PetLifeRadio.com - Working Like Dogs - Service Dogs and Working Dogs on Pet Life Radio

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.

EPISODE NOTES: Extending the Lifespan of Our Dogs

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.

EPISODE NOTES: A Dog’s Devotion: True Adventures of a K9 Search and Rescue Team

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!

EPISODE NOTES: Rescued by Ruby

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.

EPISODE NOTES: Transforming Trauma

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.

EPISODE NOTES: Facility Dogs – Supporting Children

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!

EPISODE NOTES: Pet Partners and National Therapy Animal Day

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.

EPISODE NOTES: K-9 Officers’ and Memorial Hermann Life Flight®

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.

EPISODE NOTES: Guiding Eyes for the Blind!

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.

EPISODE NOTES: 4 Paws for Ability!

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...”

EPISODE NOTES: Legendary Dog Show Broadcaster David Frei

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!

EPISODE NOTES: Making the Connection – The Clothier Way

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.

Not only is she cute, but Kajla ranked first in the nation among TSA Passenger Screening Canines for highest daily average time worked, time spent training and screening in the security checkpoint. Penny talks about how she and Kajla work together every day to screen passengers, vehicles and baggage in and around the airport. And, Lorie gives us the scoop about this year’s TSA Cutest Canine Contest and what we can look forward to in next year’s spirited K9 competition!

EPISODE NOTES: Cutest Working Canine

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.

EPISODE NOTES: Caesar the No Drama Llama

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.

She wants to tell the story of their path to independence and their incredible relationship with their canine partners. Guiding Emily is an uplifting and upbeat view of what could otherwise be viewed as a devastating tragedy. Barbara shares how she embraced the guide dog world to do research for her new book. She also shared what it feels like as an author to have her best-selling book, The Christmas Club, turned into a movie for the Hallmark Channel.

EPISODE NOTES: Guiding Emily

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.

EPISODE NOTES: Puppies Behind Bars

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

EPISODE NOTES: Paws and Breathe!

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!

EPISODE NOTES: Dog is Love!

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!

EPISODE NOTES: No Ordinary Dog

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."

EPISODE NOTES: To Be Of Service

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!

EPISODE NOTES: Pack Your Bags!

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!

EPISODE NOTES: Service Dog Support

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.

EPISODE NOTES: Mobility Dogs with Marcie Davis

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.

EPISODE NOTES: Tails of Valor with Marcie Davis

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.

EPISODE NOTES: Making the World a Safer Place with Marcie Davis

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.

EPISODE NOTES: The Dog in the Dentist Chair with Marcie Davis

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.

EPISODE NOTES: Here Comes the Judge with Marcie Davis

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.

More details on this episode MP3 Podcast - Gentle Carousel Miniature Therapy Horses and Their Canine Guardians with Marcie Davis

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.

More details on this episode MP3 Podcast - Physical Therapists’ Guide Dog Research with Marcie Davis

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!

More details on this episode MP3 Podcast - Dogs, the Netflix Documentary with Marcie Davis

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.

More details on this episode MP3 Podcast - Electronic Detection Dogs with Marcie Davis

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.

More details on this episode MP3 Podcast - Therapy Dogs and Therapy Animals with Marcie Davis

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!

More details on this episode MP3 Podcast - Canine Stress with Marcie Davis

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!

More details on this episode MP3 Podcast - SearchDog The Movie with Marcie Davis

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!

More details on this episode MP3 Podcast - K-9 Commando Dogs with Marcie Davis

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.

More details on this episode MP3 Podcast - Gentle Carousel Miniature Therapy Horses with Marcie Davis

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.

More details on this episode MP3 Podcast - Honey – the Miniature Horse Service Animal with Marcie Davis

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!

More details on this episode MP3 Podcast - Pick of the Litter with Marcie Davis

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.

More details on this episode MP3 Podcast - FBI Crisis Response Canines with Marcie Davis

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.

More details on this episode MP3 Podcast - Who Knew Game Wardens Have Police K-9s with Marcie Davis

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.

More details on this episode MP3 Podcast - The Critters and Me with Marcie Davis

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!

