A Dog's Life with Anna Webb

We’re joined by award winning Animal Physiotherapist, Donna Wills (RVN, PgCert A Physical, MIRVAP(VP), discussing her book, The Best Goodbye, which is a true story of love and farewell. Written as a life tribute to her dog, Logan, a rescued Border Collie, Donna talks about why it was so emotional to write but cathartic at the same time. It is a book about Logan and Donna’s special journey together, like a journey that all dog owners experience, but for Donna Logan was her ‘heart’ dog.  Having been her constant companion through relationships, her marriage, and the birth of her children, it is a roller coaster and an emotional read as it will resonate with everyone who has loved and lost a dog. Understanding this Donna has dedicated the book to everyone who has lost a pet. Whilst talking about her own experience which pulls at the heart strings, Donna highlights top tips for making the inevitable as pain free as possible, with points to remember like caring for yourself as you grieve. Whilst sad and resonating outwards, it is also a celebration to remember the good times, the experiences, and ‘mountains' climbed together that will never leave as they are memories fixed into your heart. Donna's website where you can buy her book and her InstagramFor more about Anna go to annawebb.co.ukWe encourage you to feed your dog raw and believe Paleo Ridge is the best place to start!Music and production by Mike Hanson for Pod People ProductionsCover art by JaijoCover photo by Rhian Ap Gruffydd at Gruff PawtraitsTo advertise on or sponsor A Dog's Life email: info@theloniouspunkproductions.com

When we’re exploring why the New Year triggers thoughts of new interiors and maximising space.We're joined by Gemma Glover, Business Development Director at The Pet Carpenter, talking about the family business that specialises in creating bespoke pet furniture that is tailored to the unique needs of any pet - dogs, cats, rabbits , even tortoises!As a family business the team prides itself on taking an idea and turning it into a reality. Specialising in a new concept of the crate that delivers all the practicality in space saving solutions, perfected with craftsmanship and a love of dogs.We discuss the myth of the crate as being restrictive and being the cause of much anxiety. We chat about a study conduced by Dogs Trust and The Royal Vet College that not only dispels such misconception, but also highlights that crate trained dogs are less likely to show symptoms of separation anxiety.The Pet Carpenter offers uber stylish ,and integrated options that transform a crate into a bedroom concept that’s space saving, and designed just for your dog’s comfort and well-being.For more information go to their website thepetcarpenter.co.uk or follow on InstagramFor more about Anna go to annawebb.co.ukMusic and production by Mike Hanson for Pod People ProductionsCover art by JaijoCover photo by Rhian Ap Gruffydd at Gruff PawtraitsTo advertise on or sponsor A Dog's Life email: info@theloniouspunkproductions.com

We’re joined by Savita Nutan who is discussing her own educational organisation ‘Medicine without Cruelty, the aim of which is promoting non animal testing as animal testing is outdated, ineffective and needs to be stopped. The big question being why is it still going on?  Savita explains why the law is regulated by ASPA Animals (Scientific Procedures) and it licences the use of animals despite there being so much information highlighting that there are other ways! The obvious question is how can a rat’s metabolism be compared to a human's? And with the rise of Artificial Intelligence could it be the time to end the pointless suffering of animals in laboratories when technology could replace them. For more information click hereFor more about Anna go to annawebb.co.ukMusic and production by Mike Hanson for Pod People ProductionsCover art by JaijoCover photo by Rhian Ap Gruffydd at Gruff PawtraitsTo advertise on or sponsor A Dog's Life email: info@theloniouspunkproductions.com

We’re joined by Interior Designer and TV Presenter, Laurence Llewelyn-Bowen, giving advice on top home improvement ideas transforming your home in 2025. We chat about Heat pumps as a an energy efficient way to heat our homes. We chat about why the New Year inspires interior changes and suggests opting for some colour and bold stripes. As a huge animal lover we chat about his cats and dogs, and why up-cycling can be beneficial to your budget and the health of our pets. Laurence is aware of VOCs (volatile organic compounds) that can emit from pre-fab furniture, and why plenty of succulents, a fresh draft, natural light and air purifiers contribute to our positive wellbeing and that of our pets. Laurence urges everyone to checkout a Heat Pump  and get started on your energy efficient home journey, visit GOV.UK/heatpump to find out more.For more about Anna go to annawebb.co.ukMusic and production by Mike Hanson for Pod People ProductionsCover art by JaijoCover photo by Rhian Ap Gruffydd at Gruff PawtraitsTo advertise on or sponsor A Dog's Life email: info@theloniouspunkproductions.com

