Do you ever feel exhausted, ashamed, or isolated while trying to help your reactive or anxious dog—and wonder if you're the only one?
You’re not. In this raw and validating episode of Straight Up Dog Talk, Em is joined by Jess from Handlers & Humans to talk about the emotional toll of raising a dog with big behaviors. Together, they unpack why burnout is so common for dog parents—and how addressing your own mental health is just as vital as any training protocol.

You'll Learn:

• Learn how to recognize signs of compassion fatigue, guilt, and emotional overload in your dog journey

• Understand how burnout affects your ability to train, connect, and care effectively

• Hear real, practical ways to reduce shame, ask for help, and feel more like yourself again—even on the hard days

Press play to hear the emotional support dog parents everywhere have been waiting for—and remember, you're not alone, and you're not doing it wrong.

Guest Info:

Learn more: handlersandhumans.com

Instagram: @handlersandhumans

Straight Up Dog Talk Extras:

Get a free copy of The Messy Middle: Getting Unstuck with your Big Feeling Dog

https://straightupdogtalk.com/programs-%26-freebies/ols/products/the-messy-middle-getting-unstuck-with-your-big-feeling-dog

Book a FREE 15-minute call with Em

https://tinyurl.com/tdwafmbooknow

Email [email protected] to get in touch with Em

Join the Community

https://join.slack.com/t/thedogwhoaskedformore/shared_invite/zt-305kdyab7-y6eTWjbAeSwHItNmloLQUA

This podcast explores real-life dog behavior and training, diving into reactivity, barking, dog anxiety, aggression, picky eating, gut health, and dog food—while unpacking enrichment, mental stimulation, supplements, calming aids, and holistic pet wellness. Whether you’re raising a rescue dog, supporting a senior dog, managing a velcro dog, or just navigating life with a dog who’s asking for more, you’ll find practical tools to build trust, strengthen communication, and create a safe, thriving life together.