Tall Tails

MEET my friend, Rebecca Wilcox! We had such an amazing time chatting about our pets,  her life in Arkansas and I can't wait for you to listen in!WHO IS REBECCA C. WILCOX?Apart from having loved and cared for 24 dogs and cats (not all her own even!) in her lifetime AND caught and released 22 raccoons in her home state. Rebecca graduated from the University of Arkansas and is coaching certified from Life on Fire Academy. She has been married 23 years to her best friend, and they have four children. She is also the proud “Nonna” to six grandchildren who light up her life! LISTEN IN AS WE TALK ABOUT:Her calling as a Motivational Life Coach for women navigating challenging life pathsHer first petA love for dogs and cats alikeHer open-door (Lol!) policy for cats when she owned a feed storeThe positive impact pets have on humans struggling with lonelinessHer daughter's dog Mischa and his allergic reaction to New YorkThe end-of-life journey for her treasured pets...and so much more!MORE ABOUT REBECCA:Rebecca C.  Wilcox is a Motivational Life Coach for faith-filled women who are undergoing significant changes. She offers tools and strategies to support her clients in stepping into their new chapter with clarity and confidence. Rebecca has coached women through life transitions such as divorce, career changes, moves, retirement, and more. Rebecca understands about making difficult decisions for which there’s no clear or easy path. She specializes in coaching her clients to clarify their dreams, desires, goals, values, and priorities. Through her coaching, these women become more authentic, and achieving at a level they never imagined possible!Rebecca has filmed over 200 #BeckyBite videos, been interviewed countless times in online communities and on podcasts, and been a speaker on Virtual Summits sharing her wisdom about consistent habits for empowered living.Rebecca is currently accepting coaching clients in her Courageous Living program. She can be reached via the contact form at: www.rebeccacwilcox.comADDITIONAL CONTACT Text COURAGE to (870) 617-0265 for access to Blog Posts, Videos, and her 50-Page pdf for Radical ShiftsThank you for listening.!We'd love you to SUBSCRIBE, SHARE and give us a RATING and REVIEW. Your support in this way will help us reach more people and spread the message globally of love and humane treatment for animals!Much Love!

Hurricanes and other natural disasters wreak havoc in the lives of not just humans but animals. As these natural disasters become more devastating, countries around the world have recognized the importance of including pets in their disaster planning.Today, we share a few tips to help you keep your pets safe and give you a greater sense of calm to avoid panic in the event of a hurricane in your country.Stay well and thank you for listening!SOURCE - Page 23http://www.odpm.gov.tt/pdf/2021-ODPM-HURRICANE-PREPAREDNSS-GUIDE.pdf

Meet Chevonne Attale, a 28-year-old account manager at the startup design agency, Backyard Design in Trinidad & Tobago. She's also an avid animal lover although she's never been able to have pets of her own because sadly, she's never lived in a pet-friendly residential townhome. The closest Chevonne ever gets to enjoy the company of a pet is when she's dog-sitting for her friends, which she does very eagerly and willingly. Recently, Chevonne and her sister, who is an even more avid animal lover, rescued a cat they named Chance. Chevonne's admiration for her sister is evident, as she recounts that her sister is always saving an animal somewhere in the country, and consequently, has 6 cats and 18 dogs. Today, we talk about the series of events that led to Chance's heartwarming rescue and the impact that one decision can make in the life of another sentient being and on the heart of this young animal champion and advocate for the environment! LEARN ABOUT BARNYARD DESIGNS ATINSTAGRAM - https://www.instagram.com/backyarddesigncompany/?hl=enWEBSITE - https://www.backyarddesignco.com/

Meet Dr. Asha Moosai, a vivacious, passionate, yet purposeful young woman on a mission to implement Trap Neuter Release (TNR) practices in her home country of Trinidad and Tobago, Barbados and the wider Caribbean.Like so many animal love stories, Asha's began with a not-so-chance encounter with her now 4-year old Lilo one late rainy evening after a long day of studies, while she was yet a medical student in Barbados. What began as an act of kindness with a clear plan to turn him over to the Barbados RSPCA the next day, has become an enduring love story and the catalyst for Asha's NGO, For the Love of Life, that serves to rescue and rehabilitate cats. Asha truly is a force of nature, willing to take on any challenge when it's related to rescuing and advocating for cats. Her life has become a testimony to the human/animal connection and how it can unlock the innate desire to serve animals with one's life. Her passion for felines has taken her further than even she imagined and besides her NGO and busy days as a doctor, she is also the proud mom of 5 kitties. Four years after that not-so-chance encounter with the sad, bedraggled Lilo in Barbados, Asha has added Leia, Sage, Bim and Bam to her family. Not to be left out, her neighbour's cat, Boots is Asha's 'outside man', always eager to get close for loving and treats he really doesn't need. Who'll join her family next is left to be seen, but what's very clear is that this young lady has found her calling and is set to make it happen!LEARN MORE ABOUT AND SUPPORTFor the Love of Life NGO - https://www.facebook.com/fortheloveoflifettRemember...Support doesn't necessarily mean money. It can be for locals, the gift of your time.We so appreciate your investment of time in listening to our stories and learning more about our incredible guests.PLEASE SUBSCRIBE and LEAVE US A REVIEW...we'd love to hear from you!Much love!