More details on this episode MP3 Podcast - Divine Dog Wisdom with Marcie Davis

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.

More details on this episode MP3 Podcast - U.S. Military Dogs with a Mission with Marcie Davis

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.

More details on this episode MP3 Podcast - Sgt. Stubby: An American Hero with Marcie Davis

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 Stephens 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!

More details on this episode MP3 Podcast - Canine Fitness - FitPAWS with Marcie Davis

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!

More details on this episode MP3 Podcast - Behind the Scenes with NBC TODAY Show’s “Puppy with a Purpose” – Charlie with Marcie Davis

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!

More details on this episode MP3 Podcast - Dogs in Public – Who’s Who and What’s What with Marcie Davis

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.

More details on this episode MP3 Podcast - NBC Today Show’s Puppy with a Purpose – America’s VetDogs’ Charlie with Marcie Davis

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.

More details on this episode MP3 Podcast - Pacific Assistance Dogs Society (PADS) with Marcie Davis

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!

More details on this episode MP3 Podcast - The Best and The Bravest with Marcie Davis

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!

More details on this episode MP3 Podcast - Canine Heroes Responding to National Disasters with Marcie Davis

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.

More details on this episode MP3 Podcast - Lessons in Courage from the World’s K9 Cops with Marcie Davis

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!

More details on this episode MP3 Podcast - In the Line of Duty - Protecting Working Dogs from Opioid Overdose with Marcie Davis

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.

Questions or Comments? Send them to: marcie@petliferadio.com.

More details on this episode MP3 Podcast - Do You Know the Difference Between an Assistance Dog and a Pet with Marcie Davis

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!

Questions or Comments? Send them to: marcie@petliferadio.com.

More details on this episode MP3 Podcast - The Dog-Human Relationship with Marcie Davis

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.

Questions or Comments? Send them to: marcie@petliferadio.com.

More details on this episode MP3 Podcast - LoyaL with Marcie Davis

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.

Questions or Comments? Send them to: marcie@petliferadio.com.

More details on this episode MP3 Podcast - Roscoe the Bed Bug Dog with Marcie Davis

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!

Questions or Comments? Send them to: marcie@petliferadio.com.

More details on this episode MP3 Podcast - Dogs for the Deaf with Marcie Davis

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.

Questions or Comments? Send them to: marcie@petliferadio.com.

More details on this episode MP3 Podcast - Advancing the Science of Dogs with Marcie Davis

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!

More details on this episode MP3 Podcast - Angus the Superbug Dog with Marcie Davis

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!

Questions or Comments? Send them to: marcie@petliferadio.com.

More details on this episode MP3 Podcast - Go Fetch Wellness with Marcie Davis

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!

Questions or Comments? Send them to: marcie@petliferadio.com.

More details on this episode MP3 Podcast - Dr. Bonnie Bergin - The Mother of Mobility Assistance Dogs with Marcie Davis

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
shares how being a puppyraiser has changed her life and why she’s definitely a “puppyraiser for life!”

Questions or Comments? Send them to: marcie@petliferadio.com.

More details on this episode MP3 Podcast - Volunteer Puppyraisers - Finding Your Bigger Purpose with Marcie Davis

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!

Questions or Comments? Send them to: marcie@petliferadio.com.

More details on this episode MP3 Podcast - Love is All You Need with Marcie Davis

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.

Questions or Comments? Send them to: marcie@petliferadio.com.

More details on this episode MP3 Podcast - Envisioning a Humane Economy with Marcie Davis

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.

Questions or Comments? Send them to: marcie@petliferadio.com.

More details on this episode MP3 Podcast - Honoring Canine Excellence with Marcie Davis

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.

Questions or Comments? Send them to: marcie@petliferadio.com.

More details on this episode MP3 Podcast - Hail to The Underdogs with Marcie Davis

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!

Questions or Comments? Send them to: marcie@petliferadio.com.

More details on this episode MP3 Podcast - Meet Lulu - The Funeral Service Goldendoodle with Marcie Davis

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.

