Good Dog!

Ted Kerasote, author of "Merle's Door", "Out There" and "Why Dogs Die Young and What We Can Do About It"When a 10-year old Sussex spaniel won 'best in show' at Woodminster, the world applauded. After all, if 60 is the new 40 for humans, then 10 is the new 7 for dogs. Author Ted Kerasote contends that we can prolong the lives of our dogs and keep them both sharp and agile by working them physically and mentally, just as we do ourselves. His book, "Why Dogs Die Young and What We Can Do About It" charges inbreeding, environmental pollutants, commercial dog foods, and vaccinations as factors which cut short our dogs lives by giving them, among other diseases, cancers.We really appreciate your feedback and value your opinion. Could you please let others know what you think of the Good Dog podcast by writing a review in iTunes?

Kim Saunders, author of "The Adopted Dog Bible" on choosing, training and caring for your sheltered or rescued dog.Adopted dogs generally arrive with baggage, so one should be prepared and never make an impulsive decision when adopting a rescued or sheltered dog. Of course, it always makes sense to know what you're in for before getting a pup. Kim Saunders, VP of Shelter Outreach and PR for Petfinder.com has written "The Adopted Dog Bible" and on this episode of the Good Dog Podcast, Joanne speaks with her about the kind of up front research that really helps to insure that you make the right decisions. It helps to realistically consider your time and money constraints before you take the leap, as well as the kind of environment and exercise you'll be able to provide for your new family member.

Dog trainer Laurie Williams on how we and the Obamas should choose the right breed of dog. Many factors should be considered when choosing the right breed of dog for your family or personal situation. Dog trainer Laurie Williams, perhaps best known for her role on the CBS reality show "Greatest American Dog", talks about everything from shedding to the need for exercise that set some breeds apart. On this historic presidential inauguration day, we focus on the dogs that the Obamas are considering as well as the issues that should be considered when selected a breed. We also talk about what it's like to be on a Survivor-style television series with a tiny Chihuahua.We really appreciate your feedback and value your opinion. Could you please let others know what you think of the Good Dog podcast by writing a review in iTunes?

Pooch Coach Beverly Ulbrich provides the basics on housebreaking dogs. If you do everything by the book, expect that housebreaking your puppy will take at least a few weeks. Generally, according to Pooch Coach Beverly Ulbrich, it can take up to a couple of months to insure that your dog understands where and when to go. On this episode of the "Good Dog" podcast, we learn how to reward appropriate behavior, how to handle mistakes, and how to reinforce what you've taught your puppy or dog.

Courthouse dogs provide emotional support in Seattle's criminal justice system. Imagine the difference it could make to a child giving testimony about her sexual abuse if she could be petting a trained dog. In Seattle, Courthouse Dogs are calming witnesses, reducing stress for defendants and their families, and greeting members of the jury. In this episode of "Good Dog" podcast Courthouse Dogs founder, prosecuting attorney Ellen O'Neill-Stephens, explains how the organization began, how the dogs are trained, and shares inspirational success stories.

When and how to get a second opinion and medical insurance for dogs. When a vet recommends a serious and costly medical procedure, it often makes sense to seek a second opinion. How to ask and whom to ask are issues worthy of discussion, which is what we do on this episode of "Good Dog" with veterinarian Dr. Nancy Kay. We also explore when it's appropriate to purchase medical insurance for dogs and how to determine which policy is best for your needs.

Veterinarian Dr. Nancy Kay shares tips on first aid for dogs. When a dog is injured, your first moves should be defensive. On this week's "Good Dog" episode, Dr. Nancy Kay explains the importance of getting a muzzle on an injured dog before attempting to move him. Hear numerous tips and insights on how to handle a medical emergency before you're able to get professional medical attention.

Kymythy Schultze shares what she's learned about canine nutrition and why for many dogs a raw food diet is the best way to go.There's a lot of talk about raw food diets being the best way to go for dogs. After all, it's what they eat in the wild. But it's not right for every dog or every dog owner. On this week's "Good Dog" episode, Joanne Greene speaks with Kymythy Schultze, author of “Natural Nutrition for Dogs and Cats", about canine nutrition and how to determine the best diet for your particular dog.

Stephanie Shain, director of the Stop Puppy Mills Campaign for the Humane Society of the United States, completed an 8-month investigation and the results are grim. We've all heard about the conditions in puppy mills but were you aware that most pet stores buy their puppies from these sorts of enterprises? On this week's "Good Dog", we hear from Stephanie Shain, director of the Stop Puppy Mills Campaign for the Humane Society of the United States.