Laura Escayg is one half of the powerhouse husband and wife team that founded Cause An Effect, a Trinidad & Tobago Non-Governmental Organization (not for profit) that was birthed out of their desire to provide over the long-term, a progressive living-assisted arrangement for their 17-year-old son Isaiah, along with other young people living with severe disabilities.In this episode, singer/songwriter Laura Pierre-Escayg shares with us the evolution of her emotional and spiritual journey, grappling with her son's birth and severe intellectual challenges, ultimately coming to terms with the life God would have her live, and the people that she and her visionary husband Francis would positively impact over the years.But this wasn't always her life.Laura released her first album twenty years ago to audiences in the region and Europe. The impact of her music and style quickly garnered the attention of various international magazines to underground DJs to performance spaces including Decibel, Ms. T&T Universe and St. Lucia Jazz Festival.Gifts are bestowed with challenges and she has found a way to build a better world for her son with her voice through creative/multi - media activism as a Cause Ambassador and co-founder, along with her husband, Francis Escayg, of Cause An Effect Organisation. She is currently writing/co-producing and acting in Cause An Effect’s ABCs of Disabilities Autism educational series.LEARN MORE about the Not for Profit, Cause An Effect - https://www.facebook.com/cause.an.effectttContact Laura Pierre-Escayg - causeaneffecttt@gmail.comWe appreciate the time you invest here with us and would love to receive your feedback on our show. LIKE, SUBSCRIBE and LEAVE US A REVIEW on Apple Podcast - https://podcasts.apple.com/tt/podcast/tall-tails/id1541980201Much love!

Meet Rob Lohman.Sober since 2001, Rob currently helps people suffering from substance abuse to find freedom from addiction and incarceration.  He does this through sharing his testimony, Professional Interventions and Recovery Coaching, Advocacy, Self-Published Author and being the host of Beyond The Bars Radio Podcast and Addiction, Freedom & Faith PodcastRob has been through the wringer, AND keeps bouncing back.  His rap sheet includes alcohol and drug addiction, gambling addiction, divorce, bankruptcies, mental health and suicide ideation, prison, recovery, and transformation. Rob’s drinking career started at age 14 which led to some very dark places in his life.  The climax of Rob’s drinking career happened on June 7, 2001, with a suicide attempt interrupted by the compassion of his dog Jake.  Upon a divine intervention, Rob was freed from his substance abuse addiction which began a rollercoaster ride in recovery…to which Rob has yet to take another drink or drug since that day. In year eleven (11) of his sobriety journey, Rob had an emotional nervous breakdown which led to a thirteen (13) year prison sentence, to which he was released in 10.5 months to a halfway house where he started to rebuild his life, along with his two children and wife who decided to remain married to Rob after the breakdown.Rob now invests in the lives of those wanting to see positive change, whether it is coming out of addiction, prison, or just wanting more for their lives.  He is a dynamic speaker and shares an extremely powerful journey of persistence, faith, and inspiration. While Jake passed on a few years ago, Rob's dog Max is ever his loving companion.LEARN MORE  about Rob's Interventions - Please contact Rob via rob@liftedfromtherut.com OR 970.331.4469LISTEN TO - BEYOND THE BARS RADIO - Beyond The Bars Radio, hosted by Rob Lohman, is part of the global Mental Health News Radio.  - https://liftedfromtherut.com/the-beyond-the-bars-radio-podcast/

