Shows
The Dogs of Our Lives#37 The KEY Differences Between Welfare and Wellbeing for Your DogThat's a wrap on Season 3 and our special summer working dog series.
In this final recap, I leave you with a reminder of what we've discussed (if you've missed any episodes, I highly encourage you to take a look through the episode list, as there are some really juicy conversations!)
But what I want to highlight are the key differences between welfare and well-being for your dog, and why they matter.
It's so important to treat your dog as an individual and meet all of their needs, not just the basics. Take...
2025-09-0907 min
The Dogs of Our Lives#36 EXPERT Dog Trainer Spills All About Working Dogs in the Home - with Jean DonaldsonEver wondered if you should bring a working dog into your home?
This episode of the Dogs of Our Lives podcast is going to be a must-listen for you.
This week, I chat with Jean Donaldson, a pioneer in force-free positive reinforcement dog training.
She has over 30 years of experience in dog behavior and training and is the Founder and Director of the San Francisco SPCA Academy for Dog Trainers.
Jean also has several award-winning books, including The Culture Clash and Oh Behave!
She shares her journey, career highlights so...
2025-08-1947 min
The Dogs of Our Lives#35 Could Dog Agility Training Be The Ultimate Enrichment Exercise? - with Cheryl ParkerIn this week's episode of this special working dog summer series of the Dogs of Our Lives podcast, I chat with a great friend of mine, Cheryl Parker, about her journey in dog agility.
If you've ever thought about agility training for your dog, then this is a must-listen episode with Cheryl and her multi-award winning dogs
Cheryl, an athletic trainer turned PA, started agility with her Cocker Spaniel Cooper in 2005, competing since 2010. She discusses the importance of building trust, desensitization, and positive reinforcement.
Cheryl shares her experience with Sammy, a rescue with...
2025-07-2249 min
The Dogs of Our Lives#34 How to Train a Search and Rescue Dog from an Expert Trainer - with Niamh ColemanWelcome back to another episode of our special Working Dog Summer Series.
If you've ever been interested in training your dog to be a search and rescue dog, then this episode is perfect for you!
Even if you want to use some search and rescue techniques to enrich your dog's life, you'll hear some juicy nuggets to take away from this episode.
In today's episode, I talk with Niamh Coleman about canine search and rescue, highlighting the training, physical, mental, and emotional needs of search and rescue dogs.
Niamh, with over 20 y...
2025-07-0842 min
The Dogs of Our Lives#33 Avoid The Warning Signs of Backyard Breeders - with Kim CrawmerIf you're concerned about buying a dog from a breeder, specifically a working dog.I'd encourage you to listen to this episode with Kim Crawmer, a certified dog trainer and breeder of Maremma livestock Guardian dogs.
We discuss Kim's journey from breeding Cocker Spaniels to focusing on Maremma’s, emphasizing the importance of proper socialization, health testing, and training. She highlights the differences between Livestock Guardian dogs and herding dogs, the challenges of integrating these dogs into new environments, and the critical role of early socialization.
Kim also addresses common myths about these dogs, str...
2025-06-2444 min
The Dogs of Our LivesUnlocking the Secrets of Working Dogs: Their Mental & Physical Needs, Ethical Breeding & Heartwarming Rescue Stories.Welcome to Season 3 of The Dogs of Our Lives podcast with me, Chrissy Messick.
This summer I'll be focusing on working dogs.
If you've ever experienced "challenging or difficult" behavior from your animal companion, especially if you have a working dog breed, then this season is exactly what you need.
The series will explore the multifaceted lives of working dogs, delving into their physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual needs. Topics include ethical breeding, rescue dogs, and the complexities of supporting these animals.
I want to remind you that every dog is u...
2025-06-1104 min
The Dogs of Our LivesThe Dogs of Our Lives Season 2 Recap and What You Don't Want to Miss in Season 3!What a season 2 it has been!
In this season of The Dogs of Our Lives Podcast, we have explored a variety of topics ranging from dog nutrition, pain management in dogs, humane education, and even busted some myths surrounding dog medication!
