to deepen their authentic connection with their canine partners. You won’t want to miss a second of Suzanne’s valuable insights and guidance!


Show Notes

Episode 177 - Cutest Working Canine

Kajla, a Transportation Security Administration (TSA) explosive detection canine who works at Daniel K. Inouye International Airport in Honolulu, Hawaii, and her handler, Penny, along with Lorie Dankers, TSA Spokesperson, joined Marcie and Lovey to talk about Kajla being crowned TSA’s Cutest Canine.


Show Notes

Episode 176 - Caesar the No Drama Llama

Caesar, the celebrity No Drama Llama and his handler, Larry McCool, dropped by for a chat with Marcie and Lovey about the high profile work they’ve been doing at the recent protests in Portland, Oregon and other major gatherings. This 6-year-old Argentine grant champion show llama works tirelessly as a therapy llama and “llamactivist.” Listen in as Larry talks about their adventures and how Caesar offers endless love and emotional-support hugs to everyone he meets. 


Show Notes

Episode 175 - Guiding Emily

Best-selling author Barbara Hinske stopped by to visit with Marcie and Lovey about her newly released book, Guiding Emily. The first book in her new series about a woman who is blind, Emily Maine, and her guide dog, Garth. Barbara shares how a visit to the Foundation for Blind Children ignited her passion to raise awareness for people who are blind and their guide dogs.


Show Notes

Episode 174 - Puppies Behind Bars

Puppies Behind Bars President and Founder Gloria Gilbert Stoga visits with Marcie and Lovey about their extraordinary program that provides service dogs for wounded veterans and first responders as well as explosive-detection canines for law enforcement. Based in the heart of New York City, Puppies Behind Bars works with carefully selected inmates in six prisons throughout New York and New Jersey. Get your tissues ready as Gloria talks about this agile program and the impact these incredible canines have on the inmates who raise them and the veterans and first responders who become their lifelong human partners. 


Show Notes

Episode 173 - Paws and Breathe!

Co-founder and leading service dog trainer Lu Picard from ECAD (Educated Canines Assisting with Disabilities), and professor and medical health care expert Joanne Singleton, PhD, from Pace University stop in talk about their groundbreaking new programs, Paws and Breathe and Canines Assisting in Health. Lu and Joanne give Marcie and Lovey the inside scoop on how these programs were created, how they are impacting stress relief for dogs and their handlers, and how they are changing the way medical professionals interact with people with disabilities and their service dogs. Lu also shares some of the exciting work ECAD dogs are doing throughout the country. Listen in to find out how you and your dog can sign up for one of their free online Paws and Breathe classes


Show Notes

Episode 172 - Dog is Love!

Just when you thought you couldn’t love your dog more, Clive D. L. Wynne, Ph.D., the founding director of the Canine Science Collaboratory at Arizona State University, talks with Marcie and Lovey about his new book, Dog is Love: Why and How Your Dog Loves You.   Dr. Wynne shares fascinating insights about how dogs, especially working dogs, really care about humans and have a deep desire to help. He talks about the incredible mutation of three genes that occurred in the dog’s journey from wolf to dog that is responsible for their exceptional love and friendliness toward humans. His research and new book are captivating!


Show Notes

Episode 171 - No Ordinary Dog

Will Chesney, former United States Navy SEAL and dog handler, visits with Marcie and Lovey about his new book, No Ordinary Dog.  Will talks candidly about his canine partner, Cairo, and the perilous work they did together as Navy SEALS. He also shares insights about their ultimate mission in 2011, Operation Neptune Spear, which resulted in the death of Osama bin Laden. Will and Cairo are authentic, self-sacrificing American heroes!


Show Notes

Episode 170 - To Be Of Service

Academy Award nominee Josh Aronson stops by to visit with Marcie and Lovey about his new documentary, To Be Of Service Josh wrote, directed and produced this powerful film that explores the complex stories of veterans with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and the impeccably trained service dogs they're partnered with. This film reveals the magic bullet these dogs can be to veterans who are experiencing debilitating PTSD. Josh also talks about the Paws Act legislative bill that would mandate that the VA pay for services dogs for veterans with PTSD. He also shares a special story about his experience working with Jon Bon Jovi who wrote the film’s original song, “Unbroken."


Show Notes

Episode 169 - Pack Your Bags!

Marcie and Lovey welcome Christine (Chris) Goodier, travel writer and co-author of the new book, Traveling With Service Animals: By Air, Road, Rail, and Ship Across America, and her black Labrador, hearing dog Raylene, to the show. Chris shares practical tips and wisdom to prepare you for traveling confidently with your assistance dog. She and her co-author, Henry Kisor, have created a practical guidebook chock-full of in-depth travel information, personal experiences and guidance. Chris tells us everything from what to pack to how to prepare for any situation in the air, on the road, riding the rails, and even sailing on a ship! If you want to travel with your service animal, you don’t want to miss this show!


Show Notes

Episode 168 - Service Dog Support

Staci Woodruff, Staff Vice President of Medicare Product Management and Operations for Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield, and her Great Dane mobility service dog, Merle, join Marcie and Lovey to talk about the new Anthem Medicare Advantage supplemental benefits. These groundbreaking benefits will provide service dog support to eligible Medicare Advantage recipients in 2020. Staci gives us the details about this innovative program and how you can apply. She also talks about how Merle has impacted her life!


Show Notes

Episode 167 - Mobility Dogs

Gail Harbott and her assistance dog, Coda, talk with Marcie and Lovey about Gail's exciting new position as Client Ambassador for Mobility Dogs Her enthusiasm is contagious as she talks about the wonderful work she and Mobility Dogs are doing to transform the lives of people with disabilities in New Zealand. Gail also shares some of the inspiring things that Coda performs for her every day that enable her to live a more independent and productive life.


Show Notes

Episode 166 - Tails of Valor

Emmy Award-nominated Kel Mitchell, host of the CBS Dream Team’s Tail of Valor stops by to visit with Marcie and Lovey about Tails of Valor. Kel talks about his experiences on the show with working dogs and working animals. He also discusses some of the many projects he has in the works such as his starring role as Double G on Nickelodeon’s series Game Shakers and voice work as T-Bone in Clifford the Big Red Dog.


Show Notes

Episode 165 - Making the World a Safer Place

Paul Hammond has worked all over the world combatting domestic and international terrorism and training K9s to serve alongside their military and private security handlers as indispensable assets in that fight Paul talks with Marcie and Lovey about the principled training these dogs and their handlers receive, the K9s acute olfactory abilities and how they are used to detect body-worn explosives on a moving target. These multi-disciplined K9 teams are trained to be deployed in settings ranging from concert venues to airports throughout the world. Paul also discusses their innovative partnership with Auburn University and their ability to breed these high-performing K9s.


Show Notes

Episode 164 - The Dog in the Dentist Chair!

Author, Peggy Frezon drops by Working Like Dogs to visit with Marcie and Lovey about her newest book, The Dog in the Dentist Chair: And Other True Stories of Animals Who Help, Comfort, and Love Kids. Peggy talks about the incredible dogs, miniature horses, cats, doves, guinea pigs, and other loving critters that she highlights in this book. She also talks about the work she and her husband do to rescue senior Golden Retrievers and the rewarding therapy work they are now doing with these dogs.


Show Notes

Episode 163 - Here Comes the Judge!

Marcie and Lovey welcome the Honorable Chief Judge Kim McGinnis and her Courthouse Facility Dog, Kiki, from the Pueblo of Pojoaque Tribal Court located north of Santa Fe, New Mexico. Judge McGinnis is the first and only judge in a tribal court to utilize a Courthouse Facility Dog. Kiki is a yellow lab trained by Assistance Dogs of the West dogs to work in criminal justice settings by helping to foster a safer and more comfortable environment for children and adults. Judge McGinnis talks about the work Kiki does each day in court in such programs as the Path to Wellness Court. She also shares her journey in becoming Kiki’s handler and the ways Kiki is impacting the people served by the court and the court’s staff.


Show Notes

Episode 162 - Gentle Carousel Miniature Therapy Horses and Their Canine Guardians

Debbie Garcia-Bengochea stops back by to talk with Marcie and Lovey about the wonderful work that Gentle Carousel Miniature Therapy Horses have been doing since her last visit. She gives us an update on the adults and children these tiny teams are serving at hospitals, hospice and other programs. She also tells us about the enchanting Maremma sheepdogs that work alongside these mini therapy horses and the special bond they have developed with the herd. 


Show Notes

Episode 161 - Physical Therapists’ Guide Dog Research

Ground-breaking researchers, Dr. Teresa Conner-Kerr and Dr. Sue Ann Kalish from the University of North Georgia College of Health Sciences and Professions visit with Marcie and Lovey about the work they are doing to study guide dogs and their human partners with visual impairments. Listen in as they talk about some of their major research findings, how you can participate in their study and their plans for future work. Their research findings will be a game changer in the guide dog world, as it impacts how humans navigate the world with their guide dog.


Show Notes

Episode 160 - Dogs, the Netflix Documentary

Academy award-winning producer, Glen Zipper stops by to talk with Marcie and Lovey about the global Netflix documentary sensation Dogs. Glen shares his personal story of how his adopted dog, Anthony, changed his life from being a prosecuting attorney to an Oscar winning producer. Glen gives us some personal and behind the scene insights into this documentary that beautifully captures the bond between dogs and humans. He talks about the different challenges, the different characters and the different geography that combine to give us this cinematic masterpiece. Also, Glen talks about each of the six episodes and gives us updates on some of our favorite stars. Dogs is a must see for any dog lover!


Show Notes

Episode 159 - Electronic Detection Dogs

Did you know there are dogs that can detect electronic devices? Anthony Maes, Special Agent in Charge with the New Mexico Attorney General’s Office and Commander of the New Mexico Internet Crimes Against Children and Human Trafficking Task Forces, visits with Marcie and Lovey about their new canine staff member, Joey. Joey is a uniquely trained Labrador Retriever who can sniff out electronic storage devices making him a tremendous asset when a suspect may have hid child pornography or other digital evidence. Anthony even tells us how Joey is connected to the conviction of Jared Fogle, the famous Subway foot-long sandwich pitchman and pedophile who is now in federal prison.


Show Notes

Episode 158 - Therapy Dogs and Therapy Animals

Have you ever thought your dog or other beloved animal would be an amazing therapy animal? Ann Howie, leading expert in animal-assisted therapy and animal-assisted interactions, stops by to talk with Marcie and Lovey about how we can determine if our dogs or other animals would succeed at therapy work. She explains the differences between animal-assisted therapy and animal-assisted interactions. She also provides valuable tips and helpful information from her book, Teaming With Your Therapy Dog, about how you can be more supportive and proactive as a therapy dog handler.


Show Notes

Episode 157 - Canine Stress

Dr. James Ha renowned animal behaviorist and researcher, visits with Marcie and Lovey about his research and new book Dog Behavior: Modern Science and Our Canine Behaviors. Dr. Ha talks candidly about canine stress in working dogs and how to identify it and prevent it. He discusses the physiology of stress, positive vs. negative stress, and common causes and indicators. Every dog handler needs to hear this valuable and innovative information!


Show Notes

Episode 156 - SearchDog The Movie

Mary Healey Jamiel, Director of the award-winning documentary, SEARCHDOG drops in to talk with Marcie and Lovey about this exciting new film that highlights humans and canines working together to accomplish heroic acts. Mary gives us a behind-the-scenes look into the canine talent and intelligence that she chronicled. She also talks about the movie’s renowned search and rescue specialist, Matthew Zarrella, and how she obtained footage during real-time missing person K9 searches. We guarantee you will be inspired!


Show Notes

Episode 155 - K-9 Commando Dogs

Jeff Franklin visits with Marcie and Lovey about his distinguished career as a military and police dog trainer and the exhilarating new book about him written by Matthew Duffy, Franklin: The Man Behind the United States Commando Dogs. Jeff gives us a glimpse into the incredible lives these canine warriors are leading in the field to keep our country safe. He talks about how these military dogs work with Special Operations Forces groups to perform such awe-inspiring tasks as jumping out of airplanes, boats and helicopters. But that's just one part of these elite canines’ regular work day.  Listen in to learn more!


