In this episode, Tammy Fox, Tony Hofstetter, and Alex Griffin discuss the inspiring journey of Pumpkin, the disabled Westie, and the impactful work of the Pumpkin and Friends charity. They explore the success of the Disability Dog Walk, plans for a retreat, and the importance of responsible pet ownership and animal welfare laws.

🐾 Listen to The Westies & Besties Podcast for expert conversations covering Westie health, nutrition, wellbeing, natural care, business and everything that makes our dogs part of the family.

🌐 Website: https://westiesandbestiesmagazine.com/shop/

📸 Instagram: @westiesbestiesmagazine | Facebook: @WestieBestieMag | TikTok: @westiesandbestiesmag 🎥 More videos & Shorts: @WestiesandBestiesTV/shorts

🔥Guest links - https://pumpkinandfriendscharity.org/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Pumpkintheparalysedpuppy https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100083236875548

key topics

The success of the Disability Dog Walk event and its impact Tammy Fox's vision for a retreat and respite center for disabled animals

The connection between Tony Hofstetter and Pumpkin and its emotional significance

The state of animal welfare laws in the UK and US and the need for stronger legislation

The importance of education and responsible pet ownership for disabled dogs

Plans for expanding the charity's reach internationally and locally

The role of social media in raising awareness and support for disabled animals

The emotional and personal stories behind Pumpkin and her supporters

Future events and projects including Pumpfest and Pumpkin's children's book

The importance of community, authenticity, and perseverance in charity work

sound bites

"Pumpkin's story has touched people worldwide"

"Pumpkin has shown me resilience and courage"

"Addressing childhood trauma through Pumpkin's story"

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and guest introductions

01:01:21 The importance of action, authenticity, and community support

01:07:29 Tony’s personal story and the tattoo of Pumpkin

01:14:46 Closing remarks and future outlook

Can nature really provide a different approach to animal health and wellbeing?

In this fascinating episode of The Westies & Besties Podcast, Alex Griffin sits down with Sean Cooney, founder of Botanica International, to discover the story behind a natural health brand that began with farming, traditional remedies and a simple philosophy: go back to nature.

Sean shares how his upbringing on a farm shaped his approach to animal care, and how an unexpected challenge involving a customer’s persistent foot problem led to the creation of what would eventually become Botanica.

From horses and dogs to elephants, Sean explains the thinking behind his natural formulations, why he believes synergy between ingredients is so important, and how listening to customer experiences helped him refine his products over the years.

The conversation also explores Westie skin health, natural versus conventional approaches, non-toxic pet care, prevention, animal wellbeing and the importance of educating pet owners about what they're putting on their animals.

And then there's the incredible story of how Botanica entered the Chinese market despite being told it was a crazy idea.

If you're interested in Westie health, natural pet care, animal wellbeing, herbal products, equine health, dog skin problems and the story behind successful natural health brands, this is an episode you won't want to miss.

🐾 Listen to The Westies & Besties Podcast for expert conversations covering Westie health, nutrition, wellbeing, natural care, business and everything that makes our dogs part of the family.

🔑 Key Takeaways

1. Sometimes the best ideas start with a problem

Botanica's story began when Sean was challenged to find a natural solution for a customer's persistent foot problem—and that unexpected experiment became the beginning of something much bigger.

2. Nature was at the heart of Sean's upbringing

Growing up on a farm gave Sean an early appreciation for natural approaches to caring for animals and people.

3. Synergy is central to his philosophy

Sean explains his belief that ingredients should work together rather than against one another—like multiple horses pulling a cart in the same direction.

4. Customer feedback can shape a product

Sean describes how customers returning with their own experiences helped him continually refine and develop his formulations.

5. Natural animal care isn't limited to one species

The conversation explores applications ranging from horses and dogs to some truly unexpected animals, including elephants.

6. Education is becoming increasingly important

The episode explores how social media and access to information are changing the way pet owners research animal health and wellbeing.

7. Prevention matters

Alex and Sean discuss whether better daily care could help owners take a more preventative approach to common skin issues in dogs.

🌐 Website: https://westiesandbestiesmagazine.com/shop/

📸 Instagram: @westiesbestiesmagazine | Facebook: @WestieBestieMag | TikTok: @westiesandbestiesmag

🎥 More videos & Shorts: @WestiesandBestiesTV/shorts

🔥Guest links - Botanica International Ltd

Could your dog become the next big pet influencer?

