The Pet Connection

In celebration of National Cat Lovers Month, Big Blend Radio’s Pet Connection show explores the powerful role pets play in creativity, storytelling, and everyday life with author D.R. Ransdell. Drawing inspiration from her cats and canine companions, Ransdell shares how animals influence her writing, travel experiences, and artistic perspective. Co-host Angela Laws of TrustedHousesitters.com joins the conversation, offering practical holiday pet care and safety tips to help pet parents keep their cats and dogs happy, healthy, and stress-free during the festive season. This episode highlights Ransdell’s pet-inspired books: * The Cezanne Chihuahua: A French Coast Pet Art Mystery * The Secret Lives of the Pink House Cats: Prose Poems by Five Felines 🐾 Learn more about D.R. Ransdell and her books: https://www.dr-ransdell.com/  🐾 TrustedHousesitters: https://www.trustedhousesitters.com/  🎧 Listen to more “Pet Connection” episodes: https://pet-connection.podbean.com  🎙️ This show is also featured on Big Blend Radio’s “Big Daily Blend” and "Toast to The Arts" podcast channels. Explore the Big Blend Radio Podcast Network: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork 

Big Blend Radio’s "Pet Connection" show explores the magic of children’s literature, therapy dogs, and holiday traditions in New York City with special guest Andy Honda, MD, author of the "Koa’s Ruff Life" series. Andy shares how her real-life therapy dog, Koa, inspires her heartwarming stories—especially the newest book, "Koa’s Ruff Life: Christmas Time in New York City." From Fifth Avenue’s iconic holiday windows to the Rockefeller Center Tree, Bryant Park Winter Village, The Rockettes, The Nutcracker, and more, this conversation reveals how Koa’s real-life adventures bring comfort, learning, and joy to children of all backgrounds. Co-host Angela Laws of TrustedHousesitters also joins the discussion, highlighting the importance of pet care, animal interaction, and emotional wellness in families and communities. Learn more at: 🐾 Koa’s Ruff Life: https://www.koasrufflife.com  🐾 Andy Honda, MD: https://www.andyhondamd.com  🐾 TrustedHousesitters: https://www.trustedhousesitters.com  🎧 More “Pet Connection” episodes: https://pet-connection.podbean.com  🎙️This episode is also featured on Big Blend Radio’s “Big Daily Blend,” "Quality of Life," and "Toast to The Arts" podcast channel. Explore the network: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork 

In this heartfelt and shared episode of Big Blend Radio’s “ABC's of Horses” equestrian podcast, Christy Wood celebrates the wisdom, experience, and enduring spirit of senior horses. These gentle teachers play an invaluable role in guiding young horses and riders alike, offering lessons in patience, resilience, and trust. Christy shares personal stories and insights into the care, health, and longevity of senior horses—emphasizing their continued value and the deep bonds they form with humans. hear how older horses contribute to the stability of a herd, the importance of proper nutrition and comfort, and how their life experiences enrich every equestrian relationship. Christy Wood is a World Champion horse trainer, extreme trail obstacle champion, author, instructor, and owner of Wood N Horse Training Stables in Three Rivers, California. Learn more at: https://wdnhorse.com/  🎧 Listen to more episodes: https://abcs-horses-christywood.podbean.com 

In observance of Adopt a Shelter Dog Month (and other pet-related holidays this month), this episode of Big Blend Radio’s "Pet Connection" show highlights the mission, history, and impact of the Helen Woodward Animal Center in San Diego, California. Co-host Angela Laws joins Michael Makie from the Center to discuss animal welfare, education, and the life-changing benefits of pet companionship through being a pet parent, adopting or fostering a pet, or volunteering.  This episode covers: - The history and mission of Helen Woodward Animal Center - How fostering pets increases adoption rates and provides essential care - Changing perceptions of misunderstood breeds, like pit bull terriers - The adoption process and considerations for holiday adoptions - The therapeutic benefits of animal interaction for humans - How TrustedHousesitters supports pet care when owners travel Whether you’re a pet parent, prospective adopter, or animal lover, this conversation underscores the importance of education, compassion, and community in animal welfare. 🐾 Learn more about Helen Woodward Animal Center: https://animalcenter.org/  🐾 Learn more about TrustedHousesitters: https://www.trustedhousesitters.com  🎧 Listen to more “Pet Connection” episodes: https://pet-connection.podbean.com  🎙️ This episode is also featured on Big Blend Radio’s "Big Daily Blend" and “Women Making History” podcast channels. Explore the network: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork 