Show Notes

Episode 154 - Gentle Carousel Miniature Therapy Horses

In Part 2 in our series on Miniature Horses, listen in as Debbie Garcia-Bengochea talks about how the all-volunteer, charity Gentle Carousel Miniature Therapy Horses that serves over 25,000 adults and children annually. Teams of tiny horses visit libraries, hospitals and hospice programs to work with individuals, families, veterans and first responders. These specially trained pint-sized equines have responded to countless traumatic events including Sandy Hook Elementary School, the Pulse Nightclub and many other mass incidents and natural disasters. Debbie gives us a fascinating “behind the scenes” look into their off-duty natural habitat and how herd leaders guide them in their development and socialization as successful therapy horses.


Show Notes

Episode 153 - Honey – the Miniature Horse Service Animal

In Part 1 in our series on Miniature Horses, Jessica Wellman and her miniature horse service animal, Honey join Marcie and Lovey to talk about their human/equine working relationship. Jessica talks candidly about how Honey is trained to assist her in living more independently with her disability. She also discusses the unique differences between a canine and a miniature horse and what you need to think about if you’re considering a miniature horse as your service animal.


Show Notes

Episode 152 - Pick of the Litter

Emmy award-winning filmmaker, Don Hardy, stops by to talk with Marcie and Lovey about his and Dana Nachman’s new film, Pick of the Litter. The film follows a litter of Guide Dogs for the Blind puppies on a two-year odyssey that spans from the moment they’re born until they begin their careers as guide dogs. Finally, the mysterious and magical true story of how a puppy becomes an assistance dog has been captured on film. Lovey and I can’t wait to see this movie!


Show Notes

Episode 151 - FBI Crisis Response Canines

Did you know that the FBI has Crisis Response Canines, Wally and Giovanni as part of their Victim Services Division? They, along with their human handlers, have responded to the mass terrorist shooting in San Bernardino, California and the Pulse Nightclub in Orlando, Florida. Listen in as Wally’s handler, Staci Beers, talks about the work she and Wally are doing and the impact Wally is having on the victims the FBI serves.


Show Notes

Episode 150 - Who Knew Game Wardens Have Police K-9s?

Game Warden Lance Hockett with the Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks and Tourism and his police K-9, Kodak, visit with Marcie and Lovey about their incredible daily work. Game Warden Hockett talks about how he and Kodak were trained to track humans, animals, fowl, and fish, as well as to find inanimate objects like guns, casings, gun powder and residue, cell phones and a whole lot more. Kodak was trained to perform evidence recovery and wildlife detection, and Game Warden Hockett shares some of the cases they have solved as a team, sometimes in coordination with other law enforcement agencies.  


Show Notes

Episode 149 - The Critters and Me

Laura Moore’s mission is to educate animal lovers on ways to enrich and prolong their animals’ lives. She shares her valuable knowledge about nutrition, homeopathic and alternative treatments and expertise with Marcie and Lovey. She also provides helpful tips so that you can do everything you can to maintain good physical health for your working dog.


Show Notes

Episode 148 - Divine Dog Wisdom

Barbara (Barb) Horn and Randy Crutcher creators of the Divine Dog Wisdom cards and guidebook, stop by to visit with Marcie and Lovey. Listen in as they talk about how they were inspired to create the 62-card deck of dog wisdom and how you can use these cards to have a laugh, or to go a little deeper into seeing, valuing, and appreciating the lessons life puts before you. Barb and Randy explain how using divination cards taps into an ancient, time-honored way to connect with our spirit guides, and in the case of Divine Dog Wisdom cards, get some guidance from our beloved canines!


Show Notes

Episode 147 - U.S. Military Dogs with a Mission

Kennel Master Roberto Garcia talks with Marcie and Lovey about the military working dogs housed at Pensacola Naval Air Station. It is one of the busiest Navy kennels in the country and is located at the first permanent naval air station, established in 1914 on the Florida Gulf Coast. Kennel Master Garcia talks about the types of prestigious working dogs the Navy deploys and the advanced training these dogs receive to prepare them for their dangerous missions. He also shares with us what happens to these dogs when they retire from active duty.


Show Notes

Episode 146 - Sgt. Stubby: An American Hero

Richard Lanni, Sgt. Stubby: An American Hero Director, Writer and Executive Producer, visits with Marcie and Lovey about his new intergenerational film about canine courage and the human animal bond. Stubby is a homeless mutt who embarks on an adventure with his new found friend, Robert Conroy, to become America’s most decorated dog. Set during World War I, this animated feature is based on the true story of a mutt that wandered off the streets of New Haven, Connecticut, and into the care of Robert Conroy (voice of Logan Lerman), an enlisted man who was then training with the 102nd Infantry Regiment.


Show Notes

Episode 145 - Canine Fitness - FitPAWS!

Did you know that working dogs often have the risks associated with highly competitive canine athletes and you can reduce their risks of injuries by having a consistent physical training program? Canine conditioning and fitness experts, Maureen Stevens and Stefanie Walter stop by to talk with Marcie and Lovey about canine fitness, conditioning, and rehabilitation. Listen in to hear how you can maintain your dog’s core strength for increased performance and injury prevention. FitPAWs can be fun for both you and your working dog!


Show Notes

Episode 144 - Behind the Scenes with NBC TODAY Show’s “Puppy with a Purpose” – Charlie

America’s VetDogs’ trainers, Olivia Poff and Katie Ruiz, visit with Marcie and Lovey about their incredible experience working with NBC TODAY Show’s "puppy with a purpose," Charlie. They give us behind the scenes info about Charlie’s appearances on NBC's TODAY morning show, his advanced training as a future service dog, and how he was matched with his human partner, retired United States Air Force Veteran and Combat Photographer, Stacy Pearsall. Olivia and Katie also share with us how someone can access their life-changing services or become a part of their inspiring puppy raising team!


Show Notes

Episode 143 - Dogs in Public – Who’s Who and What’s What

Do you know the difference between a service animal, an emotional support animal, a therapy dog, and a pet? Denise Dumesnil and Shana Aldahl stop by to talk with Marcie and Lovey about their awesome project that answered these questions for domestic violence shelters and resulted in the “Model Guideline Service Animals and Emotional Support Animals in Domestic Violence Programs and Shelters” They provide valuable information for anyone who deals with the public and may encounter an individual with a dog or other type of animal. They define what you can and cannot ask a person, which types of dogs or animals have public access rights and which types of dogs or animals do not, and much more. It’s everything you’ve always wanted to know but weren’t sure who to ask! And, they tell you about how you can access a free copy of the Model Guideline and the accompanying video!


Show Notes

Episode 142 - NBC Today Show’s Puppy with a Purpose – America’s VetDogs’ Charlie

America’s VetDogs’ puppy with a purpose, Charlie, has made regular appearances for 15 months on NBC's TODAY morning show as he grew and trained to become a service dog. Now Charlie, and his new veteran partner, Stacy Pearsall, are here to talk with Marcie and Lovey about their exciting new life together. Listen in as Stacy, a retired United States Air Force Veteran and Combat Photographer, talks about how she and Charlie were partnered and all of the amazing tasks Charlie performs to enable her to be independent and live a joyful life! Stacy talks about the Veteran’s Portrait Project and provides sage advice to veterans who may be thinking about getting a service dog.  


Show Notes

Episode 141 - Pacific Assistance Dogs Society (PADS)

Laura Watamanuk, Executive Director of Pacific Assistance Dogs Society (PADS), stops by to visit with Marcie and Lovey about the incredible dogs they are training for an array of jobs. Laura gives you a detailed, insider’s glimpse into PADS' methodical training and placement process. PADS’ dogs are trained to assist people with disabilities other than blindness, and include hearing dogs and service dogs. PADS also trains facility dogs for jobs in the victim services field. Laura shares some exciting news about PADS’ new program for veterans that will be launched in 2018.


Show Notes

Episode 140 - The Best and The Bravest!

Marcie and Lovey welcome April Gettys from Midnight Sun Service Dogs and Major John Romspert and Major Brock Roden from the Alaska National Guard’s 212th Rescue Squadron to the show to talk about the phenomenal work they are doing with the Squadron’s first facility dog, TOML (That Others Might Live). Majors Romspert and Roden and April talk candidly about the amazing work TOML is doing in Alaska and abroad to support the mental and spiritual welfare of these high-performing military pararescue and support professionals who are called on to serve our nation in highly stressful and life-threatening situations. You’ll be on the edge of your seat as you listen to them describe a typical work day and how TOML is impacting their abilities to perform their hazardous job duties!


Show Notes

Episode 139 - Canine Heroes Responding to National Disasters

Sonja Heritage, Head Trainer at the National Disaster Search Dog Foundation drops by to talk with Marcie and Lovey about the work they are doing to rescue, train and partner shelter dogs with firefighters and other first responders to find people buried alive in the wreckage of disasters around the world. Sonja talks about their state-of-the-art national training facility. She also provides insightful details about how they screen shelter dogs for these intense, professional jobs and how they train and care for these canine heroes throughout their lifetime. Sonja’s passion and expertise is captivating!


Show Notes

Episode 138 - Lessons in Courage from the World’s K9 Cops

Rachel Rose, acclaimed author and poet, stops by to talk with Marcie and Whistle about her new book – The Dog Lover Unit: Lessons in Courage from the World’s K9 Cops. Rachel introduces us to police dogs in the United States, France, Canada and Britain. She poetically describes the grit, determination and courage she witnessed firsthand with these law enforcement officers and their K9 partners. Rachel also shares with us the work she is currently doing with Pacific Assistance Dogs Society that was directly inspired by the courage she discovered while embedded with these fearless K9 units.


Show Notes

Episode 137 - In the Line of Duty - Protecting Working Dogs from Opioid Overdose

Did you know that the opioid epidemic is not only impacting humans but it’s also impacting working dogs? Police dogs are being exposed to deadly drugs in the line of duty. Dr. Ashley Mitek and Dr. Maureen McMichael from the University of Illinois Veterinary Teaching Hospital are working with law enforcement and veterinarians to help handlers and veterinarians be prepared to prevent and treat a dog that has been or is suspected of being exposed to an opioid. Their work is fascinating and it is being used to save the valuable lives of these heroic working dogs! 


Show Notes

Episode 136 - Do You Know the Difference Between an Assistance Dog and a Pet?

We regularly hear a news story of someone trying to bring a fake assistance dog into a business or public place. Listen in as Marcie and Lovey visit with Marsha Gilford, Regional Corporate Affairs Director for the Southwest Region of the Kroger Company, the largest traditional grocery retailer in the United States. Marsha stops by to talk about a communication program she and Kroger created about the difference between service dogs and pets. We love their educational and positive approach to the hot topic issue of fake service dogs. Marsha shares with us how Kroger is educating customers and store managers about differentiating assistance dogs from pets, and helping customers understand the reasons Kroger welcomes assistance dogs in their stores and not pets.


Show Notes

Episode 135 - The Dog-Human Relationship

Marcie and Lovey welcome world-renowned dog researcher Dr. Adam Miklosi to the show. Dr. Miklosi is the Director of the Family Dog Research Project the first research group to study the behavioral and cognitive aspects of the dog-human relationship. Based in Hungary, they are one of the largest dog research groups in the world! Dr. Miklosi shares some of his latest research on dog cognition, animal learning, and aging. He also talks about how you can get connected with the Family Dog Research Project to receive all of their latest and greatest dog information! 


Show Notes

Episode 134 - Loyal!

Rebecca Ascher-Walsh visits with Marcie and Lovey about her beautiful new book, Loyal: 38 Inspiring Tales of Bravery, Heroism, and the Devotion of Dogs. Listen in as Rebecca lovingly highlights some of the incredible working dogs in her new book and how these skilled canines changed the lives of their amazing human partners. Rebecca also talks about the Deja Foundation, an organization she founded to raise funds for the support and care of rescue dogs.