Questions or Comments? Send them to: marcie@petliferadio.com.

More details on this episode MP3 Podcast - Superpower Dogs with Marcie Davis

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!

Questions or Comments? Send them to: marcie@petliferadio.com.

More details on this episode MP3 Podcast - Celebrating National Guide Dog Month and Natural Balance’s Top Human-Canine Teams Who Make Us Believe with Marcie Davis

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!

Questions or Comments? Send them to: marcie@petliferadio.com.

More details on this episode MP3 Podcast - The Top Dog is Back in the House with Marcie Davis

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.

Questions or Comments? Send them to: marcie@petliferadio.com.

More details on this episode MP3 Podcast - Victoria Stilwell - Star of It’s Me or the Dog with Marcie Davis

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.

Questions or Comments? Send them to: marcie@petliferadio.com.

More details on this episode MP3 Podcast - Airport K-9 Wildlife Control Team - Keeping People and Animals Safe on the Runway with Marcie Davis

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!

Questions or Comments? Send them to: marcie@petliferadio.com.

More details on this episode MP3 Podcast - Working Like Dogs - Episode 116 From Wags to Riches with Marcie Davis

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. Share your dog’s superpower with Daniel and Dominic on social media!

Questions or Comments? Send them to: marcie@petliferadio.com.

More details on this episode MP3 Podcast - Superpower Dogs with Marcie Davis

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!!

Questions or Comments? Send them to: marcie@petliferadio.com.

More details on this episode MP3 Podcast - The Little Horse With A Big Heart! with Marcie Davis

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!

Questions or Comments? Send them to: marcie@petliferadio.com.

More details on this episode MP3 Podcast - Reporting for Duty with Marcie Davis

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!

Questions or Comments? Send them to: marcie@petliferadio.com.

More details on this episode MP3 Podcast - Meet Your New Co-host Lovey and the Amazing Agency that Trained Her, Assistance Dogs of the West with Marcie Davis

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.

Questions or Comments? Send them to: marcie@petliferadio.com.

More details on this episode MP3 Podcast - Join Us for a Special Celebration of Whistle’s Retirement with Marcie Davis

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!

Questions or Comments? Send them to: marcie@petliferadio.com.

More details on this episode MP3 Podcast - Assistance Dogs Down Under with Marcie Davis

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!

Questions or Comments? Send them to: marcie@petliferadio.com.

More details on this episode MP3 Podcast - K9s 4 Mobility with Marcie Davis

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.

Questions or Comments? Send them to: marcie@petliferadio.com.

More details on this episode MP3 Podcast - A Guiding Force with Marcie Davis

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.

Questions or Comments? Send them to: marcie@petliferadio.com.

More details on this episode MP3 Podcast - Ayurveda for Dogs with Marcie Davis

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!

Questions or Comments? Send them to: marcie@petliferadio.com.

More details on this episode MP3 Podcast - Bringing Your Assistance Dog Home For The First Time with Marcie Davis

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.

Questions or Comments? Send them to: marcie@petliferadio.com.

More details on this episode MP3 Podcast - Cesar Millan Shares his Training Wisdom with Marcie Davis

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.

Questions or Comments? Send them to: marcie@petliferadio.com.

More details on this episode MP3 Podcast - Working Like Dogs - Episode 104 Elephant Experts! with Marcie Davis

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!

Questions or Comments? Send them to: marcie@petliferadio.com.

More details on this episode MP3 Podcast - Grieving the Loss of a Service Dog with Marcie Davis

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!

Questions or Comments? Send them to: marcie@petliferadio.com.

More details on this episode MP3 Podcast - Top Dog: The Story of Marine Dog Lucca! with Marcie Davis

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!

Questions or Comments? Send them to: marcie@petliferadio.com.

More details on this episode MP3 Podcast - Working Dogs of Antarctica with Marcie Davis

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!

Questions or Comments? Send them to: marcie@petliferadio.com.

More details on this episode MP3 Podcast - Lucky Dog Host Brandon McMillan with Marcie Davis

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!

Questions or Comments? Send them to: marcie@petliferadio.com.

