Beers and Biscuits Dogcast

Beers and Biscuits Dogcast

By Beers and BiscuitsScience
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Beers and Biscuits Dogcast episodes

  • The Deepest Kind of Love with Mandy Boutelle

    Welcome to Beers & Biscuits - a Dogcast for the rest of us!


    In this conversation, Mandy Boutelle (The Leashed Mind Podcast and Woof Cultr Clothing) shares her experience of adopting a senior dog and the challenges she faced with his separation anxiety and cognitive dysfunction. The conversation highlights the lack of research and diagnosis for canine cognitive dysfunction and the need for more awareness and support for dog guardians dealing with this condition. This episode covers topics such as assessing quality of life and the challenges of caregiving and the effects on mental health.

    The conversation delves into the mental burden of caregiver burnout and the feelings of guilt and failure that can arise. The chapter concludes with a discussion on the aftermath of caregiving and the doubts and guilt that caregivers may experience. The conversation highlights the need to normalize emotions and the importance of seeking support during difficult times.

    The hosts also share their favorite smells and dog names, adding a lighthearted touch to the conversation - a reminder of the importance of finding levity in heavy subjects.


    Episode Takeaways

    • Adopting a senior dog can be a rewarding experience, but it may come with challenges we aren't always prepared for
    • Canine cognitive dysfunction, similar to human Alzheimer's disease, affects a significant percentage of senior dogs
    • There is a lack of research and diagnosis for canine cognitive dysfunction, leading to difficulties in managing and treating the condition
    • Recognizing the signs and symptoms of cognitive decline is crucial for early intervention and management
    • It is important to have a supportive network of professionals, including veterinarians and behaviorists, who understand and can address the unique needs of dogs with CCDS
    • Arm yourself with information and resources to better understand and address the needs of senior dogs
    • The importance of finding joy in the positive aspects of caring for senior dogs and cherish the memories created with them
    • Acknowledge the mental burden of caregiver burnout and prioritize self-care

    • Mandy is the co-founder & designer of Woof Cultr, an online apparel company focused on celebrating humane training methods. When she isn't doing Woof Cultr work, Mandy continues to help R+ businesses tap into their true identity and connect with their audience in a meaningful way as the brand strategist for @digiwoof.

      Of course, as a true creative professional with ADHD, Mandy also hosts The Leashed Mind Podcast, by using her background as a dog pro and small business owner that didn't prioritize her own mental health within her businesses.

      We hope you enjoyed the conversation and please don’t forget to give your dog a biscuit from us. Until next time.


      Where you can find us:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ @beers.biscuits⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@thetimelessdog⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠| ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@peterpiper_pickel⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Ideas, Questions, Comments – Email us: ⁠⁠[email protected]


      1 hr 56 min
    • Embracing the Unknown with Holly Lozeau

      Welcome to Beers and Biscuits, a Dogcast for the rest of us!

      In this episode, Karen and Nicole are joined by Holly Lozeau, a dog mom who shares her experience with dog mom anxiety. They discuss the challenges and fears that come with being a new dog mom, including integrating a new dog into a household with cats and dealing with leash reactivity.

      They delve into the anxiety and worries about health issues, the unknowns of rescued dogs, and the impact of traumatic experiences on dogs, and the importance of kindness, understanding, patience and grace.

      The struggles of being a new dog guardian and the self-doubt that comes with it are discussed. This conversation explores the challenges and anxieties faced by dog guardians. The discussion focuses on the need for validation and understanding, the pressure to keep pushing through, and the fear of overreacting. The conversation also delves into the importance of taking breaks and having time alone, the challenges of being the primary caretaker, the anxiety of being judged and the exhaustion of constant vigilance are also discussed.