This week we dive into the archive where Anna is joined by Will Green MA, Executive MBA Programme at the University of Winchester and Sales and Marketing Director of Paleo Ridge. We discuss sustainability in the pet industry, focusing on the model adopted by Paleo Ridge as a raw food firm supplier, setting eco-standards in terms of making feeding raw not only ‘peace of mind for your dog', but also for the planet. In an age where Veganism is being suggested for dogs we discuss why ethical farming is needed to save the planet and maintain the bio-diversity without which the planet cannot thrive. And why of course dogs need to eat meat! Will explains the different aspects in Paleo Ridge’s production that offsets Co2, and why we shouldn’t consider dog ownership as contributing to global warming, but consider the offsets in Co2 that can be achieved simply with the the mantra: reuse, reduce and recycle. And never underestimate a dogs role as man’s best friend, helping to better our physical and mental health. Instagram: @GoGreener12Twitter: @Will_DP_GreenIf you want to switch to a raw diet for your dog, you can't do better than Paleo Ridge. Find out more here and follow them on @paleoridgeInstagram: @PaleoridgeTwitter: @PaleoridgeThank you to Pawable for their support and get 10% off your first order of collagen for your dog with the promo code ADOGSLIFE10. Just go to pawable.co.ukIn this dangerously hot weather be sure to keep your pooch cool with a wet coat or t shirt. Go to equafleece.co.uk for the best quality!For more about Anna go to annawebb.co.ukMusic and production by Mike Hanson for Pod People ProductionsCover art by JaijoCover photo by Rhian Ap Gruffydd at Gruff PawtraitsTo advertise on or sponsor A Dog's Life email: info@theloniouspunkproductions.com

We’re joined by Lizzie Charnock, Dog Matching Officer, at Wood Green Pets Charity, talking about Christmas and its impact on impulse puppy purchases that often lead to young adults being handed into the charity. We chat about the rise in abandonment since the pandemic, and why Wood Green’s service to match the right dog to a prospective owner is key. Since 2019, Channel 4’s The Dog House has been capturing hearts across the nation. We chat about the programme and why it's helped so many understand how the Wood Green teams turn dogs’ lives around, and the prospective owners whose lives are enriched by the power of the dog. Lizzie explains that this wildly successful series follows our four-legged friends’ search for their perfect match, and it’s always an emotional roller coaster. From heartbreaking backstories to happy endings, there’s never a dull moment. But behind every success story is a team of passionate people at Wood Green working to turn a pet’s life around. And, as a new series is unleashed, the charity and The Dog House’s production team are looking for candidates, people wanting to adopt a dog in 2025, and might make the grade to contribute to the show. If that might be you, please follow the link below to contact Five Miles Films.Contact the show here or Channel Four or contact Wood Green directFor more about Anna go to annawebb.co.ukMusic and production by Mike Hanson for Pod People ProductionsCover art by JaijoCover photo by Rhian Ap Gruffydd at Gruff PawtraitsTo advertise on or sponsor A Dog's Life email: info@theloniouspunkproductions.com

We’re joined by Denise Elphick, co-founder of Pets Pyjamas, the UK’s dog friendly travel agent. We chat about the concept of dog friendly, the power of the ’Hound Pound’, and why the hospitality industry is opening their doors to dogs.  Denise explains that every listing from a self catering cottage, a 5-star hotel or a pub has been curated by the Pets Pyjamas’ team.  Offering clients peace of mind and assurance that their dog will be welcomed, not  just tolerated. As stay-cationing has soared in popularity, with over 50% of all dog owners wanting to holiday with their pooch, hotel groups are becoming more inspired to welcome dogs with bespoke room service options, doggy menus, in-room hospitality from dogs beds, bowls, and toys offered. Dogs just love to be with their owners and the more proactive time together the better. Traveling to different places adds enrichment for your dog, and holidays will inevitably be more active and interactive with your dog. The majority of locations are situated close to train stations, and traveling by train can make for a less stressful journey.  Plus Pets Pyjamas insists that dogs stay for free!For more information go to their website or follow on InstagramFor more about Anna go to annawebb.co.ukMusic and production by Mike Hanson for Pod People ProductionsCover art by JaijoCover photo by Rhian Ap Gruffydd at Gruff PawtraitsTo advertise on or sponsor A Dog's Life email: info@theloniouspunkproductions.com