In this fascinating episode of The Westies & Besties Podcast, branding expert Will Green (Marketing Made Clear) reveals what really separates successful pet brands from the thousands of accounts that never grow.

You'll discover why some dogs generate hundreds of thousands of followers—and even lucrative brand partnerships—while others struggle to gain traction. From storytelling and consistency to AI, social media algorithms, authenticity, and monetisation, this episode is packed with practical advice for anyone dreaming of building a successful dog brand.

Whether you own a Westie, Labrador, Spaniel, or any other breed, these branding principles apply to every pet owner looking to grow an audience online.

🐾 In this episode you'll learn:

• How to build a memorable dog brand from scratch
• Why storytelling beats cute photos alone
• The biggest branding mistakes most owners make
• How social media algorithms really work
• How AI is changing content creation
• When (and when not) to monetise your audience
• The secret ingredient behind every successful pet influencer
• Why authenticity will become more valuable than ever

If you've ever wondered whether your dog could become an influencer—or even a business—this episode is a must-watch.

🎧 Subscribe to The Westies & Besties Podcast for expert advice on dog health, behaviour, nutrition, branding, business and everything Westie.

Suggested Chapters

00:00 Can Dogs Really Become a Brand?

01:45 What Is Branding?

05:30 Why Coca-Cola Owns Christmas

07:00 The Power of Storytelling

09:00 Biggest Branding Misconceptions

10:45 How To Start From Zero

15:45 Posting Strategy & Consistency

20:45 Why Emotional Stories Go Viral

24:00 Five Questions To Ask Before Starting

30:45 Building Communities That Last

34:00 Which Social Media Platform Should You Choose?

36:30 Best Free Content Creation Tools

38:30 How AI Is Changing Marketing

47:30 When Should You Start Making Money?

56:00 Biggest Branding Mistakes

57:00 The Most Underrated Marketing Strategy

59:00 How To Build A Leading Dog Brand

1:00:40 Final Advice For Every Future Pet Influencer

Key Takeaways

✅ A brand is far more than a logo—it's the promise people associate with you.

✅ Emotional storytelling consistently outperforms generic "cute dog" content.

✅ Consistency beats perfection every time.

✅ Don't try to appeal to everyone—find your tribe.

✅ Build trust before trying to monetise your audience.

✅ AI should enhance creativity, not replace authenticity.

✅ The strongest pet brands are built around genuine passion and community.

✅ Focus on becoming interesting—not famous.

🐾 The Westies & Besties Podcast brings together leading experts, veterinarians, breeders, behaviourists and passionate Westie owners to help you give your Westie the happiest, healthiest life possible. Subscribe for new episodes every 2 weeks.

🔗 Links to Will & Marketing Made Clear below.

Website - https://marketingmadeclear.com/

What if the secret to healthier skin, fresher breath, and calmer ears isn't more cleaning, but the right kind of bacteria? In this episode, Alex sits down with Joe Flanagan, founder of Ingenious Probiotics, to unpack the fascinating world of your dog's microbiome and why wiping out bacteria might be doing more harm than good.

Joe breaks down the difference between prebiotics, probiotics, and postbiotics, explains why antibacterial products can trigger antimicrobial resistance, and reveals the surprising link between household chemicals and conditions like canine atopic dermatitis. He also shares his own experience with Tavati, a natural hibiscus bark oil used for generations in the Cook Islands to support joint mobility and tissue repair, and why he's now bringing it to UK and Irish dog guardians.

From ear infections to itchy skin, carpet chemicals to bedtime routines, this conversation is packed with practical, natural insights every guardian needs to hear.

Tune in and discover how balance, not bleach, could be the key to your dog's wellbeing.

🐾 The Westies & Besties Podcast brings together leading experts, veterinarians, breeders, behaviourists and passionate Westie owners to help you give your Westie the happiest, healthiest life possible. Subscribe for new episodes every week.

🌐 Website: https://westiesandbestiesmagazine.com/shop/

📸 Instagram: @westiesbestiesmagazine | Facebook: @WestieBestieMag | TikTok: @westiesandbestiesmag

🎥 More videos & Shorts: @WestiesandBestiesTV/shorts

🔗 Links to Joe and Ingenious Probiotics below.

