In this episode of the Making Ripples podcast, we’re delighted to welcome Raoudha Mairos, a passionate dog trainer and behavior consultant, as she shares her inspiring journey from fearing dogs to dedicating her life to understanding and improving animal welfare. As the founder of Sunny Paws, Raoudha offers one-on-one coaching to help dogs and their guardians build confidence, trust, and a stress-free bond. She also co-founded Global Animal Experts, a platform that connects professionals in the French-speaking community with expert insights through courses and webinars.

Raoudha’s story is one of transformation—moving from fear to fascination as she navigated life with her first dog, Sunny, and eventually shifted careers from teaching to professional dog training. She shares how different dogs, including her own, have shaped her approach, emphasising the importance of understanding individual animals rather than forcing them into rigid expectations.

In this episode, we dive into: ✅ The power of observation and empathy in animal training ✅ How Raoudha’s work helps bridge the communication gap between dogs and their humans ✅ The importance of giving animals choices in training and daily life ✅ The lessons she’s learned from working with multiple species, including a surprising training experience with a giraffe!

Whether you're an animal trainer, pet guardian, or behavior enthusiast, Raoudha’s insights will inspire you to rethink the way we understand and connect with the animals in our lives.

Links

• https://sunnypaws.co.uk/
• www.globalanimalexperts.com

In this episode of the Making Ripples podcast, we’re thrilled to welcome Samantha Rubio, a dedicated horse trainer specialising in positive reinforcement and equine rehabilitation. Based in Montgomery County, Maryland, Samantha works at a cutting-edge equine behavior and sports medicine rehabilitation facility while also running her own training business.

Samantha shares her inspiring journey from a childhood passion for animals to earning her degree in Animal Science and Neurobiology at Cornell University. She opens up about her experience bridging the gap between academic research and real-life training, advocating for lifelong learning, and fostering an inclusive approach that values both human and non-human learners.

Listeners will gain insight into Samantha’s work at Misty Step Stables, where she collaborates with veterinarians and specialists to support horses in medical and behavioral rehabilitation. She discusses the importance of recognising pain in horses - challenging outdated industry norms that often dismiss behavioral indicators of discomfort. Through compelling case studies, including a transformative experience with a horse named Rum, Samantha highlights the power of listening to both horses and their owners, reinforcing the idea that effective training is built on trust, science, and compassion.

Whether you're an equestrian, animal behavior enthusiast, or trainer looking to deepen your understanding of positive reinforcement in the horse world, this episode is packed with valuable insights and practical takeaways.

Links

• Samantha's workplace >>> https://mistystepstables.com/
• Samantha's business on Facebook >>> https://www.facebook.com/AhimsaEquineLLC
• Samantha on Facebook >>> https://www.facebook.com/samantha.rubio.5074

In this episode of the Making Ripples podcast, we are thrilled to welcome Eileen Anderson—writer, researcher, and advocate for humane dog training. Eileen is the author of Remember Me?, a Maxwell Award-winning book on canine cognitive dysfunction, and a thought leader in the world of positive reinforcement training.

Eileen shares her fascinating journey from engineering and music to becoming a trusted voice in the animal behavior community. She discusses how a chance adoption of a challenging dog named Summer set her on a path of discovery, leading her to the world of behavior science, dog training, and eventually, writing. With her unique background in acoustics, Eileen also sheds light on common misconceptions about sound sensitivity in dogs and how her expertise has helped shape innovative approaches to training and problem-solving.

Listeners will gain valuable insights into the science of sound and its impact on dogs, the importance of careful and ethical training, and practical strategies for building trust and communication with their pets. Eileen also shares her experiences mentoring aspiring writers, offering tips for overcoming writer’s block and developing a meaningful writing practice.

Whether you're a dog trainer, behavior enthusiast, or an aspiring writer, this episode is packed with inspiration, knowledge, and practical advice.