We’re joined by Les Ward and Debbie Wilson from the International Animal Coalition discussing  the breach of animal welfare in Morocco all in the name of football!  Les and Debbie explain why campaigners are calling on FIFA to strip Morocco of its World Cup bid after grisly footage has emerged showing the inhumane public slaughter of street dogs in preparation for the event. Dogs can be seen screaming and in pain in the harrowing footage, which shows the 'cleansing' efforts being carried out to support the World Cup bid.  This announcement due on December 11th as to whether Morocco’s bid is accepted is a critical point to ending the planned but  needless torture and slaughter of millions of street dogs. Despite the fact that the  majority of dogs are ‘community' dogs that are vaccinated, neutered and chipped, and looked after by the community, they are being barbarically killed, shamelessly in public in front of children causing Amnesty International to also speak out.  The worry is that even if Morocco does not get the bid to stage the 2030 World Cup tournament, the slaying of dogs will continue. The link to sign the petition is below. Sign the petitionFollow them on Instagram or go to their websiteFor more about Anna go to annawebb.co.ukMusic and production by Mike Hanson for Pod People ProductionsCover art by JaijoCover photo by Rhian Ap Gruffydd at Gruff PawtraitsTo advertise on or sponsor A Dog's Life email: info@theloniouspunkproductions.com

Keef Yap the founder of YapYap.dog joins us this week to talk about her hugely successful events. Inspired by her own MaltiPoo called Buttons, Keef reached out to like minded people four years ago and has built a community of modern ‘pet parents’ who want to enjoy outings and events like the hugely successful Winter Woof with their dogs. We chat about the organisation that goes on and the creative thinking to make fun  interactive features for the dogs to enjoy as much as the humans.  We chat about what’s lined up for 2025 as well as the ups and downs of creating a successful brand. See the website or follow on InstagramFor more about Anna go to annawebb.co.ukMusic and production by Mike Hanson for Pod People ProductionsCover art by JaijoCover photo by Rhian Ap Gruffydd at Gruff PawtraitsTo advertise on or sponsor A Dog's Life email: info@theloniouspunkproductions.com

We’re joined by Caroline Allen, Chief Veterinary Officer, RSPCA and Rob Denman, Head of Professional and Field Services Gas Safe Register discussing the silent killer that is carbon monoxide poisoning in our pets. Raising awareness as part of Carbon Monoxide Awareness Week (Monday 18th-Friday 22nd November 2024), the Gas Safety Register and the RSPCA have joined forces to raise awareness of the vital signs your pet has potentially been exposed to carbon monoxide, saving not only their lives but yours too! New figures show almost all pet owners (99%) are not able to correctly identify all the signs that indicate their pet could be suffering from poisoning from a carbon monoxide leak, despite pets often feeling the impact much earlier than humans due to their size.Gas Safe Register is the official list of gas businesses who are registered to work safely and legally on boilers, cookers, fires and all other gas appliances. By law all gas engineers must be on the Gas Safe Register. To find a Gas Safe registered engineer visit GasSafeRegister.co.uk or call 0800 408 5500. The RSPCAFor more about Anna go to annawebb.co.ukMusic and production by Mike Hanson for Pod People ProductionsCover art by JaijoCover photo by Rhian Ap Gruffydd at Gruff PawtraitsTo advertise on or sponsor A Dog's Life email: info@theloniouspunkproductions.com