Not only that, but we have delved into some challenging and difficult topics and listened to real-life stories about the relationship between humans and their animal companions.
If you've ever wanted to learn how to communicate better and form a deeper connection with your dog, then the episodes in this series are e...
2025-06-0302 min
The Dogs of Our Lives#32 Swapping Traditional Dog Training Methods for a More Holistic Approach Will Deepen Your Connection with Your Dog - with Annika McDadeDo you want to develop a deeper connection and understanding of your dog?
If you are feeling frustrated by traditional training methods and want to explore a more holistic approach, then this is the episode for you.
In this week's episode of the Dogs of Our Lives Podcast, I chat with Annika Alcorso (né McDade), a triple-certified Professional Behaviour Consultant & Coach with a passion for facilitating a deep connection between dogs and their people.
Annika is a former dog trainer now focused on human coaching and animal communication, emphasising the importance of mindset cha...
2025-05-2743 min
The Dogs of Our Lives#31 The REAL Truth Behind Animal Communication - with JoLee WingersonHave you ever wondered what exactly is animal communication?
How does animal communication work?
Can anybody communicate, telepathically, with their animal companion?
You'll get the answers to all of these questions in this week's episode of the Dogs of Our Lives.
I chat with JoLee Wingerson, a certified animal communicator, who has worked with many animals and their humans over the past 24 years.
She has some interesting and surprising insights into the world of animal communication, which I found fascinating and enlightening.
Animal communication is a bit o...
2025-05-201h 09
The Dogs of Our Lives#30 Processing The Emotions of Grief, and Relief, After The Loss of an Animal Companion - with Andrew HaleHave you recently lost an animal companion? Are you in the difficult position of knowing your dog is about to transition?
This special Dogs of Our Lives Podcast episode is a MUST-LISTEN for anyone who has recently said goodbye to their dog, is going through the process, or is anticipating them leaving.
This week, I chat with Andrew Hale, a former Dogs of Our Lives podcast guest and fellow dog behavior consultant.
Andrew sadly lost his beloved companion and friend of 14 years, Arthur, his rescue spaniel/collie mix.He has been processing...
2025-05-1353 min
The Dogs of Our Lives#29 The Overwhelming Pressure to be a Successful Dog Guardian - with Marissa MartinoDo you feel the pressure to be a good dog guardian?
Sometimes society, culture and even our community put so much pressure on us as dog guardians that it often becomes an overwhelming experience.
In this week's episode of The Dogs Of Our Lives podcast, I chat with Marissa Martino, a Certified Dog Behavior Consultant, human coach and founder of Paws and Reward https://pawsandreward.com/
We talk about the importance of regulating our own emotions so we can better adapt and cope with our dogs (sometimes) challenging behaviors.
We look at...
2025-05-0643 min
The Dogs of Our Lives#28 The Major Benefits of Seeking Advice From a Veterinary Behaviorist - with Dr. Ariel FagenWhen is the right time to reach out to a veterinary behaviorist?
That's just one of the questions we talk about in today's episode of The Dogs of Our Lives podcast.
I chat with Dr Ariel Fagen, a board-certified veterinary behaviorist based in Boulder, Colorado, who has also recently started practicing in Hawaii.
We discuss the difference between a primary care vet and a veterinary behaviorist, when to seek advice and some of the tools she uses to assess and treat the dogs she sees.
If your dog is displaying signs...
2025-04-2959 min
The Dogs of Our Lives#27 The Life-Changing Process of Understanding Your Dog - Jamie & Winnie’s StoryDo you really understand your dog? The tougher question may also be, do you understand yourself?
If you've been wondering how to form a stronger bond with your dog but are unsure how, then my signature course may be exactly what you need!
Understanding You & Your Dog: Where Traditional Training Ends, True Connection Begins - YourPath to Thriving with Your Dog.
Join the Waitlist!
In this week's Dogs of Our Lives Digging Deeper Episode, I chat with one of my clients, Jamie Preira.
She talks about the...