Links

• Dogs and Sound Webinars
  • Both webinars are available here >>> https://payhip.com/brightfriendsproductions
• Books
  • Remember Me? Loving and Caring for a Dog with Canine Cognitive Dysfunction >>> https://books2read.com/dogdementia
  • Puppy Socialization: What It Is and How to Do It, coauthored with Marge Rogers >>> https://books2read.com/puppysocialization
  • Both books are also available at Dogwise, and Puppy Socialization is available at Clean Run and Mungo’s in Canada.
• Contact Eileen via Her Blog >>> https://eileenanddogs.com/drrp/
• Blog Posts Discussed in the Podcast
  • https://eileenanddogs.com/blog/2022/07/29/how-i-taught-my-puppy-to-sleep-later-in-the-morning/
  • https://eileenanddogs.com/blog/2024/01/09/desensitizing-a-dog-to-high-pitched-beeps-part-1-of-2/
  • https://eileenanddogs.com/blog/2024/01/12/desensitizing-a-dog-to-high-pitched-beeps-part-2-of-2/
• Journal Article Related to the Counterconditioning Posts
  • Poppen, R. (1970). Counterconditioning of conditioned suppression in rats. Psychological Reports, 27(2), 659-671. (desensitization was done using frequency rather than volume)
• Other Information on Sound from Eileen
  • All articles on dogs and sound on my blog >>> https://eileenanddogs.com/blog/category/dogs-and-sound/
  • How to Soundproof a Dog Crate (You Can’t >>> https://eileenanddogs.com/blog/2019/08/06/how-to-soundproof-a-dog-crate/
  • Using Sound Apps for Desensitization & Counterconditioning for Dogs >>> https://eileenanddogs.com/blog/2021/01/08/using-sound-apps-for-desensitization-counterconditioning-for-dogs/
  • Article on Sound Masking >>> https://www.whole-dog-journal.com/behavior/noise-canceling-for-dogs/
• Eileen’s Writing Mentorship (next one will be in July 2025)
  • https://iaabcfoundation.org/courses/writing-mentorship-with-eileen-anderson/
• Writing Tips
  • About Freewriting >>> https://www.research.ucsb.edu/sites/default/files/RD/docs/FREEWRITING-by-Peter-Elbow.pdf
  • Writing Word Count Goals Gamified (R+) >>> https://4thewords.com/ 

In this episode of the Making Ripples podcast, we are thrilled to welcome Dr. Daniela Zurr, a distinguished behavioral veterinarian from Nuremberg, Germany. With over 25 years of experience as a veterinarian and a Tellington TTouch instructor, Dr. Zurr combines her expertise in behavioral medicine, zoo animal consultations, and positive reinforcement training to create innovative approaches to animal care.

Dr. Zurr shares her journey from an early passion for reptiles to her current role, where she works with a wide range of animals, from household pets to zoo residents. She discusses the profound influence of mentors like Linda Tellington-Jones, the evolution of her work with TTouch, and the development of her holistic method to improve animal behavior and welfare.

Listeners will gain insights into the principles of TTouch, including its focus on mindfulness, trust, and connection, and learn how it can be used to address behavioral challenges, prevent stress, and improve the bond between humans and animals. Dr. Zurr also shares personal stories, such as her experiences with her own rescue dog and her work with shelter animals, highlighting the importance of adaptability and compassion in animal care.

Whether you’re a pet owner, trainer, or behavior enthusiast, this episode offers a wealth of inspiration and practical advice for fostering trust and connection with the animals in your life.

Links

• www.ttouch.com
• www.tellington-methode.de
• www.ttouch-n-click.de
• www.tierverhalten-zurr.de
• Email; [email protected]

In this episode of the Making Ripples podcast, we are joined by the wonderful Kristi Martin, a behavior specialist with a diverse background in both the zoo and veterinary fields. Kristi shares her journey from caring for a wide variety of species in zoos to transitioning into the veterinary field, where she specialized in behavior care. She talks about her current work at the Richmond Animal Behavior Wellness Center, where she assists a veterinary behaviorist and runs a DigiTherm thermal scanner to help assess pain in behavior patients.