Vet and Clinical Supervisor, Lara Howe, at Pet Blood Bank joins us to chat about this life saving charity. Founded in 2007, Pet Blood Bank is a charity that offers a blood bank service for dogs who run very similarly to the human blood service. Owners bring their dogs along to donate blood at one of their many sessions across the UK. The blood is then processed and stored ready to be sent out to vets when they need it. Every donation a dog gives can help to save the lives of up to four other dogs. Before Pet Blood Bank, vets would have to find a donor themselves, often in the middle of the night and with a very sick patient waiting. Setting up Pet Blood Bank means that vets now have immediate access to blood when they need it. We chat about which dogs make great donors, their necessary age, weight, the procedure, the number of times they can give blood in a year.We chat about the different blood types and why there is a demand for the less common negative blood type which belongs to only 30% of dogs. Just as giving blood for humans this is positive experience, and one that’s rewarded with treats, bandanas to become a fun experience. Pet Blood Bank operates nationally and is always looking for more donors! For more information go to their websiteFor more about Anna go to annawebb.co.ukMusic and production by Mike Hanson for Pod People ProductionsCover art by JaijoCover photo by Rhian Ap Gruffydd at Gruff PawtraitsTo advertise on or sponsor A Dog's Life email: info@theloniouspunkproductions.com

With firework now upon us, we bring you our chat with Dr Sam Gaines of the RSPCA from 2022 about how you can start preparing your dog now to deal with fireworks that now start at Halloween, through Bonfire Night, Dwali, Christmas and New Year by learning to see the signs of stress in your dog and to create a safe space for them. Anna and Sam also talk about the progress (or lack there of) of various animal welfare bills currently in Parliament, the increase in dog biting, and a new media campaign to add more breeds to the list of Dangerous Dogs.For more information go to the RSPCA website.If you love A Dog's Life and would like to help support the show why not become a Patreon backer where you can also have access to some exclusive content. For more about Anna go to annawebb.co.ukMusic and production by Mike Hanson for Pod People ProductionsCover art by JaijoCover photo by Rhian Ap Gruffydd at Gruff PawtraitsTo advertise on or sponsor A Dog's Life email: info@theloniouspunkproductions.com

For more about Anna go to annawebb.co.ukMusic and production by Mike Hanson for Pod People ProductionsCover art by JaijoCover photo by Rhian Ap Gruffydd at Gruff PawtraitsTo advertise on or sponsor A Dog's Life email: info@theloniouspunkproductions.com

We’re joined by Chloe White (RVN BVNA Certsan ) discussing National Black Cat Day! We unpick all the myth and folklore surrounding these mystic cats , not least why black cats remain in rescue longer than any other coat colour! Discussing Chloe’s role at with Antinol, we chat about the fact that arthritis affects between 60 and 70 percent of all cats. The problem with cats is that they’re so good at disguising pain.  Chloe discusses why Antinol’s Green Lipped Mussel is a supplement that provides a solution . As a new concept offering very clever minimally processed Green Lipped Mussel as an oil, encapsulated in gelatine as an easy ‘tablet’ to offer both cats and dogs. As a broad spectrum high potency Omega 3 , containing both DHA and EPA, its 100% ‘species appropriate’ and bio-available to cats and dogs. Apart from helping with joints and mobility, Omega 3 is an essential fatty acid that regulates the immune system, promotes a healthy skin and coat, and fuels bright cognition.Antinol website and InstragramFor more about Anna go to annawebb.co.ukMusic and production by Mike Hanson for Pod People ProductionsCover art by JaijoCover photo by Rhian Ap Gruffydd at Gruff PawtraitsTo advertise on or sponsor A Dog's Life email: info@theloniouspunkproductions.com

