Animal Training Academy: Making Ripples

In this inspiring episode of the Animal Training Academy: Making Ripples podcast, host Shelly Wood sits down with Xenia Jones — Behavior Therapist at the Animal Behavior Wellness Center in Northern Virginia — for a rich conversation about rescue, resilience, and the power of science-based, compassionate behavior support. With a lifelong background rescuing dogs and cats across five countries — from her native Costa Rica, to South Florida, Spain, Taiwan, and China — Xenia shares the extraordinary experiences that shaped her trauma-informed, choice-based approach to helping both dogs and cats. She reflects on the unique challenges she witnessed in different regions, the importance of teaming up with local communities, and why understanding human culture is essential if we want to truly support animals. Xenia also opens up about her deep connection to separation anxiety, including her own childhood experience and a pivotal case in Spain that left a lasting mark. From there, she takes us through her journey into formal education and certification — including mentorship through Julie Naismith's separation anxiety program and becoming a Certified Control Unleashed Instructor under Leslie McDevitt. Together, Shelly and Xenia explore: ✅ How rescue work across cultures shaped Xenia's behavior philosophy ✅ What it was like rescuing hundreds of dogs during the COVID crisis in Wuhan ✅ Why resilience can look different depending on environment and history ✅ The reality of preparing rescue dogs for overseas adoption — medically and behaviorally ✅ What a Behavior Therapist does in a veterinary behavior clinic setting ✅ A powerful case study combining CAT (Constructional Aggression Treatment) and Control Unleashed "Super Bowls" to help a dog with severe visitor-directed reactivity ✅ Supporting not just the animal — but the family's emotional bandwidth too ✅ A training win inspired by the ATA community: teaching a dog to take medication on cue This episode is a celebration of global compassion, learning, and the quiet, steady work of helping animals feel safe again. Xenia's story is a powerful reminder that when we center choice, dignity, and science — we don't just change behavior. We change lives. Links ​​YouTube Channel  https://www.youtube.com/@unleashingpawsabilities Substack https://substack.com/@unleashingpawsabilities Animal Behavior Wellness Center https://www.abwellnesscenter.com  

In this warm, reflective, and deeply human episode of the Animal Training Academy: Making Ripples podcast, we are joined by Finnish dog enthusiast and Pawsitive Wellness Coach-to-be Pipsa Toikka, whose journey into animal training began later in life - and changed everything. After raising three boys and building a career in singing, drama, and clown work, Pipsa welcomed her first-ever dog, Rosina, in 2011. A spirited Vizsla–Weimaraner mix with a strong independent streak, Rosina was both a challenge and a profound teacher. Through their years together, Pipsa learned patience, trust, recall built on reinforcement and freedom, and the subtle art of interspecies communication - lessons that would shape her philosophy for life and training. Pipsa shares her experiences training search and rescue, including working rubble searches, supporting police-led efforts, and learning to trust a dog whose need to run was as essential as her extraordinary nose. She reflects on Rosina's remarkable sensitivity to human emotion, including a powerful story that highlights dogs' capacity to perceive what we often miss. Now, alongside her younger working Labrador Musetta, Pipsa continues this legacy through search and rescue work and professional development. As she approaches graduation as a Pawsitive Wellness Coach, Pipsa discusses her growing work supporting people and dogs through a holistic, science-informed lens - addressing behaviour challenges, incorporating ACE Free Work, and centering communication, observation, and wellbeing for both ends of the leash. We also explore the importance of educating humans, shaping caregiver behaviour, and creating environments where learning and emotional safety can thrive. Beyond training, this episode weaves in Pipsa's work with Clowns Without Borders, her background in performance, and her dogs' unexpected careers as animal actors - revealing how joy, creativity, and connection ripple across every part of her life. This conversation is a beautiful reminder that training is not just about skills or outcomes, but about trust, curiosity, and the shared experience of learning - across species, cultures, and life chapters. Links pipsatoi@gmail.com 

