K9 Translators

Do you know who you are listening to?  This week, Laura turns the podcast completely on to Tara and asks her questions about her life, her career, and details that many people may not know about her.  If you are listening and enjoying our episodes, we want everyone to know who the person behind the voice is, where they are coming from, and allow our listeners to feel more connected to us.Sponsored by K9 WorkingmindThis episode was edited and mastered by The WillaWoman. Our song "Working Minds" was also created by The WillaWoman.Hear more of her work here: https://tinyurl.com/TheWillaWoman

Why is that dog taking medication?  This week, Tara and Laura vent about the common occurrence of medicating dogs to meet adopters that is happening more and more.  They stress the need for transparency to potential adopters if a dog is using behavioral medication while at the shelter or in a rescue so adopters understand the type of dog they may be adopting.  It is also important to know the red flags when adopting that would mean a dog may not be a good fit in a home or lifestyle if medication is required in order to interact with anyone.Sponsored by K9 WorkingmindThis episode was edited and mastered by The WillaWoman. Our song "Working Minds" was also created by The WillaWoman.Hear more of her work here: https://tinyurl.com/TheWillaWoman

Is a dog with gamma syndrome bad?  This week, Tara and Laura talk in depth about what it means if a dog has gamma syndrome.  They explain how this behavior starts, why it is completely human-caused, and what a dog with gamma syndrome will display when reacting.  This syndrome is completely different than omega syndrome, which they discussed in episode 162, and is more dangerous for handlers and other people and/or dogs in the space.Sponsored by K9 WorkingmindThis episode was edited and mastered by The WillaWoman. Our song "Working Minds" was also created by The WillaWoman.Hear more of her work here: https://tinyurl.com/TheWillaWoman

Why is your dog going crazy every day at the same time?  This week, Tara and Laura tackle the canine crazies.  This is the strange witching hour that many owners describe as the most difficult time of day for them to control their dog’s behavior.  Mouthing, jumping, zoomies, constant chewing, and other unwanted behaviors always seem to rile up during this time.  They explain why this is seen so often and how to handle these moments.Sponsored by K9 WorkingmindThis episode was edited and mastered by The WillaWoman. Our song "Working Minds" was also created by The WillaWoman.Hear more of her work here: https://tinyurl.com/TheWillaWoman

Does tethering your dog actually help them learn something?  This week, Tara and Laura cover the popular training technique of tethering.  They deconstruct the method, explain why it isn’t effective, and discuss how it can have a negative impact on our dogs.  Many dogs with different behavioral attributes will react to this technique in different ways, but they strive to help owners understand the importance of teaching the art of self-control in a different manner.Sponsored by K9 WorkingmindThis episode was edited and mastered by The WillaWoman. Our song "Working Minds" was also created by The WillaWoman.Hear more of her work here: https://tinyurl.com/TheWillaWoman

Is a lab the right dog for your home?  For the first guest of the year and this season, Tara and Laura welcomed Margaret Huston from Heart of Texas Lab Rescue.  Margaret shared her background in the animal rescue field, how they determine dogs to bring into the rescue, and the process for adoptions.  They discussed how the stereotype that a lab is always a great family dog can be inaccurate and how they work to make sure the dog adopted is matched in a home where they are the most likely to be successful.  If you are interested in learning more about this rescue to volunteer, foster, or adopt visit their website at www.hotlabrescue.org.Sponsored by K9 WorkingmindThis episode was edited and mastered by The WillaWoman. Our song "Working Minds" was also created by The WillaWoman.Hear more of her work here: https://tinyurl.com/TheWillaWoman

Why do you think that dog is the alpha?  In this first episode of season 4, Tara and Laura break down the difference between being an alpha and being a protector.  They debunk the common myths associated with behaviors that make an “alpha” in a pack and explain how most of the time the dog owners believe is in that role is incorrect.  They also explain why this term of needing to be the “alpha” of the pack is unnecessary and not what we should strive to be for our dogs.Sponsored by K9 WorkingmindThis episode was edited and mastered by The WillaWoman. Our song "Working Minds" was also created by The WillaWoman.Hear more of her work here: https://tinyurl.com/TheWillaWoman

What are you hoping for in the new year?  This shortened episode is the last of this season and the year of 2025, so Tara and Laura talk about what they hope to see in the new year in regards to dogs and their owners.  Try to take a moment to reflect on your year with your dog and determine what goals you have for 2026 with your pup.  We hope everyone has a safe and happy New Year!Sponsored by K9 WorkingmindThis episode was edited and mastered by The WillaWoman. Our song "Working Minds" was also created by The WillaWoman.Hear more of her work here: https://tinyurl.com/TheWillaWoman

Monkey see, monkey do?  This week, Tara and Laura discuss some of the top social media trends they have seen with dogs and their owners.  They cover multiple trends, past and current, and why they are not all appropriate.  Sometimes it is better to stop and think of the impact these trends can have on your dog before just trying something you see on social media.Sponsored by K9 WorkingmindThis episode was edited and mastered by The WillaWoman. Our song "Working Minds" was also created by The WillaWoman.Hear more of her work here: https://tinyurl.com/TheWillaWoman

Helping veterans match with service dogs is an amazing calling.  This week, Tara and Laura welcomed Ryan Woodruff from Clear Path for Veterans to talk about their canine program.  They discuss Ryan’s background that led him to his calling and the process they use to help match the perfect service dog to help our veterans in this country.  What an amazing passion to have and one that we share!  Be sure to check out the amazing things they are doing at Clear Path for Veterans through their website and socials below.Website and socials:https://www.clearpath4vets.com/https://www.instagram.com/clearpath4vetshttps://www.facebook.com/ClearPathForVeteransSponsored by K9 WorkingmindThis episode was edited and mastered by The WillaWoman. Our song "Working Minds" was also created by The WillaWoman.Hear more of her work here: https://tinyurl.com/TheWillaWoman