Vicki Tiernan shares the touching story of how her disabled dog inspired others. Caring for a disabled dog takes time and patience but it can provide endless inspiration to both you and others. Vicki Tiernan's dog, Ruby, lost the use of her hind legs, but with the help of a special harness with wheels, she was running on the trails. Vicky's story is just one that appears in the anthology " Almost Perfect - Disabled Pets and the People Who Love Them", available for purchase

In "Good Dog", the book, kids teach kids about dog behavior and training.
Learning to train and care for a dog is a plus for most any child. For inner city kids, rarely if ever exposed to well cared for pets, it's a tremendous opportunity. Lynn Loar, PhD., got a 3-year grant to bring shelter dogs to tough SF neighborhood apartment buildings to teach children to train dogs. The program was a great success and two of the students went on, with Lynn's help, to write and publish a book entitled "Good Dog". Hear the full story on this week's episode of the "Good Dog" podcast.

Veterinarian Dr. Nancy Kay helps you make health care decisions for your dog.
Each of us should be our dog's medical advocate, according to Veterinarian Dr. Nancy Kay, author of "Speaking for Spot." We know our dogs best, can read their behaviors, and are best equipped to make health care decisions that will maximize the chances that they'll lead longer, healthier lives. In this episode of "Good Dog," Joanne and Dr. Kay discuss some of the basic medical issues that dogs face and what we as pet owners can do to provide the best possible care.

There's lots to know about dog-friendly landscaping and author Cheryl Smith provides great tips.
Many of us love our dogs AND our gardens. But dogs, by nature, like to dig and patrol and engage in behaviors are often unkind to tender plants. There's much that can be done in the planning to insure that your emerging garden is dog friendly and your dog, if you're selecting a breed, is better suited to your mature garden. On this episode of "Good Dog", Joanne Greene speaks with Cheryl Smith, author of "Dog Friendly Gardens; Garden Friendly Dogs" and Cheryl provides lots of information for dog and garden loving listeners.

Dog book author Cheryl Smith shares the advantages, unspoken rules and risks of visiting the dog park.
The advantages of dog parks are many. They offer opportunities for exercise, play and socialization, both for the dogs and their owners. But not all dogs are cut out for all that freedom and interaction and not all dog parks are safe environments for your dog. In this episode of the "Good Dog" podcast, dog author Cheryl Smith tells us how to evaluate both your dog and the park to determine if there's a match and how to prepare your pup for a great dog park experience.

Cutting-edge information from the publisher who focuses on dogs only, Charlene Woodward of Dogwise.com.
Under the Dogwise label, Charlene Woodward has published more than 70 books about dogs. On her e-commerce site, Dogwise.com, she sells over 2,000 dog titles, along with hand selected toys, foods and supplements that are recommended by experts. On this episode of "Good Dog", Joanne discusses current trends in the dog world with Woodward and how the role of the dog is changing in American society.

Pet columnist Pat Miller discusses the importance of playing with dogs and the types of play that dogs enjoy.
Dogs need play and as your dog's #1 person, you're elected for the job. Dogs play differently than humans which is why we've devoted this episode of "Good Dog" to the ways in which dogs play and how to make most of your games, both for your dog and your relationship with her. Different dogs enjoy different styles and amounts of play so it helps to be able to assess each individual dog. Pat Miller, pet columnist for national dog publications, dog trainer and the author of four books, including "Play With Your Dog" provides tips and insights for keeping your dog engaged and happy. For more go to PeaceablePaws.com

Co-founder of the Angel Animals Network Linda Anderson talks about angel dogs
In her book, "Angel Dogs with a Mission", Linda Anderson shares touching stories about dogs that have served humanity in extraordinary ways. Breeding and training aside, these animals tune in to people and make conscious choices to nurture and heal and, in some cases, save lives. In conversation with host Joanne Greene, Linda talks about a chihuahua police dog, a spaniel who comforted students at Virgina Tech after the shootings, and her dog, Leaf, who helped her husband through critical brain surgery. Learn more at angeldogs.net

Dog trainer Kim Moeller offers tips and insights for owners of small dogs
Some of us see ourselves as "big dog" people; others of us like nothing more than to have a small dog curled up on our laps. Speculation about what this says about us aside, there are plenty of differences worth noting to keep your small dog safe and feeling secure. On this week's "Good Dog" podcast episode, Joanne Greene explores some of the unique joys and challenges of training and living with small dogs in conversation with dog trainer Kim Moeller of moellerdogs.com

Pit Bull advocate Kris Crawford teams up with mixed martial artists, including Anthony "Rumble" Johnson to 'kock out' dog fighting.
Sadly, dog fighting is alive and well in the U.S. It's estimated that there are currently 40,000 professional and another 100,000 amateur dog fighters, including children and gang-affiliated teens. The Michael Vick case brought this to national attention and showed that pit bulls are often victimized in this sadistic activity. Kris Crawford, founder of For Pit's Sake, has now launched "Knock Out Dog Fighting". With the help of fighters like Anthony "Rumble" Johnson, she produces public service announcements and visits schools and juvenille detention facilities to break the cycle of violence. In this episode of "Good Dog" podcast, Kris and Anthony speak about dog fighting and their efforts to eradicate it.