In this reflective and values-driven episode of the Making Ripples podcast, host Shelly Wood is joined by Animal Training Academy founder Ryan Cartlidge and companion animal trainer Belinda Young for a rich conversation about gratitude - one of ATA's core values - and the powerful role it plays in learning, community, and wellbeing. Together, Shelly, Ryan, and Belinda share personal stories, professional insights, and candid reflections on how intentional gratitude shapes the culture of Animal Training Academy and creates safer, more supportive spaces for human learners. From early morning thought loops and professional challenges to gratitude journals, team rituals, and community moderation, this conversation explores gratitude not as "toxic positivity," but as a genuine, practiced skill. Throughout the episode, we explore: ✅ Why gratitude was intentionally chosen as a core value of Animal Training Academy ✅ Gratitude as a learnable skill that strengthens resilience and self-compassion ✅ Parallels between effective animal training and supporting human learners ✅ How gratitude reinforces bravery, vulnerability, and risk-taking in learning spaces ✅ The ripple effects of modeling gratitude within and beyond ATA ✅ Why safe communities matter for growth, feedback, and lifelong learning This episode is a heartfelt exploration of what it means to practice gratitude with authenticity, and how doing so can transform not only how we train animals, but how we support people, build communities, and show up for one another. It's a reminder that when we intentionally reinforce courage, curiosity, and kindness, the ripples extend far beyond the moment.

In this fascinating and thoughtful episode of the Making Ripples podcast, we welcome Caroline Ritter—a positive reinforcement horse trainer, a certified Feldenkrais teacher, and a true behavior nerd with an academic background in cognitive science. Living and working in Vienna, Austria, Caroline shares her remarkable journey, starting from a life spent with horses, dogs, and cats, to her deep dive into learning theory through dog agility and clicker training. She discusses the pivotal moment that led her to switch her horses over to positive reinforcement, not out of necessity to solve problems, but from an ethical drive to improve communication and gentleness. A key turning point in Caroline's training history was attending a behavior-focused camp where she experienced Feldenkrais for the first time. This somatic learning method, which focuses on movement and awareness, quickly became a core principle, filling a gap in how she applies positive reinforcement to her entire life—including her relationship with her own body. Together, we explore the powerful synergy between positive reinforcement and the nonjudgmental, growth-focused principles of Feldenkrais: The Power of Nonjudgmental Observation: How both R+ and Feldenkrais emphasize realizing and appreciating your own patterns and automatic responses before trying to change them. From Negative to Positive Reinforcement: Caroline's analytical process of first dissecting her traditional, negative reinforcement-based riding cues (e.g., cue, reaction, release) before successfully transitioning her horses to R+ training. Feldenkrais in Animal Training: Applying the principles of balance, axis, and shared movement to her horse groundwork and even dog training, focusing on body awareness and nuances over verbal commands. Shaping Along the Movement Cycle: A deep discussion on the incredible precision and impact of when you choose to click, even in seemingly simple behaviors like walking. The Shared Intention: Moving toward a concept of working with animals where you have a mutual target or goal that goes beyond simply performing a shared movement. Disco Cavallo & Assisted Programs: The importance of designing horse-assisted programs that center the horse's initiative to ensure the animal benefits equally, avoiding the need for the animal to require "therapy after providing the therapy". Caroline's story is an inspiring reminder that the same curiosity, openness, and dedication we bring to training our animals can—and should—be applied to ourselves, paving the way for deeper connection and learning for all participants. Links www.feldenkrais.wien hi@feldenkrais.wien www.discocavallo.com Instagram: @florafauna_feldenkrais @discocavallo Facebook: Caroline Ritter @discocavallo  