Show Notes

Episode 133 - Roscoe the Bed Bug Dog

Jennifer Erdogan, Director of Bell Environmental Services’ Canine Division and certified bedbug detection dog and adorable tri-colored beagle, Roscoe, stop by to talk with Marcie and Lovey. Jennifer explains how Roscoe works to sniff and detect hidden bed bugs in hospitals, hotels, homes, apartment buildings and other sites. Roscoe and their other certified bed bug dogs’ all have the ability to perform bed bug inspections with a documented 98% accuracy rate! Jennifer also talks about how these dogs are trained and about their impressive certification from the World Detector Dog Organization.


Show Notes

Episode 132 - Dogs for the Deaf

Blake Matray, Executive Director of Dogs for the Deaf drops in to visit with Marcie and Lovey about the incredible work they are doing to rescue dogs from animal shelters and humane societies throughout the western United States and train them as hearing alert dogs. Blake talks about how they identify, screen and recruit shelter dogs.  The next step is to begin training them in a variety of “sound work” tasks such as alerting their human partner to the telephone or a knock at the door. Blake also shares what Dogs for the Deaf has in common with Hollywood and the MGM lion! 


Show Notes

Episode 131 - Advancing the Science of Dogs!

World-renowned animal behavior scientist/consultant, Dr. James Ha visits with Marcie and Lovey about the unique aspects of applying scientific research to canine and human behavior. Dr. Ha shares fascinating information about how assistance dogs and their handlers communicate and develop trust and why some dogs are simply not able to be assistance dogs. He discusses the unique human-canine bond, his groundbreaking work as a legal witness expert, and his work as a scientific advisor to assistance dog organizations.


Show Notes

Episode 130 - Angus the Superbug Dog!

Teresa Zurberg says her two-year old English Springer Spaniel Angus’ sense of smell is above and beyond anything we can even comprehend. Listen as she talks with Marcie and Lovey about Angus job at Vancouver Coastal Health (VCH), where he is a member of the hospital’s Infection Fighting Team. Teresa trained Angus to detect Clostridium difficile, or C. diff, a superbug often found in hospitals that attacks people whose immune systems have been weakened by antibiotics. Teresa shares how Angus enthusiastically detects this superbug so its spores can then be eradicated, helping to reduce infections!


Show Notes

Episode 129 - Go Fetch Wellness!

Jeff Fink and his psychiatric assistance dog, Earl, talk with Marcie and Lovey about the inspiring animal-assisted therapy work they are doing to support people who are living with mental illness through their organization, Go Fetch Wellness.  Jeff talks candidly about his own debilitating battle with depression and anxiety and how his relationship with Earl, a Golden-Retriever, changed his life forever. Jeff’s passion for working with Earl to help others who are struggling with mental illness to experience the joy and lucidity of the human-animal bond is contagious! 


Show Notes

Episode 128 - Dr. Bonnie Bergin – The Mother of Mobility Assistance Dogs!

What an honor it is to welcome Dr. Bonnie Bergin to the show! Bonnie has had such an impact on my life and so many others as the original mother of the assistance dog industry! Bonnie shares her amazing journey with us from the moment she had the idea that dogs could assist people with mobility limitations, to establishing the first service dog organization, and to creating the educational institution, the Bergin University of Canine Studies that she leads today. Bonnie is a true pioneer and trail blazer who has done so much to develop and support people with disabilities, dogs and the service dog industry! This is a monumental show that you don’t want to miss!  


Show Notes

Episode 127 - Volunteer Puppyraisers - Finding Your Bigger Purpose!

Listen in as Emily Zier shares her passion for raising puppies for Canine Companions for Independence Emily’s enthusiasm is contagious as she talks about the thrilling moment of receiving an 8-week-old future service dog, the lessons she has the joy of teaching to this young dog over the course of 12-15 months, the incredible gift of ultimately meeting the person with a disability who is placed with the dog she trained, and then starting over with a brand new puppy. Emily answers the question we all have:  “How can you train these adorable puppies and give them up?” She also shares how being a puppyraiser has changed her life and why she’s definitely a “puppyraiser for life!” 


Show Notes

Episode 126 - Love is All You Need

Jennifer Arnold, NY Times best-selling author of Through a Dog’s Eyes and Founder and Executive Director of Canine Assistants stops by to talk with Marcie and Lovey about her ground-breaking new book, Love is All You Need: The Revolutionary Bond-Based Approach to Educating Your Dog. Jennifer discusses her pioneering bond-based approach and talks in detail about her belief that we can teach dogs to figure out the action we want on their own instead of telling them what to do. She advocates this approach as a much more humane and loving way to communicate with our canines, and to prepare them to become more effective assistants to adults and children with disabilities. She also talks about her new creation, the We for Dogs Leash, the world’s first two-way, dog friendly leash. This new leash supports Jennifer’s training philosophy--one handle for you and one for your dog!


Show Notes

Episode 125 - Envisioning a Humane Economy

Wayne Pacelle, President and Chief Executive Officer of The Humane Society of the United States talks with Marcie and Lovey about his best-selling book, The Humane Economy: How Innovators and Enlightened Consumers are Transforming the Lives of Animals. He reveals his beliefs about the simple choices we make every day that can be life changing for animals. Wayne explains the rising tide of consciousness toward animals and the business advantages to treating animals humanely. He also shares some insights about his choice to work with convicted felon, Michael Vick, and the Humane Society’s efforts to end dog fighting.


Show Notes

Episode 124 - Honoring Canine Excellence!

We love it when working dogs get the recognition they so richly deserve! Gina DiNardo, Vice-President of the American Kennel Club visits with Marcie and Lovey and speaks about the AKC’s recognition of working dogs. Gina discusses the AKC’s newest award, the Paw of Courage. This award recognizes the sacrifices that working dogs make while serving and protecting our country. She also talks about the AKC’s long-standing ACE Awards that annually recognize five loyal, hard-working dogs that have significantly improved the lives of their owners and communities. You’ll get a warm feeling as you listen to Gina share these compelling working dog stories and the upcoming red-carpet event that will celebrate their self-less contributions.  


Show Notes

Episode 123 - Hail to The Underdogs!

Best-selling author Melissa Fay Greene drops in for a visit with Marcie and Lovey to discuss her new book, The Underdogs. Melissa shares the story of remarkable founder of 4 Paws for Ability, Karen Shirk, and how the dogs they train continue to change the lives of children and their families living with autism, diabetes, seizures and other disabilities. You’ll experience firsthand Melissa’s genuine passion for the children, parents and dogs and how she brings their stories of unconditional love to life in her heart-warming new book.


Show Notes

Episode 122 - Meet Lulu - The Funeral Service Goldendoodle

Lulu and her handler, Matthew Fiorillo CEO of Ballard-Durand Funeral Homes take time out of their busy work schedule to visit with Marcie and Lovey about Lulu’s special job as a funeral home Comfort Companion. Matthew talks about how Lulu works to comfort families during their time of grief with unconditional love and support. Hear about how she was trained for her unique job and Lulu’s most heart-warming command that she performs for the families and individuals she so lovingly comforts. Lulu is an adorable, hard-working girl! 


Show Notes

Episode 121 - Superpower Dogs!

Listen in as Marcie and Lovey welcome producer Taran Davies to the show to talk about his new 3D live-action movie for IMAX, Superpower Dogs This innovative film captures the magic of working dogs across the globe. Taran talks about some of the canine superheroes showcased in the film including dogs who brave avalanches, bring animal poachers to justice, protect us from danger and lift our spirits! For the first time, you will see how working dogs see, feel and experience the world! You will never look at your best friend in the same way again! AND, you’ll want to follow Superpower Dogs on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram.


Show Notes

Episode 120 - Celebrating National Guide Dog Month and Natural Balance’s Top Human-Canine Teams Who Make Us Believe!

Christine Benninger, CEO of Guide Dogs for the Blind and David Cooper and Parnelli, one of Natural Balance’s Top Human-Canine Teams Who Make Us Believe honorees join Marcie and Lovey. They talk about guide dogs and the incredible work these dogs achieve every day to make their human partners who are blind or who have limited vision more independent and active! Christine shares behind the scenes information about how Guide Dogs for the Blind begins the guide dog selection process at the DNA level while David eloquently articulates the special bond that he shares with his guide dog, Parnelli. David talks honestly about how Parnelli enables him to live a full and extensive life as a Finance Professional in New York City!


Show Notes

Episode 119 - The Top Dog is Back in the House!

Marcie and Lovey welcome their good friend Richard Lord, Top Dog at Assistance Dogs Australia and Chair of Assistance Dogs International (ADI) back to the show. Richard shares all the latest information in the assistance dog industry. He talks about the innovative and successful Parents Autism Workshops (PAWS) program and the impact these dogs are having on children with autism and their families in the UK, Australia, Belgium, Spain, and the Netherlands. He also gives us the scoop on fake service dogs and ADI’s role in setting assistance dog standards worldwide. Richard is definitely the Top Dog in the assistance dog industry! 


Show Notes

Episode 118 - Victoria Stilwell – Star of It’s Me or the Dog!

Victoria Stilwell dog trainer, author and television producer, stops by to visit with Marcie and Lovey about her latest projects and her positive approach to dog training. Victoria talks about her new book, The Secret Language of Dogs and her new YouTube series Guardians of the Night about first responder dogs! She shares some great advice about the human-canine relationship, what to do if you encounter an aggressive dog, and other useful tips for dog handlers.


Show Notes

Episode 117 - Airport K-9 Wildlife Control Team – Keeping People and Animals Safe on the Runway!

Airport K-9 Piper and his canine handler Brian Edwards join Marcie and Lovey to talk about their important job as a K-9 Wildlife Control Team at the Cherry Capital Airport in Traverse City, Michigan. Brian shares how he trained border collie Piper for his rewarding job--keeping people and animals safe on the runway. Piper has become quite the K-9 celebrity on Facebook and Instagram, and has been featured on the CBS Evening News! You’ll understand why Piper’s getting so much attention when you hear Brian talk about their unique work and human-animal bond.


Show Notes

Episode 116 - From Wags to Riches!

Hollywood and Broadway animal trainer, advocate, and author, Bill Berloni makes his debut on Working Like Dogs to talk about his incredible 40-year career of training dogs for both the stage and silver screen! Bill shares his humble beginnings and the story of how he paid $7.00 for a rescue dog from the local animal shelter who would go on to become the famous Sandy in the long-running Broadway production of Annie. Bill’s story and his Discovery Channel reality show will captivate you. The animals he has rescued are the epitome of a great Hollywood drama --- from wags to riches! 


Show Notes

Episode 115 - Superpower Dogs!

Listen in as Marcie and Lovey welcome Writer/Director Daniel Ferguson and Producer and Dog Rescuer Dominic Cunningham-Reid to talk about their major new IMAX film, Superpower Dogs. These innovative filmmakers and their passion for the incredible superpowers of working dogs are mesmerizing. Daniel and Dominic share their adventures traveling the globe to follow five canine superheroes and their human partners as they brave earthquakes and avalanches, bring animal poachers to justice, protect us from danger and lift our spirits. Lovey and I quickly became superfans of these Superpower Dogs, and you can, too.


Show Notes

Episode 114 - The Little Horse With A Big Heart!

Join Lovey and Marcie as they welcome Shelly Mizrahi and Amos the Wonder Horse to the show.  Shelly talks about Amos' gratifying work as a miniature, therapeutic horse! Together, Amos and Shelly visit nursing homes, memory care units, schools and hospitals to bring smiles to everyone Amos meets! Shelly shares how she works with Amos to teach him many incredible skills such as how to play basketball with the Harlem Globetrotters, solve a puzzle, and play the xylophone. You will fall in love with this little horse with a big heart!!


Show Notes

Episode 113 - Reporting for Duty!