Website - https://www.ingenious-probiotics.com/

Join us as Carolyn Lee shares her inspiring journey of rescuing Kayla, a Westie from a puppy mill, and her ongoing fight against puppy mills through legislation, advocacy, and community efforts.

Discover how one dog's story can ignite a movement to end animal cruelty and promote responsible pet ownership.

🌐 Website: https://westiesandbestiesmagazine.com/shop/

🎙 Podcast: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/4CggDDrDhKw3mQ3HPxhGYI?si=a0023565dac04783

Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/unlock-the-power-of-red-light-therapy-for-your/id1845688452?i=1000771013648

📸 Instagram: @westiesbestiesmagazine | Facebook: @WestieBestieMag | TikTok: @westiesandbestiesmag

🎥 More videos & Shorts: @WestiesandBestiesTV/shorts

Key topics

Kayla's rescue story from puppy mill Legislation to ban puppy mills in the US Community efforts and fundraising for rescue

The impact of social media in animal advocacy

The importance of responsible pet ownership

Sound bites

"Thanks for making my story matter."

"Kayla's story is a catalyst for change."

"It's an honour to share Kayla's story."

Chapters

00:00 The Journey Begins: Kayla's Story

10:12 Transforming Heartbreak into Hope: Kayla's Foundation

20:18 Legislative Advocacy: Fighting Against Puppy Mills

30:28 The Dark Reality of Puppy Mills

33:02 Empowering Change: The Role of Awareness and Education

33:39 Navigating the Westie Adoption Process

36:39 Building a Supportive Westie Community

41:33 Growing Kayla's Foundation

45:19 The Importance of Teamwork in Rescue Work

50:16 Finding the Right Westie for You

54:20 Honouring Kayla's Legacy Resources Kayla's Foundation

Facebook Group - https://www.facebook.com/groups/kaylasauctiongroup

Westie Rescue Southeast - https://www.westierescuesoutheast.org

Pumpkin and Friends Rescue - https://pumpkinandfriends.org

Westies and Besties Magazine - https://westiesandbestiesmagazine.com

Dr. Vince McNally - Holistic Vet - https://www.vetvance.com

Guest links

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/carolyn.lee.9887

Website - https://kaylasfoundation.org/

Worried about how to treat your pet with new technology without causing stress or discomfort? Discover simple, proven steps to ensure your dog feels safe before, during, and after red light therapy sessions. Whether you’re a seasoned pet owner or a curious newcomer, learn how to make advanced treatment accessible, effective, and stress-free.

In this episode, we dive into the crucial first step many overlook: consent. Ruth Milner explains how to desensitize your dog to red light devices, minimizing anxiety and ensuring maximum benefit. She shares insights from her experiences working with wildlife, exotics, and domestic pets, revealing why comfort is key to successful therapy. You’ll hear how the latest silent devices make treatment quieter, reducing stress and improving outcomes for your furry friend.

We also explore the nuts and bolts of red light therapy. Ruth breaks down how long treatments should last—like the precise 31-second dose for pain relief—and how to target specific areas like a pro. Whether dealing with injuries like IVDD or general trauma, you’ll discover practical tips that turn a potentially intimidating process into a stress-free routine. Plus, get insider advice on demonstrating this therapy at shows and events, making pet health accessible to everyone.

Failing to prepare your dog for therapy can lead to greater anxiety, less effective healing, and missed opportunities for rapid recovery. On the flip side, understanding these simple techniques offers a chance for faster, more comfortable healing and a calmer pet. If you’re serious about giving your dog the best care possible, this episode is your essential guide.

Perfect for pet owners, veterinarians, and animal lovers eager to incorporate innovative therapy techniques safely. Whether you’re new to red light therapy or looking to refine your approach, this episode equips you with practical, science-backed insights to support your dog’s health confidently. Hit play and unlock the calm, healing power of light — your dog will thank you.

Watch the FULL episode here - https://youtube.com/@westiesandbestiestv?si=pydaHzNztUOTAzJE

🌐 Website: https://westiesandbestiesmagazine.com/shop/

🎙 Podcast:

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/20GvIwQaOpJKEUxVPCsRmk?si=3b8babc4c70d4864

Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-westies-besties-podcast/id1845688452

📸 Instagram: @westiesbestiesmagazine | Facebook: @WestieBestieMag | TikTok: @westiesandbestiesmag

🎥 More videos & Shorts: @WestiesandBestiesTV/shorts

🔥Guest links

Website – https://photizo.net

Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/PhotizoLightTherapy/

Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/photizolight/

Join us as we dive into the heartwarming and inspiring journey of Madeleine Eskedahl, a bestselling author whose love for Westies has not only enriched her life but also inspired her gripping crime novels. Discover the secrets behind her dogs' long, happy lives and how a simple change in diet transformed their health. Plus, get a glimpse into her unique life in New Zealand, filled with stories of dogs, penguins, and creativity.