      Episode Takeaways

      • Dog guardian anxiety is a real and common experience, especially for new dog guardians
      • Anxiety can manifest in various ways, such as worrying about the safety and well-being of the dog, fear of the unknown, and concerns about health issues
      • Knowing your dog and understanding their behavior can help alleviate anxiety and make informed decisions
      • Finding support from friends, professionals, and online communities can be beneficial for managing dog and guardian anxiety
      • Rescued dogs may have unknown histories and traumatic experiences that can impact their behavior
      • Kindness, understanding, and resilience are important in dealing with both guardians' and dogs' struggles and traumas
      • New dog guardians may experience self-doubt and anxiety, but it is important to seek support and validation
      • Social media can provide a sense of community and support for dog owners facing similar challenges


      • Holly Lozeau is a first time dog guardian to Betty (
        @bettythehousehippo) the sweetest pittie mix you will ever meet! Holly and her wife adopted Betty from the rescue Justice for Dogs (in VT) a year ago when Betty was around two years old. Betty struggles with frustration-based leash reactivity around other dogs and Holly struggles with generalized anxiety disorder.

        Holly went from never really wanting a dog to falling completely head over heels in love with her sweet girl, but the journey has not always been easy!

        That generalized anxiety quickly morphed into a new territory of “dog mom” anxiety all while trying to learn how to navigate this new life as a brand new dog guardian!

        We hope you enjoyed the conversation and please don’t forget to give your dog a biscuit from us. Until next time.


        Where you can find us:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ @beers.biscuits⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@thetimelessdog⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠| ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@peterpiper_pickel⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Ideas, Questions, Comments – Email us: ⁠⁠[email protected]


        1 hr 39 min
      • It's the Little Things with Carly Tedeschi

        Welcome to Beers and Biscuits, a Dogcast for the rest of us!

        In this episode, Karen, Nicole, and Carly Tedeschi (@harleyandthebuns) discuss Carly's career as a dog walker and her transition to working at a rehab vet clinic. They also explore the emotional connection between humans and discuss Harley, Carly's dog, and her anxiety, medical issues, trauma and what it's like to be a guardian to a tiny dog.


        The episode emphasizes the need to balance support and independence for dogs and to acknowledge their individual needs. In this conversation, Nicole, Carly, and Karen discuss the importance of being there for dogs but allowing dogs to determine what they need to feel most safe. The emotional impact of a dog attack and the manifestation of trauma in behavior are also explored.


        Episode Takeaways

        • Dog walking can be a rewarding career that offers independence and the opportunity to make a difference in dogs' lives
        • The emotional connection between humans and animals is strong, and animals can provide comfort and support
        • Managing anxiety in dogs, such as during fireworks, requires understanding their individual needs and providing a safe and supportive environment
        • Closing a business for the 4th of July can be a compassionate decision to prioritize the well-being of dogs with firework anxiety
        • Traumatic experiences, such as a dog attack, can have lasting emotional effects on both the dog and the guardian
        • Small dog guardians may face unique challenges and misconceptions about their dogs' behavior and anxiety
        • Taking breaks from dogs can be necessary for self-care and mental well-being, even for dedicated dog guardians

        • Carly Tedeschi (@harleyandthebuns) is co-owner of Massachusetts based pet care company adASTRA Canine.

          Carly has a long history of working with pets of all shapes and sizes and is guardian to chihuahua Harley, and bunnies Miles & Millie. Carly also volunteers for the House Rabbit Network rescue helping to educate about proper house rabbit care and promoting and adopting rescue rabbits.


          We hope you enjoyed the conversation and please don’t forget to give your dog a biscuit from us. Until next time.


          Where you can find us:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ @beers.biscuits⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@thetimelessdog⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠| ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@peterpiper_pickel⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Ideas, Questions, Comments – Email us: ⁠⁠[email protected]

          1 hr 16 min
        • Not Just Ken with Ken MacLeod

          Welcome to Beers and Biscuits, a Dogcast for the rest of us!