Here's our final recap of conversations with four of the most dynamic women who are blazing trails in their individual industries and each committed to sharing their hearts and homes with animals that have come into their lives either by their decision or by being adopted themselves by an animal.Meet Ava Dorsey, the founder and CEO of Ava’s Pet Palace - a fun, health-focused pet treat company passionate about using organic and natural ingredients with no preservatives. With her pets Pumpkin, Lacy and family by her side, this 13- year-old entrepreneur is on a mission to educate pet owners about pet food and help them explore options that simultaneously promote animal health and taste-bud satisfaction. She now has customers in all 50 United States and Canada and has even shipped her treats to the UK and New Zealand! We've often heard that Volunteerism is part of the Canadian DNA. Well, Samantha Cannon is truly an exemplary of that viewpoint.  Sam is a passionate and seasoned campaigner in the animal rescue and therapy space in Ontario, Canada. With her animal family, Tilly the horse, a dog named Bear, and a few other small animal friends, this 19-year old volunteer powerhouse has racked up countless hours building a foundation of solid experience that ranges from TNR to office duties at one of her favourite animal rescue outfits and a vet's office! Sam is set to pursue a career in psychology which will go a long way in helping her educate individuals about the positive impact animals can have on their lives, especially through the healing process of animal facilitated therapy .Marteka Swaby is the Founder of Benevolent Health & Mind Hubs. She has over 15 years of experience improving the emotional wellbeing of her clients and is passionate about sharing diverse narratives to increase awareness of Mental Health. Marteka is a psychotherapist with 10 years of clinical expertise, alongside delivering a range of online summits, workshops, and training programmes to increase resilience, belonging & wellbeing.  Marteka has also delivered talks in the UK and Europe for the Women in Tech Conference, ThriveFest Digital Wellness Festival, the Horasis Global Community among others. Her recent adoption by Hugo the cat has brought lots of joy and laughter to her life in an unexpected way!Victoria D. Walker is a Christian Author, Thought Coach, Podcaster, Entrepreneur, Director & Educator at Choose 2 Think Academy, Speaker & University Spanish Instructor with nearly 30 years of teaching and advising experience, Victoria's mission is to coach women how to live their best thought life and how to launch successful businesses.  Her proven methods help the frazzled mom, the struggling wife, the overworked nana and the anxious single entrepreneur deal with toxic thoughts and thinking patterns in healthy, life-changing ways.  Victoria's passions are God, family, traveling, and chasing Rico the MorKY, her blog mascot, around the beautiful town of Midway, Kentucky.Thank you once more for downloading, leaving reviews and sharing our stories with friends, colleagues and other animal lovers just like you!We appreciate every minute that you invest in welcoming us into your life...Much love!!

Tammy Browne is the founder and CEO of Jamaica's registered NGO, the Montego Bay Animal Haven, and is truly a force of nature! With a huge heart, creativity, and the pure determination and grit to make things happen, Tammy is giving stray dogs and cats in her homeland the last chance at a life that they deserve!Caring for 300 animals is no mean feat, however through the generosity of benefactors; vets, vet technicians, community partners, her support staff, and visionary corporate partners like Toyota, Tammy has been able to turn around the lives of these animals by partnering with the vital resources to keep them alive and put them on a path to hope and happier lives. Her organization's motto...Empathy and Compassion; learn it, teach it, share it.In this episode we talk about:Tammy's exposure to animals from a very early ageWhy she started her registered NGOHer passion for giving animals a chance at lifeHer commitment to educating communities about the value of relationships with animals and the role that spaying and neutering play in population controlHer visionary partners in her missionHer now-famous airlift of 144 of her rescues to Canada through her partnership with      'Save our Scruff',  a non-profit organization located in Toronto dedicated to rescuing dogs from unfortunate situations and finding them safe and suitable homes.Her support among that of other Caribbean organizations of St Vincent's SPCA and how we all can help What's next for the Montego Bay Animal HavenWe particularly LOVE what she says about WHY they care about dogs and cats:"​We need Cats and Dogs, they remind and show us what unconditional love is.  They provide awesome personal and property protection; are great companions for the sick and elderly; they provide a safe, non-judgemental, loyal friendship and in hard times, this makes a world of difference.  Let’s not forget, they keep the rat population down."Want to support the Montego Bay Animal Haven?LINK TO SUPPORT -  Montego Bay Animal Haven - https://linktr.ee/montegobayanimalhavenLEARN MORE ABOUT SAVE OUR SCRUFFhttps://www.saveourscruff.org/ Want to support the St Vincent SPCA?https://www.gofundme.com/f/p4hgp-emergency-response-fund?utm_campaign=p_nacp+share-sheet&utm_medium=copy_link&utm_source=customerWe're so grateful that you listened to this episode AND  maybe you'd like to download any of our earlier episodes as well. We want to bring the love of God's creatures to the world. We hope that you'll join us on our mission!Much Love!!

