Louise and Michelle interview Reece Maltby about canicrossing with a Jack Russell

Chloe discovered canicross by accident when she was competing in agility at a dog show and was asked to take part in a canicross taster session - she soon discovered a talent for racing and a love of mud and is currently ranked 4th in Great Britain. Louise and Michelle chat to Chloe about her training, and her goals for the future. 

In this episode of Canicross Conversations, the spotlight is on a crucial topic that many dog owners face: understanding and supporting anxious and reactive dogs. The episode features Sarah, the founder of the "Dogs in Yellow" initiative, who shares insights into her work and the importance of raising awareness for dogs that need a little extra space.

Sarah's journey began with her own dog, Bella, who displayed signs of anxiety and reactivity when interacting with other dogs and people. Recognizing the need for a way to communicate Bella's needs to others, Sarah came up with the idea of using a yellow ribbon or bandana as a signal that a dog requires space. As she explains: "The yellow ribbon or bandana is a universal symbol that signifies a dog needs some space or is anxious. It's a simple yet effective way to communicate without words." This initiative has gained momentum, with more dog owners embracing the concept and using it to advocate for their pets.

Challenges Faced by Anxious and Reactive Dogs

Anxious and reactive dogs face numerous challenges in their daily lives, from feeling overwhelmed in busy environments to struggling with social interactions. Sarah emphasizes the importance of understanding these challenges. By raising awareness and promoting empathy towards anxious and reactive dogs, we can create a more inclusive and understanding community for both dogs and their owners.

Yellow Space Zones: A Safe Haven for Dogs

One innovative solution that Sarah has introduced is the concept of "yellow space zones" at dog shows and events. These designated areas provide a calm and safe space for dogs and their owners to relax and recharge, away from the hustle and bustle of the event. Sarah shares her excitement about this new initiative, saying, "The idea is really exciting. It gives people a little bit of confidence to go out and try attending a dog show, knowing that there's a yellow space zone where their dog can feel safe and comfortable."

The Importance of Mental Stimulation for Dogs

Beyond physical exercise, dogs also benefit greatly from mental stimulation. Sarah highlights the importance of engaging dogs in activities that challenge their minds and keep them entertained, such as canicross and enrichment games. She shares, "Our dogs are bright, intelligent creatures. Canicross is a great activity that provides both physical and mental stimulation for them." By incorporating these activities into their daily routines, we can help reduce anxiety and improve the overall well-being of our furry friends.

The Future of the Dogs in Yellow Initiative

Looking ahead, Sarah hopes to see the Dogs in Yellow initiative gain even more support from trainers, behaviourists, and dog owners alike. She expresses her desire to see the yellow ribbon incorporated into training classes and socialization activities, stating, "The more you see it, the more you want it. That's how I feel. It would be really good to see the yellow involved in classes and things like that a lot more." By continuing to raise awareness and promote the yellow ribbon symbol, we can create a safer and more understanding environment for all dogs.

Understanding and supporting anxious and reactive dogs is crucial for creating a harmonious and inclusive community of dog owners. Through initiatives like Dogs in Yellow and the introduction of yellow space zones, Sarah is paving the way for a more empathetic and understanding approach to dog ownership. By raising awareness, promoting mental stimulation, and advocating for the needs of anxious and reactive dogs, we can all play a part in creating a safer and happier environment for our furry friends. So, let's embrace the yellow ribbon symbol, show our support, and make a difference in the lives of anxious and reactive dogs everywhere.

Where to Find More Information

If you're interested in learning more about Sarah's work with the Dogs in Yellow initiative or want to follow her journey, you can visit her website at myanxiousdog.co.uk or follow her on Instagram and Facebook at MyAnxiousDog. 

Michelle has a frank conversation with author and runner Rachel Ann Cullen about running for mental health, body image, strength training, challenging oneself, owning a dog (who doesn't run), and writing books.

Back in October 2021, Louise and Michelle chatted to journalist Lily Canter about her experience of borrowing Pickle to try canicross (Episode 5). In this episode we find out how she's adjusting to life - and canicross - with her own dog, Zippy.

If you have enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, and leave us a review.

You can find Lily on X/Twitter @lilycanter and Instagram @lilycanter

In this episode, Louise and Michelle chat to dog trainer Niki French about her book, Stop Walking Your Dog. Niki works with a lot of nervous and reactive dogs, and her training philosophy is to stop doing those things that can be stressful to your dog until you can learn how to overcome them with patience and training. It's a radical approach that goes beyond what humans feel conditioned to do with their dogs, and Niki's interview is well worth a listen, as she gears up for #DontWalkYourDogDay on 2nd April, and gives listeners plenty of tips on how to provide brilliant mental and physical stimulation without going through your front door.

We also ask her what she thinks of canicross ...

Find out more about Niki and the awareness day here: https://puptalk.co.uk/

Today, Louise and guests give a rundown of all the action at Crufts over the past weekend

Louise and Michelle chat to Kate Percy, a nutritionist with three best-selling cookbooks who helps people discover that magic link between what you eat, good energy, vitality and happiness. Lots of great information in this episode for runners, those experiencing menopause, and those finding cooking for a family challenging!

We also want to know: does your dog eat a healthier diet than you?! 

https://www.katepercys.com/

In this heart-warming episode, Louise and Michelle find out more about ultra-runner Allie and her rescue dog, Pickle, and her new book, There Is No Wall.

Allie Bailey is an ultrarunner, coach, speaker and podcaster who has run in some of the most extreme places in the world. She was the first woman to run 100 miles across frozen Lake Khövsgöl in Mongolia and to run the full length of the Panama Canal. She has crossed the inhospitable Namib Desert three times, run the length of the Outer Hebrides and completed a 1,000-mile off-road version of the classic Land’s End to John o’Groats route in just thirty days. Allie has finished over 200 marathons and ultramarathons all over the world, but the most remarkable thing about all of these achievements is that she accomplished most of them while battling depression and alcoholism. Although running ultimately became the vehicle that helped buy Allie the time to recover from a number of severe mental health breakdowns, it did not save her. In fact, there were times when it made her battle all the more difficult. After a seismic mental health crisis in 2021, Allie finally admitted to herself and those around her that she was an alcoholic and started her recovery. She left behind a dream career with major record labels and adventure companies and now works as a coach with a broad range of runners and endurance athletes, helping them unlock their full potential. In 2022, she was named as one of the most inspiring female adventurers in the UK by the Guardian, and she has appeared on numerous mainstream TV programmes including The One Show and Lorraine. She lives in Yorkshire with her rescue dog, Pickle.

Today's planned guest has lost her voice, so Louise and Michelle chat about the one thing that is missing from many runners' training: accountability!

Could accountability be the one thing that takes your running to the next level?