Spending money wisely can lower the cost of pet care. Hear tips on cutting costs.
Our dogs do not need fancy collars or high end treats. The DO need good veterinary care, training, and quality food. On this episode of the "Good Dog" podcast, Dr. Stephen Zawistowski, Executive Vice President of the ASPCA National Program Office, shares a wealth of information on how to reduce what you spend on your dog and, especially, protect yourself against major expenses down the road. We cover necessary medical care and what you can do at home, why investing in professional training makes sense, and how to save on medicines and supplies.

A little preparation goes a long way in setting up baby and dog to be lifelong pals.
Helping a dog acclimate to the new smells, sounds, and demands of a baby takes a bit of time and forethought, according to Trish King, Director of Behavior and Training at the Marin Humane Society. There will be many changes in the dog's life; best to begin instituting those changes before the baby arrives on the scene. Listen to this week's "Good Dog" podcast episode for a wealth of information on how to keep baby safe from your well meaning but, perhaps, excitable pup.

The predatory instinct in dogs and cats is strong, yet with patience and some good instruction, most pet owners can create harmony between their canine and feline family members. On this episode of the "Good Dog" podcast, Trish King, author of "Parenting Your Dog" offers helpful advice to cat owners hoping to add a dog into the mix and dog owners who plan to bring home a cat.

Dogs are naturally aggressive. It's in-bred so that they can survive on their own. But aggressive behavior in domestic dogs - toward people or other dogs - isn't exactly desirable. In this episode of the "Good Dog" podcast, Kate Knight of Clear Signals Dog Training offers insight and advice on helping dogs to overcome aggressive behavior. Step one, she says, is changing the association in the dog's mind. If, for instance, your dog reacts upon seeing a large dog walking on the opposite side of the street, give him or her a treat every time he sees a large dog. Soon enough, he'll see a large dog and think "great, it's time for a treat!"

There's a language barrier that separates us from our dogs. They don't understand our world and feel that we are their responsibility. That's why they run to the door when someone is approaching and bark when they hear a new sound. Penny Locke is a "dog listener" who helps people to train their dogs to be dogs, freeing them from the anxiety of responsibility. Through simple shifts in behavior, you become the leader of your pack and your dog can relax. She uses no force, no gadgets and no confrontation. Her approach is based on the work of Jan Fennell of Great Britain who studied wolves in the wild to learn about canines. This episode of the "Good Dog" podcast will improve your relationship with your dog forever.

The founder of T-Touch explains how the system of gentle movements works.

T-touch is a system of gentle, circular movements which, when practiced on animals including dogs, can release tension, activate cells, promote healing and solve a range of behavior challenges. Linda Tellington-Jones developed these techniques 40 years ago and certified practitioners now teach T-Touch all over the world. Learn some simple movements that you can use on your dog today in this episode of "Good Dog" featuring Linda Tellington-Jones.

There's plenty to know about why and how to keep your dog cool in the heat.

Dr. Eric Barchus who writes the Vet Blog for Dogster.com has been warning dog owners of the importance of keeping dogs cool in the summer heat. We all know that dogs overheat pretty quickly, but how quickly? Is it reasonable to leave your dog in the car for an hour if it's in the shade and the window is open? Do some breeds overheat more easily than others? Would dipping their paws into cold water help to cool them down quickly? These questions and more are addressed in this issue of "Good Dog" podcast.

Massachusetts outlaws businesses that rent pets.

Public complaint about "flexible pet ownership" led to hearings and, now, legislation in Massachusetts banning businesses that rent pets. In this episode of the "Good Dog" podcast, Massachusetts Representative Vincent Pedone discusses the issues behind the ban and why so many animal rights activists and veterinarians cared enough to get involved.

The dog trainer's trainer explains the top 10 tips for ensuring the best possible dog-human bond.

In this episode of the "Good Dog" podcast, Jean Donaldson, director of the Academy of Dog Trainers at the San Francisco SPCA runs through her top ten dog training tips. Expect your dog to act like a dog; make them work for their food; keep the reigns tight, slack off later; preempt bad habits; provide outlets for doggie behavior; avoid guilt trips; play dog sports; offer social interaction; hug your puppy; and enroll in a good training course.

Dog training has evolved considerably and there's a lot to know about selecting a trainer.

Jean Donaldson is the director of the Academy of Dog Trainers at the San Francisco SPCA and she has a lot to say about the field. Learn what to look for in a trainer and what to avoid. As the author of "The Culture Clash" and "Dogs are from Neptune", Jean provides insight into how dogs think and why they behave the way they do. In this episode of "Good Dog" podcast, Jean and Joanne discuss why dogs eat poop and smell each other's behinds.

The latest in pet grooming can be found in your very own driveway.