Watch the FULL episode here: https://youtube.com/@westiesandbestiestv?si=suttFUE5KNv9p3P5

🌐 Website: https://westiesandbestiesmagazine.com/shop/

🎙 Podcast:

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/20GvIwQaOpJKEUxVPCsRmk?si=3b8babc4c70d4864

Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-westies-besties-podcast/id1845688452

📸 Instagram: @westiesbestiesmagazine | Facebook: @WestieBestieMag | TikTok: @westiesandbestiesmag

🎥 More videos & Shorts: @WestiesandBestiesTV/shorts

🔥Guest links

Facebook – https://facebook.com/madeleine.roberts.73

Website - https://www.madeleineeskedahlauthor.com/

This episode features Tammy Fox sharing the inspiring story of Pumpkin, a disabled Westie who has become a symbol of resilience and compassion. Discover how Pumpkin's journey has led to raising awareness, supporting charities, and transforming lives through innovative animal rehabilitation and charity work.

🐶 Like this video, subscribe, and hit the bell 🔔 to never miss Westie tips, health advice, and dog owner stories! 💬 Comment below with your questions we love hearing from our community! 🔗 Share this video with friends who love Westies and dogs!

🔥Key Topics

Pumpkin's rescue story and disability

The role of wheelchairs and rehabilitation in animal recovery

Tammy Fox's charity work supporting disabled animals

🔥Sound bites

"Six vets to find help for Pumpkin"

"Bond with Pumpkin is like no other"

"Pumpkin as a calming therapy dog"

🔥Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Pumpkin's Journey

01:56 The Adoption Story of Pumpkin

04:58 Overcoming Medical Challenges

09:28 The Role of Community Support

12:24 Pumpkin's Global Impact and Following

15:19 Establishing a Charity for Disabled Animals

19:04 Providing Rehabilitation and Support

20:55 Pumpkin as a Therapy Dog

24:38 Advocacy in Parliament for Disabled Animals

28:52 Challenges and Rewards of Caring for Disabled Pets

39:42 Changing Perceptions and Saving Lives

40:13 Collaboration in Veterinary Care

41:17 Rehabilitation and Strength Building

42:15 The Emotional Journey of Pet Guardians

44:16 Community Support and Volunteer Efforts

45:02 The Joy of Fitting Wheelchairs

47:07 Inspiring Stories of Resilience

49:39 Innovative Solutions for Disabled Animals

50:48 Training and Expanding the Network

53:06 International Outreach and Support

54:02 Quickfire Round with Pumpkin

01:01:30 Final Thoughts and Future Plans

🌐 Website: https://westiesandbestiesmagazine.com/shop/

🎙 Podcast: Spotify:https://open.spotify.com/show/20GvIwQaOpJKEUxVPCsRmk?si=3b8babc4c70d4864 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-westies-besties-podcast/id1845688452

📸 Instagram: @westiesbestiesmagazine | Facebook: @WestieBestieMag | TikTok: @westiesandbestiesmag

🎥 More videos & Shorts: @WestiesandBestiesTV/shorts

🔥Resources & Links

Pumpkin and Friends Charity - https://pumpkinandfriends.org

Tammy Fox's Social Media - https://facebook.com/pumpkinandfriends

Wheelchair Fitting Training Course - https://pumpkinandfriends.org/training

UK Animal Rescue Support - https://rspca.org.uk

🔥Guest links

Facebook - https://facebook.com/pumpkinandfriends

Website - https://pumpkinandfriends.org

Right now in the UK, over 200 people a day have their phones or belongings stolen… and most never see it coming.

In this powerful episode of the Westies & Besties Podcast, host Alex Griffin sits down with former SAS operator and MI5 advisor Mick Hawkes to reveal the truth about situational awareness — the skill that could literally save your life.