Award-winning author and photographer, Tracy Libby, stops by to visit with Marcie and Lovey about her gorgeous new book, Reporting for Duty: True Stories of Wounded Veterans and Their Service Dogs. Tracy shares lots of inspiring stories of some of America’s greatest heroes and the canines that saved their lives. She also talks about incredible service dogs for veterans that were trained in Shelter to Service and Prison Puppy programs! 


Show Notes

Episode 112 - Meet Your New Co-host Lovey and the Amazing Agency that Trained Her, Assistance Dogs of the West!

Help us welcome Marcie’s new assistance dog, Lovey, to the show and special guest Linda Milanesi, Executive Director of Assistance Dogs of the West– the amazing agency that trained Lovey. Marcie and Linda talk about different types of assistance dogs. Linda explains ADW’s philosophy of One Dog One Person and One Dog Many People! They also talk candidly about the assistance dog placement process and the highs and lows that Marcie experienced through the process of being placed with Lovey. Marcie was reminded again that nothing ventured, nothing gained!  


Show Notes

Episode 111 - Join Us for a Special Celebration of Whistle’s Retirement!

We invite you to join in the celebration of Whistle’s retirement as Marcie’s service dog and co-host! It’s a special day when you meet your assistance dog and it’s also a special day when they retire from a job well done! Join Marcie and special guest, Franz Freibert (Whistle’s dad), as we reminisce about Whistle’s life as an assistance dog, share favorite stories and talk honestly about the issues that handlers need to address when facing an assistance dog’s inevitable retirement.


Show Notes

Episode 110 - Assistance Dogs Down Under!

Richard Lord, Top Dog and CEO of Assistance Dogs Australia visits with Marcie and Whistle about how they are working to change Australia one assistance dog at a time! Richard talks about the cutting-edge types of assistance dogs they are training. Did you know dogs can be trained to live with an individual or even a couple with dementia and provide a host of tasks to assist them in everyday activities? Richard also talks about serving as the current Chairman of Assistance Dogs International--the  organization that is setting the standards for assistance dog organizations worldwide. Richard is one of the global leaders in assistance dog training and placement and you’ll be captivated by all the information he so generously shares!


Show Notes

Episode 109 - K9s 4 Mobility

Michelle Woerner, Director and Trainer with K9s 4 Mobility stops by to visit with Marcie and Whistle about how she trains, places and supports Assistance Dog Partnerships. Michelle gives us the scoop about how her agency gets 50% of their dogs from local shelter/rescue programs and how they work with individuals who want to train their own assistance dog. Plus, Michelle talks about her work as an Accreditation Surveyor with Assistance Dogs International! 


Show Notes

Episode 108 - A Guiding Force!

Join Marcie and Whistle as they welcome Steve Fowler and Harry to the show! Steve and Harry recently graduated from The Seeing Eye. Listen in as Steve articulates his experiences as a young professional who began losing his sight at age 17 and how he made the decision to apply for and receive his first Seeing Eye dog, Harry. You will be captivated by Steve’s candor about the social and practical aspects of incorporating a guide dog into his life. 


Show Notes

Episode 107 - Ayurveda for Dogs

Have you ever thought about alternative ways to respond to issues your dog may be having such as allergies, stress, or anxiousness? Have you ever wondered about meditating with your dog or tapping into ancient practices for helping your dog live a healthier and more balanced life? Then join Marcie and Whistle as they visit with Amanda Ringnalda, Master Educator for the Deepak Chopra Center for Wellbeing in Carlsbad, CA and founder of Soul Playmates. Amanda has taken the ancient wisdom of Ayurveda and applied it to dogs. Listen in as she provides helpful tips, resources and practices to help your dog live a more balanced, higher quality life. She even provides a free quiz to aid you in determining your dog’s dosha.


Show Notes

Episode 106 - Bringing Your Assistance Dog Home For The First Time

Okay, so you've decided a service dog or assistance dog is right for you.  You've decided whether you're going to train that dog yourself, or you're going to decide to go with a service dog agency that you're going to work with.  You've done that process.  You now have this amazing fine-tuned athlete that is going to be by your side to assist you.  Now what do you do?  Tune in to find out all the things you're going to have to do and think about once your service dog comes home!


Show Notes

Episode 105 - Cesar Millan Shares his Training Wisdom

Listen in as Marcie and Whistle welcome Cesar Millan best-selling author, public speaker, and the internationally acclaimed star of Cesar 911, as well as the original, Emmy-nominated host of the Dog Whisperer program, to the show! Cesar stops in to talk about the second season of his NAT GEO WILD show, Cesar 911 and his special Cesar Millan: Viva Las Vegas. Cesar shares his training wisdom about the fundamentals, training and outcomes you must achieve in order to train your own service dog.


Show Notes

Episode 104 - Elephant Experts!

Did you know that there are currently over 15,000 working elephants throughout the world? Helana Telkanranta, Executive Director of Elephant Experts visits with Marcie and Whistle about the work her Finland-based organization is doing throughout the world to improve the welfare of elephants and the safety of their handlers. Helena talks about the onsite training and management of working elephants Elephant Experts is currently doing in Nepal and other countries. She also gives you some incredible insights into these amazing working animals including the varying species, social behaviors, and ways they communicate.


Show Notes

Episode 103 - Grieving the Loss of a Service Dog

Yep, it’s time that we talk about that dreaded subject and ask ourselves, 'How do we survive the loss of our incredible service dogs?' Who better to join us to talk about this difficult subject than Bob Vogel, journalist, photographer and senior correspondent for New Mobility (NM) magazine. Bob talks openly about the loss of his incredible service dog, Schatzie, and his article, “Grieving the Loss of a Service Dog," appearing in the November 2014 issue of NM.  Access it for free at www.newmobility.com and listen to the show to hear more about this sensitive topic from Bob and Marcie!


Show Notes

Episode 102 - Top Dog: The Story of Marine Dog Lucca!

Best-selling author, Maria Goodavage stops in for a heart-warming visit with Marcie and Whistle about her new book, Top Dog: The Story of Marine Hero Lucca. Maria describes military dogs as canines who 'save lives by day and souls by night.'  In Top Dog, she masterfully tells the story of heroic Marine dog, Lucca and her handlers. Maria weaves a rich tapestry of details that explain why Lucca embodies the best qualities in a military dog – intelligence, passion, dedication, bravery and more. Listen in as Maria tells you about Lucca’s story, her 400 missions in Iraq and Afghanistan, and what made her such an extraordinary military dog!


Show Notes

Episode 101 - Working Dogs of Antarctica!

Dr. Ursula Rack, Arctic and Antarctic Historian at the University of Canterbury in New Zealand, talks with Marcie and Whistle about her incredible historical research into the working dogs of Antarctica. You will be fascinated as Dr. Rack recounts the information she has gathered about working dogs and how they were utilized in Antarctica from the diaries and reports of the explorers and scientists. Their heroic expeditions date back to the late 1800s. Dr. Rack talks specifically about these canine and human pioneering heroes and how important their work has been on our present day global climate and environment!


Show Notes

Episode 100 - Lucky Dog Host Brandon McMillan

Brandon McMillan, animal expert and host of CBS’ Emmy-nominated series Lucky Dog stops by to visit with Marcie and Whistle about Lucky Dog's new season as part of the Saturday morning CBS Dream Team. Brandon talks about the work he is doing to rescue unadoptable dogs at local shelters and give them a chance to become productive, hard-working dogs that transform the lives of their human partners. You’ll hear about his Seven Common Commands and how he's trained shelter dogs to help people in need. His dogs have been trained to help someone with memory loss find their way home, assist a veteran with a disability to walk up steps, and other amazing tasks. After listening to Brandon, you'll clearly understand that you can’t judge a book by it’s cover, and that you can teach an old dog new tricks! 


Show Notes

Episode 99 - Courthouse Dogs: Providing Comfort and Building Trust

Did you know that professionally trained canines who are graduates from some of the most prestigious, accredited service dog organizations are working as courthouse dogs?   Listen in as Marcie and Whistle visit with Linda Milanesi, Executive Director of Assistance Dogs of the West and Carrie-Leigh Cloutier, Executive Director of CASA - Court Appointed Special Advocates about the work they are doing with some incredible courthouse dogs. You’ll be amazed by the training methods they utilize to prepare these awe-inspiring dogs for their sensitive work in our nation’s criminal justice system! 


Show Notes

Episode 98 - The Hero Dog Days of Summer!

Dr. Robin Ganzert, Executive Director and CEO of the American Humane Association stops by to visit with Marcie and Whistle about the upcoming Hero Dog Awards to be held on September 27, 2014 and televised October 30, 2014 on the Hallmark Channel. She also talks about the AHA’s partnership with Mission K9 Rescue to ensure that all hero war dogs are returned to the United States before being retired. This includes both military and private contract working dogs. Robin also gives us the inside scoop on her new book, Animal Stars: Behind the Scenes with Your Favorite Animal Actors!


Show Notes

Episode 97 - How Dogs Changed the Course of History!

Historian, author and dog lover, Kate Kelly visits with Marcie and Whistle about some of her favorite current and historic working dogs. Kate will amaze you as she shares stories about some of America and the world’s most memorable events and the dogs that were present. You’ll be astonished to hear about the first dog used to take a message across a battlefield and the dogs that were on board the Titanic! Kate is a treasure trove of historical canine information! 


Show Notes

Episode 96 - Canine Officers and 21st Century Policing

Lieutenant Paul Vance from the Connecticut State Police drops in to talk with Marcie and Whistle about the incredible ways canines are assisting officers with 21st Century Policing. Lt. Vance explains how these highly trained canines perform a myriad of tasks to help officers identify and investigate bombs, arson, narcotics and missing persons. Also, he explains that canines are helping officers in child pornography cases with electronic evidence detection. These dogs are nothing short of miraculous and awe-inspiring!


Show Notes

Episode 95 - Unrelenting Nightmare

Get lost in suspense novelist Stan Yocum’s world as he talks with Marcie and Whistle about his latest suspense novel, Unrelenting Nightmare. Stan has two life passions--writing suspense novels and raising puppies that grow up to be Canine Companions for Independence service dogs! Listen in as he talks candidly about his latest book and his puppy in training!


Show Notes

Episode 94 - What the Dog Knows!

Move over CSI and listen in as Marcie and Whistle welcome author and North Carolina State University professor, Cat Warren to the show. Cat talks about her fascinating book, What the Dog Knows: The Science and Wonder of Working Dogs. You will be captivated as Cat talks about her cadaver dog, Solo, and how they work together to locate individuals who are missing and presumed dead. Cat speaks plainly about how she supports Solo to identify a particular scent in the field and how Solo tells her about that scent with reliability. It's pure magic!


Show Notes

Episode 93 - Innovative Dog Training Solutions!

What excites your working dog? Professional dog trainer and handler, Jason Lake visits with Marcie and Whistle about the innovative methods he uses to train dogs. Jason talks about how you can excite your dog to establish an effective and long-term working relationship. He also talks about how he uses his wheelchair to train and compete with his own service dog. Jason’s passion for training dogs is infectious and he inspires the hidden dog trainer in all of us!


Show Notes

Episode 92 - How Can We Help Our Working Dogs End Life Well?

Yep, this is the hard conversation that we’ve all been avoiding. No one likes to talk about losing our beloved working dogs, but we all will have to face it sooner or later. Listen in as Marcie and Whistle talk with Dr. Alice Villalobos, Director of Pawspice and the Animal Oncology Consultation Service, about how to ensure our working dogs have a kind and gentle end to their lives. Dr. Villalobos talks about her ground-breaking Quality of Life Scale that will help you to ensure your dog has a dignified death. Marcie and Dr. Villalobos will help you to consider better end-of-life choices for your working dog.


Show Notes

Episode 91 - Soldiers in Fur and Feathers: The Animals that Served in World War I

Author and animal behaviorist, Susan Bulanda drops by to talk with Marcie and Whistle about her new book, Soldiers in Fur and Feathers: The Animals that Served in World War I – The Allied Forces. Sue shares some of the fascinating stories and rare photographs that she uncovered during her research of the incredible animals that served in World War I. As the 100th anniversary of World War I approaches, you will want to hear all about these amazing animals and how they helped to win the war for the Allies. 