In this heartfelt episode of the Making Ripples podcast, we welcome the thoughtful and dedicated Caitlin Cohn - professional dog trainer, cooperative care advocate, and proud human to Elvis the Maine Coon. Caitlin shares her journey from horses to dogs to cats, and how each species has shaped her perspective on training, autonomy, and the human-animal bond. From her early experiences working at liberty with horses, to volunteering at a therapeutic riding center and training assistance dogs, Caitlin reflects on the pivotal moments that led her to positive reinforcement and force-free methods. Together, we explore: ✅ What Caitlin learned moving from natural horsemanship into clicker training ✅ How her first dog, Emma, set her on the path to professional training ✅ Lessons Elvis the cat has taught her about informed consent, autonomy, and micro-sessions ✅ Cooperative care breakthroughs, from nail trims to dental care ✅ A powerful case study: helping Elvis overcome thunderstorm anxiety through systematic desensitization and creative counterconditioning ✅ Why honoring choice and communication creates deeper, more rewarding partnerships This episode is a celebration of curiosity, compassion, and the courage to listen deeply to the animals we share our lives with. Caitlin's story is an inspiring reminder that when we train smarter - not harder - we create ripples of joy, harmony, and healing.

In this heartfelt episode of the Making Ripples podcast, we're joined by Jillian Howlett – Karen Pryor Academy Certified Training Partner and founder of Walk and Train ACT. From her early days growing up surrounded by animals in rural Victoria, to discovering the transformative power of clicker training with her deaf Koolie cross Archie, Jill shares the winding path that led her from a career in education to her current work supporting dogs and their people in Canberra, Australia. Together, we explore: ✅ How Jill's childhood with spirited animals shaped her perspective on learning and connection ✅ The role Archie played in reigniting her lifelong passion for animal welfare and positive reinforcement ✅ The origins of Walk and Train ACT and her unique "walk and train" approach to supporting busy families ✅ The powerful lessons learned from clients like Amanda and her dog Ren, navigating life and training alongside health challenges ✅ Why community, curiosity, and compassion are cornerstones of Jill's practice This episode is a beautiful celebration of persistence, partnership, and the ripple effects that occur when we invest in relationships built on trust and understanding. Jill's journey is an inspiring reminder that it's never too late to follow your passion, keep learning, and create ripples of change that extend far beyond a single household. Links Instagram:  @strudel_and_archie Karen Pryor - find a trainer search Canberra (I'm the only one listed)  jill@walkandtrainact.com actcdc.org.au - Companion Dog Club, Canberra  zddog.com.au - Jess is a key player in the force free community in Canberra

In this inspiring episode of the Making Ripples podcast, we're joined by the thoughtful and compassionate Wendy Katz - Ph.D. biologist, Karen Pryor Academy Certified Training Partner, CPDT-KA, Fear Free Professional, certified Control Unleashed Instructor, and Family Dog Mediator. Wendy shares her remarkable journey from biomedical research to professional dog training, weaving together personal experience, academic rigor, and decades of hands-on work with dogs and their families. Along the way, she reflects on the dogs who shaped her path, the challenges of shifting careers, and the lessons she carries forward into her practice today. Together, we explore: ✅ How Wendy's background in biology and research informs her training approach ✅ The pivotal role of curiosity and ongoing learning in her career ✅ Stories of dogs who transformed not only their own lives but Wendy's as well ✅ Why science, compassion, and respect are inseparable in effective training ✅ The ripple effects of force-free methods on both dogs and their humans This episode is a celebration of the human-canine bond, the power of evidence-based practice, and the courage to follow a calling. Wendy's story is a beautiful reminder that when we listen deeply - to dogs, to science, and to ourselves - we create ripples that spread far beyond a single household. Links https://www.enjoyabledogs.com/

