Do you think your pet “loves” something, but they’re actually just stressed, overwhelmed, or trying to cope? Many pet parenting problems start when we judge animal behavior through a human lens and miss what our pets are trying to tell us.
In this episode, I’m joined by Dr. Rachel Malamed, a board-certified veterinary behaviorist (veterinary psychiatrist), to talk about what pets actually need to feel safe, balanced, and mentally healthy in a human home. We get into enrichment that matters (not just expensive stuff), how to spot subtle “please stop” signals, and why forcing social situations can backfire fast. Plus, we unpack the so-called “guilty look” and what’s really going on.
BY THE TIME YOU FINISH LISTENING, YOU’LL DISCOVER:
CTA: If this made you rethink even one thing, send this episode to a friend who loves bringing their pet everywhere.
CTE: Hit reply and tell me what your pet does that you used to think was “attitude.”
CONNECT WITH DR. RACHEL MALAMED:
Website: www.behaviordogtor.com
Find her on: YouTube, Facebook
RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:
Books: Decoding Your Cat | Decoding Your Dog
Visit the American College of Veterinary Behaviorists
Join the Pet Psychiatry Hub Pre-Launch Waitlist
Expert Pet Advice for busy pet parents!
Love the show? Leave a 5-star review so more pet parents can find us, and share this episode with someone who needs it.
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Pet care gets crazy when you're facing behavior issues, rising costs, and confusing pet advice. You need real pet parenting solutions, pet behavior help, and pet budgeting tips you can use every day.
Each week you'll hear pet parenting advice plus expert guidance on dog and cat behavior, dog training, nutrition, stress-free vet visits, and routines that make life easier. We'll help you manage puppy biting, cat aggression, separation anxiety and cat anxiety, emergency vet decisions, and show you how to stay ahead of issues that create stress for pets and their pet parents.
No fluff, no guilt, just practical pet care advice and pet cost hacks to save money, avoid pet parent guilt, and enjoy life with pets.
Follow to stop chasing your tail and start enjoying your pets again.
Contact: Amy@petparenthotline.com
©Ⓟ 2025 Amy Castro