Show Notes

Episode 90 - Airport Travel Stressing You Out? Therapy Dogs are Unstressing Passengers at LAX!

Therapy dogs are providing stressed travelers with comfort and smiles at LAX and 20 other busy airports throughout the country. Listen in as Brian Valente and his therapy dog Finn from Therapy Dogs, Inc. and Heidi Huebner from LAX talk about LAX’s heartwarming therapy dog program. Brian and Heidi provide all the inside scoop including how to connect with one of the amazing therapy dogs like Finn on your next trip through LAX, and how you and your dog can become certified LAX volunteers! 


Show Notes

Episode 89 - Hero Dogs of 9/11

Join Marcie and Whistle as they welcome the Director and Co-Director of the new documentary Hero Dogs of 9/11 (Tanya Kelen and Kenn Bell) premiering on Animal Planet, September 10 at 8pm EST/PT, and three individuals (Michael Hingson, Gerald Lauber and Nancy Brooks) featured in this breathtaking documentary. These guests talk candidly about their riveting experiences on 9/11 and how their selfless working dogs saved their lives and the lives of countless others. Hear how these survivors describe their dogs as their unwavering best friends and protectors!


Show Notes

Episode 88 - Bomb Sniffing Dogs

Zane Roberts, lead trainer for MSA Security talks with Marcie and Whistle about how he trains dogs to become explosive detection experts. Zane shares insights into the fascinating post 9/11 world where bomb-sniffing dogs are now working to detect well-hidden explosives in financial institutions, sporting events, airports, federal buildings and a host of other public venues. Listen in as Zane talks about how he builds these dogs' vocabulary of suspicious smells. Bomb dogs may be the best-kept secret against terrorism!


Show Notes

Episode 87 - American Hero Dog Awards

Dr. Robin Ganzert, President and CEO of the American Humane Association, and Hero Dog Award Finalist, Karen Ann Young and her Seeing Eye guide dog, Jingles, visit with Marcie and Whistle about the upcoming American Hero Dog Awards to be aired on the Hallmark Channel on November 7. The Hero Dog Awards was created by the American Humane Association to celebrate the power of the human-animal bond. And, what a powerful bond it is! Listen in as Karen Ann and Jingles talk about their unique working relationship, and Dr. Ganzert fills us in on all the memory-making, celebrity-filled canine Oscar award event details!


Show Notes

Episode 86 - Successful Assistance Dog Partnerships in the Workplace

Dr. Margaret Glenn, Associate Professor of Rehabilitation
Counseling at West Virginia University, stops in to visit with Marcie and Whistle about the innovative exploratory research she is conducting on assistance dogs in the workplace funded by the National Institute on Disability and Rehabilitation Research. Margaret talks about the lessons she has learned to date and the effective ways employers and individuals with disabilities who are partnered with an assistance dog can work together and communicate more effectively. She also talks about what a valuable resource the U.S. Department of Labor Job Accommodation Network can be to both employers and individuals partnered with an assistance dog. Listen in for groundbreaking information you don’t want to miss!


Show Notes

Episode 85 - Diabetic Alert Dogs

Learn all about these tenacious little tattletales from renowned dog trainers and diabetic alert dog experts, Rita Martinez and Sue Barns, Ph.D. Rita and Sue talk with Marcie and Whistle about their experiences training diabetic alert dogs and all the valuable information contained within their groundbreaking new book, Training Your Diabetic Alert Dog. This book is a fascinating how-to guide and resource for anyone interested in training a dog to alert to changes in blood glucose levels.


Show Notes

Episode 84 - From Abandoned to Irreplaceable

Susannah Charleson dog trainer and author of The Possibility Dogs, talks with Marcie and Whistle about the tremendous potential abandoned dogs can have for service. Susannah is passionate about training these dogs to work beside individuals with different types of needs such as post-traumatic stress or mobility limitations. Learn about these dogs that go from tragedy to triumph as they serve both the human mind and spirit!


Show Notes

Episode 83 - Krista Brooks’ Unique Works of Arf!

Renowned international artist and Retro Pets’ Top Dog, Krista Brooks drops in to visit with Marcie and Whistle about her incredible vintage-style doggie artwork. Krista talks about her artistic contributions to International Assistance Dog Week and how you can support IADW by purchasing one of her unique creations at www.cafepress.com/assistancedogweek. She also shares how you can submit your dog’s photo in hopes that he or she can star in one of Krista’s future creations!


Show Notes

Episode 82 - K-9 Comfort Dogs Soothe Survivors of the Boston Marathon and other Catastrophic Events

Did you know that K-9 Comfort Dogs and their handlers respond to disasters and crisis situations throughout the United States? Tim Hetzner, President of K-9 Comfort Dogs Lutheran Church Charities, stops by to talk with Marcie and Whistle about the inspirational work these dogs and their handlers selflessly provide to the survivors of some our nation’s most devastating tragedies. Over 70 highly trained golden retrievers and their human handlers are on standby to respond within 24 hours. Most recently these dogs have been working in Boston, Newtown, and West, Texas. You’ll learn all about how these dogs are trained, what types of skills they possess, and the greatest lessons these dogs have to teach us!


Show Notes

Episode 81 - Guardian Dogs and the Herds They Protect

Do you think the ancient tradition of sheep herding is extinct? Think again! Shepherd, author, and photographer, Cat Urbigkit visits with Marcie and Whistle about the flock of sheep she keeps in the Green River basin area south of Yellowstone National Park with her amazing guardian dogs, Abe, Rant, Rena and Luv’s girl. You’ll want to listen in as Cat talks about some of the dangers these working dogs encounter every night as they patrol the open Wyoming range in search of aggressive predators such as wolves, mountain lions and bears. Cat also talks about the lessons she’s learned from these animals in her latest book, Shepherds of Coyote Rocks: Public Lands, Private Herds and the Natural World.


Show Notes

Episode 80 - Canine Intelligence: Going into the Mind of Dogs

Have you ever wondered what your dog was thinking? Then you don’t want to miss a second of Marcie and Whistle’s enthralling interview with renowned animal cognition expert, Dr. Brian Hare. Dr. Hare talks about his latest book, The Genius of Dogs, which is revolutionizing how we interact with our beloved canine partners. Dr. Hare explains how we’ve learned more in the last 10 years about dog psychology than we have in the past century. He also talks about the games that you can play with your dog at www.dognition.com to gain valuable insights into your dog’s unique behavior and to contribute to the greater good of all dogs.


Show Notes

Episode 79 - Urban Search and Rescue Dogs

Dr. Cindy Otto stops by to talk to Marcie and Whistle about her work with urban search and rescue dogs and the incredible new Penn Vet Working Dog Center. Dr. Otto discusses the work she did with the urban search and rescue dog teams after the 9/11 attacks. She also shares her excitement about the new, innovative Working Dog Center and their work training puppies to become future detection dogs by developing search behaviors for bombs, cancer, and other important tasks. Dr. Otto also talks about the fascinating research she has been conducting post 9/11 regarding the success rates of working dogs. If you’re interested in working dogs, you won’t want to miss it!


Show Notes

Episode 78 - The Nose Knows

SV Wolf, experienced cadaver dog trainer, handler and author, talks with Marcie and Whistle about her lifelong passion of working with cadaver dogs and her new book, Death Scent. Wolf shares some personal insights into some of the most high profile cases she and her cadaver dogs, Titan and Smoke, have worked together and how she used those experiences to create Death Scent. Wolf also talks about some of the unique talents and odor tracking skills cadaver dogs must possess in order to successfully locate human remains.


Show Notes

Episode 77 - What Do You Do Now? The Care and Maintenance of Your New Assistance Dog!

So, you've decided an assistance dog is right for you, you've decided you're going to train the dog yourself, or you're going to go with a service dog agency and you've finished that process.  Now you have this amazing fine tuned athlete.  But now what?  You've brought this dog home, you're sitting looking at this dog, and now there's all these other things you have to think about.  Today we're going to talk about the care and maintenance of your new assistance dog!!


Show Notes

Episode 76 - NEADS – Dogs for Deaf and Disabled Americans

John Moon, Director of Programs and Communications, for NEADS (Dogs for Deaf and Disabled Americans) stops by to talk with Marcie and Whistle about their incredible program. NEADS has been a leader in the assistance dog field for 40 years. You’ll hear all about how NEADS trains assistance dogs to help men, women, veterans and children with a variety of disabilities. Listen in as John talks about their training techniques, shelter rescue efforts and their Prisoner Pup Partnership!


Show Notes

Episode 75 - The Winding Valley of Grief

Join Marcie and Whistle as they welcome Dr. Katherine Schneider retired clinical psychologist and veteran guide dog user, to the show. Dr. Schneider talks candidly with Marcie and Whistle about what happens when an assistance dog is retired and ultimately dies. You won’t want to miss a second of their frank, truthful conversation about how to deal with the loss of our beloved working dogs.


Show Notes

Episode 74 - America’s VetDogs™ – Veteran’s K-9 Corps™

Kim Gabelein and Joe Worley from America’s VetDogs stop by to talk with Marcie and Whistle about the amazing impact America’s VetDogs are having on the lives of veterans with disabilities. Hear about Joe’s personal experience with his service dog, Benjamin and the incredible partnership between America’s VetDogs and Bil-Jac Super Premium Dog Food that led to the creation of America’s VetDogs Treats!


Show Notes

Episode 73 - Bruce Cameron Takes Us on “A Dog’s Journey”

Best-selling author, Bruce Cameron, drops in to visit with Marcie and Whistle about his incredible writing career. He discusses his earlier books, and his New York Times Bestseller, A Dog's Purpose, which led to his latest book, A Dog’s Journey. You’ll love listening to Bruce’s insights about how he found the voice for his incredible canine characters Bailey and Buddy and the life lessons these endearing dogs have taught him and all of us through his inspiring novels. Bruce continues to create amazing novels for humans from a dog’s unique point of view!


Show Notes

Episode 72 - Is An Assistance Dog Right For You?

Have you considered getting an assistance dog but just don’t know where to begin? Listen in as veteran service dog handler, Marcie Davis, shares her personal experiences. Marcie talks candidly about how to know if an assistance dog is right for you and what you should consider before making that big decision. She will give you the inside scoop about what you need to consider and how you can go about finding the right dog to meet your needs.


Show Notes

Episode 71 - Canine Companions for Independence’s Ellen Torop Talks About Service Dogs from Nose to Tail!

Ellen Torop, Canine Companions for Independence Northeast Regional Manager, joins Marcie and Whistle for a “nose to tail” conversation about service dogs. Ellen shares her 25 years of dog training experiences and insights with CCI (1-800-572-BARK) from breeding dogs to puppy raising, to advanced training and placement. If you’re interested in getting a service dog, training a service dog, becoming a puppy raiser, or if you’re just curious about these incredible working animals, you don’t want to miss this show!


Show Notes

Episode 70 - Rin Tin Tin – The Ultimate Friend to All

Best-selling author, Susan Orlean, stops by to talk with Marcie and Whistle about her latest book, Rin Tin Tin: The Life and the Legend. Rin Tin Tin might be considered one of the most famous and heroic working dogs in the history of movies and television. Susan Orlean talks about Rin Tin Tin’s glorious career and the caring relationship between owner Lee Duncan and his beloved German Shepherd. Orlean’s fascinating book not only tells the story of Rin Tin Tin, but it also captures the story of silent movies and old Hollywood, as well as the history of dogs in war.


Show Notes

Episode 69 - Working Dogs Get Stamp of Approval!

Bill Glicker from the United States Postal Service and John Thompson, Stamp Artist join Marcie and Whistle in a lively discussion about how the Postal Service developed the “Dogs At Work” series of 65 cent stamps. The stamps feature original paintings by John Thompson of a guide dog, therapy dog, military dog, and a search-and-rescue dog. You will love learning about this fascinating process and how you can purchase these stamps and/or a giclee of the original paintings !


Show Notes

Episode 68 - Weatherwax and the Lassie Legacy – Pure Hollywood Royalty!

