Never Just A Dog

In this episode of Never Just A Dog, John Littlefair speaks with Dave Bartley, an officer with Merseyside Police (UK), about the loss of his working dog, Ghost, who was killed in the line of duty. Ghost wasn’t a pet — he was a partner. Trained to run toward danger, Ghost served alongside Dave until his death during operational duty. Rather than letting Ghost’s loss fade, Dave carried his grief further. His journey took him to Beautiful Joe Park in Meaford, Canada, a place dedicated to remembering service animals. What he saw there became the catalyst for something bigger. Dave went on to raise funds for a dedicated memorial honouring all serving police dogs — not just Ghost, but every dog who has given their life in service. This conversation explores service, loyalty, grief, and why the loss of a working dog deserves recognition.   You can reach out to the host of this show directly; john@johnlittlefair.com.au The official website is: Never Just A Dog

This short trailer is a breath before the climb, a moment on the roadside to remember why these stories will always matter.  Because it will never, ever be 'just a dog'. I'm your host, John Littlefair, and welcome to our shared world. OFFICIAL WEBSITE LINK Connect with your podcast host, John, below john@johnlittlefair.com.au

Todd Ingraham’s courage and spirit touched thousands through his marathon running, his work with his police dog Chase, and his battle with Motor Neurone Disease. After his passing, his wife, Tina, sat down with your host John Littlefair, to reflect on Todd’s life, the love they shared, and the impact he continues to have. This is a tribute to the man whose story inspired so many, told by Tina Ingraham.   Connect with your host John Littlefair via email below john@johnlittlefair.com.au Official Never Just A Dog Website

In this episode, we visit Meaford, Ontario — home to Beautiful Joe Park. It’s more than green space. It’s a tribute to a real dog whose story changed how people think about animals. Back in the 1800s, a dog named Beautiful Joe was rescued from abuse. His story, written by Margaret Marshall Saunders, became one of the first books to give a voice to animals. The novel "Beautiful Joe" has sold over 7 million copies worldwide. It was first published in 1893 and became the first Canadian book to sell over a million copies.   Today, the park that bears his name honours that legacy — with monuments to service dogs, education programs, and quiet places to reflect. Your host, John Littlefair sat down with Sharon Mansion, vice chair of the Beautiful Joe Heritage Society. She’s part of the team keeping Joe’s story alive — and making sure it still matters.   Beautiful Joe Park website Paradise Island Memorial Plaque- Purchase Here   Never Just A Dog Official Website   Connect with directly with Never Just A Dog Host John Littlefair via email below john@johnlittlefair.com.au  

 In this heartfelt episode, your host John Littlefair chats with Todd Ingraham, an elite athlete and former WA Police canine handler, who has conquered some of the world's toughest marathons. However, nothing could have prepared Todd for his most challenging battle yet — Motor Neurone Disease (MND).   Todd opens up about his transition from the marathon track to living with MND, and the unbreakable bond he shares with his black Labrador and police partner, Chase. This story is about resilience, love, and determination.   Todd's wife, Tina, has transformed her heartbreak into a mission, raising over $50,000 for MNDAWA. Her dedication and love are a testament to the strength of the human spirit.   If Todd’s story touches your heart, below is a direct link to Tina’s fundraising page Tina's Fundraising Page is Here     For more information, you can email  john@johnlittlefair.com.au     Never Just A Dog Official Website  

In this episode of Never Just A Dog, John Littlefair explores the extraordinary bond between humans and dogs, from their ancient beginnings as wolves beside our fires to the deep, wordless understanding we share today. Why do they choose us? Why do they stay, love, and trust us unconditionally? Through early literature, ancient carvings, and stories passed down through generations, we uncover how dogs have always been woven into human history—not just as companions, but as loyal partners in life. Join John as he traces the origins of this timeless connection and the devotion that makes dogs family.    Official podcast website   Connect directly with your host John Littlefair here: info@johnlittlefair.com.au   Scientific References from episode: Dr Maria Guagnin, Max Planck Institute Takefumi Kikusui, Azabu University, Sagamihara, Japan  

In this episode, your host John Littlefair chats with Health & Community Psychologist, Mindset Coach, Author, and Media Commentator Dr. Marny Lishman Marny’s a nationally recognized mental health expert with years of experience, having run a successful private practice in Western Australia. She’s worked with organizations, schools, and individuals, helping them build resilience and psychological flexibility in today’s fast-paced world. As a regular commentator on TODAY EXTRA, SUNRISE, Nine News Perth, and a columnist for Body + Soul, Marny’s advice is trusted by thousands. She’s also the author of Burnout to Brilliant and Crisis to Contentment—two books I love and highly recommend. Links to Dr Marny Lishman's books are below: Purchase Crisis to Contentment here Purchase Burnout to Brilliant here Learn more about Marny here   Official Never Just A Dog website link below: https://johnlittlefair.com.au/   Connect with podcast host John Littlefair via email below: john@johnlittlefair.com.au  