2025-04-2234 min
The Dogs of Our Lives#26 Are You TRULY Enriching Your Dog's Life? - with Lindsey Fontana-DreszerDogs are wonderful creatures that bring unlimited joy into our lives. We OWE it to them to provide them with a life full of enrichment and understanding.
Sign up for my last LIVE masterclass, Beyond Obedience: The Art of Trust & Partnership with Your Dog, it's completely FREE, and you'll get an exclusive bonus for showing up live on the 21st April.https://www.theanimalnature.com/masterclass-registration-page
In this week's episode, I chat with Lindsey Fontana-Dreszer, founder and owner of Dogby Box, a subscription-based service that provides enrichment activity boxes that aim to deepen t...
2025-04-1530 min
The Dogs of Our Lives#25 4 Clear Signs When to Seek Veterinary Advice to Find Out If Your Dog Needs Medication - Digging Deeper EpisodeWondering if your dog needs medication to improve their behavior and well-being?
In this Digging Deeper episode of The Dogs of Our Lives podcast, I delve further into the topic of dog medication following on from my conversation with Dr Stacey Jones last week.
If you haven't yet listened to that episode, head over to episode 24 to listen in full. Our conversation was truly enlightening.https://www.theanimalnature.com/podcasts/the-dogs-of-our-lives/episodes/2149006598
I discuss 4 clear signs that will help you understand whether your dog needs medication and how to ask for help...
2025-04-0808 min
The Dogs of Our Lives#24 Busting Myths Surrounding Dog Medication - with Dr. Stacey JonesIn this week's episode, we'll bust some myths surrounding dog medication.
So if you've ever had any questions about dog medication and how it works, this episode of The Dogs of Our Lives podcast is for you.
I talk with Dr. Stacy Jones, a veterinarian at the Veterinary Behavior Center in Boulder, Colorado. Stacey emphasizes the use of medications as part of a comprehensive treatment plan, dispelling myths about their use and highlighting their role in reducing anxiety and improving quality of life.
We also discuss the misconceptions around veterinarians' financial motivations when pre...
2025-04-021h 11
The Dogs of Our Lives#23 Five Easy Ways to Better Understand Humane Education - Digging Deeper EpisodeI discuss humane education in this week's Digging Deeper episode of The Dog of Our Lives podcast.
I really want to emphasise its role in developing critical thinking, empathy, and ethical decision-making.
I believe I developed empathy for animals while growing up on a farm and seeing first-hand the treatment of the animals around me at the time.
But what exactly is humane education?
I talk about five key points to better understand the idea of humane education, which include daily modeling of respectful animal interactions, addressing biases, experiential learning through fa...
2025-03-2511 min
The Dogs of Our Lives#22 Is Humane Education The Key to Unlocking Our Understanding of Our Dogs and The World Around Us?What is humane education?
In this week's episode, Emily Tronetti returns to take a deeper dive into the importance of humane education in fostering compassionate coexistence with animals.
If you didn't catch her previous interview with me, you can find it here:
https://www.theanimalnature.com/podcasts/the-dogs-of-our-lives/episodes/2148811341
Emily, an educator and consultant, defines humane education as teaching critical thinking, empathy, and compassionate action. She emphasizes the need for daily interactions that model these values, such as reflecting on biases and promoting thoughtful observation of animals.
We also to...
2025-03-1843 min
The Dogs of Our Lives#21 The Surprising Connection Between Gut Health and Dog Behavior - Digging Deeper EpisodeDo you know about the gut-brain axis?
In this week's Digging Deeper episode of The Dogs of Our Lives podcast, I explore the gut-brain axis and its impact on dog behavior.
This topic is a follow-up to my conversation with canine nutritionist, Dr Alexia Mellor.In that episode (number 20) we discussed so much, but gut health came up a lot which is why I wanted to dig a little deeper into the connection between gut health and behavior.
I talk about five factors affecting gut health and behavior: pain, inflammation, malabsorption, microflora im...
2025-03-1115 min
The Dogs of Our Lives#20 The Gut Health and Behavior Connection-with Dr Alexia MellorCould your dog food actually be harming your dog's health and affecting their behavior?