          Karen and Nicole talk with Ken MacLeod of My Positive Pup about the importance of making dogs feel safe, better engagement with dogs, and using a force free, positive reinforcement approach. Ken shares analogies and stories to help clients understand these concepts. Additionally, Ken highlights the importance of education and not judging people who may not have the same knowledge or experience. He also mentions the importance of teamwork and giving freedom to others in order to create a positive and supportive work environment.

          He emphasizes that dogs have limitations and that it's essential to manage expectations. Ken also expresses his frustration with trainers who use aversive methods and believes in speaking up against such practices. He acknowledges the dominance of women in the dog training industry and appreciates their contribution to positive reinforcement training.

          Ken shares his personal experience of getting certified as a dog trainer and the emotional journey he went through with his own reactive dog, Scooter. He emphasizes the importance of love, praise, and reinforcement in dog training and believes that knowledge is power.

          Episode Takeaways

          • Ken believes in the importance of love, praise and reinforcement in dog training
          • Making dogs feel safe and using food appropriately are key aspects of dog training
          • Engaging with dogs and reinforcing positive behavior is crucial
          • Analogies and stories can be effective in helping clients understand training concepts
          • Being honest and realistic about your dog's abilities and limitations is important
          • Training dogs requires patience and time, but the results are worth it

          • Ken MacLeod (⁠@MyPositivePup⁠) is an Emmy-Honored set designer, a positive reinforcement dog trainer, and a die-hard Bruce Springsteen fan. And he’s on a personal mission to help dogs and guardians and advocate for positive reinforcement.

            Ken, owner and lead trainer at My Positive Pup and is a graduate of the distinguished Karen Pryor Academy, KPA, he also holds a certification in L.E.G.S. Applied Ethology Family Dog Mediation and more..  

            Ken's belief is simple… Positive reinforcement  is vital...it can make the difference between a dog that is just living and a dog that is living engaged!

            Love, Praise, Reinforce. Repeat.    



            We hope you enjoyed the conversation and please don’t forget to give your dog a biscuit from us. Until next time.


            Where you can find us:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ @beers.biscuits⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@thetimelessdog⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠| ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@peterpiper_pickel⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Ideas, Questions, Comments – Email us: ⁠⁠[email protected]



            1 hr 14 min
          • Roam If You Want To with Ashley Hyatt

            Welcome to Beers and Biscuits, a Dogcast for the rest of us!


            In this conversation, Karen and Nicole interview Ashley Hyatt (@stonybrookstudios), an artist and dog guardian. They discuss various topics, including Ashley's background in education and how it has influenced her approach to training her deaf dog, Bunji. They delve into the decision to adopt a deaf dog and the challenges of being a first-time dog owner and the considerations for adopting a rescue dog. She emphasizes the commitment to meeting a dog's needs and accepting and working with a dog's special needs. The discussion also covers understanding a deaf dog's sensitivities and advocating for their boundaries. Ashley shares the importance of respecting a deaf dog's agency and navigating other people's expectations.

            The power of play in training and behavior modification is discussed, as well as the use of an e-collar in training. This conversation explores the importance of reserving judgment and having constructive conversations within the dog training community. They emphasize the need for better communication and understanding between trainers and guardians. The conversation highlights the misconceptions and polarization surrounding different training methods and the importance of allowing guardians to share personal experiences.

            Episode Takeaways

            • A background in education can provide valuable skills for training dogs, such as lesson planning, individualized instruction, and problem-solving
            • Training a deaf dog requires creativity and alternative communication methods, such as sign language, and a focus on visual cues
            • Taking a step back and allowing a dog to learn at their own pace can lead to a stronger bond and more successful training outcomes
            • Adopting a deaf dog can be a rewarding experience, and it is important to embrace their unique needs and abilities
            • Being a first-time dog guardian can present challenges, especially when adopting a rescue dog with special needs
            • Play is a powerful tool in training and behavior modification, and the use of an e-collar should be approached with careful consideration
            • Promote better communication and understanding between trainers and guardians
            • Recognize the polarization surrounding different training methods and how that can negatively impact guardians