For some of us, getting our dog to and from the groomer can be challenging in the midst of a busy workday. For our dogs, it can mean long hours cooped up in a cage, waiting for their turn in the assembly line. Aussie Pet Mobile is a franchise with over 120 mobile pet grooming vans across the U.S., providing full grooming and spa treatments, flea and tick control, plus treatments to reduce shedding, in their customers' driveways. On this episode of the "Good Dog" podcast, we hear from the owner and groomer of Aussie Pet Mobile in Marin County, California and learn valuable grooming tips to keep your dog's coat clean and healthy.

Increasingly, dogs are being introduced in prisons to help inmates care for and train another living being. Larry Carson of "Pen Pals of San Quentin" explains how inmates who work in the fire department there socialize and train rescue dogs to prepare them for adoption. Sophie O'Shaunessy describes how inmates from seven east coast correctional facilities train puppies to become service dogs through the nonprofit organization Puppies Behind Bars. Many of these dogs are being placed with physically and psychologically disabled veterans from the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan.

It has been said that the only fault of dogs is that their lives are too short. That's why many of us have wondered if it would ever be possible to create an exact duplicate of our beloved dog. In fact, the technology now exists to clone dogs and on this week's episode of "Good Dog" podcast, we hear from Lou Hawthorne, CEO of BioArts International, a firm that works in tandem with a Korean company to clone dogs. Lou began this quest in an effort to clone his dog Missy, who died in 2002. He now has three perfect clones from Missy's DNA. Hear the full story here and at www.myfriendagain.com.

If you have a question that you'd like answered about your dog, write to us at GoodDog@SmarterPodcasts.com. Today's episode was in response to a listener question.

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In a 35 MPH accident, a 60-pound dog can turn into some 2700 lbs of deadly force, injuring or killing the vehicle's occupants, the dog, or both. And that's not the only reason to invest in and use a pet restraint system while driving around with your dog. When first responders try to access a vehicle that's been in an accident, a frightened dog can make entry difficult; often, the dog jumps out of the car, endangering himself and quite possibly causing another accident. Christina Selter is the founder of BarkBuckleUp, an organization that aims to educate pet owners about the dangers & consequences of letting your dog hang loose while driving. Her website offers reviews of various products and her group is teaming up with Volvo, the automaker currently leading the way in insuring pet safety in their vehicles.

In every community, there are low income people who share what little food they have with their dogs. For physically and mentally ill people, the support of a pet can mean a world of difference. In San Francisco, and in an increasing number of cities, the nonprofit organization PAWS, Pets Are Wonderful Support, provides pet food, veterinary care, and a host of other support services so that individuals in need can keep their pets. Learn about the range of services provided largely by volunteers and how you can start a similar organization in your own community.

At California's annual Big Dog Parade, in Santa Barbara, the first weekend in June, dog lovers unleash their creativity and proudly flaunt their obsession. Filmmaker Lisa Grossman was so taken by the mania that she went on to make "UNLEASHED", a dog-umentary film, that takes viewers behind-the-scenes where dog-owners dream up theatrical floats and outrageous costumes. In this episode of the "Good Dog" podcast, Lisa tells us about the contenders who compete for prizes, the incredibly lengths people go to in an effort to showcase their creativity with dogs, and the extraordinary kinship that's on display between people and their pups. One particularly touching story is of a woman and her paraplegic pug who tools around on custom-made wheels. The stories in UNLEASHED take us beyond the parade and into the heart of a nation that has clearly gone to the dogs.

Search and rescue dogs are critical in the days following a disaster as they sniff out survivors under piles of rubble and inform rescue workers. As we watch too much TV coverage of disasters, it's important to note that there aren't enough canine disaster search teams currently trained in the U.S. should disaster strike. On this week's episode of the "Good Dog" podcast, Debra Tosch, Executive Director of the National Disaster Search Dog Foundation, explains how these dogs work, how they're trained, and how you can help to insure that enough teams are ready to go in the event of a major earthquake, hurricane, tornado or landslide. After listening to this brief, compelling episode, visit http://www.searchdogfoundation.org for more information.

Many of us have troubling memories of being called upon in grade school to read aloud. For some kids, it can be torturous to feel that everyone is listening and judging the performance. But dogs don't judge and they're being used, increasingly, in classrooms and libraries to help young readers gain comfort and, ultimately, develop a stronger attachment to reading. Darlene Blackman coordinates the SHARE a book program at the Marin Humane Society in Novato, California. She works closely with local teachers, reading specialists and librarians to create opportunities for volunteers to bring their trained dogs to children who can benefit from reading to supportive, friendly, furry, nonjudgmental listeners. In this episode of the "Good Dog" podcast, brought to you by Eukanuba, learn how this program evolved, how you can volunteer in this way, and how you can bring a similar program to your community. For more information, Darlene can be reached at dblackman@marinhumanesociety.org.

If you have a question that you'd like answered about your dog, write to us at GoodDog@SmarterPodcasts.com. Today's episode was in response to a listener question.