In this week's episode of the Dogs of Our Lives podcast, I chat with Dr. Alexia Mellor a canine nutritionist, also known as the Mystic Dog Mama.
She emphasizes the importance of fresh food for dogs, noting that processed kibble may lead to gut imbalances and behavioral problems.
Alexia discusses the role of energetics in nutrition, the significance of gut health, and the benefits of bone broth.
She also highlights the integration of energy work and animal...
2025-03-041h 09
The Dogs of Our Lives#19 Is Your Dog in Pain? Recognizing Your Dog's Hidden Pain & Ways to Prevent It - Digging Deeper EpisodeIn this week's Digging Deeper Episode of the Dogs of Our Lives podcast, I discuss the importance of recognizing and managing pain in dogs.
This episode follows on from my conversation with Dr Robert Falconer Taylor, if you missed that episode I encourage you to give it a listen as he provides some valuable insights into how pain affects dog behavior.
https://www.theanimalnature.com/podcasts/the-dogs-of-our-lives/episodes/2148982997
Did you know I have a background in sports medicine?I draw on this experience as a dog trainer and behavior consultant as there...
2025-02-2511 min
The Dogs of Our Lives#18 Trusting Your Gut When You Know Your Dog Is In Pain - with Dr Robert Falconer-TaylorHave you ever thought this about your dog? I feel like there's something wrong with my dog, but I just can't quite put my finger on it.
Believe me, you're not alone because so many dogs have underlying pain or discomfort that goes unnoticed.
Dogs are experts in disguising their own pain!
In this week's episode, I discuss the connection between pain and behavior in dogs with Dr. Robert Falconer Taylor, a veterinarian with over 30 years of experience.
I met Dr Robert via an online community group created by Andrew...
2025-02-1856 min
The Dogs of Our Lives#17 How To Develop Better Awareness of Your Relationship with Your Dog - Digging Deeper EpisodeAre you aware of the four levels of cultural awareness in dog-human relationships?
If you've been wondering why you can't seem to communicate with your dog or you're struggling to understand what your dog is trying to tell you, then this is a must-listen-to episode.
In last week's episode of the Dogs of Our Lives podcast, Chrissy chatted with Alyssa Ralph, a clinical animal behaviorist and canine nutritionist, discussing a holistic approach to animal care.
If you missed that episode, catch up here:https://www.theanimalnature.com/podcasts/the-dogs-of-our-lives/episodes/2148974887
N...
2025-02-1108 min
The Dogs of Our Lives#16 Does A Holistic Approach Improve Dog Behavior and Overall Well-Being? - with Alyssa RalphHave you ever felt something was wrong with your dog but couldn't figure out what exactly?
Believe me when I say, you're not alone.
In this week's episode, I chat with Alyssa Ralph a clinical animal behaviorist from the UK.
Alyssa shares her journey from working in zoos to specializing in aggressive and reactive dog behavior, emphasizing the importance of considering nutrition, physical health, and the emotional well-being of the dog when assessing each case.
Incorporating these three elements will help you develop a more holistic approach to dog training and u...
2025-02-041h 11
The Dogs of Our Lives#15 How To Develop a Spiritual Connection Between You & Your Dog - Digging Deeper EpisodeHave you ever wanted to develop a deeper, more spiritual connection between you and your dog?
In this week's episode of The Dogs of Our Lives, I'll be digging deeper into this topic following my interview with Dr Chris Pachel in the previous episode.
If you'd like to listen to that first you can find it here: https://www.theanimalnature.com/podcasts/the-dogs-of-our-lives/episodes/2148962283
To properly develop a spiritual connection and understanding of our dog, we must first do the work on ourselves.
I talk about the different ways we can re...
2025-01-2814 min
The Dogs of Our Lives#14 A Veterinary Behaviorist's Perspective on the Physical, Mental, Emotional, & Spiritual Well-Being of our Dogs - with Dr. Chris PachelWelcome to Season 2 of The Dogs of Our Lives Podcast!
In this first episode, Chrissy interviews Dr Chris Pachel, a board-certified veterinary behaviorist from Portland, Oregon.
Do you truly understand your dog's behavior? How can you learn more about your dog and understand their needs better?