Bob Weatherwax stops by to visit with Marcie and Whistle about his remarkable 42-year career training some of Hollywood’s most famous dogs, including one of our favorites, Lassie. Bob's incredible stories and firsthand experiences will captivate you as he describes working with some of the movies' greatest legends that we all know and love. Plus, he talks about some current and future projects including his upcoming memoir and his efforts to expand the award-winning documentary, By My Side; The Service Dog Mystique.


Show Notes

Episode 67 - Canine Partners for Life!

Darlene Sullivan and Matt Groseclose of Canine Partners for Life join Marcie and Whistle to talk about their assistance dog program. Darlene enthusiastically talks about how she knew as an elementary student that her life would be devoted to assistance dogs. And, as the founder of Canine Partners, she also shares how, ironically, years after the organization’s inception, she developed her own need for a service dog and is now partnered with yellow lab, Ripley. Darlene and Matt provide some valuable insight into the unique types of assistance dogs available through Canine Partners, especially seizure alert and home companion dogs. Canine Partners for Life might just be the assistance dog agency for you!


Show Notes

Episode 66 - In A Dog’s Heart

Jennifer Arnold, New York Times best-selling author and Executive Director of Canine Assistants, sees directly into a dog’s heart. She stops by to talk with Marcie and Whistle about her new book, ‘In A Dog’s Heart.’ Jennifer passionately shares her insights about what she believes dogs need and how we can give it to them. The book is a prescriptive for everything dog lovers want to know about how to interact with a dog including how to choose a dog, how to choose a vet, how to deal with anxiety, and how to respond to end-of-life issues. Jennifer is the expert!


Show Notes

Episode 65 - Strengthening Disaster Response in America

Wilma Melville, Founder and Director of the National Disaster Search Dog Foundation, visits with Marcie and Whistle to discuss her organization’s mission--to rescue dogs from local shelters and partner them with firefighters and other first responders. Wilma relates how she established the organization after the tragic Oklahoma City bombing. She also talks about the monumental National Training Center for canine disaster teams that will be opening its doors in 2012. We loved hearing about this organization's unique lifetime commitment to every participating dog!


Show Notes

Episode 64 - Man & Canine - Living Life to the Fullest

Bob Vogel, journalist, photographer and Senior Correspondent for New Mobility (NM) magazine, drops in to visit with Marcie and Whistle. Bob talks candidly about his decision to train his first service dog, Yeager, and the choices he made when it was time to get his second and current German shepherd service dog, Schatzie. He also talks about his popular article, “Service Dogs: Training, Rights & Responsibilities” which appeared in the August 2011 issue of NM Bob has a wealth of knowledge about living life to its fullest as a successful journalist and dad who utilizes a manual wheelchair and an incredibly well-trained service dog!


Show Notes

Episode 63 - On Toby's Terms

Charmaine Hammond, author and President of Hammond International, talks with Marcie and Whistle about the life-changing discoveries she and her husband, Christopher, made after adopting Toby--a five-year-old, seemingly disastrous, Chesapeake Bay retriever. Learn how Charmaine and Christopher helped Toby find his purpose in order to become the dog he needed to be. You won't want to miss how Toby fulfilled his destiny and changed their lives forever!


Show Notes

Episode 62 - U.S. Department of Labor Honors 2011 International Assistance Dogs Week!

Assistance dogs go to work every day in workplaces throughout the country. In recognition of the 2011 International Assistance Dog Week (IADW), the U.S. Department of Labor recognized these hardworking dogs! Join Marcie and Whistle as Day Al-Mohamed, Senior Policy Advisor and her guide dog, Vinny, stop by to talk about the innovative way the Department of Labor honored assistance dogs for IADW and all the awesome work they are doing to support the employment of individuals with disabilities.


Show Notes

Episode 61 - A Dog Named Slugger

Leigh Brill, author and service dog enthusiast, visits with Marcie and Whistle about her current and former assistance dogs and how they changed her life. As a woman living with cerebral palsy, Leigh talks about living with a disability and how Slugger gave her a clear sense of purpose – physically, emotionally and spiritually. Leigh also talks about her book, A Dog Named Slugger, and her newest creative adventure, Miranda and Charlie and the Great Cupcake Caper.


Show Notes

Episode 60 - Working Canine Hero of the Year Contest Salutes Three Top Dogs

Ernie Sloane, Editor of Dog Fancy, the world’s most widely read dog magazine, stops by to visit with Marcie and Whistle about Dog Fancy’s salute to three top police, military, and search and rescue dog teams as winners of its Working Canine Hero of the Year contest, sponsored by Natural Balance Pet Foods. Ernie shares his personal insights about the contest and how he and his staff actually participated in a search and rescue exercise. You won’t want to miss this show OR the complete article on these working canine heroes which is featured in the September 2011 issue of Dog Fancy.


Show Notes

Episode 59 - Move Over NCIS and Check Out These Amazing K9 Private Investigators!

Karin TarQwyn and her working dog team are recognized as America’s number one Pet Private Investigators. Karin talks with Marcie and Whistle about how she trains her tracking dogs to locate and recover lost animals. Did you know about PetAmberAlert.com? Karin and her dogs are nothing short of remarkable! No wonder their valiant work has been featured on Animal Planet and the Dog Whisperer’s…Cesar’s Way, CNN and other television shows and newscasts. Listen in and you will definitely gain some valuable tips that could literally save your working animal’s life!


Show Notes

Episode 58 - Tribute to a Golden Boy!

Marcie and Whistle welcome Karole Schaufele and Franz Freibert to the show to pay special tribute to Morgan, Marcie’s Paws With A Cause retired assistance dog, who passed away on March 12, 2011. Karole shares her personal experiences as Morgan’s puppyraiser and Franz candidly discusses both living with and observing Morgan as a service dog. You won’t want to miss their heartfelt and personal accounts of sharing life with Morgan and saying good-bye to this amazing, golden retriever service dog.


Show Notes

Episode 57 - Adventures in Life with a Guide Dog

Beth Finke, NPR commentator, author, teacher and journalist talks with Marcie and Whistle about her adventures in life with her guide dogs, Pandora, Hanni and her current guide dog, Harper. You’ll love Beth’s whimsical attitude toward living with a disability and how her guide dogs have enabled her to live life to the fullest with joy, humor and gusto! Beth talks about her latest children’s book, Hanni and Beth: Safe & Sound, and her memoir, Long Time, No See. She even shares one of her most humorous stories about how a woman who is blind and her guide dog landed a job as a nude model!


Show Notes

Episode 56 - Riding the Waves and Pawing It Forward!

Judy Fridono and Surfing Dog Sensation Ricochet stop by to talk with Marcie and Whistle about the extraordinary philanthropic work they are doing to help people and causes in need. Learn all about Ricochet’s viral youtube video that has been viewed by over 3.3 million people and how she turned disappointment into pure bliss. Ricochet sends a clear message - everyone and anyone can make a difference in someone else’s life! You can follow Ricochet and her adventures on www.facebook.com/SurfDogRicochet.


Show Notes

Episode 55 - Canine Scientists On the Job!

Tune in as Megan Parker, Co-Founder and Executive Director of Working Dogs for Conservation, talks to Marcie and Whistle about how she works side-by-side with some amazing canine scientists! These shelter-rescued dogs are changing the world and saving our planet as they work beside their human biologist partners to detect rare species and endangered plants. Their canine conservation work spreads from Montana throughout the world. You’ve got to hear it to believe it!


Show Notes

Episode 54 - Start Clicking and Reach Your Animal's Mind

Karen Pryor, founder and leading proponent of clicker training and an internationally recognized animal behavioral biologist, visits with Marcie and Whistle about her new book, Reaching the Animal Mind, and her vast experience working with animals through positive methods and conditioning. Karen shares her wealth of knowledge as well as practical tips and information about how you and your dog can communicate through clicker training. Whether you are a beginner or a seasoned professional, Karen shows how easy and fun clicker training can be for both you and your dog!


Show Notes

Episode 53 - Sit, Stay and Listen to Corey Hudson - The World Wide Assistance Dog Authority!

This assistance dog expert has been the Chief Executive Officer of the U.S.’s largest service dog organization, Canine Companions for Independence for over twenty years. Corey Hudson also serves as Secretary of Assistance Dogs International and as President of ADI, North America. ADI is a coalition of not-for-profit organizations that train and place assistance dogs which promotes standards of excellence and public education. Sity, stay and listen in as Corey shares a wealth of knowledge about ADI and CCI, including the latest about ADI’s current projects and how people with disabilities can apply to receive a CCI assistance dog.


Show Notes

Episode 52 - Secrets, Surprises and Solutions Every Working Dog Team Needs To Know

Dr. Marty Becker, "America’s Veterinarian" and the popular vet for "Good Morning America" and "The Dr. Oz Show," dropped by to visit with Marcie and Whistle about his latest book, "Your Dog: The Owner’s Manual." In this just-published book, best-selling author Dr. Marty reveals surprising information and practical tips that can help you solve your working dog-care problems while saving money. He also gives us the inside scoop about his upcoming, nationwide "Big Bus Tour." Dr. Marty is a true animal lover who offers us the wealth of his knowledge and passion.


Show Notes

Episode 51 - Canines in the United States Secret Service

Greg Stokes, supervisor of the Canine Training Section for the United States Secret Service James J. Rowley Training Center, joins Marcie and Whistle to talk about the elite service that over 100 canines are currently providing to protect the President and Vice-President of the United States. Learn about these canines and how they work day-to-day beside their Secret Service handlers at the White House, throughout the country and abroad to detect explosives. Greg also talks about the ongoing training these dogs and their handlers must regularly endure to retain their physical fitness, stamina and unwavering discipline. The bond between these canines and their handlers is awe-inspiring!


Show Notes

Episode 50 - Sled Dogs Steal the Hearts of Denali National Park Visitors!

Park Ranger Karen Fortier, author of Sled Dogs of Denali National Park and former kennel manager at Denali for 10 years, drops by to give Marcie and Whistle an insider’s view into the working life of the Denali National Park sled dogs. Karen talks about how these fascinating Alaskan Huskies work beside park personnel to provide critical transportation in the back-country, assist park researchers, break trail, and patrol the park’s boundaries while maintaining the integrity of the wilderness.


Show Notes

Episode 49 - Two Plus Four Equals One

Two Plus Four Equals One: Celebrating the Partnership of People with Disabilities and Their Assistance Dogs is a delightful anthology of over 100 true stories and poems. Author, editor, and guide dog recipient, Kathy Nimmer, along with contributing author and diabetic alert service dog recipient, Dena Feller, visit with Marcie and Whistle about this inspirational book. They share their insights about these personal stories and poems written by or about men, women, and children with disabilities. Kathy and Dena talk openly with Marcie about how this remarkable book illuminates the working partnership between assistance dogs and people with disabilities while demystifying longstanding misperceptions about disability.


Show Notes

Episode 48 - Mahalo Representative Ching!

Hawaii Representative Corinne Ching visits with Marcie and Whistle about her efforts to formally designate the second week of August as National Assistance Dog Week in Hawaii. Follow House Bill 1596 at http://lrbhawaii.org/par. And don’t be shy, Representative Ching needs your support for this assistance dog specific legislation. She encourages everyone to email her at repching@capitol.hawaii.gov and weigh in on her endeavor to make Hawaii the first state to declare NADW an official holiday!


Show Notes

Episode 47 - Helping Hands is All About Monkey Business!

Megan Talbert, Executive Director of Helping Hands: Monkey Helpers for the Disabled, stopped by to give Marcie and Whistle the scoop about how she and her staff train and place capuchin monkeys with individuals with disabilities. Helping Hands is a national nonprofit organization based in Boston that serves quadriplegics and other people with severe spinal cord injuries or mobility-impairments by providing highly trained monkeys to assist them in their daily activities. Megan explains the differences between monkeys and dogs as service animals, and she also talks about how YOU or someone you know can apply for one of these life-changing, multitalented primates!