Why does my dog ignore me?  This week, Tara and Laura address a common problem seen between owner and dog that can be extremely frustrating most of the time.  They explain the different reasons that a dog would choose to ignore their owner and the different scenarios this behavior is seen the most.  They offer advice on how to make sure communication between handler and dog is clear and challenge owners to see how their dog responds to their changes in tone.Sponsored by K9 WorkingmindThis episode was edited and mastered by The WillaWoman. Our song "Working Minds" was also created by The WillaWoman.Hear more of her work here: https://tinyurl.com/TheWillaWoman

Why is control aggression so difficult?  This week, Tara and Laura pick apart one of the most difficult types of aggression to work through, why it can be so difficult, and why it isn’t something to just sweep under the rug.  They give examples of ways that owners may miss subtle ways their dogs are gaining confidence in their control and the importance of consistency when dealing with a control aggressive dog.Sponsored by K9 WorkingmindThis episode was edited and mastered by The WillaWoman. Our song "Working Minds" was also created by The WillaWoman.Hear more of her work here: https://tinyurl.com/TheWillaWoman

What are your holiday plans?  This week’s episode, Tara and Laura re-cover things to consider with the holiday season upon us.  They go over plans to consider if you are traveling with your dog, boarding your dog, having someone stay over to watch them, having family visit, or dealing with distractions such as decorations.  It’s always best to prep and be overly prepared for anything instead of scrambling at the last minute.Sponsored by K9 WorkingmindThis episode was edited and mastered by The WillaWoman. Our song "Working Minds" was also created by The WillaWoman.Hear more of her work here: https://tinyurl.com/TheWillaWoman

What is causing the aggression epidemic?  In this episode, Tara and Laura break down the different reasons why people are seeing a rise in behavior and aggression cases.  They explain which types of aggressions are becoming more prevalent, why this is happening, and how it can lay heavy on the positive and force-free dog training community.Sponsored by K9 WorkingmindThis episode was edited and mastered by The WillaWoman. Our song "Working Minds" was also created by The WillaWoman.Hear more of her work here: https://tinyurl.com/TheWillaWoman

Is that behavior acceptable just because it is a lab?  This week Tara and Laura discuss the double standard that has been witnessed when it comes to behaviors of certain breeds, such as a lab.  They talk about personal experiences with their owns labs and their potentially inappropriate behavior that was allowed to happen only because of their breed.  Breed stigmas and stereotypes are not accurate, even with the dogs that are supposed to always be overly friendly, and can cause someone to get hurt.Sponsored by K9 WorkingmindThis episode was edited and mastered by The WillaWoman. Our song "Working Minds" was also created by The WillaWoman.Hear more of her work here: https://tinyurl.com/TheWillaWoman

Is prepping for going a hike with your dog necessary?  This week Tara and Laura cover all the things to consider when taking your dog on a hike to make sure they are safe and don’t get injured.  There are many scenarios that need to be considered, precautions that prove necessary, and ways to keep your dog safe so that everyone can have a great time.Sponsored by K9 WorkingmindThis episode was edited and mastered by The WillaWoman. Our song "Working Minds" was also created by The WillaWoman.Hear more of her work here: https://tinyurl.com/TheWillaWoman

How can I get my dog involved in a game?  This week Tara and Laura discuss the importance of playing games to help build focus and motivation from your dog.  They give multiple examples of simple games to play with your dog at home or in public settings.  Even if your dog doesn’t know how to play, that doesn’t mean you can’t try to get them engaged and do something fun and engaging with them that is outside of your normal structured work.Sponsored by K9 WorkingmindThis episode was edited and mastered by The WillaWoman. Our song "Working Minds" was also created by The WillaWoman.Hear more of her work here: https://tinyurl.com/TheWillaWoman

This week's episode is an encore performance with Courtney Leigh who works to bring awareness to the horrible natures of puppymills and runs the events held here in the Austin area for Puppymill Awareness Day and more.Marks your calendars!Puppymill Awareness Day is Sunday, September 28th from 9am - 12pm at the Centennial Plaza in Round Rock.Boots and Bling is Thursday, October 30th at 7pm at The Driskill Hotel in Austin.Be sure to check out their website at pmadtx.org to stay up to date on all their upcoming events.Sponsored by K9 WorkingmindThis episode was edited and mastered by The WillaWoman. Our song "Working Minds" was also created by The WillaWoman.Hear more of her work here: https://tinyurl.com/TheWillaWoman

What does it mean for a dog to have omega syndrome?  This week Tara and Laura break down the concept of omega syndrome and how owners can cause it.  They explain the behaviors associated with it and the extremes in reactions that occur with a dog that has omega syndrome.  Many people may not realize they are causing this to happen, so it is important to know how you may be contributing to the wrong behavior.Sponsored by K9 WorkingmindThis episode was edited and mastered by The WillaWoman. Our song "Working Minds" was also created by The WillaWoman.Hear more of her work here: https://tinyurl.com/TheWillaWoman

Can it really happen to your dog?  This week Tara and Laura were excited to welcome Sara to come and talk about her dog, Duck.  They reminisced on the journey Sara and Duck went through to help with Duck’s aggression and reactivity and the incredible progress they both made as a team.  Sara discussed the struggles when Duck unexpectedly lost her sight at a young age, the adjustments made, and how continuing their work helped them both through the change.  Sponsored by K9 WorkingmindThis episode was edited and mastered by The WillaWoman. Our song "Working Minds" was also created by The WillaWoman.Hear more of her work here: https://tinyurl.com/TheWillaWoman