In this inspiring episode, we sit down with Olly Jacobs (he/him) and Calum Torcasio (they/them) from Moonlit Sanctuary - two zookeepers whose passion for animal welfare and behavior science shines through every word. From early dreams of working with animals to becoming key members of Moonlit's show and mammal teams, their parallel journeys are filled with curiosity, grit, and deep respect for the animals they care for. Olly and Calum share their unique entry points into zookeeping, the roles that education, volunteering, and community played in launching their careers, and how their love for Australia's diverse native wildlife continues to grow. We dive into their creative and thoughtful approaches to animal training, with heartwarming and educational stories - from target and station training a potoroo named Pikelet, to building trust and voluntary cooperation for dingo toothbrushing. This episode highlights: ✅ The power of relationship-based training and consent-driven interactions ✅ How show animals are given choice, control, and a starring role in education ✅ Why tailoring communication to the individual matters - no "one-size-fits-all" ✅ How storytelling, humor, and hope create meaningful conservation messages ✅ Their hopes for connecting audiences, especially children, to native species With humility and humor, Olly and Calum show us what it means to train with intention and heart - making waves not just for the animals they work with, but for the future of conservation. Links https://moonlitsanctuary.com.au/ https://www.instagram.com/moonlitsanctuary/  https://www.facebook.com/moonlitsanctuary/ 

In this special 60th episode of the Making Ripples podcast, we're celebrating a major milestone - 10 years of Animal Training Academy! And who better to join us for the celebration than the founder himself, Ryan Cartlidge. Ryan has worked professionally with animal behavior and training since 2007, across zoos and organizations throughout Australia, New Zealand, Canada, and the US. He's a Certified Professional Dog Trainer (KPA), Fear Free Certified Professional, Family Paws Parent Educator, and Level 1 Certified TAGteach Instructor. But most notably, he's the visionary behind ATA - the platform that continues to ripple its influence through education, community, and connection. In this episode, Ryan reflects on the evolution of ATA - from its humble beginnings with a single online course to a thriving global community supporting thousands of trainers and enthusiasts. We dive into: ✅ The origin story behind Animal Training Academy and how it grew from an idea to a movement ✅ Personal challenges and triumphs along the way - including some humorous (and humbling!) early moments ✅ The growth mindset and the powerful role of supporting the human side of animal training ✅ Ryan's metaphors for navigating capacity, burnout, and behavioral change - from trees to containers to rocket ships ✅ Why investing in personal sustainability is one of the kindest things we can do for our communities Whether you're a longtime ATA member or just discovering this podcast, this episode is full of wisdom, warmth, and celebration. Join us as we honor 10 years of ripples - and look ahead to many more.

In this heartfelt and compelling episode, we meet Zuzia Kubica - Certified Dog Behavior Consultant, founder of CoeurCanin, and passionate advocate for animals who walk the wilder edges of society. From befriending street dogs as a child in communist Poland to developing a thriving behavior consultancy in Quebec, Zuzia's journey is nothing short of extraordinary. Zuzia shares how her upbringing among free-roaming animals and a nature-loving family laid the foundation for a life built on curiosity, empathy, and quiet rebellion against coercion. Her first dog, Zorro - a reactive, resilient former shelter dog - became her greatest teacher and helped inspire protocols she still uses today. With stories that span cultures, continents, and communities, Zuzia brings a unique, deeply humane lens to behavior change. In this episode, we explore: ✅ Why Zuzia never had to "crossover" to positive reinforcement ✅ What she learned from working with clients in high-risk or marginalized contexts ✅ How freestyle training became a powerful healing tool for both dogs and humans ✅ Her reflections on burnout, emotional labor, and setting trainers up for long-term success ✅ The vital need for trainer education that includes human-centered skills and support Zuzia's experiences - ranging from musical canine freestyle to navigating the emotional terrain of helping humans with trauma - highlight the richness and responsibility of being a modern animal trainer. This conversation is a tribute to empathy, perseverance, and the beautiful messiness of human-animal relationships. Links coeurcanin@yahoo.com http://CoeurCanin.com  Formation CoeurCanin: https://www.facebook.com/FormationCoeurCanin  CoeurCanin group (in French but can be posted in English): https://www.facebook.com/groups/49236022174 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/coeurcanin/  BlueSky:  https://bsky.app/profile/coeurcanin.bsky.social  