With over 24 years in the British military, including elite service in the 22 SAS, and decades working in global security across high-risk regions, Mick shares real-world insights from the front lines of danger — and how YOU can apply them in everyday life. From phone thefts and street crime to personal safety while walking your dog, this episode breaks down why so many people are vulnerable — and how to fix it.

🐶 Like this video, subscribe, and hit the bell 🔔 to never miss Westie tips, health advice, and dog owner stories! 💬 Comment below with your questions we love hearing from our community! 🔗 Share this video with friends who love Westies and dogs!

🔥 In This Episode, You’ll Discover:

Why most people completely miss danger signals

The biggest mistakes people make on their phones in public

How criminals target distracted dog walkers

Simple ways to instantly improve your situational awareness

What SAS and intelligence professionals do differently

Why self-defence alone won’t save you

Real stories from covert missions, security operations & high-risk environments.

🔥Key Topics

The biggest mistake in security: Assuming danger looks obvious and how distraction increases vulnerability

Why mobile phones are the most stolen items and how distraction impacts situational awareness

Practical steps to improve situational awareness and make it second nature

The challenges in UK society regarding security mindset and the importance of proactive learning Insights into security training: Customization, realism, and the pitfalls of tick-box courses

The significance of military experience in security roles and the brain drain from armed forces

The potential for ex-military personnel to transform civilian security industry and gap in industry standards

Emergency responses, active shooter training, and how to prepare for critical situations

The importance of collaboration between military skills and civilian enterprise for national security

How to assess vulnerabilities on private and corporate properties and implement cost-effective security measures

🌐 Website: https://westiesandbestiesmagazine.com/shop/

🎙 Podcast: Spotify:https://open.spotify.com/show/20GvIwQaOpJKEUxVPCsRmk?si=3b8babc4c70d4864 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-westies-besties-podcast/id1845688452

📸 Instagram: @westiesbestiesmagazine | Facebook: @WestieBestieMag | TikTok: @westiesandbestiesmag

🎥 More videos & Shorts: @WestiesandBestiesTV/shorts

Resources & Links:

Hawks & Co - https://www.hawkesandco.uk/

Hero Paws - https://heropaws.org.uk/

What happens when passion for Westies, natural dog health, ethical business, and dog nutrition collide? You build a movement. 🐾

In this episode, Alex Griffin of The Westies & Besties Podcast joins the Wags & Wellness with Rachel Down to share how Westies & Besties Magazine grew into a thriving dog community — championing responsible breeding, holistic dog care, and better nutrition for Westies, Labradors, and dog lovers everywhere.

🐶 Like this video, subscribe, and hit the bell 🔔 to never miss Westie tips, health advice, and dog owner stories! 💬 Comment below with your questions we love hearing from our community! 🔗 Share this video with friends who love Westies and dogs!

The conversation also explores:

The shift toward holistic and natural dog health

Responsible breeding and the message: “Adopt, don’t shop.”

The growing importance of nutrition — including bone broth for dogs

The expansion into podcasting, YouTube, and new publishing ventures including Who Adores Labradors & Retrievers

This episode is packed with insights for dog owners, pet entrepreneurs, and anyone passionate about ethical business, community building, and improving dog health naturally.

“We’re aiming high.”

🐶 What You’ll Learn:

✔ How Westies & Besties Magazine began

✔ Why community is everything for Westie owners

✔ The role of natural health and nutrition in dog wellbeing

✔ The future of ethical publishing in the pet industry

✔ What’s next for Westies, Labradors, and beyond

📌 Chapters:

00:00 Introduction and Background

02:46 The Journey of Westies and Besties Magazine

06:07 Building a Community for Westie Owners

09:00 Ethics and Morals in Business

11:53 The Launch of the Podcast

14:51 Connecting with Westie Owners

17:38 The Importance of Natural Health

20:49 Exploring Other Dog Breeds

23:36 Nutrition and Health for Dogs

26:28 The Role of Bone Broth in Dog Health

29:38 Future Plans and Collaborations

🌐 Website: https://westiesandbestiesmagazine.com/shop/

🎙 Podcast: Spotify:https://open.spotify.com/show/20GvIwQaOpJKEUxVPCsRmk?si=3b8babc4c70d4864

Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-westies-besties-podcast/id1845688452

📸 Instagram: @westiesbestiesmagazine | Facebook: @WestieBestieMag | TikTok: @westiesandbestiesmag

🎥 More videos & Shorts: @WestiesandBestiesTV/shorts