Show Notes

Episode 46 - War Dogs Remembered – Recognizing Our Unsung Canine Heroes

Veteran military dog handler, Larry Chilcoat, talks with Marcie and Whistle about the ongoing efforts to build a Military Working Dogs National Monument. Larry speaks eloquently about the hard work that has gone into designing and funding this national monument that will honor the heroic past and present United States military dog handlers and their incredible working dogs. Learn how you can contribute to this long overdue monument to recognize these military working dog teams for their service. And hear firsthand how much these dogs do every day to save and to protect our country and the lives of their military handlers.


Show Notes

Episode 45 - Growing Up Guide Pup

Amie and Matt Chapman and their Guide Dogs for the Blind puppy in training, Ricki, stop by to talk with Marcie and Whistle about their groundbreaking video blog, Growing Up Guide Pup. Through this video diary, they are documenting the highlights of raising their current Guide Dog puppy, Ricki with viewers worldwide tuning in. The series covers Ricki’s training and development into a Guide Dog for the Blind. Listen in as they share their experiences and wisdom about training and nurturing these amazing working dogs.


Show Notes

Episode 44 - It’s All in the Funny Papers!

Comic strip creator, Tom Batiuk, stops by to visit with Marcie and Whistle about his career as a nationally syndicated comic strip writer and the creator of Funky Winkerbean. He also talks in depth about his character Wally, an Iraq and Afghanistan veteran, who returns home with post traumatic stress disorder. Through the coaxing of his girlfriend, Rachel, Wally embarks on a journey to receive a service dog named Buddy that changes his life. Batiuk sheds some light on the inspiration for his creations, his collaboration with Puppies Behind Bars, and his belief that America’s funny pages should reflect what’s happening in the world.


Show Notes

Episode 43 - The Art of Racing in the Rain

Garth Stein, best-selling author and documentary filmmaker, talks with Marcie and Whistle about his New York Times best-selling book, "The Art of Racing in the Rain," which will soon also be a major motion picture. Stein shares how he discovered the magical spirit that we know as Enzo, the dog who is the main character.  Stein describes Enzo as “nearly a human soul trapped in a dog’s body," and tells us how Enzo’s voice came to life in this touching and unforgettable novel. You won’t want to miss a second of this heart-warming discussion.


Show Notes

Episode 42 - Oprah’s Ultimate Favorite Things and Paws and Stripes!

Lindsey Stanek, Executive Director of Paws and Stripes, gives us the behind-the-scenes scoop about how she and husband and Iraq veteran, Jim Stanek, along with his assistance dog, Sarge, became unknowing guests on "Oprah’s Ultimate Favorite Things Show!" Of course it was a well-deserved honor, considering the work Lindsey, and her husband do at Paws and Stripes, a unique organization that works with local animal shelters and trainers to select dogs to be partnered with veterans who have post-traumatic stress disorder and/or traumatic brain injuries.  Come backstage and learn how Oprah pulled off the amazing once-in-a-lifetime gift fest that upstaged Santa this year!


Show Notes

Episode 41 - Victory Ranch - Where the Great Pyrenees and Alpacas Live!

Carol Weisner, Darcy Weisner, and Brian McGill stop by to visit with Marcie and Whistle about their gorgeous Victory Ranch in Mora, New Mexico, the largest alpaca ranch in the Southwest United States. Carol, Darcy, and Brian talk about the magnificent Great Pyrenees working dogs who heroically work 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to watch over the alpacas and protect them from coyotes and other predators. They also talk about all of the exhilarating activities currently happening in celebration of Victory Ranch’s 20th anniversary. Visit and you can meet the Great Pyrenees and participate in daily feedings of the alpacas,  take part in an onsite fiber workshop that includes spinning or weaving classes, and  get a copy of the Great Pyrenees children’s book, Zeus’ Adventure.


Show Notes

Episode 40 - International Association for Assistance Dog Partners (IAADP) Needs YOU to Take a Pepsi Challenge!

Have you heard of the Pepsi Refresh competition? Toni Eames and Joan Froling, from the International Association for Assistance Dog Partners, talk with Marcie and Whistle about the Pepsi Refresh program and IAADP’s opportunity to win funding to support veterinary costs for assistance dog teams and other worthwhile IAADP needs. They also share the latest information about the revisions to the American with Disabilities Act’s definition of service dogs. And they provide the latest "poop" on airport relief areas specific for assistance dogs. This episode is jam-packed with helpful information for assistance dog teams!


Show Notes

Episode 39 - From Hollywood Villain to Rescue Dog Philanthropist!

David Dayan Fisher, star of Hollywood hits such as National Treasure with Nicolas Cage, NCIS, Medium and 24, joins Marcie and Whistle to talk about his beloved dogs, Burton and Monkey. David talks passionately about how his dogs changed his life and helped him to gain a new perspective. He chats about his new book, Puppy School, and how proceeds from the book are directly benefiting rescue dog organizations throughout the country. David and his two canine best friends are busy living the Hollywood dream and making the world a better place for humans and our canine buddies!


Show Notes

Episode 38 - Through a Dog’s Eyes Part II

Lisa Panish, mom to 7-year-old twin boys, Chase and Connor, talks to Marcie and Whistle about her family’s incredible journey to Canine Assistants where they were united with service dogs, Oakley and Nadia. Lisa talks about their unique experience and the incredible impact these dogs have had on Chase and Connor, their school, and their entire family and community. Can you imagine being a mom to two 7-year-olds with disabilities and their two service dogs, and starring in a PBS Documentary? How in the world does she do it all? Lisa’s experience is truly inspirational!


Show Notes

Episode 37 - 2010 National Assistance Dog Event Winners Tonja Peterson-Wendt and Luka

Tonja Peterson-Wendt and her service dog, Luka, stop by to visit with Marcie and Whistle in celebration of their winning the 2010 National Assistance Dog Event Contest! Tonja and Luka share their personal story and how they engaged Nebraska Governor Dave Heineman and other policy makers, service dog organizations, service dog advocates and service dog recipients to come together to take the national prize. You don’t want to miss a second of Tonja and Luka’s amazing story of how they joined forces to help each other.


Show Notes

Episode 36 - Through a Dog’s Eyes

The Founder and CEO of Canine Assistants and author of the best-selling book, Through a Dog’s Eyes, Jennifer Arnold, and Canine Assistants’ Trainer, Chris Casatelli, join Marcie and Whistle to share their philosophy about how to successfully train service dogs. They also discuss the PBS documentary, Through a Dog’s Eyes sponsored by Milk Bone, and the incredible work they are doing every day to place service dogs with individuals with disabilities. Jennifer and Chris know their stuff when it comes to effectively training service dogs and they candidly discuss their personal commitment to training these amazing dogs!


Show Notes

Episode 35 - Celebrity Tom Sullivan Continues to Turn Adversity into Opportunity!

Entertainer and Guide Dog Partner, Tom Sullivan and his German Shepherd guide dog, Edison, stop by to chat with Marcie and Whistle about their experiences as a working guide dog team. Tom is full of funny stories and true wisdom that he openly shares with Marcie and Whistle about his experience throughout the years as a popular entertainer, a man who was born blind, and an active member of a guide dog team. Tom’s observations about the abilities of his assistance dogs are truly illuminating!


Show Notes

Episode 34 - Jill Rappaport - Bow to Wow!

NBC’s TODAY Show Correspondent, best-selling author, and animal advocate, Jill Rappaport, talks with Marcie and Whistle about her lifelong passion for animals. Jill shares personal stories about her beloved dog, Jack, and the other “fur angels” that enrich her life. She also captivatingly discusses her commitment to helping lost and discarded animals find loving homes. Hear about Jill’s Genesis award-winning “Bow to Wow” series and how she provides doggy makeovers to shelter dogs through her unique segments on NBC’s TODAY show. Jill is a true animal advocate!


Show Notes

Episode 33 - Traveling With Your Assistance Dog

Have you been bitten by the travel bug but wonder how you can travel domestically and internationally with your assistance dog? Then you won’t want to miss this episode of Working Like Dogs when Marcie and Whistle visit with Lisa Vesper from the Eldorado Animal Clinic. One of Lisa’s specialties is to work with clients and their assistance dogs to ensure that their travel dreams become a reality. Listen in as Lisa talks about what you need to do in advance of your travels to make sure your trip is a dream come true and not a nightmare. She also talks about some top things that you should pack for every trip!


Show Notes

Episode 32 - Actress Ali MacGraw Has a Tale to Tell!

Actress and animal welfare advocate, Ali MacGraw, visits with Marcie and Whistle and discusses her commitment to assistance animals, National Assistance Dog Week and her work with Assistance Dogs of the West. Ali also performs a special reading for our listeners of author Judith Newton and Assistance Dogs of the West’s innovative children’s book series about a service dog named Nito. The first story begins with Nito becomes an Assistance Dogs of the West service dog in training. In the second story, Nito is matched with Chloe, a little girl in a wheelchair. In the third book of the series, Nito and Chloe go on an amazing adventure to Washington, D.C. You won’t want to miss one second of this inspiring interview!


Show Notes

Episode 31 - Golden Girl Betty White Stops by to Celebrate National Assistance Dog Week!

Betty White, the extremely popular actress and star of the new TV show “Hot in Cleveland,” stops by to discuss National Assistance Dog Week. She also talks with Marcie and Whistle about her long-term interests and activism for animals, her “career change” dog, and her latest fundraising efforts for the Morris Animal Foundation, which includes a steamy calendar, hip clothing line, and much more!


Show Notes

Episode 30 - Storytelling through Rhymes!

Author Judith Newton stops by to visit with Marcie and Whistle about her latest children’s book in her series about a service dog, named Nito. In this latest book, Nito and Chloe Get an Invitation, Judith tells a wonderful story about how Nito and his human partner, Chloe, travel to Washington, D.C. on an invitation to visit the White House and to receive a special award. They meet the President, his family, and of course, their dog Bo! Hear what inspired Judith and how service dogs changed her life.


Show Notes

Episode 29 - Mush - Sled Dog Power!

Have you ever wondered how sled dogs are trained and how
they work together as a professional team? Then listen in as Liz Parrish and Barb Schaefer talk about their experiences in preparing a sled dog team to participate in the infamous Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race®. This Great Race spans from Anchorage to Nome as the musher and her team of 12 to 16 dogs cover over 1,150 miles of rough and beautiful terrain in only 10 to 17 days. Barb and Liz also talk with Marcie and Whistle about all the other cool ways they are
helping others to experience the magic of working with sled dogs. You don’t want to miss hearing all the lessons they’ve learned from these incredible working dogs!


Show Notes

Episode 28 - Should Every Dog Have a Job? Liz Palika Thinks So!

Listen in as world-renowned author, dog trainer, radio host, and working dog team member; Liz Palika visits with Marcie and Whistle. Liz talks about all kinds of dogs with jobs. From pet therapy dogs to service dogs to family pets going out and retrieving the newspaper each morning, Liz shares her personal experiences as a member of a working dog team and as the founder of Love on a Leash, a pet therapy program that now boasts chapters nationwide.


Show Notes

Episode 27 - Canine Works Tirelessly with the Yolo County, California District Attorney’s Office to Serve Child Abuse Victims

Canine Victim Advocate, Daisy, works with her handler, Lori Raineri and Cameron Handley, Director of the Yolo County District Attorney’s Office Multi-Disciplinary Center (MDIC), and her staff to help children who have been victims of crime. The MDIC is a facility where child victims of sexual abuse go for forensic interviews, medical evidentiary examinations, advocacy, assessment, therapy and support services. Cameron, Lori and Daisy stop by to visit with Marcie and Whistle to discuss how Daisy helps to reduce the trauma that child victims often experience. You’ll be amazed at what an exemplary employee Daisy is and all the ways Daisy helps the children, family, and staff of the Yolo County DA’s Office! CSI has nothing on Daisy!


