In this inspiring episode of Working Like Dogs, I sit down with two extraordinary women—Jeni Exley and Dr. Margaret Jones—who not only work at Craig Hospital, but also serve as passionate, dedicated puppy raisers for Canine Companions. Jeni has raised an incredible 19 puppies, and together, she and Dr. Jones co-raise future service dogs, creating a powerful team fueled by love, discipline, and purpose. They share what it’s really like to be part of the life-changing journey from puppy to service partner—and the incredible support system that surrounds them, including the expert trainers at Canine Companions. If you’ve ever wondered what goes into raising a service dog—or felt a tug at your heart to get involved—this episode is for you.

EPISODE NOTES: Raising Heroes: Inside the Life of a Puppy Raiser

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In this episode of Working Like Dogs on Pet Life Radio, Marcie and her co-host and service dog Fenway sit down with Kyle Lephart, Executive Director, and Miki Brewington, Client Services Manager, from Canine Partners of the Rockies Kyle and Miki share how their organization is transforming lives through the placement of expertly trained service dogs and facility dogs across Colorado. They also dive into their innovative community-based programs where these incredible dogs serve in schools, healthcare settings, and other places where their presence brings comfort, connection, and confidence. It’s a heartwarming and inspiring conversation that showcases the power of purpose-bred dogs and the humans who love and train them.

EPISODE NOTES: Canine Partners of the Rockies

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On this heartwarming episode of Working Like Dogs on Pet Life Radio, Marcie and Fenway chat with Diane Rampelberg, founder of Dustin’s Paw a remarkable nonprofit based in Idaho. Since 2000, Diane has been pioneering canine-enhanced learning and therapy for children with disabilities. With her Canine Companions-trained facility dog, Leopold, by her side, Diane works as a Canine Modality Specialist, designing creative, interactive activities that help children achieve their therapeutic and educational goals. Diane shares how she collaborates with professional teams to unlock each child’s potential through the powerful human–canine bond. Tune in to hear how she’s transforming lives, one paw at a time.

EPISODE NOTES: Paws, Play, and Possibility: Unlocking Potential with Canine-Assisted Learning

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On this episode of Working Like Dogs on Pet Life Radio, Marcie and her loyal service dog, Fenway, sit down with Chris Diefenthaler, Executive Director of Assistance Dogs International (ADI). As the leading authority in the development of standards for the assistance dog industry, ADI is a global coalition of nonprofit organizations that raise, train, and place assistance dogs. Chris shares insights about ADI’s rigorous accreditation process, its critical role in shaping industry best practices, and highlights from the groundbreaking Paws for Access report. Tune in to learn how ADI is working to ensure that individuals with disabilities have safe, reliable access to expertly trained assistance dogs around the world.

EPISODE NOTES: Assistance Dogs International

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Tune in to this fascinating episode of Working Like Dogs on Pet Life Radio as Dr. Cynthia Fast, Director of Training at APOPO in Tanzania, joins Marcie and Fenway to share the incredible work of their “HeroRATs” and “HeroDOGs.” In over 60 countries contaminated by hidden landmines and explosive remnants of war, APOPO’s scent detection animals are saving lives and transforming communities by safely and efficiently locating deadly threats. They’re also tackling the global tuberculosis crisis, helping identify undiagnosed cases with speed and accuracy. Don’t miss this inspiring conversation about how these remarkable animals are making the world a safer, healthier place—one sniff at a time!

EPISODE NOTES: Sniffing Out Danger: The Life-Saving Work of HeroRATs and HeroDOGs

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Don’t miss this powerful episode of Working Like Dogs on Pet Life Radio featuring Felicia Ako and Celeste Walsen from the Courthouse Dogs Foundation. Hosts Marcie and her amazing service dog, Fenway, sit down with Felicia and Celeste to explore how their groundbreaking nonprofit partners with facility dog handlers to support children and other vulnerable victims of crime. With heart and expertise, they share how these specially trained dogs provide comfort and a sense of safety to those navigating the justice system—not just in the U.S., but around the globe. Tune in for an inspiring conversation about the healing power of dogs and the critical role they play in the courtroom.

EPISODE NOTES: Courthouse Facility Dogs

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Tune in to Working Like Dogs on Pet Life Radio as Marcie and Fenway welcome the incredible Tamara Martin. With over 40 years in the criminal justice system, Tamara has dedicated her career to supporting both victims and offenders. She and her first facility dog, Willow, pioneered the first statewide facility dog program in the U.S., transforming how facility dogs provide comfort and support in the legal system. Now, as a Facility Dog Handler for the HERO program with the Office of Prosecution Services in Montgomery, Alabama, Tamara continues to make a profound impact with her current facility dog, Yahini. Don’t miss this inspiring conversation about the life-changing role of facility dogs in the justice system!

EPISODE NOTES: Empower, Restore, and Overcome!

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Caitlin Erickson, Executive Director of Horses for Healing joins Marcie and Fenway to share her inspiring journey into the transformative power of equine-assisted therapy. Caitlin’s passion for horse-centered and client-centered behavioral health work shines through as she reveals how these magnificent animals help individuals heal from trauma, build confidence, and rediscover their inner strength. Through deep connection and nonverbal communication, horses provide a safe, judgment-free space for clients to process emotions and develop resilience. This conversation is a powerful reminder of the profound impact of the human-animal bond and the magical healing potential of equine therapy!

EPISODE NOTES: Horses for Healing

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Listen in as Dr. Maggie O’Haire takes us on an inspiring deep dive into the transformative power of service dogs for veterans with PTSD. Dr. O’Haire’s groundbreaking Service Dog and Veteran Experiences Study (SERVES) research project at the University of Arizona is the first national, randomized clinical trial to scientifically measure the medical benefits of service dogs compared to anecdotal beliefs. Dr. O’Haire’s work is proving what many have long believed—service dogs are more than companions; they are essential partners in healing, helping veterans reclaim their independence, confidence, and peace of mind. This episode is a must-listen for anyone who believes in the extraordinary power of the human-animal bond!

EPISODE NOTES: SERVES!

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Steve Morris from the Government Accountability Office (GAO) visits with Marcie and Fenway about his office’s recent report focusing on the working conditions of Uncle Sam’s working dogs. Dozens of federal agencies employ working dogs to fulfill their missions, including Homeland Security and the Department of State. Dogs are deployed throughout the U.S. and abroad. Keeping these dogs healthy and ensuring their quality of life is paramount and this recent report suggests that federal agencies need to do a better job addressing the health and welfare of their working dogs.

EPISODE NOTES: How Many Dogs Work for the United States (U.S.) Government?

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