What is the difference between fear and anxiety?This week Anna discusses this with author and animal behaviourist Zazie Todd on the release of her third book called BARK. Add this to her own book shelves along side Zazie’s critically acclaimed books Wag and Purr (see previous episodes).In Bark, Zazie decodes the latest science on fear and anxiety, bearing in mind that 75% of all dogs express some form of anxiety through their life stages including: biting, resource guarding, shyness or aggressive barking.Bark is divided into sections weaving in commentary from leading behavioural experts, a clear explanation of classical conditioning along with true anecdotes from leading lights/experts on their own experiences.Highlighting that fear and anxiety in dogs is not uncommon, and even accomplished trainers have also experienced issues that should be seen as a journey together, turning situations around using positive training methods.Discussing why understanding dogs reactions and why every dog is an individual, Zazie explains why to work slowly, at your dog’s pace, and never to be afraid of going back a few steps as you work with your dog through their life stages.Order your copy of Bark hereFollow Zazie on Instagram For more about Anna go to annawebb.co.ukMusic and production by Mike Hanson for Pod People ProductionsCover art by JaijoCover photo by Rhian Ap Gruffydd at Gruff PawtraitsTo advertise on or sponsor A Dog's Life email: info@theloniouspunkproductions.com

Dr Dan O’ Neill, Associate Professor in Companion Animal Epidemiology at Royal Veterinary College, joins us to discuss the latest research from VetCompass on comparing three ‘designer’ cross breeds namely the Cavapoo, Cockapoo and the Labradoodle on whether they are healthier than their ‘pure bred’ parts. Revealing to some surprise that these three mixes are indeed no healthier than their pedigree parents, we chat about bias, stigma and trends that influence dog owners.  We discuss the shift in dog ownership towards these new ‘breeds’, in the wake of much discussion on the health limiting over-exaggerated features of some pedigrees that has caused a shadow to fall across all purebreds. Dr Dan is passionate about ‘Innate Health’ which simply means dogs should be able to express themselves as dogs being able to breathe, run, and communicate as a dog is meant to! We discuss the work that Vet Compass is doing to paint a picture, a Demo-graph, on all aspects of modern post-pandemic dogs and their owners, including husbandry, which is coming soon! For more information visit their website or InstagramFor more about Anna go to annawebb.co.ukMusic and production by Mike Hanson for Pod People ProductionsCover art by JaijoCover photo by Rhian Ap Gruffydd at Gruff PawtraitsTo advertise on or sponsor A Dog's Life email: info@theloniouspunkproductions.com

We’re joined by Dr Paul Koudounaris talking about his book ‘Faithful until Death’. As a first in terms of investigating Pet Cemeteries all around the world, Paul admits this was a labour of love of 11 years. Revealing the history of pet ownership as in the late Victorian era industrialisation meant more folk moved into cities, creating a new kind of pet husbandry, which included giving them a ’good’ death. Paul explores Cemeteries, and tombs from as far afield as Thailand, across Europe, in the UK and across the USA. We chat about the ridiculous thought that animals do not have souls, as an illogical concept of theology.  We talk about the resistance to burying pets in churchyards, and the people who helped make change with setting up/ building dedicated pet cemeteries. As a massive animal lover, Paul became a pet bereavement councillor for several years as well as tracking down the author of iconic poem : The Rainbow Bridge, and in revealing one of the greatest mysteries, of the Paris Pet Cemetery called Le Cimitières des Chiens in Paris where the iconic canine film legend,  RIn Tin Tin,  is said to be buried. We chat about Tawny the ex circus lion who lived in Beverley Hills and rests in the cemetery in LA, and more! The book takes you on an emotional journey, through which there's comfort in how many have grieved their pets, for a loss that is means losing apart of oneself, and how Pet Cemeteries set in history our love for all animals.  As the late Queen famously said: “Grief is the price of Love.” Faithful Until Death is published by Thames & Hudson or you can buy it hereFollow Paul on Instagram For more about Anna go to annawebb.co.ukMusic and production by Mike Hanson for Pod People ProductionsCover art by JaijoCover photo by Rhian Ap Gruffydd at Gruff PawtraitsTo advertise on or sponsor A Dog's Life email: info@theloniouspunkproductions.com