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While Bruce Bauer takes Bear home each night, the 7-year old Australian shepherd doesn't belong to him. She's the property of the University of California at Berkeley police department and a valued member of the explosive ordinance team. Bear and her K9 partner Morgan keep the campus safe by regularly sniffing for bombs. In this episode of the "Good Dog" podcast, Detective Bauer explains how Bear was rescued and trained for her new career. He says she lives to work and is motivated by the treat she receives, a green rope ball, when she finds one of the sixteen chemicals she's trained to search out.

If you have a question that you'd like answered about your dog, write to us at GoodDog@SmarterPodcasts.com. Today's episode was in response to a listener question.

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If you admit to working full-time, you'll probably have a very tough time adopting a rescue dog or buying a puppy from a reliable breeder. Yet, of course, working people can be responsible dog owners. On this episode of the Good Dog podcast, Beverly Ulbrich, president and founder of The Pooch Coach, talks about the pros and cons of using crates and a combination of a crate and an exercise pen for keeping dogs, and puppies in particular, safe and happy while alone. Ulbrich also provides tips on how to handle a few common behaviors that dogs engage in while alone, such as emptying wastebaskets and unraveling rolls of toilet paper.

If you have a question that you'd like answered about your dog, write to us at GoodDog@SmarterPodcasts.com. Today's episode was in response to a listener question.

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In 1975, T.C. Boyle published his first short story in Esquire Magazine entitled "Heart of A Champion". It was a satirical tale about an exceptionally smart Lassie who has to continually save a particularly pathetic Timmy. Boyle has continued to write about dogs in stories and novels and, in this episode of the "Good Dog" podcast, he gives us a preview of his upcoming novel and some stories in a new compilation due out in 2009.

If you have a question that you'd like answered about your dog, write to us at GoodDog@SmarterPodcasts.com

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We all know that dogs have exceptional hearing, but HOW they hear and WHAT they hear is a mystery to most of us. Psychoacoustics expert Joshua Leeds partnered with Veterinary Neurologist Dr. Susan Wagner to create a book and CD entitled "Through a Dog's Ear - Using Sound to Improve the Health and Behavior of Your Canine Companion" after learning, through extensive research, that certain classical musical had a calming effect on dogs. In this fascinating conversation, Leeds talks about how dogs are affected by the sounds in your home and neighborhood and how their nervous systems are impacted by auditory stimulus.

If you have a question that you'd like answered about your dog, write to us at GoodDog@SmarterPodcasts.com

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There's a lot to know about running with dogs. When she's not designing websites, Susan Knoll runs with her dog and writes a blog about running. In researching the topic, after receiving a request from a "Good Dog" podcast listener, I found an article by Susan that packed a ton of great information plus some infectious warmth and humor. In this episode, Susan talks about which breeds make wonderful running companions, what to do to keep your dog safe and healthy, and how to identify when the distance or surface are too much for your pup. You can learn more at her website runnersusan.com

If you have a question that you'd like answered about your dog, write to us at GoodDog@SmarterPodcasts.com

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Gather a group of dog owners in a room and chances are you'll hearing stories of how dogs understand their owners. Marta Williams, wildlife biologist, environmental scientist and animal communication specialist says that you can practice the skill and become quite adept at intuitive communication. In workshops, consultations, and in her book, "Ask Your Animal- Resolving Behavioral Issues Through Intuitive Communication", Marta provides step by step instruction for honing these skills. In this episode of the "Good Dog" podcast, she shares stories and offers tips on how to get your dog to cooperate and be more receptive to training by using intuitive communication.

If you have a question that you'd like answered about your dog, write to us at GoodDog@SmarterPodcasts.com

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Most dog waste ends up in landfills where it oozes methane, a greenhouse gas. Check out options for reducing our paw print and turning dog poop into energy.

Each year, some 72 million American dogs create about 274 pounds of waste a piece. Most of it ends up in landfills, contributing significant greenhouse gas in the form of methane. Fortunately, there are options that are becoming increasingly practical. On this episode of the "Good Dog" podcast, Joanne speaks to Mark Klaiman, co-owner of Pet Camp kennel in SF, who donates his company's dog waste to an off-site plant that converts it into electricity. We also hear from Will Brinton, president of Woods End Laboratories in Maine, about a system they've developed to turn dog waste into power.

If you have a question that you'd like answered about your dog, write to us at GoodDog@SmarterPodcasts.com

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Hear what happens when authorities seize 800 tiny dogs from deplorable conditions. 

About 800 small dogs, primarily Chihuahuas, were seized from a mobile home in Southern Arizona when a woman, responding to an Internet ad to purchase a puppy, became suspicious. Authorities described the living conditions as among the worst they’d ever seen.