In this episode of the Making Ripples podcast, we're joined by Martina Luisetti, Certified Dog Trainer and founder of ULI Dog Training in the UK. Martina brings a refreshing and compassionate perspective to canine behavior, offering training that's as much about the humans as it is about the dogs. With a background shaped by personal growth and a deep love for animals, Martina shares how her passion for trauma-informed care, attachment theory, and relational safety informs her training methods. Her work centers on supporting excitable dogs and their guardians through classes like Fun Agility and foundational puppy training — always with a focus on connection, trust, and clear communication. In this episode, we explore: ✅ Martina's journey from struggling with her own dog's behavior to becoming a skilled trainer helping others ✅ Why understanding human psychology and emotional regulation is crucial in dog training ✅ The importance of non-judgmental spaces in classes and community learning ✅ How Martina blends play, empathy, and structure to support excitable dogs ✅ Her reflections on healing, compassion, and building safer relationships — for both dogs and their humans Whether you're a seasoned trainer or a dog guardian navigating challenging behaviors, Martina's gentle approach and insightful reflections will inspire you to rethink how we support both ends of the leash. Links ulipuplandia@gmail.com  https://www.instagram.com/ulidogtraining?igsh=dzVjaWNyb3p0OTNz www.ulidogtraining.com PACT Professional Association of Canine Trainers https://www.pact-dogs.com/ ABTC Animal Behaviour and Training Council https://abtc.org.uk/  Certified Separation Anxiety SA PRO trainer with Julie Neismith program  

In this episode of the Making Ripples podcast, we're joined by April Williams, the passionate owner and operator of All About The Hound dog services in Masterton, New Zealand. With 13 years of experience, April is a Karen Pryor Academy Certified Training Partner and Certified Professional Groomer who is dedicated to providing stress-free grooming and training experiences. April's commitment to kind and gentle training is evident in her specialized "Little Groomies" Puppy Grooming Intro packages, designed to ease puppies into the grooming process. She shares her journey from working in academic publishing to establishing All About The Hounds, driven by her desire to connect and understand her own dog, Archie.  In this episode, we dive into: ✅ April's approach to creating positive and stress-free grooming experiences for dogs ✅ The importance of early and gentle introduction to grooming, and her 'Little Groomies' program ✅ How a clicker training experience with her dog Archie, helped shape her training philosophy ✅ The challenges in the grooming industry, particularly around education and training Whether you're a pet professional or a pet guardian, April's dedication to improving animal welfare and her innovative approach to grooming and training will provide you with valuable insights into creating a better experience for the animals in your life. Links: https://www.allaboutthehound.co.nz/ https://www.facebook.com/allaboutthehound.co.nz april@allaboutthehound.co.nz  

In this episode of the Making Ripples podcast, we're delighted to welcome Raoudha Mairos, a passionate dog trainer and behavior consultant, as she shares her inspiring journey from fearing dogs to dedicating her life to understanding and improving animal welfare. As the founder of Sunny Paws, Raoudha offers one-on-one coaching to help dogs and their guardians build confidence, trust, and a stress-free bond. She also co-founded Global Animal Experts, a platform that connects professionals in the French-speaking community with expert insights through courses and webinars. Raoudha's story is one of transformation—moving from fear to fascination as she navigated life with her first dog, Sunny, and eventually shifted careers from teaching to professional dog training. She shares how different dogs, including her own, have shaped her approach, emphasising the importance of understanding individual animals rather than forcing them into rigid expectations. In this episode, we dive into: ✅ The power of observation and empathy in animal training ✅ How Raoudha's work helps bridge the communication gap between dogs and their humans ✅ The importance of giving animals choices in training and daily life ✅ The lessons she's learned from working with multiple species, including a surprising training experience with a giraffe! Whether you're an animal trainer, pet guardian, or behavior enthusiast, Raoudha's insights will inspire you to rethink the way we understand and connect with the animals in our lives. Links https://sunnypaws.co.uk/ www.globalanimalexperts.com  