Show Notes

Episode 26 - Understanding Your Working Dog’s Behavior

Have you ever wondered “Why your dog digs uncontrollably in your yard?” or “Why your dog suddenly starts unruly barking at other animals or objects?" Veterinarian and Pet Behavior Specialist, Dr. Jeff Nichol, D.V.M., shares his insights and experiences with Marcie and Whistle about these and other canine behaviors. Join Marcie and Whistle as Dr. Nichol addresses various behavioral issues and shares some helpful tips about how you can respond to your dog’s particular issues.


Show Notes

Episode 25 - Where Fire Safety Meets Fun!

Firefighter Dayna Hilton and her fire safety dog, Sparkles, stop by to share Sparkles’ inspiring story of how she went from being a rescued Dalmatian to educating millions of children and their caregivers about fire safety. Dayna also talks about all of the wonderful free fire safety tips, games and videos for both young people and teachers that can be found on both of their interactive web sites. Firefighter Dayna also shares information about their children’s book, Sparkles the Fire Safety Dog which benefits the Keep Kids Fire Safe Foundation. Sparkles the Fire Safety Dog definitely has her paw on the pulse of fire safety!


Show Notes

Episode 24 - Saddle Up with Assistance Dogs of the West!

Since 1995, Assistance Dog of the West’s assistance dogs have helped clients to overcome physical mobility challenges caused by disease, stroke or traumatic accident. Assistance Dogs of the West’s Executive Director, Carolyn Clark Beedle, stops in to talk with Marcie and Whistle about Assistance Dogs of the West’s award winning educational and vocational programs that enable them to provide highly trained assistance dogs to people with disabilities. You’ll be amazed at the innovative ways they are engaging youth as young as eight years old to train these assistance dogs!


Show Notes

Episode 23 - What’s New With The Tuttles?

Wayne Tuttle and his guide dog, Cosmo, drop by for another visit with Marcie and Whistle to discuss some exciting new things they have going on this year. Wayne shares the latest news and products on his service dog supply web site . Marcie and Wayne also talk about some of the recent information regarding public access and service dog legislation in both the United States and Canada. Listen in and catch up with Wayne and Cosmo and Marcie and Whistle!


Show Notes

Episode 22 - The Realities of Retiring a Service Dog

Have you experienced the agony of retiring a service dog or do you have a service dog that one day you will have to retire? Or, are you just interested in how in the world someone retires their service dog? If so, then listen in as Marcie discusses her experiences and lessons learned when she had to retire her service dogs, Ramona and Morgan. Hear how she transitioned to her successor dogs and ways that she bridged these remarkable relationships.


Show Notes

Episode 21 - Red Dog Rising

Retired police K9 handler, Jeff Schettler, stops in to visit with Marcie and Whistle about his new book, Red Dog Rising. Jeff talks about his experiences with his beloved police dog, Ronin. From a homeless teen to a decorated police dog handler, Jeff talks candidly about his personal experiences and how Ronin changed his life. Jeff discusses subjects from the successful cases they solved together to the tragedies that ultimately ended their careers as law enforcement officers.


Show Notes

Episode 20 - K9 Officer On Duty!

Join Marcie and Whistle as they visit with Officer John Doskocz and his K9 Partner, Iozo. Officer Doskocz and his German Shepherd canine partner, Iozo, are law enforcement officers with the Cheektowaga Police Department located outside Buffalo, New York. Officer Doskocz talks with us about how he and Iozo became a K9 law enforcement unit, the kinds of crimes they are trained to respond to, and their proudest achievement as a K9 team!


Show Notes

Episode 19 - What are Psychiatric Service Dogs?

Have you ever wondered what a psychiatric service dog really does? Join Marcie and Whistle as Joan Esnayra, Ph.D., President and Founder of the Psychiatric Service Dog Society and her psychiatric service dog, Kenji, stop by to talk about psychiatric service dogs. Learn the difference between traditional service dogs and psychiatric service dogs including how they are trained and what they do to assist their human partners living with mental illness.


Show Notes

Episode 18 - The Doctor Is In!

Join Marcie and Whistle as veterinarian Dr. T. Murt Byrne stops by to talk about your working dog’s health and wellness. Dr. Byrne shares his practical advice on some of the most common things our working dogs will experience throughout their working life spans such as what to do if your dog is vomiting or experiencing bloat to weight management and regular wellness screenings. Dr. Byrne will dispel some common myths and give us the 411 on good veterinarian care for our working animals.


Show Notes

Episode 17 - Everything You’ve Ever Wanted To Know About Assistance Dogs! Part 2

Join Marcie and Whistle as Marcie continues her candid discussion about Assistance Dogs including the commands and tasks they are trained to perform. Marcie talks about how Whistle continues to provide her with independence and mobility that she had thought, as a woman with a long-term disability, was truly unobtainable. But all that changed when she received her first service dog, Ramona. Listen in as she shares her story.


Show Notes

Episode 16 - Everything You’ve Ever Wanted To Know About Assistance Dogs! Part 1

Do you really know what an assistance dog can do for its human partner? Where did the idea of an assistance dog came from? And when did people starting using assistance dogs for independence and public access? Join Marcie and Whistle as Marcie candidly shares her experiences and lessons learned as a member of a service dog team.


Show Notes

Episode 15 - K-9 Correctional Officers

Did you know that there are dogs that actually carry badges and serve as official correctional officers inside America’s prisons? These dogs are considered to be correctional officers just like their human partners! Correctional Officer and Master Trainer, Anthony Ramon stops by to visit with Marcie and Whistle about his work as the leader of a K-9 correctional team and a Master Trainer for the New Mexico Department of Corrections. From identifying chemical agents in bombs to detecting hidden cell phones, Master Trainer Ramon talks about his experiences as a trainer and a dog handler. Master Trainer Ramon has seen it all and he shares with Marcie and Whistle all of the ways his canine patrols help to keep people safe both inside and outside of the prison walls.


Show Notes

Episode 14 - Emergency Vets

Ever wondered what you should do if your working animal gets sick in the middle of the night or on the weekend when your regular vet is unavailable? Then join Marcie and Whistle as they chat with Dr. Cindy McCauley-Atkinson, the current practice owner and medical director of the Animal Emergency Center of West Houston. Dr. McCauley-Atkinson shares her knowledge and experience about everything you should know to provide effective emergency care for your working animal including what to have on-hand in your emergency first aid kit, what Poison Control can do to save your animal’s life in a crisis situation, and other helpful tips and information.


Show Notes

Episode 13 - There’s No Excuse For Doggy Breath!

The Doggie Dentist is in the house and she says, "there's no excuse for doggy breath!". Join us as Dr. Kris Bannon, DVM and Fellow, Academy of Veterinary Dentistry, dispels the myths and gives us the real scoop about dental care for our working dogs. Dr. Bannon talks specifically about why oral health is important, what kinds of dental problems are most common, and how often we should be brushing our dog’s teeth. She also offers lots of practical tips and information that every dog lover needs to know!


Show Notes

Episode 12 - Have You Ever Thought About Raising A Service Dog?

Listen in and smell the puppy breath as Canine Companions for Independence (CCI) Puppyraiser, Jeni Exley, stops by to talk with Marcie and Whistle about everything you’ve ever wanted to know about being a service dog puppyraiser. Jeni is currently raising her fifth service dog puppy and she candidly discusses the lessons she has learned along the way. Jeni openly shares how she became a volunteer puppyraiser. She also discusses how she ensures that her puppy in training can confidently perform each of the 31 commands that are required before he or she can move forward to advanced service dog training, better known as service dog college! Jeni answers all of the questions you’ve always wanted to ask!


Show Notes

Episode 11 - Serving Those Who Served The U.S.

Iraq Veteran, Isaiah Schaffer and his chocolate lab service dog, Meghan, join Marcie and Whistle to talk about Puppies Behind Bars. Isaiah visits with us about the service dogs that Puppies Behind Bars trains specifically for returning Iraq and Afghanistan veterans who have suffered a physical injury, traumatic brain injury, or who exhibit post traumatic stress disorder. Listen in as Isaiah candidly shares his personal story about how Meghan and the inmate who trained her changed his life and impacted his ability to successfully cope with post traumatic stress disorder.


Show Notes

Episode 10 - Two Tuttles Four Paws!

Join us as we visit with Wayne Tuttle and his guide dog, Cosmo. Wayne discusses how he developed two online service dog stores and his knowledge and expertise about service dog access laws in Canada and the United States.


Show Notes

Episode 9 - Pioneers in Partner Independence

Toni Eames M.S. and Ed Eames Ph.D., founding board members and officers of the International Association of Assistance Dog Partners (IAADP), join us to discuss the benefits of IAADP membership and the current issues IAADP is working to address such as the civil rights of service animal handlers and the advocacy campaign for service animal relief areas at airports. Toni and Ed also talk about the exciting new Partners in Independence DVD that illustrates the work done by guide, hearing, and service dogs.


Show Notes

Episode 8 - Guide Dogs, Leading the Way!

Guide dogs have been assisting people who are blind or who have low vision since before World War I. Nicole Meadowcroft joins us to talk about the OccuPaws Guide Dog Association. This innovative guide dog training program utilizes a “community” or “in-home” training approach for individuals who want a guide dog but can not attend a traditional “out-of-home” program. Listen in as Nicole shares her exhilarating experiences as a guide dog trainer and a member of guide dog team.


Show Notes

Episode 7 - Service Dog Cruise News

Marcie talks to Deb Davis from Paws With A Cause about their great organization. Paws With A Cause® trains Assistance Dogs nationally for people with disabilities and provides lifetime team support which encourages independence. PAWS promotes awareness through education.

They also discuss the upcoming Service Dog Cruise! Join Paws With A Cause on Royal Caribbean’s Mariner of the Seas for a Service Dog Cruise! Sailing January 17, 2010, this week-long cruise offers all of the adventure and amenities that Royal Caribbean offers to you and your Assistance Dog! Tune in for all the details!


Show Notes

Episode 6 - Celebrating National Service Dog Eye Exam Week!

Does your service dog qualify for a complimentary screening eye exam? Dr. William Miller and Stacee Daniel from the American College of Veterinary Ophthalmology (ACVO) join us to talk about National Service Dog Eye Exam Week. The week of May 3, 2009 over 140 ACVO board certified veterinary ophthalmologists will donate their services to provide FREE eye examinations to Service Dogs across America and Canada. Join us as we talk about this exciting event and about the importance of eye care for working dog teams!


Show Notes

Episode 5 - Teaching People, Teaching Dogs

Curious about clicker training and other working dog training techniques? Dani Weinberg, Dog Trainer and Behavior Consultant, talks about her work as a clicker trainer and her passion for working with both animals and their human partners. Listen in and learn about Dani’s practical training tips and techniques for working with service dogs and their human partners!


Show Notes

Episode 4 - Living With A Service Dog Team

Special guest Franz Freibert shares his personal experiences as a spouse and family member to a working service dog team. He discusses his wife’s decision to get a service dog and how it impacted his life. Franz answers that age old question, “Do working dogs ever get to cut loose and play?” and much, much more!


Show Notes

Episode 3 - A Powerful Touch

BodyTalk for animals strives to reawaken the body’s ability to heal itself. Join us as we welcome BodyTalk Practitioner and Instructor, Laura Hames, as she shares her knowledge and experiences about this alternative healing technique for both humans and animals. Learn how BodyTalk could benefit your working animal!


Show Notes

Episode 2 - The Leaders of the Pack in Working Dog Equipment

Curious about what equipment is right for your service dog or other working dog? Or tired of buying equipment that doesn’t fit or doesn’t deliver what it promises? Then join us as we chat with Josh Griffith, owner of Wiredog Petjoy online, as we discuss a variety of service dog products, training gear, and other working dog needs and supplies.


Show Notes

Episode 1 - K-9 Corps Day – Canine Veterans Getting The Recognition They Deserve!

Did you know that thousands of canines serve every day as proud members of our military and they have done so since before the Revolutionary War? Join us as we talk with Joe White, Vietnam Veteran, dog handler and founder of K-9 Corps Day, as he discusses the history of military dogs and the contributions they have made and continue to make to our grateful nation.


Show Notes