This week we grabbed some of the most memorable sound bites from our engaged conversations with four of our friends who are not only passionate animal-lovers but also at the top of their game in their individual spheres of influence.Andrew Dhanoo is a lecturer of Biochemistry at the University of the West Indies, Trinidad & Tobago and President of the Diabetes Association of Trinidad and Tobago.  Andrew has worked as a Research Associate/Project Coordinator on projects with Johns Hopkins University under the Trinidad and Tobago Health Sciences Initiative (TTHSI). A call from a friend to check out two cute kitties one evening and the fortuitous availability of a pet shop set the stage for the immediate arrival of a Persian Prince. ENTER WILLIE, This adorable Persian is never far from the side of this loving human, Andrew! LIKE/FOLLOW The Diabetes Association of Trinidad & TobagoFACEBOOK  -https://www.facebook.com/diabetestt/Lara Quentrall-Thomas is the Chairman of Regency Recruitment and Resources Limited and President of the Trinidad & Tobago Coalition of Services Industries. Lara serves as a Board member of Youth Business Trinidad & Tobago as well as the Rotary Club of Central Port of Spain. This dynamic businesswoman also invests her time supporting the Trinidad & Tobago SPCA and the Animal Welfare Network. Lara's name is synonymous with leadership but make no mistake, at home her rescue cat Bella is the Boss!REGENCY RECRUITMENT & RESOURCES LIMITEDLIKE/FOLLOW - https://www.facebook.com/RegencyRecruitmentandResourcesLtd/CONNECT WITH LARA QUENTRALL-THOMAS -https://www.linkedin.com/in/lara-quentrall-thomas-mba-a16ba15/ANIMAL RESCUE NETWORKLIKE/FOLLOW - https://www.facebook.com/AnimalWelfareNetwork/TRINIDAD & TOBAGO SOCIETY FOR THE PREVENTION OF CRUELTY TO ANIMALSLIKE/FOLLOW - https://www.facebook.com/TTSPCA/Derval Barzey is an Environmental Management Professional with experience spanning the industrial and regulatory side of the Trinidad and Tobago energy sector. Her expertise includes Risk Management, Environmental Impact Assessments, Management Systems, stakeholder Engagement and Sustainable Energy Policy and Project development. Derval is the founder of The Climate Conscious, a consultancy service that connects individuals and organizations to sustainability solutions. She hosts and produces The Climate Conscious Podcast which advocates for action on environmental sustainability and climate resilience with a focus on the Caribbean region. This week The Climate Conscious is celebrating its 1-year anniversary with a week-long series of talks with luminaries you won't want to miss. Check them out on Instagram April 19-23  @theclimateconscious LIKE, FOLLOW Derval:Facebook: -  The Climate Conscious | FacebookInstagram:  - The Climate Conscious Podcast (@theclimateconscious) Paul Jackson is a Pet Management Consultant, Pet Containment Specialist, Dog Trainer and local franchise holder for DogWatch® Hidden Dog Fence systems. Paul has invested the last nine (9) years of his life providing pet safety solutions and training products in Trinidad and Tobago through his company Trini DogWatch. Paul's passion for animals was developed during his early childhood however, the sudden and tragic death of his family's twelve year old dog, Bomber left an indelible mark on Paul's life. His commitment to responsible pet ownership is undeniable as can be attested to by his loyal clients and of course his own beloved pets, Zip and Pawz!LIKE AND FOLLOW: FB:  https://www.facebook.com/TriniDogWatch/reviews/Reviews:  https://www.trustpilot.com/review/trinidogwatch.com

In this week's recap, we deliver sound bites from another four of our amazing guests from our earlier episodes; all sharing their wisdom and great animal care tips.We hope that you'll love them even more the second time around!RANDALL WADDEL - Randall Waddell is the Principal Designer of the Award Winning (International Property Awards 2021) full service Interior Design firm HomeWork Design Studio which is also a proud member of the American Society of Interior Designers (ASID) and HGTV’s Professional Designer Network. Randall's drive for achievement and passion for his craft and clients shine bright; just as brightly in fact as his devotion to his family, including the four cherished cocker spaniels that help to make his home and life a truly happy one.CHRISTINE SALANDY - Christine Salandy is an award-winning hotelier and the Managing Director of Trinidad and Tobago's newest Retirement and Living Assisted Residences, Château Savane . Christine LOVES her cats and in the process of creating a loving environment for her cherished felines to thrive, she's become an interesting combination of 'cat whisperer' and in-home 'vet' to her 'babies'.DEBORAH LOVE BRADSHAW - Deborah Love Bradshaw is TEDx Speaker, Resilience Mindset Coach, Cultural Communication Consultant and an Inspirational Speaker. Deborah is the founder of a social media company and the author of 5 books including her latest title, “When I Ordered You.” She is a long-time pet lover and rescuer of animals who has experienced first-hand the difference pets can make in the lives of the elderly, those with special needs, those who suffer from anxiety and in the lives of everyone.GLORIA BRADFORD - Gloria Bradford is an accomplished author of ten works of fiction, teacher and spiritual intercessor. She launched her fiction-writing coaching academy in 2020 to support aspiring authors whose greatest desire is to find their true voice and bring their unique stories to the world. While Gloria's experience with animals has been limited, she has been inspired with new knowledge about them which aligns with the eternal truths enshrined in the Bible. Look out for her new website, www. myfictionbooks.com,  this weekend!!