In this episode of the Making Ripples podcast, we're thrilled to welcome Samantha Rubio, a dedicated horse trainer specialising in positive reinforcement and equine rehabilitation. Based in Montgomery County, Maryland, Samantha works at a cutting-edge equine behavior and sports medicine rehabilitation facility while also running her own training business. Samantha shares her inspiring journey from a childhood passion for animals to earning her degree in Animal Science and Neurobiology at Cornell University. She opens up about her experience bridging the gap between academic research and real-life training, advocating for lifelong learning, and fostering an inclusive approach that values both human and non-human learners. Listeners will gain insight into Samantha's work at Misty Step Stables, where she collaborates with veterinarians and specialists to support horses in medical and behavioral rehabilitation. She discusses the importance of recognising pain in horses - challenging outdated industry norms that often dismiss behavioral indicators of discomfort. Through compelling case studies, including a transformative experience with a horse named Rum, Samantha highlights the power of listening to both horses and their owners, reinforcing the idea that effective training is built on trust, science, and compassion. Whether you're an equestrian, animal behavior enthusiast, or trainer looking to deepen your understanding of positive reinforcement in the horse world, this episode is packed with valuable insights and practical takeaways. Links Samantha's workplace >>> https://mistystepstables.com/ Samantha's business on Facebook >>> https://www.facebook.com/AhimsaEquineLLC Samantha on Facebook >>> https://www.facebook.com/samantha.rubio.5074  

In this episode of the Making Ripples podcast, we are thrilled to welcome Eileen Anderson—writer, researcher, and advocate for humane dog training. Eileen is the author of Remember Me?, a Maxwell Award-winning book on canine cognitive dysfunction, and a thought leader in the world of positive reinforcement training. Eileen shares her fascinating journey from engineering and music to becoming a trusted voice in the animal behavior community. She discusses how a chance adoption of a challenging dog named Summer set her on a path of discovery, leading her to the world of behavior science, dog training, and eventually, writing. With her unique background in acoustics, Eileen also sheds light on common misconceptions about sound sensitivity in dogs and how her expertise has helped shape innovative approaches to training and problem-solving. Listeners will gain valuable insights into the science of sound and its impact on dogs, the importance of careful and ethical training, and practical strategies for building trust and communication with their pets. Eileen also shares her experiences mentoring aspiring writers, offering tips for overcoming writer's block and developing a meaningful writing practice. Whether you're a dog trainer, behavior enthusiast, or an aspiring writer, this episode is packed with inspiration, knowledge, and practical advice. Links Dogs and Sound Webinars Both webinars are available here >>> https://payhip.com/brightfriendsproductions Books Remember Me? Loving and Caring for a Dog with Canine Cognitive Dysfunction >>> https://books2read.com/dogdementia Puppy Socialization: What It Is and How to Do It, coauthored with Marge Rogers >>> https://books2read.com/puppysocialization Both books are also available at Dogwise, and Puppy Socialization is available at Clean Run and Mungo's in Canada. Contact Eileen via Her Blog >>> https://eileenanddogs.com/drrp/ Blog Posts Discussed in the Podcast https://eileenanddogs.com/blog/2022/07/29/how-i-taught-my-puppy-to-sleep-later-in-the-morning/ https://eileenanddogs.com/blog/2024/01/09/desensitizing-a-dog-to-high-pitched-beeps-part-1-of-2/ https://eileenanddogs.com/blog/2024/01/12/desensitizing-a-dog-to-high-pitched-beeps-part-2-of-2/ Journal Article Related to the Counterconditioning Posts Poppen, R. (1970). Counterconditioning of conditioned suppression in rats. Psychological Reports, 27(2), 659-671. (desensitization was done using frequency rather than volume) Other Information on Sound from Eileen All articles on dogs and sound on my blog >>> https://eileenanddogs.com/blog/category/dogs-and-sound/ How to Soundproof a Dog Crate (You Can't >>> https://eileenanddogs.com/blog/2019/08/06/how-to-soundproof-a-dog-crate/ Using Sound Apps for Desensitization & Counterconditioning for Dogs >>> https://eileenanddogs.com/blog/2021/01/08/using-sound-apps-for-desensitization-counterconditioning-for-dogs/ Article on Sound Masking >>> https://www.whole-dog-journal.com/behavior/noise-canceling-for-dogs/ Eileen's Writing Mentorship (next one will be in July 2025) https://iaabcfoundation.org/courses/writing-mentorship-with-eileen-anderson/ Writing Tips About Freewriting >>> https://www.research.ucsb.edu/sites/default/files/RD/docs/FREEWRITING-by-Peter-Elbow.pdf Writing Word Count Goals Gamified (R+) >>> https://4thewords.com/   