            • Ashley Hyatt (Stony Brook Studios) is an Adventure Artist, certified educator, and traveler dedicated to visually documenting the experience of living and traveling outdoors through oil and pastel painting as well as printmaking. Inspiration for Ashley's work comes from time thru-hiking the Appalachian Trail, mountain biking the Great Divide Mountain Bike Route, paddling the Northern Forest Canoe Trail, rock climbing in the northeastern and western United States, winter ski-packing excursions and even the beauty of her own backyard and her life with Bunji.

              We hope you enjoyed the conversation and please don’t forget to give your dog a biscuit from us. Until next time.


              Where you can find us:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ @beers.biscuits⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@thetimelessdog⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠| ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@peterpiper_pickel⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Ideas, Questions, Comments – Email us: ⁠⁠[email protected]


              1 hr 59 min
            • Love the One You're With with Erika Fields

              Welcome to Beers and Biscuits, a Dogcast for the rest of us!

              In this episode, Erika Fields of @hounddog_mack shares her journey as a dog guardian and the lessons she has learned along the way. She discusses the disconnect between her expectations and the reality of dog ownership, emphasizing the importance of understanding a dog's individual needs.

              Erika also highlights the significance of asking the right questions before adopting a dog and shares her experience with Mack's medical issues and surgeries. She provides insights into the recovery process and offers advice for dog owners going through similar situations.

              In this conversation, Erika shares her experiences and insights as a dog guardian dealing with reactivity, anxiety, and medical issues with Mack. She highlights the need to balance personal experience with professional advice and the importance of finding a supportive community. Erika shares her perspective on being transparent and authentic on social media and offers advice for new dog parents. She also discusses the importance of seeking professional help and building a support team and encourages dog guardians to advocate for their dogs and trust their instincts.


              Episode Takeaways

              • Understand and accept your dog's individual needs
              • Ask important questions about a dog's behavior, exposure to different environments, and interactions with other pets before adopting
              • Be proactive in addressing medical issues and seek professional advice when necessary
              • Recovery from surgeries like TPLO can be manageable with proper care and support.
              • Social media can provide a supportive community and valuable information for dog guardians, but it's important to be discerning and avoid comparison
              • Ignore negative feedback and focus on the positive support from the community
              • Seek professional help and build a support team to navigate the challenges of dog guardianship
              • Advocate for your dog and trust your instincts


              • Massachusetts native and first-time dog guardian, Erika Fields is a social media strategist by day and an advocate for force-free, positive reinforcement training by night. She found her passion for the dog rescue world and the power of positive reinforcement after she and her husband adopted their dog Mack back in 2018. Since the first day that 6-month-old Mack came bounding into their life like a little tornado, she has been thrown head-first into the world of dog reactivity, anxiety, and arthritis.

                Over the past 5 years, she's used the Instagram page she runs,  @hounddog_mack, to share their journey and show that all dogs, even those with big feelings and behavioral challenges, can live a fulfilling life without pain, suppression, or fear.

                In her free time, she's a volunteer dog adoption counselor/social media manager for Brown Dog Coalition, a local foster-based rescue that is dedicated to ensuring their adopters don't use any aversive tools or training techniques on their new family members. 

                We hope you enjoyed the conversation and please don’t forget to give your dog a biscuit from us. Until next time.


                Where you can find us:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ @beers.biscuits⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@thetimelessdog⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠| ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@peterpiper_pickel⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Ideas, Questions, Comments – Email us: ⁠⁠[email protected]


                1 hr 20 min
              • What's The Plot? with Lauren Sisak of Sit. Stay. Stella.

                Welcome to Beers and Biscuits, a Dogcast for the rest of us!