What if we could give you your dose of animal love stories in a 15-20 minute collection of sound bites? Would you love it as much as you did the original long format version?We've extracted some of the memorable parts of the stories from some of our favourite guests from December 2020. We hope you'll love them all over again and hope that their words and sentiments resonate with you today and beyond!Let us know what you think!Chair, Venus: Doggess of Love - Elspeth Duncan - Animal Assisted TherapyCaptain (Ret'd) Wendy Yawching - In honour of her Prince among Dogs who sadly passed last year, LUCKY THE LIONHEARTEDSusan Shim - Management Committee member of The Animal Welfare Network (AWN) and Council member of the Trinidad and Tobago Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (TTSPCA) - Self Care, a key to sustainability in volunteering and working in animal welfareCrystal Leila Matar - Life Coach - Surviving childhood trauma and the impact of having cats in her life 

MEET VICTORIA D. WALKER. As a Christian Author, Thought Coach, Podcaster, Entrepreneur, Director & Educator at Choose 2 Think Academy, Speaker & University Spanish Instructor with nearly 30 years of teaching & advising experience, Victoria's mission is to coach women how to live their best thought life and how to launch successful businesses.  Her proven methods help the frazzled mom, the struggling wife, the overworked nana and the anxious single entrepreneur deal with toxic thoughts and thinking patterns in healthy, life-changing ways.  Victoria's passions are God, family, traveling, and chasing Rico the MorKY, her blog mascot, around the beautiful town of Midway, Kentucky.On this episode we talk about:Victoria's early childhood and moving with her family to various states surrounding Kentucky as a result of her dad's successful sales career.OUR THOUGHTS MATTER:  How (with God's help) she overcame depression in 2016 by using a proven strategy to take thoughts captive and to be transformed by the renewing of the mind--sounds lofty - but she has practical methods to help others, and discusses some of the brain science to back it all up. OUR WORDS MATTER:  There is life and death in the power of the tongue. Victoria shares her passion for helping others become more deliberate in how they express themselves and communicate with others.OUR HEALTH MATTERS:  The brain/gut connection, and how we can improve brain health through diet.  The foods we eat may be affecting our moods and emotions more than we think.OUR MINDSETS MATTER:  Developing and fostering the mindsets of expectancy and gratitude may be just what we need to start and finish each day with success and joy.  Not only do the mindsets we adopt each day open the door to new possibilities, they also protect us from the otherwise harsh realities and trials we're bound to bump up against in our journey.ENTER RICO the MorKY! - She cites Proverbs 12:10, " A righteous man cares for the needs of his animal, but the kindest acts of the wicked are cruel. " as a tried and true measure for our humane actions toward the animals we have in our care. CONTACT INFOWEBSITE:  https://www.victoriadwalker.com/EMAIL: choose2think@gmail.comPHONE:  1.502.320.1067PODCASTCHOOSE 2 THINK PODCAST ON APPLE:  https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/choose-2-think/id1492352533CHOOSE 2 THINK PODCAST ON OTHER HOSTING APPS: https://anchor.fm/victoria-walkerSOCIAL MEDIA LINKSINSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/victoriadwalker/YOUTUBE CHANNEL: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCz8Z2B9TtXvWn0RKelVY5DQLINKED IN: https://www.linkedin.com/in/victoria-d-walker-09803564/TIKTOK: https://www.tiktok.com/@choose2think?lang=enTWITTER: https://twitter.com/Choose_2_Think​CLUBHOUSE:  @victoriadwalker  Please join the club "I want what you have"  (as in the kinda faith that is moving mountains!) OFFERS - CHOOSE 2 THINK ACADEMY: https://choose2think.teachable.com/p/homeCOACHING SERVICES: https://www.victoriadwalker.com/coaching.htmlCHOOSE 2 THINK MERCH: https://choose-2-think-merch-more.myteespring.co/?FREEBIES-ENJOY Victoria's signature freebie:  THE ULTIMATE GRATITUDE GUIDE  -https://mailchi.mp/212e3731644c/ultimategratitudeguide ​Inside you'll find practical tips, checklists, Scripture cards, bookmarks, templates, and so much more that will help pivot your mind in a healthy, new direction! No obligation. Ever.  100% free PDF download! (35 pp.)