In this episode of the Making Ripples podcast, we are thrilled to welcome Dr. Daniela Zurr, a distinguished behavioral veterinarian from Nuremberg, Germany. With over 25 years of experience as a veterinarian and a Tellington TTouch instructor, Dr. Zurr combines her expertise in behavioral medicine, zoo animal consultations, and positive reinforcement training to create innovative approaches to animal care. Dr. Zurr shares her journey from an early passion for reptiles to her current role, where she works with a wide range of animals, from household pets to zoo residents. She discusses the profound influence of mentors like Linda Tellington-Jones, the evolution of her work with TTouch, and the development of her holistic method to improve animal behavior and welfare. Listeners will gain insights into the principles of TTouch, including its focus on mindfulness, trust, and connection, and learn how it can be used to address behavioral challenges, prevent stress, and improve the bond between humans and animals. Dr. Zurr also shares personal stories, such as her experiences with her own rescue dog and her work with shelter animals, highlighting the importance of adaptability and compassion in animal care. Whether you're a pet owner, trainer, or behavior enthusiast, this episode offers a wealth of inspiration and practical advice for fostering trust and connection with the animals in your life. Links www.ttouch.com www.tellington-methode.de www.ttouch-n-click.de www.tierverhalten-zurr.de Email; mail@tierverhalten-zurr.de  

In this episode of the Making Ripples podcast, we are joined by the wonderful Kristi Martin, a behavior specialist with a diverse background in both the zoo and veterinary fields. Kristi shares her journey from caring for a wide variety of species in zoos to transitioning into the veterinary field, where she specialized in behavior care. She talks about her current work at the Richmond Animal Behavior Wellness Center, where she assists a veterinary behaviorist and runs a DigiTherm thermal scanner to help assess pain in behavior patients. Kristi's expertise shines as she discusses her experiences working with animals, including the shift from zoo work to veterinary care, and how her passion for learning has driven her to continually expand her skill set. From handling complex cases of fear, anxiety, and aggression in pets, to integrating the latest technology in veterinary behavior, Kristi's insights offer valuable lessons for both pet owners and animal care professionals. Listeners will be inspired by Kristi's approach to simplifying behavior modification plans, her dedication to making training practical for pet owners, and her emphasis on the importance of checking for pain or discomfort as a potential cause of behavior issues. With her varied experiences, Kristi provides a refreshing perspective on animal behavior and welfare. https://www.abwellnesscenter.com/