Dr Pachel discusses his journey into veterinary behavior, the importance of a holistic approach to animal care, and the challenges of integrating behavioral education into veterinary schools. He emphasizes the significance of understanding the emotional and physical well-being of both animals and their caregivers.
Dr. P...
2025-01-211h 12
The Dogs of Our LivesThe Dogs of Our Lives First Season Recap!We did it! Not only did we complete our first season, we made it into the top 50% of podcasts!
I am so grateful to all of you who have downloaded the first season of the Dogs of Our Lives podcast, it means so much to me to be able to share my important message about dogs, dog training and dog behavior.
I talked with so many amazing guests, including some of my clients, veterinarians, ethologists, canine massage therapists and more!
We'll be back next year with another round of interviews, solo episodes with...
2024-11-2101 min
The Dogs of Our Lives#13 A Dog Is For Life, Not Just For The Holidays - with Bridgette ChesneIn today's Dogs of Our Lives episode, Chrissy talks with Bridgette Chesne about why a dog is for life, not just for the Holidays in our special holiday episode.
Bridgette shares her tips about bringing a dog or animal companion into your home during the holidays, thanks to her many years of experience working in the Humane Society of Boulder Valley and the Veterinary Behavior Center.
She shares her own experiences as a dog guardian and how she became certified in Predation Substitute Training.
If you're interested in learning more about Predation Substitute T...
2024-11-191h 07
Mystic Dog MamaFrom Training to Teaching: Building a Foundation of Trust with Your Dog with Chrissy MessickToday I’m joined by Chrissy Messick, a dog trainer, behavioural consultant, animal communicator, and fellow podcaster, who helps dog parents set the foundations to build a happy and healthy relationship with their dogs.
I just love this conversation because Chrissy really takes a holistic approach to how we help our dogs navigate this world - and by proxy, how this helps US to better navigate the world. Chrissy shares how she grew up around animals, but then entered a career in sports medicine - even working at the Olympic Games! But it was her...
2024-11-091h 01
The Dogs of Our Lives#12 How Canine Massage Therapy Can Help with Behavior Issues and Deepen The Connection Between You & Your Dog - with Anja ZakeljIn this episode of the Dogs of Our Lives podcast, Chrissy talks with Anja Zakelj, a certified canine massage therapist from Slovenia.
Chrissy and Anja discuss how dog massage therapy can help with behavior issues and also deepen your connection with your dog.
Anja talks about the benefits of canine massage, including pain relief, increased mobility, and deeper human-dog connections.
Anja and Chrissy highlight the significance of addressing "silent pain" in dogs, which can manifest in behavior changes.
Anja offers practical tips for starting dog massage, such as starting with gentle tou...
2024-11-0541 min
The Dogs of Our Lives#11 Understanding Your Dog Through the Eyes of a Field Biologist & Ethologist- with Dr. Marc BekoffIn this week's episode, Chrissy chats with Dr Marc Bekoff about understanding your dog through the eyes of a field biologist and ethologist in which they discuss his extensive work on animal behavior and emotions.
Marc emphasizes the importance of understanding the commitment required to care for a dog, likening it to having a child. He stresses the need for dog literacy and responsible guardianship, advocating for careful observation and understanding of individual dog behaviors.
Marc and Chrissy also highlight the significance of accurate terminology in animal behavior studies, particularly regarding dominance and social hierarchies. Marc...
2024-10-2254 min
FOLLOW ME: I'm a D.O.G!20. Dog Training with Integrity and Fairness with Chrissy MessickHave I taught my dogs to peak around the kitchen island?Is it a behavior chain I've created?Is it always me?Let's learn from Chrissy Messick, owner of The Nature of Animals in Lafayette, Colorado, and host of the podcast The Dogs of Our Lives.Chrissy talks to The Dog Pod about how to be with our dogs and be curious about them, and how to be fair and less judgmental with our dogs and ourselves.https://followmepod.com/https://www.theanimalnature.com/
2024-10-1934 min
The Dogs of Our Lives#10 A Veterinary Surgeon's Personal and Professional Perspective on TPLO Surgery and Recovery For Dogs - with Dr. Jennifer FickIn this episode, Chrissy talks with Dr Jennifer Fick, a veterinary orthopedic surgeon.