In our previous episode, your host John Littlefair sat down with Gail Anthea Brown, a writer from Scotland’s northern Highlands, who shared the story of her beloved dog, Brody. Brody was a vital part of Gail’s family—a friend, inspiration, and a true source of joy. In Part Two, we join Gail as she opens up about the difficult path of grief after Brody’s passing. She shares the challenges of moving forward while holding onto cherished memories, and how her journey has taken a new turn with the recent arrival of Reeva, a rehomed dog. Reeva has brought comfort and a renewed sense of love into Gail’s life, reminding her of the healing power of companionship. Learn and read more about Gail by following the links below: Gail Anthea Brown What dogs teach us about living and dying Finding meaning in challenging times   Connect directly with your podcast host John Littlefair john@johnlittlefair.com.au Podcast Official Website

In this episode, your host John Littlefair chats with Gail Anthea Brown, a writer from Caithness in the Northern Highlands of Scotland. Gail’s work, rich in folklore and personal storytelling, is deeply inspired by her experiences, including the journey with her dog Brody, a beloved member of her family. Brody brought joy, loyalty, and inspiration into Gail's life, shaping her writing and infusing her stories with warmth and authenticity.  Brody’s passing has left a profound absence, yet his memory continues to resonate in Gail’s work. With a background in Psychology, Mental Health, and Creative Wellbeing, Gail brings a unique perspective on the connection between loss, creativity, and companionship. This is part one of a two-part series with Gail, where she shares how Brody’s life and legacy have shaped her work and how the bond they shared speaks to the profound role our dogs play in our lives. Never Just A Dog Official Website Connect with your host John Littlefair directly below: john@johnlittlefair.com.au

In this episode, your host John Littlefair chats with award-winning writer and podcaster Clarissa Moll. We dive into Clarissa's own story, including the loss of her husband in a tragic hiking accident back in 2019, and how that experience has shaped her work in guiding others through grief.   Alongside her daughter Fiona, Clarissa has co-authored the soon to be released 'Hurt Help Hope, a real conversation about teen grief and life after loss'. You can pre-order/purchase Clarissa's book through the link below  Purchase Here   You can host the host of Never Just A Dog podcast directly via email below john@johnlittlefair.com.au Official Podcast Website    

One of the greatest human tragedies is the sudden unexpected death of a child. When that death remains unexplained, it is even more devastating for the parents, the family, and society at large.  In our previous episode, we had the honor of hearing Brad’s heart-wrenching story about the sudden and unexpected loss of his daughter Grace.  Brad shared the profound impact this loss has had on his life and the ways he’s found to cope and honor Grace’s memory. In this episode, we continue our exploration of this deeply emotional journey with Brad’s wife, Felicity.  She will offer her perspective on navigating the grief of losing a child, the personal and collective challenges she and Brad have faced, and the ways they have supported each other through this unimaginable experience. This episode is a powerful continuation of our conversation, providing further insight into resilience, hope, and the enduring strength of love.   To learn more about Red Nose Australia click the link below to visit their website Red Nose Australia   To visit the Never Just A Dog website click the link below Never Just A Dog Contact your podcast host directly via email john@johnlittlefair.com.au   For crisis support please contact Lifeline Australia Lifeline Australia   'Come & sit awhile with me'

One of the greatest human tragedies is the sudden unexpected death of a child. When that death remains unexplained, it is even more devastating for the parents, the family, and society at large. On this episode, your host John Littlefair chats with Brad Polain, who, along with his wife Felicity, tragically lost their daughter Grace to Sudden Unexpected Death of a Child (SUDC). In this episode, Brad will share his story, the profound impact of this loss on their lives, and how he has found ways to cope and honor Grace's memory. 'A personal mention for Brad's sister Donna for her love, care and kindness'   Never Just A Dog Website John Littlefair's email john@johnlittlefair.com.au   Important website links for helpful resources and support Red Nose Australia Lifeline

In this episode your host John Littlefair chats with Anne Marie Farage-Smith.  Anne Marie Farage-Smith is a lifelong animal lover and an advocate for all animals. She holds a Master of Science degree in mental health counselling from St. John Fisher University and a Master of Science degree in education from Nazareth University and is a Pet Loss Grief Counselling Trained Professional. As a licensed mental health counsellor and educator in private practice, she has offered clinical guidance to many individuals and groups experiencing grief and loss. She is the founder of the Rochester Center for Pet Grief and Loss.  Anne Marie is the author of the book Healing Wisdom for Pet Loss.  Healing Wisdom for Pet Loss is designed to help readers understand the bond they have with their pets and why losing them is uniquely painful; aid them in understanding the grief they experience in the aftermath of that loss, and teach them the skills they need to process this loss.   To purchase Healing Wisdom for Pet Loss the website link is below: Purchase Book Here.   Rochester Center for Pet Grief and Loss https://www.petlossroc.com/   To connect directly with your host John Littlefair: john@johnlittlefair.com.au Official Website  