Marin Humane Society staff was dispatched to the Tucson area and transported as many dogs as they safely could back to Novato, California. Fifty or more of these tiny pups are in foster homes and more than 300 applications have come in from local families interested in adopting one. The story may have a happy ending, but there's much to learn about preventing this sort of animal abuse and neglect. Kim Snyder, Director of Animal Care and Veterinary Services at the Marin Humane Society tells the whole story and provides great information about hoarding, how to avoid puppy mills, and how you can help when crises like these occur.

If you have a question that you'd like answered about your dog, write to us at GoodDog@SmarterPodcasts.com

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MannersMinder™ remote-controlled reward system.

Some dogs love to spend hours trying to get the peanut butter out of the Kong. Others would prefer to behead a stuffed cat and tear out the stuffing. For dogs who care, toys play an important role and determining which toys are right for your dog can take a moment of thought. On this week's "Good Dog" podcast, Janet Velenovsky, Training & Behavior Education Manager for Premier Pet Products, tells us all about dog toys and products that can aid in the training process. We demonstrate one such product - the MannersMinder™ remote-controlled reward system - which can be helpful in training a dog not to jump up on guests or beg at the table.

If you have a question that you'd like answered about your dog, write to us at GoodDog@SmarterPodcasts.com

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With the cost of vet appointments rising, it sure would be nice to know when it's necessary for the dog to be seen and when the condition is something that you could responsibly treat at home. On this episode of the "Good Dog" podcast, Dr. Robert Silver, Chief of Staff and lead veterinarian for Boulder's Natural Animal: An Integrative Wellness Center in Boulder, Colorado, shares safe and effective home remedies that you can try for upset stomachs, diarrhea, and itchy skin in dogs. Of course there are warning signs that indicate when a dog should receive professional treatment, and Dr. Silver describes those as well.

If you have a question that you'd like answered about your dog, write to us at GoodDog@SmarterPodcasts.com

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While training a puppy is far easier than training an older dog, trainer Trish King maintains that you absolutely can teach an old dog new tricks. In this episode of the "Good Dog" podcast, Trish and Joanne discuss doggie etiquette - the kinds of behaviors that are socially acceptable both to humans and to other dogs. Consistency is the name of the game. If Dad likes to rough-house and Mom can't tolerate wild behavior, it's going to be tough to get the dog to understand what he's supposed to do. With special focus on jumping up on people, Trish offers tips for helping you train your dog to refrain from actions that frighten or alienate others - other dogs as well as humans. Learn how to handle a dog that barks incessantly, particularly at night, and what simple modifications can make a real difference.

If you have a question that you'd like answered about your dog, write to us at GoodDog@SmarterPodcasts.com

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Scientific evidence shows that visiting with animals can lower blood pressure, slow heart rate, and release endorphins. That's why the Delta Society has established standards for animal assisted therapy and has been training people and their pet partners for more than 30 years. Pet partners work in classrooms, hospitals, rehabilitation centers and hospice facilities, bringing joy and and a sense of calm everywhere they go. On this episode of the Good Dog podcast, we hear from Dianne Bell, Progarm Manager of the Pet Partners Program for the Delta Society. Based in Washington state, Dela Society is an international organization. There are many organizations training and coordinating visits for therapy dogs and their owners; Delta Society is one of the first and largest, and was on the forefront of research on how this kind of work can contribute to healing.

If you have a question that you'd like answered about your dog, write to us at GoodDog@SmarterPodcasts.com

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Using a psychological approach from the dog's point of view, Team Canine calls their training Dog-o-logical. Understanding how dogs think allows us to create a mutually respectful and loving partnership with our companions, without need for physical force or intimidation. Understanding your dog through their eyes teaches you to compassionately work together on building a loving, lifelong relationship. On this episode of the "Good Dog" podcast, Brad and Tamara Jaffe of Team Canine explain their approach and offer valuable insights into how dogs think, operate and communicate.

If you have a question that you'd like answered about your dog, write to us at GoodDog@SmarterPodcasts.com

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Like children, dogs don't come with instruction manuals. We rely on books, our veterinarians, and one another to help us solve behavior challenges, know the best dog parks, and decide what's best to feed our precious pups. Dogster is an online community for dog people where we can share photos, stories, and talk about just about anything related to dogs. On this episode of the "Good Dog" podcast, Dogster's founder and CEO Ted Rhinegold explains how Dogster got started, what it provides, and how all dog owners can join this very special online community of support.

If you have a question that you'd like answered about your dog, write to us at GoodDog@SmarterPodcasts.com

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It was only a matter of time before some enterprising soul figured out that GPS technology could provide dog owners a new level of protection. With Zoombak on your dog's collar, you'll be alerted by text message or cell phone call if he or she leaves the predesignated "safety zone". Of course your dog should always be on leash when not enclosed in your yard, but things happen. You open your door to a deliver person and the dog might run off to chase a cat down the street. In this episode of the "Good Dog" podcast, John Cullen, Director of Marketing for Zoombak, explains how their system works and offers one "Good Dog" listener the chance to win a Zoombak, priced at $199. Having spent many years in the pet product industry, Cullen also discusses trends in dog toys and offers his recommendations and a glimpse at some new products that will soon be hitting the market.