They discuss Jennifer's personal and professional perspective on TPLO surgery for cruciate ligament injuries, and perhaps just as importantly, TPLO recovery for dogs like Charlotte (a german shepherd) who need mental stimulation.
If you want better tools to aid in your dog's recovery from TPLO surgery, this FREE mini-guide is EXACTLY what you need: https://www.theanimalnature.com/pl/2147656156
They also cover Jennifer's journey to becoming a mobile surgeon, her experiences with her dogs Charlotte and Elsie, and the challenges of...
2024-10-081h 10
The Dogs of Our Lives#9 How The Emotional and Social Feelings of our Dogs Affect Behavior - with Andrew HaleIn today's episode, Chrissy hosts Andrew Hale, a UK-based animal and canine behaviorist, to discuss the emotional and social aspects of dog behavior, and just as importantly, how that affects us as care givers.
Trust me when I say you do not want to miss this episode if you are even slightly interested in behavior, for those listening with children, it's a must-listen!
Andy shares his personal journey, including childhood trauma and its impact on his work.
We emphasize the importance of understanding behavior from a deeper perspective, rather than just addressing symptoms. ...
2024-09-2451 min
The Dogs of Our Lives#8 Does Positive Reinforcement Really Work For Dogs Displaying Fearful and Reactive Behaviors? - with Jamie FlanaganOn today's episode, I speak with Jamie Flanagan, a dog trainer specializing in dogs that show aggressive and reactive behaviors and we're asking a very important question:Does Positive Reinforcement Really Work For Dogs Displaying Fearful and Reactive Behaviors?
Jamie, who runs Training Wheels in Broomfield, Colorado, discusses her background, including her time at the Humane Society of Boulder Valley and her transition to dog training.
She emphasizes the importance of positive reinforcement and the challenges of working with sensitive dogs.
Jamie shares her personal experience with her own reactive dog...
2024-09-1059 min
The Dogs of Our Lives#7 Navigating Your Dog's Vision Loss with Resilience and Compassion - with Gigi MossIn today's episode, I speak with Gigi Moss, a local legend in the Boulder Valley community, about navigating your dog's vision loss with resilience and compassion. Gigi had to adapt to her dog's eyesight loss which also impacted her training techniques.
Gigi has been a dog trainer for over 20 years and has a wealth of experience, but helping her dog through vision loss was ironically eye-opening for her and her dog training methods, realising that teaching our dogs to be more resilient is essential.
If you are going through a similar experience of change, t...
2024-08-2742 min
The Dogs of Our Lives#6 The Benefits of Humane Education & Critical Reflection and Why They Matter For You & Your Dog - with Emily TronettiIn today's episode, I talk with Emily Tronetti who has a doctorate in humane education for humans and non-human animals. Humane education is an educational practice that inspires critical thinking and taking compassionate action for humans, nonhuman animals, and the earth we share.
We discuss the benefits of humane education and critical thinking and why they matter for you and your dog, or companion animal.
We talk about how the animals in her life have helped her cope with her depression and anxiety thanks to their intuitive nature, unique intelligence, and unconditional compassion.
If...
2024-08-1350 min
The Dogs of Our Lives#5 The Surprising Parallels Between Human and Animal Adoption -with Mary Angilly and BusterThis week I talk to Mary about the surprising parallels between human and animal adoption and how that has impacted her dog training and behavior consulting approach.
Mary also shares her insights into her experience with the ASPCA, her journey into dog training and behavior consulting, and how her pup Buster has helped her slow down.
If you'd like to connect with us then head on over to my website: https://www.theanimalnature.com/
Join my amazing community on my Instagram at: https://www.instagram.com/thenatureofanimals/
You can reach out...
2024-07-3153 min
The Dogs of Our Lives#4 The Personal and Professional Realities of Running a Rescue - with Emily Wolf, Summit Dog Rescue, and Piper.The Personal and Professional Realities of Running a Rescue.