In celebration of National Pet Sitter Education Month, this episode of Big Blend Radio’s “Pet Connection” show dives into the world of pet sitting with co-host Angela Laws of TrustedHousesitters. This inspiring conversation highlights the lifestyle, responsibilities, and education required for pet sitters, and how the experience can transform both lives and careers. Learn how to: - Build trust and communicate effectively with pet parents - Create a strong, compelling pet sitting profile - Gain valuable experience through volunteering - Understand animal behavior and provide personalized care - Prepare for emergencies and veterinary needs - Connect with the larger pet sitting community 🐾Learn more about Trustedhousesitters: https://www.trustedhousesitters.com/  🐾 Listen to more “Pet Connection” episodes: https://pet-connection.podbean.com  🎙️ This show also streams on Big Blend Radio’s “Big Daily Blend” channel.

Celebrate National Dog Month with this expert conversation on how to keep your pet healthy, happy, and safe during the "Dog Days of Summer." In this episode, we're joined by veteran pet sitter and co-host Angela Laws from TrustedHousesitters and Kris Kiser, President & CEO of the TurfMutt Foundation. We cover essential pet care during the summer heat, with a special focus on dogs, and offer crucial tips for preparing pets for storms and emergencies. The discussion includes insights on the importance of hydration, microchipping, and creating safe outdoor spaces, with a focus on mindful planting and maintaining a clean environment. The TurfMutt Foundation shares these crucial tips: - STORM SMARTS: Have a safe, quiet indoor space for your pet during storms, and ensure their ID tags and microchip registration are current. - BEAT THE HEAT: Provide plenty of fresh water and shade. Walk your dog during the cooler parts of the day and check the pavement temperature—if it’s too hot for your hand, it’s too hot for their paws. - TRAVEL READY: Use a crate large enough for your pet to stand, sit, and turn around in for safe car travel. Never leave pets in a hot car. - RIGHT PLANT, RIGHT PLACE: Choose non-toxic vegetation for your backyard and opt for real grass over artificial turf, as it stays cooler and is gentler on paws. For more, consult the ASPCA’s list of toxic and non-toxic plants: https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/animal-poison-control/dogs-plant-list  Key Takeaways: - Summer heat can be dangerous for pets; hydration is key. - Microchipping pets is crucial for their safety. - Create a safe space for pets during storms. - Know your pet's hiding spots during stressful events. - Nature starts at your back door; create a pet-friendly garden. Find out more about our guests and their organizations: - Angela Laws: https://www.trustedhousesitters.com/  - Kris Kiser: https://www.turfmutt.com/  🐾 Listen to more "Pet Connection" episodes: https://pet-connection.podbean.com/     This show is also featured on Big Blend Radio's "Big Daily Blend" Podcast Channel.

Join Nancy and Lisa, your hosts of Big Blend Radio's "Pet Connection" show, as they celebrate a remarkable milestone: five incredible years of full-time pet sitting and travel with TrustedHousesitters! In this special anniversary episode, we dive into the joys and unique experiences of pet sitting. The conversations highlight the vital role of community and clear communication in building trust and creating meaningful, immersive travel experiences. From furry friends to fascinating scaly companions and even feathered friends, Nancy and Lisa, and their guests, share their adventures caring for a diverse array of animals in homes across the country and around the globe. We're thrilled to be joined by special guests who share their own stories and insights: - ANGELA LAWS – A veteran pet sitter, grief counselor, and community manager at https://www.trustedhousesitters.com  - JUDY KARNIA – Travel writer, nature therapist, retired feline veterinarian, and pet sitter: https://travelingnature.com/  - JP & WANDA BROWN – Retired professionals living their dream pet sitting life (see their profile: https://www.trustedhousesitters.com/house-and-pet-sitters/united-states/florida/tallahassee/l/2853494)  Discover the heartwarming connections formed, the variety of animals cared for, and the invaluable lessons learned along the way. This episode emphasizes how pet sitting offers a sustainable and enriching lifestyle for travelers and a truly caring solution for pet parents. Tune in to hear how our hosts and guests have turned their passion for pets into a fulfilling adventure, proving that caring for animals enriches life! Key Takeaways from This Episode: - Pet sitting fosters a unique community of animal lovers. - TrustedHousesitters bridges the gap between travelers and pet parents. - Clear communication builds essential trust. - Pet sitting enables deeply immersive travel experiences. - Routine and familiar environments help pets thrive. - Unexpected friendships often blossom on the road. - Understanding pet behavior is crucial for effective care. - Pet sitters frequently provide extra attention to pets. - The variety of animals encountered is vast. Pet sitting leads to life-changing experiences and connections. 🐾 Listen to more "Pet Connection" episodes: https://pet-connection.podbean.com 