We now feature a page at GoodDogPodcast.com called "Smarter Shopping" that allows you to purchase any of the books we've featured on any of our podcasts. Save time searching, purchase from Amazon right at GoodDogPodcast.com.

If you have a question that you'd like answered about your dog, write to us at GoodDog@SmarterPodcasts.com

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For the first time in nearly 75 years, the bulldog is one of the top 10 most popular breeds in America. According to the American Kennel Club, which has been keeping track of such things since the 1800's, the Labrador Retriever is still the top dog for the 17th straight year. Hear about trends in breed popularity and why tiny dogs, like the Yorkshire Terrier, continue to climb the popularity scale. Lisa Peterson of the AKC talks about preferences in different cities and states and how trends have shifted over the years.

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For most dog owners, shedding is at best an annoyance. For many of us, it’s the bane of our existence. For Sue Hotovec, the hair that her dog sheds is raw material for yarn - the more hair, the better. On this episode of the “Good Dog” podcast, Sue explains how to spin dog hair into yarn, describing the various steps involved, what type of dog hair works best, and what you can make with the yarn. She recommends books that provide a step-by-step guide for dog owners interested in turning the hair their dog sheds into something productive and long lasting.

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Most of us know that positive reinforcement is key to training a dog, but we don't often know why training often fails. Dale Stavroff, author of "Let the Dog Decide" offers his take on how dogs learn, operant conditioning, training with covert control and overt positive reinforcement, choosing the right dog, low-stress/high result learning, introducing your dog to the world and much more. Dale's methods emphasize gentleness and fun, both for you and your pup, and this interview is filled with valuable tips for owners and their dogs, both young and old.

http://www.precisiondogs.com/

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The field of pet photography is exploding and Pet Photographer Lori Cheung, thepetphotographer.com, is riding the wave. Lori captures the essence of a dog's spirit and creates works of art for her clients who have included winners of the Academy, Grammy, Emmy and Tony Awards. Her style is candid, playful, and exuberant. An everyday moment transforms into an extraordinary one when viewed through Lori’s “third eye,” her camera lens. She specializes in portrait sessions at beaches, parks, homes, vineyards, and other inspiring locations. Using intention and intuition, Lori’s portraits illuminate souls, capture magic, and reveal inner sparkle.

In this episode of the "Good Dog" podcast, Lori describes how she got into this field and how the rest of us can improve the photos we take of our dogs by paying attention to background, lighting, and camera settings.

If you have a question that you'd like answered about your dog, write to us at GoodDog@SmarterPodcasts.com

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Many children receive dogs at holiday time and in this episode of the "Good Dog" podcast, Jan Wall, creator of loveyourdog.com, a kid's guide to dog care, offers tips on how to help families adjust to their new pup. Dog ownership can teach children about responsibility, empathy and how to care for another being. There are simple tricks that kids can teach their dogs which helps to empower them in positive ways. Hear about important safety measures, what's reasonable to expect from kids at various ages when it comes to dog care, and how to handle your new puppy.

If you have a question that you'd like answered about your dog, write to us at GoodDog@SmarterPodcasts.com

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True separation anxiety in dogs is a serious disorder treatable with a combination of behavior modification and, perhaps, medication. The anxiety that many dogs experience when separating from their owners is far easier to handle and, in this episode of "Good Dog", canine trainer and behaviorist Trish King offers tools for helping your pup handle the times when you're not around.

If you have a question that you'd like answered about your dog, write to us at GoodDog@SmarterPodcasts.com

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Naturally, we all want our pets to remain healthy and cancer-free. Yet, the incidence of cancer is on the rise in dogs and the age of onset is creeping lower and lower. Shawn Messonnier is a holistic veterinarian and the author of several books, including "The Natural Vet's Guide to Preventng and Treating Cancer in Dogs". On this episode of the "Good Dog" podcast, Dr. Shawn describes the most commonly seen cancers in dogs and the treatments that are, in many cases, extending time and adding to the quality of the dog's life. He talks about both conventional and complementary therapies and addresses a few prevention techniques that include NOT vaccinating dogs on a annual basis. Dr. Shawn is a regular holistic pet columnist for the Dallas Morning News and hosts "Dr. Shawn - The Natural Vet" on Sirius Satellite's Martha Stewart Living Radio.

If you have a question that you'd like answered about your dog, write to us at GoodDog@SmarterPodcasts.com

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Dogs have always been funny but years ago, dog humor tended to be at the dog's expense. Today, our dogs hold positions of honor in our lives and dog humor has evolved as well. On this episode of "Good Dog", Joanne speaks with Cameron Woo and Claudia Kawczynska, publishers of "The Bark, the magazine of modern dog culture", and authors of the NY Times best-seller "Dog is My Co-Pilot" and, most recently, "Howl: A Collection of the Best Contemporary Dog Wit". 