More details on this episode MP3 Podcast - Courthouse Dogs: Providing Comfort and Building Trust with Marcie Davis

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!

Questions or Comments? Send them to: marcie@petliferadio.com.

More details on this episode MP3 Podcast - The Hero Dog Days of Summer with Marcie Davis

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!

Questions or Comments? Send them to: marcie@petliferadio.com.

More details on this episode MP3 Podcast - How Dogs Changed the Course of History with Marcie Davis

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!

Questions or Comments? Send them to: marcie@petliferadio.com.

More details on this episode MP3 Podcast - Canine Officers and 21st Century Policing with Marcie Davis

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!

Questions or Comments? Send them to: marcie@petliferadio.com.

More details on this episode MP3 Podcast - Unrelenting Nightmare with Marcie Davis

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!

Questions or Comments? Send them to: marcie@petliferadio.com.

More details on this episode MP3 Podcast - What the Dog Knows! with Marcie Davis

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!

Questions or Comments? Send them to: marcie@petliferadio.com.

More details on this episode MP3 Podcast - Innovative Dog Training Solutions with Marcie Davis

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.

Questions or Comments? Send them to: marcie@petliferadio.com.

More details on this episode MP3 Podcast - How Can We Help Our Working Dogs End Life Well
with Marcie Davis

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.

Questions or Comments? Send them to: marcie@petliferadio.com.

More details on this episode MP3 Podcast - Soldiers in Fur and Feathers: The Animals that Served in World War I
with Marcie Davis

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!

Questions or Comments? Send them to: marcie@petliferadio.com.

More details on this episode MP3 Podcast - Airport Travel Stressing You Out? Therapy Dogs are Unstressing Passengers
with Marcie Davis

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!

Questions or Comments? Send them to: marcie@petliferadio.com.

More details on this episode MP3 Podcast - Hero Dogs of 9/11
with Marcie Davis

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!

Questions or Comments? Send them to: marcie@petliferadio.com.

More details on this episode MP3 Podcast - Bomb Sniffing Dogs with Marcie Davis

var ACE_AR = {Site: '845738', Size: '468060'};

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!

Questions or Comments? Send them to: marcie@petliferadio.com.

More details on this episode MP3 Podcast - American Hero Dog Awards with Marcie Davis

var ACE_AR = {Site: '845738', Size: '468060'};

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. 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!

Questions or Comments? Send them to: marcie@petliferadio.com.

More details on this episode MP3 Podcast - Successful Assistance Dog Partnerships in the Workplace with Marcie Davis

var ACE_AR = {Site: '845738', Size: '468060'};

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.

Questions or Comments? Send them to: marcie@petliferadio.com

More details on this episode MP3 Podcast - Diabetic Alert Dogs with Marcie Davis

var ACE_AR = {Site: '845738', Size: '468060'};

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!

Questions or Comments? Send them to: marcie@petliferadio.com.

More details on this episode MP3 Podcast - From Abandoned to Irreplaceable with Marcie Davis

var ACE_AR = {Site: '845738', Size: '468060'};

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!

Questions or Comments? Send them to: marcie@petliferadio.com.

More details on this episode MP3 Podcast - 83 Krista Brooks’ Unique Works of Arf! with Marcie Davis

var ACE_AR = {Site: '845738', Size: '468060'};

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!

Questions or Comments? Send them to: marcie@petliferadio.com.

More details on this episode MP3 Podcast - Working Like Dogs - K-9 Comfort Dogs Soothe Survivors of the Boston Marathon and other Catastrophic Events with Marcie Davis

var ACE_AR = {Site: '845738', Size: '468060'};

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.

Questions or Comments? Send them to: marcie@petliferadio.com.

More details on this episode MP3 Podcast - Working Like Dogs - Episode 81 Guardian Dogs and the Herds They Protect with Marcie Davis

var ACE_AR = {Site: '845738', Size: '468060'};

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.

Questions or Comments? Send them to: marcie@petliferadio.com.

More details on this episode MP3 Podcast - Canine Intelligence: Going into the Mind of Dogs with Marcie Davis