Get ready for summer fun with your pet companions on this episode of Big Blend Radio’s “Pet Connection” Show! Hosts Nancy J. Reid and Lisa D. Smith, along with cohost Angela Laws from TrustedHousesitters, share essential pet care tips to help keep animals safe, cool, and comfortable during the hot weather. The conversation covers everything from hydration and heat protection to backyard safety and wildlife awareness. You’ll also hear about the importance of knowing which plants are toxic, monitoring pets around pools, and taking precautions during fireworks. Plus, learn about the value of building strong relationships with pets and staying proactive in their care—especially in emergencies or extreme heat. Top Summer Pet Safety Tips Covered in the Show: * Hydration is crucial—always ensure fresh water is available. * Pets can’t protect themselves; owners must stay vigilant. * Be prepared for natural disasters that may impact your pets. * Keep pets indoors during heatwaves and fireworks. * Know which backyard plants are harmful. * Always supervise pets near pools. * Wildlife encounters can be risky—stay alert. * Strong human-animal bonds enhance overall pet care. Helpful Summer Pet Care Resources from TrustedHousesitters: * How to Keep Dogs Cool in Summer: https://www.trustedhousesitters.com/blog/pets/keeping-dogs-cool/  * Caring for Flat-faced Dogs in Summer: https://www.trustedhousesitters.com/blog/pets/flat-faced-dogs-in-summer/  * Dog Life Jackets to Keep Them Safe in the Water:  https://www.trustedhousesitters.com/blog/pets/dog-life-jacket/  * Recipes for Frozen Treats for Dogs: https://www.trustedhousesitters.com/blog/pets/frozen-dog-treats-recipes/  🎧 Follow the Pet Connection Podcast: https://pet-connection.podbean.com/ 

In this heartwarming episode of Big Blend Radio's "Pet Connection" Show, we highlight inspiring rescue and adoption stories involving dogs, cats, horses — and even wildlife! You'll also get practical tips on how to bond with rescued animals and give them the loving care they deserve. 🎙️ ON THIS EPISODE: * Lisa Smith – The "daughter" half of Big Blend Radio & Magazine’s mother-daughter duo, Lisa is a full-time traveler and seasoned pet sitter. She shares stories from the road, pets she and Nancy have cared for, and touching wildlife rescues from Nancy's experiences. * Angela Laws – A veteran pet sitter, grief counselor, and community manager at https://www.trustedhousesitters.com, Angela shares her horse rescue stories, advice on earning trust from rescue animals, and the value of pet sitters. * Kathleen Walls – Travel writer, author, and passionate feral cat rescuer, Kathleen shares compelling tales of her feline companions, many of whom are featured in her books. Visit: https://katywalls.com/  Whether you're a lifelong pet lover or thinking about adopting a rescue, this episode is full of heartfelt stories and helpful guidance. 🐾 Listen to more episodes: https://pet-connection.podbean.com 