                In this episode, Karen and Nicole interview Lauren of @sitstaystella_ discussing her journey as a dog trainer and the impact of social media on her life and business. They explore topics such as imposter syndrome, dealing with trolls, and the challenges faced by women in the dog training community. Lauren shares her experiences and insights, highlighting the importance of staying true to oneself.


                Lauren and Karen discuss the impact of social media on their businesses and personal lives. They also discuss the importance of finding support and community through social media. They emphasize the need for compassion and respect in online interactions and the importance of staying true to oneself in the face of social media expectations.


                Episode Takeaways

                • Social media can have both positive and negative effects on dog trainers, including exposure to trolls and negativity
                • Imposter syndrome is common among dog trainers, especially women
                • The dog training community on social media can be judgmental and critical, but it is essential to focus on the positive aspects
                • Building a strong bond with dogs and trusting one's instincts as a trainer are key factors in overcoming challenges and achieving success
                • Social media can be a valuable tool for connecting with like-minded people and building a supportive community
                • The pressure to post and maintain a curated online presence can be overwhelming, but it's important to strike a balance between authenticity and selective sharing

                • Lauren (Sit. Stay. Stella.) is a certified dog trainer with a CPDT-KA designation and is a Puppy Start Right Instructor through the Karen Pryor Academy. Lauren's journey has been shaped by her professional expertise, personal resilience, and passion. Having faced difficult times with her own dog, Stella, Lauren not only understands the power of compassion, support and patience but celebrates the power of second chances.



                  We hope you enjoyed the conversation and please don’t forget to give your dog a biscuit from us. Until next time.


                  Where you can find us:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ @beers.biscuits⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@thetimelessdog⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠| ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@peterpiper_pickel⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Ideas, Questions, Comments – Email us: ⁠⁠[email protected]


                  1 hr 19 min
                • Getting Un-Stuck with Ashley Devine of Mannered Misfits

                  Welcome to Beers and Biscuits, a Dogcast for the rest of us!


                  In this episode, Nicole and Karen are joined by Ashley Devine of Mannered Misfits. They discuss weird food combinations, entrance songs as professional wrestlers, the challenges and lessons learned from shelter work and Ashley's transition from shelter work to professional trainer.


                  They also talk about the importance of balancing personal needs, our dogs' needs and the mental and physical aspects of shelter work. The conversation explores the importance of taking a step back and allowing dogs to have their own space and time. It emphasizes the need to understand and respect each dog's individuality and preferences.


                  The discussion also highlights the significance of prioritizing a dog's needs and desires over societal expectations. It encourages giving oneself and one's dog grace and focusing on building a cooperative relationship. The conversation acknowledges the impact of social media and the need to resist external influences.


                  Episode Takeaways

                  • Working in a shelter can be emotionally and physically taxing, often leading to burnout.
                  • The experience gained from working in a shelter can provide valuable knowledge and skills for trainers.
                  • It is important to prioritize self-care and mental health when working in a high-stress environment.
                  • Balancing personal dogs and work can be challenging, but it is crucial to ensure the well-being of both.


                  • Ashley (They/Them) is a Certified Professional Dog Trainer - Knowledge Assessed through the Certification Counsel of Professional Dog Trainers and a Fear Free Certified Professional in animal sheltering and rescue. Ashley has been training and working with dogs since 2015, and spent six years employed through the Idaho Humane Society in Boise, ID. Ashely's #1 goal is to help you connect with your canine and understand any behavioral challenges you may be experiencing while prioritizing empathy, trust, and safety. You can find Ashley and their work @manneredmisfits_llc

                    We hope you enjoyed the conversation and please don’t forget to give your dog a biscuit from us. Until next time.


                    Where you can find us:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ @beers.biscuits⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@thetimelessdog⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠| ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@peterpiper_pickel⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Ideas, Questions, Comments – Email us: ⁠⁠[email protected]


                    1 hr 20 min
                  • Expectations, Grace and Empowerment with Katrina Berthe & Jessica Ullger

                    Welcome to Beers and Biscuits, a Dogcast for the rest of us!