Meet Marteka Swaby the Founder of Benevolent Health & Mind Hubs. She has over 15 years experience improving emotional wellbeing and is passionate about sharing diverse narratives to increase awareness of Mental Health. Marteka is a psychotherapist with 10 years clinical expertise, alongside delivering a range of online summits, workshops and training programmes to increase resilience, belonging & wellbeing.  Marteka has also delivered talks in the UK and Europe for the Women in Tech Conference, ThriveFest Digital Wellness Festival, the Horasis Global Community among others. Her recent adoption by Hugo the cat has brought lots of joy and laughter to her life in an unexpected way!In this episode we talk about:Marteka's Caribbean rootsHer love of all things Caribbean and her love affair with Trinidad & TobagoThe warmth of the Caribbean, its people, culture and the impact on well-being  to its people.Missing out on Trinidad & Tobago Carnival in 2020 and  a favourite local dish, Trini DoublesMusic, dance and social connections and how it affects mental healthPets' positive impact on human health and well-being through walks, touch and social interactionThe fact that we all have mental health and  desire to have mental resiliencePets at work - the current situation and an outlook for the future of co-working spacesOpportunity for organizations to facilitate inclusivity, productivity, employee engagement and the chance to forge a community around petsPost-Covid 19 - a hybrid model of work reframing the options for pets at work and providing even more options to talentAnother 'string to the corporate bow' - The therapeutic impact of animalsCreating a balance  in the work environment for those who don't like animals or suffer with allergiesBeing adopted by Hugo the Cat  - a bonus 'pop-up' to the lockdownENTER HUGO! Hugo, the handsome, stately grey and white cat makes his presence felt.How animals are guided to connect with their humans, not by head-knowledge but by instinctPost-Covid 19 - How people will 'do life' differently and how incorporating animals can support this new world of life and workHow shifting cultural attitudes can make a difference to human health and well-beingLIKE/FOLLOW - MARTEKA SWABY Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/martekasLinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/marteka-swaby/?originalSubdomain=ukLEARN MORE:Benevolent Health & Mind Hubs - https://benevolenthealth.co.uk/

We've often heard that Volunteerism is part of the Canadian DNA. Well, SAMANTHA CANNON is truly a exemplary of that viewpoint. Sam is a passionate and seasoned campaigner in the animal rescue and therapy space in Ontario, Canada. With her animal family, Tilly the horse, a dog named Bear, and a few other small animal friends, this 19-year old volunteer powerhouse has racked up countless hours building a foundation of solid experience that ranges from TNR to office duties at one of her favourite animal rescue outfits and a vet's office! Sam is set to pursue a career in psychology which will go a long way in helping her educate individuals about the positive impact animals can have on their lives, especially through the healing process of animal facilitated therapy .On today's episode we talk about:Her childhood and life with a cacophony of pets.Samantha's deep connection to animals, how they supported her emotional development during her years of being bullied in public school."I'm an extrovert."Her first volunteer job as a 'cat cuddler'Circle Square Horse Ranch - Sam's first experience in supporting young people by teaching them to ride horses and the value that the exposure to horses brought to oftentimes traumatized youth.Socializing feral and challenging catsThe case for TNR (Trap, Neuter, Release)Barn cat colony rescuesHer diverse volunteer experiences from cat rescues to working in a vet's officeThe adventures of bathing 30 cats...scratches and all!Fostering catsSam encourages young people to volunteer. She talks about a willingness to invest time and the ease in which one can volunteer and make a difference in the lives of animals and by extension, communities  A deeper dive into TNRGratitude to vets and the general cost of veterinary care in CanadaCaring for the safety and well-being of cats and other animals...the benefitsFeral cats and their human bonding once rehabilitated. Honouring FAWG Forest Therapeutic Farm - Animal facilitated therapy-what it IS and how it's used to support human healing.Sam shares about the power of a mentor and her decision to pursue a psychology degree as a powerful outcome.We share with Samantha the invaluable work of Healing with Horses, Tobago.Final thoughts from Samantha Cannon - ONE PERSON CAN DECIDE AND MAKE A DIFFERENCE LIKE/FOLLOW SAMANTHA - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100004166148294CIRCLE SQUARE HORSE RANCHLIKE/FOLLOW -  https://www.facebook.com/CircleSquareRanchBCLLEARN MORE -  https://www.csranchbigclearlake.ca/?fbclid=IwAR3AbDqb4SxHCXtQRptkNozTM7kqE8dxFOCA31L7u3XnsLYg40Sj9bjUsXEFAWG FOREST THERAPEUTIC FARM & COUNCELLING SERVICESLIKE/FOLLOW - https://www.facebook.com/fawgforest/LEARN MORE:  https://fawgforest.com/HEALING WITH HORSES, TOBAGOLIKE/FOLLOW- https://www.facebook.com/HealingWithHorsesTobago/ LEARN MORE - http://www.healing-with-horses.org/ Our sincere apologies for some of the initial scratchy sound.***THANK YOU SO MUCH FOR LISTENING, SUBSCRIBING AND GIVING US YOUR VALUABLE REVIEWS!We really appreciate you!Much Love!!