From a whinny to a nicker, this shared episode of Big Blend Radio’s “ABC’s of Horses” equestrian podcast with Christy Wood explores "horse noises," the fascinating world of horse vocalizations and what they mean. Learn how to interpret different horse sounds, including variations in intensity and frequency. Is your horse expressing comfort, excitement, anxiety, or even attraction? Whether it's a call for food, a signal of distress, or playful flirting, understanding your horse’s sounds is key to building stronger communication and connection. Christy Wood is a World Champion horse trainer, award-winning extreme trail competitor, and a carded judge for seven breed associations. She’s also an author, riding instructor, and the owner of Wood N Horse Training Stables in Three Rivers, California. Learn more about Christy and her equine services at https://wdnhorse.com.  🎧 Tune in to new episodes of Big Blend Radio's “ABC’s of Horses” Podcast with Christy Wood every 2nd Saturday. 📌 Listen to more episodes here: https://abcs-horses-christywood.podbean.com 

This episode of Big Blend Radio's "Pet Connection" Show focuses on life after loss for both pets and their humans.   ON THIS EPISODE: - Angela Laws, veteran pet sitter, grief counselor, and community manager at https://www.trustedhousesitters.com/ - Lea Brovedani, a certified end-of-life doula, also known as a death midwife. Listen to her "Soul Journey Doula" podcast series: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLzIUCV2e7qm2cARmdtpFgKMM8Semws42Z&feature=shared Follow the "Pet Connection" podcast at https://pet-connection.podbean.com/ 

It's all about Understanding and Caring for Mares on this episode of Big Blend Radio's "ABC's of Horses" equestrian podcast with Christy Wood.  Hear about attitude and disposition, emotions, performance, breeding and pregnancy, hormonal health, foaling and gestation, and so much more. Christy Wood is a World Champion horse trainer, also exhibiting in jumping and trail. She is a winner in extreme trail obstacle challenges, and is a carded horse show judge with 7 breed associations. Along with being an author and instructor, she is the owner of Wood N Horse Training Stables in Three Rivers, California. Learn more about Christy, her equine services, and her books, at: https://wdnhorse.com/   The "ABC's of Horses" Podcast with Christy Wood airs every 2nd Saturday. Listen to the latest episodes here: https://abcs-horses-christywood.podbean.com/  

Celebrate National Backyard Day (March 19)  and the Start of Spring with this episode of Big Blend Radio's "Pet Connection" Show that focuses on ways to create a backyard that is pet-friendly. Hear about toxic plants, fencing tips, and basic needs like shade and water, and more.  Big Blend Radio's PET CONNECTION Show is hosted by veteran pet sitters Nancy J Reid & Lisa Smith, the mother-daughter team behind Big Blend Radio & Magazines, and cohosted by Angela Laws, veteran pet sitter, and community manager at https://www.trustedhousesitters.com/   Check out this veterinarian approved article about Poisonous Plants for Pets on the Trustedhousesitters blog:   https://www.trustedhousesitters.com/blog/pets/pretty-yet-poisonous-plants-for-dogs-to-avoid/    This episode is also featured on Big Blend Radio's "Big Daily Blend"  and "Garden Gossip" Podcast Channels. Follow the "Pet Connection" podcast at https://pet-connection.podbean.com/ 

It's all about Lunging Your Horse on this episode of Big Blend Radio's "ABC's of Horses" equestrian podcast with Christy Wood. Hear about what lunging is and why it is important, lunging positions, and the best gear and equipment for lunging. Christy Wood is a World Champion horse trainer, also exhibiting in jumping and trail. She is a winner in extreme trail obstacle challenges, and is a carded horse show judge with 7 breed associations. Along with being an author and instructor, she is the owner of Wood N Horse Training Stables in Three Rivers, California. Learn more about Christy, her equine services, and her books, at: https://wdnhorse.com/   The "ABC's of Horses" Podcast with Christy Wood airs every 2nd Saturday. Listen to the latest episodes here: https://abcs-horses-christywood.podbean.com/ 