Kristi’s expertise shines as she discusses her experiences working with animals, including the shift from zoo work to veterinary care, and how her passion for learning has driven her to continually expand her skill set. From handling complex cases of fear, anxiety, and aggression in pets, to integrating the latest technology in veterinary behavior, Kristi’s insights offer valuable lessons for both pet owners and animal care professionals.

Listeners will be inspired by Kristi's approach to simplifying behavior modification plans, her dedication to making training practical for pet owners, and her emphasis on the importance of checking for pain or discomfort as a potential cause of behavior issues. With her varied experiences, Kristi provides a refreshing perspective on animal behavior and welfare.

https://www.abwellnesscenter.com/

In this engaging episode of the Making Ripples podcast, we welcome Juliette Nash, Community Animal Training Manager at San Diego Humane Society. From her early childhood dream of working with animals to a career dedicated to animal behavior, Juliette shares her inspiring journey. With a Master’s degree in killer whale social behavior and vocal learning, Juliette's transition into the world of animal welfare led her to develop innovative training programs for both cats and dogs, including unique classes like Shy Cat training and a Pet Training Assistance Fund.

Juliette's passion for cooperative, choice-based training, particularly with fearful and poorly socialized animals, shines through as she discusses the importance of meeting animals where they are and using accessible language to empower pet owners. We delve into the behind-the-scenes development of her behavior programs, how she balances research with hands-on work, and her continuous efforts to support animals and their families.

This episode is filled with practical advice for trainers and pet owners alike, and heartwarming stories, including a moving account of a cat named Magneto who, through Juliette’s guidance, transformed from a fearful hoarding rescue to a beloved, affectionate companion.

Links:

• www.sdhumane.org/training
• www.sdhumane.org/trainingclasses
• www.sdhumane.org/trainingvideos
• www.sdhumane.org/trainingarticles
• www.sdhumane.org/trainerdirectory

In this fun episode of the Making Ripples podcast, we welcome Teisha Rolph from Behaviour Antics, a passionate dog trainer and behaviour nerd. Teisha shares her unique journey into animal training, from growing up surrounded by animals to studying animal and veterinary biosciences at university, where she fell in love with the science of behaviour. Inspired by her mentors, Dr. Richard Zann and Jenny Wilcox, Teisha has since built a diverse training career focused on empathy and individualised care.

Throughout this episode, Teisha delves into her work with anxious dogs and their human counterparts, emphasising the importance of moderating expectations and creating a safe environment for both. She shares heartwarming stories about her Finnish Lapphunds, Asgard and Seda, illustrating how each animal’s unique needs can influence a trainer’s approach. Her experiences with reactivity, cooperative care, and competitive dog sports offer valuable insights for all trainers.

Teisha also reflects on her journey of personal growth through her pets, including ferrets and a cat, and how they have taught her the importance of patience and understanding. With a love for creating educational content and collaborating with fellow trainers like Jose Gomes from Train Me Please, Teisha continues to inspire the animal training community with her approach of knowledge and empathy.

This episode is filled with practical advice, inspiring stories, and a reminder that behaviour training is not always linear - sometimes, it's about embracing patience over pressure.

Behaviour Antics:

• www.facebook.com/behaviourantics
• www.instagram.com/behaviourantics
• https://www.youtube.com/@BehaviourAntics
• [email protected]  

Train Me Please collabs:

• Teach a Chin Rest for Dog Medical Behaviours 
• The Ultimate Guide To Your Puppy's First Day Home

In this engaging episode of the Making Ripples podcast, we sit down with Pernilla Elving, a remarkable individual whose life has been deeply intertwined with animals. From her childhood on a small farm surrounded by sheep, cows, and horses to her evolution into a Centered Riding instructor and positive reinforcement trainer, Pernilla's journey is a testament to the power of compassion, patience, and understanding in animal training.

Pernilla shares her story of how an unruly horse named Rockefeller became a lifelong companion and a catalyst for her pursuit of gentler training methods. Her journey didn’t stop there; she continued to expand her expertise through formal education, earning degrees in sociology and human behavior, and delving into animal behavior through university studies and hands-on experience.