Meet Ava Dorsey, the founder and CEO of Ava’s Pet Palace - a fun, health-focused pet treat company passionate about using organic and natural ingredients with no preservatives. With her pets Pumpkin, Lacy and family by her side, this 13- year-old entrepreneur is on a mission to educate pet owners about pet food and help them explore options that simultaneously promote animal health and taste-bud satisfaction. She now has customers in all 50 United States and Canada and has even shipped her treats to the UK and New Zealand! Ava is in the process of expanding her business and has launched an 'all or nothing' KICKSTARTER campaign.LEARN MORE/SUPPORThttps://www.kickstarter.com/projects/avaspetpalace/avas-salmon-chips-new-dog-treatIn this episode we talk about:Ava's early childhood and her introduction to pets...it all began with her dog named, Rock!The stories of her beloved kitty, Pumpkin and pup, Lacy's adoptions and how each of them came into Ava's lifeWhy Ava felt compelled to start her own line of organic dog and cat treatsHer inspiration for launching her own businessThe reaction of family members, friends at the time she launched and now with her brand's growing successThe adults Ava considers role models in the pet care and pet food spacesAva's advice to other young entrepreneurs who have a dream to do something out of the ordinarySome of the challenges she's experienced in growing Ava's Pet PalaceThe impact of building her business on  Ava's childhood and now early teen years as it relates to her time, accessibility and other aspects of her life.Charities she's drawn to and her involvement with themCollege - thoughts on her possible directionAva's vision for Ava's Pet Care going forward and the Kickstarter campaign that will facilitate her business expansionAva's final nugget of advice - Follow your dream and passion!What started out as a little girl's passion for cooking up healthier, tastier organic treats for pets is quickly becoming a pet treat empire. Ava's BIG DREAM is to continue growing Ava's Pat Palace so that one day she can build a real palace as a sanctuary for animals and provide services that supports animals and humans.And wishes do come true!FOLLOW AVA'S PET PALACEINSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/avaspetpalace/?hl=enFACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/avaspetpalace

Meet Paul Jackson, Pet Management Consultant, Pet Containment Specialist, Dog Trainer and local franchise holder for DogWatch® Hidden Dog Fence systems. Paul has invested the last nine (9) years of his life providing pet safety solutions and training products in Trinidad and Tobago through his company Trini DogWatch.Paul's passion for animals was developed during his early childhood however, the sudden and tragic death of his family's twelve year old dog, Bomber left an indelible mark on Paul's life. In this episode we talk about:His early years spent time with family dogs Brownie, Buffy, Spookie and cat, MissyDiscovering the body of his beloved 12-year old dog  ‘Bomber’  who  escaped the family home one morning and was struck and killed by a vehicle.  Being 10 years old and experiencing not just despair for his loss but also frustrated at his feeling of helplessness.Introspection playing a valued role in appreciation of one’s life calling.The support and endorsement of his father when he advised him that he was switching careers from banking to one focused on animal safety and containmentMaking the transition from banking ‘office life’ to installing hidden pet fencesPet Enter "Pawz",  a 6 week kitten who ‘found’ Paul at the then newly opened C3 Centre... Classic Puss N Boots eyes and 4 years later (lol). Her engagement has taught him many valued life lessons.Pawz' role  being important in him appreciating cat behaviours and how that knowledge  supports him in supporting cat parents who experience challenges and safety concerns.  Safety and Exercise - what pets at home need  in order to maintain a balanced and healthy life and stimulate/maintain their natural instincts. What's Next? - Dog Walking services are on Paul's Trini DogWatch agenda to be introduced this year in Trinidad & Tobago. Busy agendas can limit same for pet parents and recent events like Covid-19 have also impacted routines and placed additional strain on pet parents (greater demands working from home: Zoom meetings/online classes).Paul's commitment to responsible pet ownership is undeniable as can be attested to by his loyal clients and of course his own beloved pets, Zip and Pawz!Ultimately, it's always life-affirming when an individual finds alignment with their true purpose. Paul Jackson's story of loss, trials and testimony gives listeners hope that you can always arrive 'right on time' if you listen to your heart.CONTACT PAUL JACKSONDealer Name: Trini DogWatchPhone: (868) 688-9220Email:  trinidogwatch@gmail.comWebsite:  https://www.trinidogwatch.com/Why choose Trini DogWatch: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F8QUFe1eXo4LIKE AND FOLLOW:FB:  https://www.facebook.com/TriniDogWatch/reviews/Reviews:  https://www.trustpilot.com/review/trinidogwatch.comhttps://www.dogwatch.com/pet-professional-reviews/