In today's episode, I chat with Emily Wolf from Summit Dog Rescue about running a successful rescue.
We discuss how running a rescue is not all rainbows and unicorns, but a huge professional and personal challenge, that has proven to be extremely difficult at times.
If you've ever thought about adopting a dog from a rescue, then this episode is for you.
If you'd like to learn more about Summit Dog Rescue, check out their website: www.summitdogrescue.org and be sure to...
2024-07-1638 min
The Dogs of Our Lives#3 Life After Divorce: Building Confidence with a Reactive Dog - with Rebecca & TeagueLife After Divorce: Building Confidence with a Reactive Dog with Rebecca and Teague.
In today's episode, I talk with Rebecca about how her divorce impacted her relationship with her dog Teague.
We discuss how living with a reactive or sensitive dog can cause anxiety and self-doubt, the struggles of managing a reactive dog in a single-family household and the importance of community to help build confidence.
If you are living with a reactive or sensitive dog and would like to learn more about training techniques, dog behaviour and more then head on over...
2024-07-0237 min
The Dogs of Our Lives#2 How to Survive the Loss of a Loved One With the Help of Your Animal Companion - with Joanna & LoloThis latest episode of the Dogs of Our Lives podcast centers around the themes of grief, loss and the importance of companion animals in providing comfort and purpose during difficult times.
Chrissy chats to Joanna who she shares her personal experience of losing a loved one and navigating that with the support of her animal companion. Chrissy and Joanna talk about the need for empathy, trust, and emotional healing, and discussed the unique ways Joanna formed such a strong bond with her dog Lolo.
They also discussed the challenges of socializing reactive dogs and the...
2024-06-1837 min
The Dogs of Our Lives#1 My Personal Story - How the Dogs in My Life Helped Me Become a Better ParentWelcome to Episode One of the Dogs of Our Lives Podcast with me, your host, Chrissy Messick.
The Dogs of Our Lives podcast is all about living, learning, and growing with dogs.
In this episode, I will talk to you about my personal journey as a dog owner, and trainer, how the dogs in my life made me a better parent and how my childhood influenced the person I am today.
In future episodes of the Dogs of Our Lives podcast, I will invite guests to talk about their personal experiences of owning do...
2024-06-0431 min
The Dogs of Our LivesThe Dogs of Our Lives - The TrailerWelcome to The Dogs of Our Lives Podcast hosted by Chrissy Messick, founder of the Nature of Animals, dog training and behavior consulting expert.
This trailer introduces the first season of the brand-new podcast, The Dogs of Our Lives, where I will chat with clients, colleagues, and professionals in the field about their unique experiences with their dogs.
Together we will explore the impact dogs have on our lives, and how that affects us as humans and our own interactions, with not only dogs, but the people around us. Be sure to join us for...
2024-05-2401 min
Let's Talk to AnimalsLet's Talk to Animals with animal communicator Shannon Cutts and positive dog trainer Chrissy MessickFor episode 3 of Season 3 of Let's Talk to Animals, Shannon talks with positive dog trainer and animal intuitive Chrissy Messick, MS, CTC, CPDT-KA of The Nature of Animals. Chrissy shares her personal story of how she transitioned from working with human Olympians to working with canines using positive training and reinforcement methods. Chrissy also talks about four major reinforcement methods for training new dog behaviors, how each one works and which ones she uses in her practice.Chrissy Messick: http://www.theanimalnature.comChrissy's Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thenatureofanimals/Find Animal Love...
2022-10-1245 min
Pod to the RescueLetting the Dog Lead with Trainer Chrissy MessickDogs are speaking to us all the time - just not in the way we’re often used to communicating. Are you listening to their subtle ways of communicating?
In this episode, Emily and Libby sit down with Chrissy to talk all things training. Chrissy is a dog trainer, and recent rescuer from Summit Dog Rescue. She recently rescued a 3-year old friend named Ginger - she talks about her journey with Ginger, how to let the dog lead their process of adapting to the new family, and the myriad of ways dogs communicate. They talk a lo...
2021-04-1543 min