Throughout the conversation, Pernilla provides valuable insights into the importance of building trust with animals, drawing from her experience with a young, injured horse named Carizma, who was once labeled "dangerous" by veterinarians. Her commitment to understanding and improving animal welfare is evident in every story she shares.

Listeners will also learn about Pernilla’s current endeavors, including her involvement with the Animal Training Academy and her continued education in scentwork for horses and the Horse Trainer Year program. 

Whether you're an animal lover, a trainer, or simply curious about the intricacies of behavior, this episode with Pernilla Elving is filled with heartfelt stories, educational insights, and a deep appreciation for the human-animal connection.

Link to where people can get in touch

• https://www.instagram.com/vaderstadskattegard/
• https://www.facebook.com/centreradridning
• https://skattegarden.n.nu/
• [email protected]

In this inspiring episode of the Making Ripples podcast, we welcome Carmaleta Aufderheide, an accomplished positive reinforcement trainer and conflict resolution expert. With a Master’s degree in Conflict Resolution (CRES) and certifications including KPA-CTP, CPDT-KA, and CSAT, Carm brings a wealth of knowledge and unique insights into her work with dogs, particularly those dealing with separation anxiety.

Carm shares her journey, which began with academic research into the restorative impacts of prison animal programming. Her work with incarcerated individuals and dogs led to a profound appreciation for the human-animal bond and its potential for rehabilitation and healing. Through her experiences, Carm has developed a compassionate approach to dog training, focusing on creating safe and supportive environments for both dogs and their families.

In this episode, Carm discusses her transition from conflict resolution and mediation to becoming a specialist in canine separation anxiety. She delves into the challenges and rewards of this niche, offering valuable tips for managing difficult conversations with pet owners and addressing the unique needs of anxious dogs. Carm also highlights her upcoming presentation at the 2024 Aggression in Dogs Conference, where she will further explore these topics.

Join us as Carmaleta Aufderheide shares her passion for using positive reinforcement and conflict resolution techniques to improve the lives of dogs and their families. Whether you're a trainer, pet owner, or simply interested in the power of the human-animal connection, this episode is filled with enlightening stories and practical advice.

Links;

• Website: https://www.northstartraining.info/
• Email: [email protected]
• https://aggressivedog.com/conference/

In this episode of the Making Ripples podcast, we are delighted to welcome Robin Horemans, the owner of Parrot SOS, to share her expertise and passion for avian behavior and training. Robin has dedicated her career to improving the lives of pet bird owners and their feathered companions by providing quality education materials that enhance communication and bonding.

Robin's journey began in 1998 at the Hagen's Avicultural Research Institute (HARI), and over the years, she has accumulated a wealth of knowledge and certifications, including being a Certified Parrot Behavior Consultant with the IAABC, a Certified Professional Bird Trainer with the IATCB, and a Certified Training Partner with the Karen Pryor Academy. She is also an Accredited Dog Trainer with IAABC.

In this episode, Robin shares her fascinating story of growing up with animals, her early experiences with budgies, and her academic pursuit of a degree in biology. She discusses the challenges and rewards of working with birds, the importance of foundation skills in bird training, and how these skills can prevent behavioral issues and rehoming. Robin also delves into the specifics of her training methodology, including her innovative approach to online classes and private consultations, which have broadened her reach and impact.

Robin's dedication to evidence-based behavior change shines through as she describes her work with both pet and foster birds, highlighting her problem-solving strategies and the unique needs of avian companions. This episode is packed with valuable insights for bird owners and trainers alike, emphasizing the importance of positive reinforcement and continuous learning.

Join us as Robin Horemans shares her journey, expertise, and practical tips for building stronger relationships with your pet birds. Whether you are a seasoned bird owner or new to the avian world, this episode offers a wealth of knowledge and inspiration.

Links

• Website >>> https://parrotsos.com
• FaceBook >>> http://facebook.com/parrotsos
• Instagram >>> https://www.instagram.com/ParrotSOS
• TikTok >>> https://www.tiktok.com/@parrotsos
• YouTube >>> https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCZ_47iXLrXXdiyEWAMcF2Gw