Meet Derval Barzey,  an Environmental Management Professional with experience spanning the industrial and regulatory side of the Trinidad and Tobago energy sector. Her expertise includes Risk Management, Environmental Impact Assessments, Management Systems, stakeholder Engagement and Sustainable Energy Policy and Project development. Derval holds an MBA in Sustainable Energy Management, and a BSc in Environmental and Natural Resources Management, and Agribusiness from the University of the West Indies (UWI). She is also trained in Energy Efficiency Management from the Association of Energy Engineers (AEE), Solar Electric Design and Installation from the Solar Energy International (SEI) and Global Reporting Initiative (GRI) Standards for sustainability reporting.Derval is the founder of The Climate Conscious, a consultancy service that connects individuals and organizations to sustainability solutions. She hosts and produces The Climate Conscious Podcast which advocates for action on environmental sustainability and climate resilience with a focus on the Caribbean region. She is a member of the Clinton Foundation’s Women in Renewable Energy Network, and the Climate Reality Leadership Corps. Her interests include travel, yoga, permaculture and social dancing. ***SPOILER ALERT***Derval's beloved furry friends, rescues Chico and Dumplin' at times decided to chime in with their own perspectives, so expect to hear their adorable barks just a few times...But then again, this is a podcast about animals! :-)HAVE FUN!!In this episode we talk about:Derval's childhood growing up in La Brea in Trinidad & Tobago, home of the world renowned Pitch Lake.Her passion for pets, animals as a whole, biodiversity and the environment.The journey to becoming an Environmental Management Professional and the industrial sectors in which her skills have been brought to bear.Her recent training in India facilitated through the courtesy of the Government of India and all that she learned and experienced in that diverse and rich culture.Striking the balance between progress and the security of the environmentBeing not just our brother's keeper but also NATURE'S KeeperThe growing need to focus on public Education and Awareness for the safety and security of the environment to facilitate sustainabilityLifecycle ChangesThe '3 Rs'; Reduce, Reuse and Recycle expanded for greater sustainability practicesPet Friendly housing and opportunities for growth and developmentLIKE, FOLLOW Derval:Facebook: -  The Climate Conscious | FacebookInstagram:  - The Climate Conscious Podcast (@theclimateconscious) Twitter: -  The Climate Conscious Podcast (@tcconscious1) / TwitterWebsite: - www.theclimateconscious.comCONTACT DERVALEmail:  - theclimateconscious@gmail.com 

Meet Lara Quentrall-Thomas, Chairman of Regency Recruitment and Resources Limited and President of the Trinidad & Tobago Coalition of Services Industries. Lara serves as a Board member of Youth Business Trinidad & Tobago as well as the Rotary Club of Central Port of Spain. This dynamic businesswoman also invests her time supporting the Trinidad & Tobago SPCA and the Animal Welfare Network. Lara's name is synonymous with leadership but make no mistake, at home her rescue cat Bella is the Boss!It's official! Whenever two or more cat lovers get together you can bet the conversation will be laced with hilarious stories of their furry companions' antics and personalities! You'll certainly be entertained but most importantly inspired as  you appreciate the depth of love and compassion Lara has not only for cats and all animals in fact, but how that compassion transcends to include all of the people and communities that she serves.REGENCY RECRUITMENT & RESOURCES LIMITEDLIKE/FOLLOW - https://www.facebook.com/RegencyRecruitmentandResourcesLtd/CONNECT WITH LARA QUENTRALL-THOMAS - https://www.linkedin.com/in/lara-quentrall-thomas-mba-a16ba15/PLEASE SUPPORT THROUGH YOUR DONATIONSANIMAL RESCUE NETWORK LIKE/FOLLOW - https://www.facebook.com/AnimalWelfareNetwork/LEARN MORE - https://animalwelfarenetwork.com/TRINIDAD & TOBAGO SOCIETY FOR THE PREVENTION OF CRUELTY TO ANIMALSLIKE/FOLLOW - https://www.facebook.com/TTSPCA/LEARN MORE - https://ttspca.org/

Meet Andrew Dhanoo, lecturer of Biochemistry at the University of the West Indies, Trinidad & Tobago and President of the Diabetes Association of Trinidad and Tobago. He is currently a doctorial candidate at the UWI St. Augustine Campus, pursuing a PhD in clinical biochemistry and diabetes research. Andrew has worked as a Research Associate/Project Coordinator on projects with Johns Hopkins University under the Trinidad and Tobago Heath Sciences Initiative (TTHSI). It would be accurate to say that Andrew  is a super busy professional.  However, it wasn't too long ago, in fact when Andrew was a child, that he was exposed to a wide variety of animals at home. As an adult however his hectic lifestyle left little room for a furry companion. Until...a decision to return to his family home in the early and uncertain days of the Covid19 pandemic and lockdown, a call from a friend to check out two cute kitties one evening and the fortuitous availability of a pet shop set the stage for the immediate arrival of a Persian Prince. ENTER WILLIE, who's made life a lot more relaxed and a whole lot more fun for this driven young man and his family. This adorable Persian is never far from the side of this loving human, Andrew!LIKE/FOLLOW Andrew S. Dhanoo - FACEBOOK - https://www.facebook.com/andrew.s.dhanooLIKE/FOLLOW The Diabetes Association of Trinidad & TobagoFACEBOOK  -https://www.facebook.com/diabetestt/