In this engaging episode of the Making Ripples podcast, we welcome Juliette Nash, Community Animal Training Manager at San Diego Humane Society. From her early childhood dream of working with animals to a career dedicated to animal behavior, Juliette shares her inspiring journey. With a Master's degree in killer whale social behavior and vocal learning, Juliette's transition into the world of animal welfare led her to develop innovative training programs for both cats and dogs, including unique classes like Shy Cat training and a Pet Training Assistance Fund. Juliette's passion for cooperative, choice-based training, particularly with fearful and poorly socialized animals, shines through as she discusses the importance of meeting animals where they are and using accessible language to empower pet owners. We delve into the behind-the-scenes development of her behavior programs, how she balances research with hands-on work, and her continuous efforts to support animals and their families. This episode is filled with practical advice for trainers and pet owners alike, and heartwarming stories, including a moving account of a cat named Magneto who, through Juliette's guidance, transformed from a fearful hoarding rescue to a beloved, affectionate companion. Links: www.sdhumane.org/training www.sdhumane.org/trainingclasses www.sdhumane.org/trainingvideos www.sdhumane.org/trainingarticles www.sdhumane.org/trainerdirectory  

In this fun episode of the Making Ripples podcast, we welcome Teisha Rolph from Behaviour Antics, a passionate dog trainer and behaviour nerd. Teisha shares her unique journey into animal training, from growing up surrounded by animals to studying animal and veterinary biosciences at university, where she fell in love with the science of behaviour. Inspired by her mentors, Dr. Richard Zann and Jenny Wilcox, Teisha has since built a diverse training career focused on empathy and individualised care. Throughout this episode, Teisha delves into her work with anxious dogs and their human counterparts, emphasising the importance of moderating expectations and creating a safe environment for both. She shares heartwarming stories about her Finnish Lapphunds, Asgard and Seda, illustrating how each animal's unique needs can influence a trainer's approach. Her experiences with reactivity, cooperative care, and competitive dog sports offer valuable insights for all trainers. Teisha also reflects on her journey of personal growth through her pets, including ferrets and a cat, and how they have taught her the importance of patience and understanding. With a love for creating educational content and collaborating with fellow trainers like Jose Gomes from Train Me Please, Teisha continues to inspire the animal training community with her approach of knowledge and empathy. This episode is filled with practical advice, inspiring stories, and a reminder that behaviour training is not always linear - sometimes, it's about embracing patience over pressure. Behaviour Antics: www.facebook.com/behaviourantics www.instagram.com/behaviourantics https://www.youtube.com/@BehaviourAntics behaviourantics@outlook.com   Train Me Please collabs: Teach a Chin Rest for Dog Medical Behaviours  The Ultimate Guide To Your Puppy's First Day Home

In this engaging episode of the Making Ripples podcast, we sit down with Pernilla Elving, a remarkable individual whose life has been deeply intertwined with animals. From her childhood on a small farm surrounded by sheep, cows, and horses to her evolution into a Centered Riding instructor and positive reinforcement trainer, Pernilla's journey is a testament to the power of compassion, patience, and understanding in animal training. Pernilla shares her story of how an unruly horse named Rockefeller became a lifelong companion and a catalyst for her pursuit of gentler training methods. Her journey didn't stop there; she continued to expand her expertise through formal education, earning degrees in sociology and human behavior, and delving into animal behavior through university studies and hands-on experience. Throughout the conversation, Pernilla provides valuable insights into the importance of building trust with animals, drawing from her experience with a young, injured horse named Carizma, who was once labeled "dangerous" by veterinarians. Her commitment to understanding and improving animal welfare is evident in every story she shares. Listeners will also learn about Pernilla's current endeavors, including her involvement with the Animal Training Academy and her continued education in scentwork for horses and the Horse Trainer Year program.  Whether you're an animal lover, a trainer, or simply curious about the intricacies of behavior, this episode with Pernilla Elving is filled with heartfelt stories, educational insights, and a deep appreciation for the human-animal connection. Link to where people can get in touch https://www.instagram.com/vaderstadskattegard/ https://www.facebook.com/centreradridning https://skattegarden.n.nu/ pernilla.elving@telia.com