                    In this episode, Karen and Nicole are joined by dog trainer Katrina Berthe (@pausetorewardFL) and Jessica (⁠@jrichman17⁠), one of Katrina's clients. They discuss Jessica's experience with her previous dog Moose, who had health issues, and her current dog Rudy, a rescue with behavioral challenges, and all the emotions that surface when we are faced with loving the dog we didn't expect to adopt.


                    Katrina provides support and guidance to Jessica, helping her navigate the challenges of having a new dog and manage her expectations. They also discuss the importance of empathy and active listening in dog training. In this conversation, they highlight the importance of support and collaboration between dog guardians and trainers, as well as the value of seeking additional help when needed.


                    They discuss the role of sleep in building behavioral stability. They also touch on the consideration of medication as an option, what happens when we try to manage both human and dog emotions at the same time and share their biggest takeaways from the experience: patience, support, acceptance, education, and building bonds.


                    Episode Takeaways

                    • Having realistic expectations is important when getting a new dog, as no dog is a 'Disney dog' and each dog comes with their own challenges.
                    • Trainers should provide emotional support and actively listen to guardians, as they may have feelings of resentment, frustration, or even burnout when dealing with a new dog.
                    • Trainers should consider the possibility of underlying medical issues when addressing behavioral challenges.
                    • Support and collaboration is crucial in addressing behavioral challenges.
                    • Sleep plays a crucial role in a dog's behavioral stability, and ensuring they get enough rest is important.
                    • Considering medication as an option should involve collaborative, and thorough education and counseling to help guardians make an informed decision.
                    • The biggest takeaways from this experience include patience, support, acceptance, education, and building bonds.
                    • Katrina (Paws To Reward) is a speech-language pathologist by background. She began working with a positive reinforcement dog trainer for her dog’s behavior challenges and quickly realized how powerful positive reinforcement dog training was at changing behavior. She also recognized the direct parallel to the way she worked with her human patients. She dove into books, webinars and every resource she could find to help increase her understanding of evidenced-based dog training. She is now an accredited dog trainer through the IAABC and specializes in behavior modification and guardian empowerment.

                      We hope you enjoyed the conversation and please don’t forget to give your dog a biscuit from us. Until next time.


                      Where you can find us:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ @beers.biscuits⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠⁠@thetimelessdog⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠| ⁠⁠⁠⁠@peterpiper_pickel⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Ideas, Questions, Comments – Email us: ⁠[email protected]


                      1 hr 13 min
                    • We're Back!!

                      Welcome to Beers and Biscuits, a Dogcast for the rest of us!

                      Season 2 of Beers and Biscuits podcast kicks off with a more conversational and less formal approach. The hosts, Karen and Nicole, express their excitement about finding their footing and sharing their own stories alongside guest stories.


                      They discuss the changes in format and a focus on natural conversations. The hosts emphasize the importance of guest stories and the enjoyment they bring to the recording process and encourage listeners to share their stories


                      Episode Takeaways

                      • Season 2 of Beers and Biscuits podcast is more conversational, less formal and sterile.
                      • The hosts are excited to share their own stories alongside guest stories.
                      • Gratitude is expressed for past and future guests and the opportunity to share stories.
                      • We hope you enjoyed the conversation and please don’t forget to give your dog a biscuit from us. Until next time.


                        Where you can find us:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ @beers.biscuits⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠⁠@thetimelessdog⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠| ⁠⁠⁠⁠@peterpiper_pickel⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Ideas, Questions, Comments – Email us: ⁠[email protected]

                        22 min

                      About Beers and Biscuits Dogcast

                      From the publisher's feed

                      Beers & Biscuits is a dogcast for the rest of us. We don't take ourselves too seriously and neither should you - We'll casually explore all the things about dogs and the people who love them.