In this episode your host John Littlefair chats with Eliza-Rose Kan, a registered Music Therapist.   Eliza’s passion for both music and healing has led her on an incredible journey. Join us as Eliza shares her inspiring path to becoming a music therapist and the transformative power of music in the realm of therapy.   To get in touch with your host John Littlefair   john@johnlittlefair.com.au   Original music be Eliza-Rose Kan    Never Just A Dog Website Link          

Join John and Talya on this introspective journey as they pay tribute to George's enduring legacy, offering insights into the profound connections we forge with our animal companions and the significance of holding their memories close to our hearts, even years after they've passed away. And a special thank you to the supporting cast, in no particular order, Meg, Mog, The Fish, and the two crazy comedians Angus and Hamish.     Connect with John directly via email: john@johnlittlefair.com.au Website https://johnlittlefair.com.au/about/   'This episode is dedicated to my dear friend Barbara' -John-   

In this episode, your host John Littlefair chats with New York Times Best-Selling Author and International Speaker, Michael Hingson. Michael's life journey is nothing short of awe-inspiring. Blind since birth, he faced one of the darkest days in modern history, the 9-11 attacks, and emerged not only as a survivor but a testament to the incredible bond between humans and animals. His guide dog Roselle played a pivotal role in this story of teamwork, resilience, and the indomitable will to not just live but thrive. All of this is beautifully chronicled in his Best-Selling book Thunder Dog.  ‘Chapter by chapter of this intriguing work will keep you spellbound. Thunder Dog celebrates the power of the human and animal bond. We all can learn life lessons from this incredible story’  -Larry King, Emmy Award-Winning Broadcaster-   You can purchase Thunder Dog via the link below. Thunder Dog   But Michael's impact extends beyond the pages of his book. He takes his experiences and lessons to audiences around the world, delivering compelling presentations. Find out more at Michael’s website below. https://michaelhingson.com/speaker/   As mentioned in the episode Michael also has a new book that will be published later this year. Live Like a Guide Dog: true stories from a blind man and his dogs about being brave, overcoming adversity and moving forward in faith is available for pre-order. The link is below. Live Like A Guide Dog

In this special bonus episode the host and creator of Never Just A Dog, John Littlefair, reflects on his journey over the last three years. This episode is dedicated to the amazing guests who are Talya, Jess, Rosa, Warren, Jessy, Katie, Tyler, Brayden, Sarah, Pascale, Gretta, Mikayla, Shan, Paige and Beau, Chris, Lillian, David, Shay, Victoria, Beth, Simon, Mathilde, Michel, Erum, Luke, Ivana, Kit, Carolyn, Sonya, Kate, Mark, Dylan, Mary-Frances, Andrew and Anji.  In this episode, John mentions the incredible work of Mary-Frances O'Connor, PhD.  Find out more by visiting her website below. https://maryfrancesoconnor.org/ To find out more about the book 'Dog's Best Friend, a brief history of unbreakable bond' visit the link below to Simon Garfield's website. https://www.simongarfield.com/books/dogs-best-friend/  

In this episode, your host John Littlefair chats with Anji Rajbhandari who is the creator of the Youtube channel called Zazu Talks. Originally born in Nepal and now residing in California her family has embraced the rich Nepalese Hindu tradition of Kukur Tihar, a day dedicated to celebrating the bond between humans and their dogs. https://johnlittlefair.com.au/  

In this episode, your host John Littlefair chats with Andrew Phan, a survivor of Testicular Cancer. In this candid conversation, Andrew opens up in a brave and vulnerable way.  He shares the unfiltered truth about his challenging journey with Chemotherapy, the physical and emotional toll it took on him, and the daunting uncertainty that came with it. Andrew also talks about his involvement with MHT (Men Healthier Together) and to find out more about this organisation visit the link below. https://healthiermen.com.au/ Andrew also mentions the Mandurah Boat, Caravan, 4WD & Camping Show which he attended to share his journey with the public, the link is below. https://mandurah.show/    

In this episode of Never Just A Dog, your host John Littlefair engages in a captivating conversation with Mary-Frances O'Connor, an Associate Professor at the University of Arizona and an eminent figure in Grief Research and Neuroscience.   Mary-Frances is the brilliant mind behind 'The Grieving Brain', a book that has touched the lives of many by shedding light on the intricate relationship between love, loss, and science. The website link is below to learn more about Mary-Frances O'Connor and purchase her book 'The Grieving Brain'. https://maryfrancesoconnor.org/book