We’re joined by Microbiologist, Dr Carol Hughes, and Rachel Down, the founder of Boil and Broth, to discuss the ground breaking research project called the Biome Broth study. As a world first, the aim is to put Bone Broth to the test to see if adding this age old remedy to dogs’ diets will enhance their microbiome. With 29 dogs taking part, none of whom had had broth before, and on taking this powerful food for only four weeks, their biomes were tested again, and in all cases a remarkable improvement has been seen in this short time-frame. Notably the microbiomes as tested by Dr Carol at Aberystwyth University revealed the cases restoring to a natural balance with bad bacteria strains being reduced, and the good bacteria strains being enhance, along with an increase in the microbial diversity. The project aims to discover more about how Bone Broth interacts with the biome’s bacteria, helping to restore its natural ecosystem, which is responsible for 80 per cent of the immune system. Funds are needed to delve deeper,  focus on a project around cats, even discover what is the magic ingredient of Bone Broth or simply a combination of all its natural assets! So we discuss the Prize Draw crowd funder which hopes to raise funds for further research along with awareness and education as to the health benefits of Bone Broth as a superfood. There’s a chance to win some amazing prizes including ‘free consultancy’ with Anna on achieving overall wellness.PRIZE DRAW pledge for more research Find out more about Dr Carol Hughes here and Boil and Broth hereFor more about Anna go to annawebb.co.ukMusic and production by Mike Hanson for Pod People ProductionsCover art by JaijoCover photo by Rhian Ap Gruffydd at Gruff PawtraitsTo advertise on or sponsor A Dog's Life email: info@theloniouspunkproductions.com

We’re joined by Pen Farthing is an ex Royal Marine Commando who founded the charity Nowzad to help dogs and cats in the Helmand province of Afghanistan. We chat about the amazing work the charity achieved in sterilising dogs and cats and the vaccinating programs against rabies. Also in re-uniting soldiers across the world with their beloved dog or cat they’d befriended during their tour of duty. Not only that but offering education at a local level about dogs, and helping women realise their dreams in becoming vet nurses and vets at their centre in Nowzad. In August 2021 when the allied forces pulled out of Afghanistan leaving it under Taliban control, Pen set out on a mission to help bring as many people and animals to the UK . He discusses this landmark moment in history, how he refused to abandon his charity’s staff or the rescue animals. And Operation Ark was born. We chat about how the fallout being branded him as a villain, who valued ‘pets over people’ - when nothing was further from the truth! We talk about his book Operation Ark, the cathartic effect of documenting what actually happened, which we discuss in detail. Along with what Pen is working on now in Ukraine and in Afghanistan.Order your copy of Operation Ark here and follow on Instagram @nawzadrescue and @penfarthingBattersea's InstagramFor more about Anna go to annawebb.co.ukMusic and production by Mike Hanson for Pod People ProductionsCover art by JaijoCover photo by Rhian Ap Gruffydd at Gruff PawtraitsTo advertise on or sponsor A Dog's Life email: info@theloniouspunkproductions.com

This week Anna returns to Battersea to visit the cats at Battersea’s London HQ as the second in our double bill raising awareness for Wear Blue For Rescue at a time when the charity is at capacity for its cat residents.  Chatting to JoAnna Puzzo , Cat Behaviourist and Training Manager  to find out more about the growing number of abandoned cats in the Charity’s care, how they’re rehabilitated with behavioural and veterinary care. Particularly as Battersea  is currently at capacity with the most abandoned, gifted and stray cats ever! With a look inside their new cat facility where the residents have amazing cabins, pods or studios packed with every aspect of enrichment. Rehabilitating up to 145 cats across the Charity’s three sites at any one time, JoAnna explains that she’s never surprised by the range of feline personalities.  As a massive cat lover herself we discuss many of the cat traits that are still to be defined by science! In so much as cats are considered about 10,000 years behind dogs in their domestication. We talk about how cats decided to domesticate themselves! And about how the Charity matches cats to their forever homes, ensuring a match that is ‘forever’ and being aware of the fact that every cat is an individual. Even to how the cats at Battersea get named and about how people can apply to become a Battersea volunteer.  #WearBlueforRescueSupport Battersea's Wear Blue for Rescue to show your love for rescue animals, everywhere. ​ Because together, we're all in, for them. Battersea.org.uk/wearblueforrescue #WearBlueforRescueBattersea's InstagramFor more about Anna go to annawebb.co.ukMusic and production by Mike Hanson for Pod People ProductionsCover art by JaijoCover photo by Rhian Ap Gruffydd at Gruff PawtraitsTo advertise on or sponsor A Dog's Life email: info@theloniouspunkproductions.com