On this episode of Big Blend Radio's "Pet Connection" Show, Mark Rowlands talks about his new book, "The Word of Dog: What Our Canine Companions Can Teach Us About Living a Good Life" (Liveright; Jan 28, 2025). Here, Rowlands shows us we could do a lot better than we’re doing simply by listening to the unspoken wisdom our dogs reveal to us every day of their happy, uncomplicated lives. Rowlands is professor and chair of the philosophy department at the University of Miami, a leading figure in the morality of animals, and author of twenty-three books on the philosophy of mind, the moral status of non-human animals, and cultural criticism. He is known within academic philosophy for his work on the animal mind and is one of the principal architects of the view known as vehicle externalism, or the extended mind, the view that thoughts, memories, desires and beliefs can be stored outside the brain and the skull. His works include Animal Rights (1998), The Body in Mind (1999), The Nature of Consciousness (2001), Animals Like Us (2002), and a personal memoir, The Philosopher and the Wolf (2008). Big Blend Radio's PET CONNECTION Show is cohosted by Angela Laws, veteran pet sitter, and community manager at https://www.trustedhousesitters.com/    This episode is also featured on Big Blend Radio's "Quality of Life" Podcast Channel. Follow the "Pet Connection" podcast at https://pet-connection.podbean.com/ 

It's all about Kicking and Communication on this episode of Big Blend Radio's "ABC's of Horses" equestrian podcast with Christy Wood. Hear what makes horses kick, how to maneuver around a horse so you do not get kicked, and how to communicate whether on the ground or on horseback.  Christy Wood is a World Champion horse trainer, also exhibiting in jumping and trail. She is a winner in extreme trail obstacle challenges, and is a carded horse show judge with 7 breed associations. Along with being an author and instructor, she is the owner of Wood N Horse Training Stables in Three Rivers, California. Learn more about Christy, her equine services, and her books, at: https://wdnhorse.com/   The "ABC's of Horses" Podcast with Christy Wood airs every 2nd Saturday. Listen to the latest episodes here: https://abcs-horses-christywood.podbean.com/ 

Celebrate National Walk Your Dog Month (January) with this episode of Big Blend Radio's "Pet Connection" Show that focuses on the benefits of walking your dog (for humans and their pup pals), and safety tips.  Big Blend Radio's PET CONNECTION Show is hosted by veteran pet sitters Nancy J Reid & Lisa Smith, the mother-daughter team behind Big Blend Radio & Magazines, and cohosted by Angela Laws, veteran pet sitter, and community manager at https://www.trustedhousesitters.com/   Check out this veterinarian approved article about the Benefits of Dog Walking on the Trustedhousesitters blog:  https://www.trustedhousesitters.com/blog/pets/benefits-of-dog-walking  Plus, Lisa's "Walks with Lucy" short video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5di5oVKXh8Q  This episode is also featured on Big Blend Radio's "Big Daily Blend" Podcast Channel. Follow the "Pet Connection" podcast at https://pet-connection.podbean.com/ 

It's all about Instruction for Horses and Riders on this episode of Big Blend Radio's "ABC's of Horses" equestrian podcast with Christy Wood. Instruction is especially important when looking at purchasing a new horse.  Christy Wood is a World Champion horse trainer, also exhibiting in jumping and trail. She is a winner in extreme trail obstacle challenges, and is a carded horse show judge with 7 breed associations. Along with being an author and instructor, she is the owner of Wood N Horse Training Stables in Three Rivers, California. Learn more about Christy, her equine services, and her books, at: https://wdnhorse.com/   The "ABC's of Horses" Podcast with Christy Wood airs every 2nd Saturday. Listen to the latest episodes here: https://abcs-horses-christywood.podbean.com/ 

Do you have an equestrian or horse lover on your holiday shopping list? If so, check out this episode of Big Blend Radio featuring author and world champion horse trainer Christy Wood who talks about her various books and horse-related gifts that include horseshoe decor and more. Visit her website and online store here: https://wdnhorse.com/ 

In perfect time for the holiday shopping season, this episode of Big Blend Radio's "Pet Connection" Show features award-winning author C.B. Wilson, who is known for her popular Barkview Dog Mystery series. Hear about her books, her Bat Dogs petition, and much more. Visit: https://cbwilsonauthor.com/  Plus, check out her fun song, "12 Days of Barkview Christmas" on YouTube:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZPMzjs0y7NM  In celebration of the holiday gift giving season, this episode is also featured on Big Blend Radio's "Big Daily Blend" and "Toast to The Arts" Podcast Channels. Follow the "Pet Connection" podcast at https://pet-connection.podbean.com/