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The sky's the limit on what you can spend on medical bills for your dog. You could get lucky and have a healthy pet or you could be looking at a stack of bills that far exceed your budget. In Sweden, 49% of pet owners insure their dogs; in England nearly 20% of pets are insured. In the U.S., the number is far smaller. On this week's episode of Good Dog, Joanne speaks with Brian Iannessa of VPI Pet Insurance on the costs and benefits of medical insurance for your dog.

If you have a question that you'd like answered about your dog, write to us at GoodDog@SmarterPodcasts.com

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Worldwise was started back in 1990, long before "green" had taken on a new meaning. The concept was and is to manufacture environmentally sustainable pet products that work as well or better, look as nice or finer, and cost the same or less than existing products. In this episode of "Good Dog", former Worldwise President and CEO Aaron Lamstein explains how recycled plastic bottles are used to create a range of "PoochPlanet" beds, currently sold at 30,000 stores nationwide. 

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Cosmetic surgery for humans has become enormously popular and in this episode of Good Dog you'll hear that dogs are getting in on the craze. Gregg Miller is the creator of Neuticles, testicular implants for dogs in the past 12 years, over 100,000 pets have been what Miller describes as "restored." Hear how and why dog owners are choosing to have their pups implanted when or after they're neutered. Miller maintains that it's perfectly safe, humane, and, at least for some, affordable.

If you have a question that you'd like answered about your dog, write to us at GoodDog@SmarterPodcasts.com

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"Woman's Best Friend" is a compilation of essays that celebrate dog moms and their canine companions. Dogs teach us how to happy at the mere site of a loved one, how not to take things personally, how to remember the good & forget the bad, and how to have faith that the sun will come out again. Editor Megan McMorris shares tales of dogs who warm our beds, maintain our sanity, function as personal trainers, and give us a reason to get up each morning. Does the description "Half Buddha - Half Bozo" remind you of a dog you've known?

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In this episode, Trish King returns to tell us about her 12 year old dog whose aging lumps have gone from benign to cancer. Host Joanne Greene talks to her about the process of creating the best quality of life in her remaining time.

Guide Dogs for the Blind has joined forces with the Canine Cancer Genome Project (part of the National Institutes for Health) to help reduce cancer in both dogs and humans. Geneticist Dr. Elaine Ostrander explains the work being done to identify genes that cause cancer and how dogs in general, and Guide Dogs in particular, are aiding in this effort.

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The best seller "Marley and Me" was the tale of a particularly outrageous family dog. "Dreaming in Libro", by contrast, is the story of a good dog that tamed a (self described) bad woman. In this conversation, host Joanne Greene speaks with writer Louise Berkinow whose life was changed when a boxer followed her home one day through the streets of Manhattan.

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Did you know that dog hair and dog fur are the same thing? Master groomer Daryl Conner shares the truth about caring for your dog's coat.

Shedding and allergies, brushing and matting, there's so much for dog owner's to know about maintaining a healthy coat. The topic of grooming comes alive in this lively conversation with master groomer Daryl Conner. Based in rural Maine, Daryl's written numerous excellent articles and teaches other groomers at conferences and workshops around the country. It's never too late to accustom your pup to getting brushed. Daryl provides tips on how to get dogs to not only cooperate but enjoy getting pampered!

If you have a question that you'd like answered about your dog, write to us at GoodDog@SmarterPodcasts.com

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Remote collar training is especially effective when you're not always tethered to your dog.

While clicker training works especially well with guide dogs, police K9s are often trained using remote collars. Some people are reluctant to even explore this option, thinking that their animal might experience pain but, as Fred Hassen of SitMeansSit points out, a dog's perception of pain or discomfort is quite different than yours. In this episode of the "Good Dog" podcast, Joanne explores remote collar training with Fred Hassen who has been successfully training dogs and puppies of all sorts for nearly a decade.

If you have a question that you'd like answered about your dog, write to us at GoodDog@SmarterPodcasts.com

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Remote collar training is especially effective when you're not always tethered to your dog.

While clicker training works especially well with guide dogs, police K9s are often trained using remote collars. Some people are reluctant to even explore this option, thinking that their animal might experience pain but, as Fred Hassen of SitMeansSit points out, a dog's perception of pain or discomfort is quite different than yours. In this episode of the "Good Dog" podcast, Joanne explores remote collar training with Fred Hassen who has been successfully training dogs and puppies of all sorts for nearly a decade.

If you have a question that you'd like answered about your dog, write to us at GoodDog@SmarterPodcasts.com

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Most dogs experience acupuncture as we do, falling into a deep state of relaxation. Daphne Lavoni practices traditional Chinese medicine on animals and explains the conditions that can be treated with herbal formulas, acupuncture and massage. Along with diseases of the heart, liver and kidney, Chinese medicine is helpful for respiratory problems, musculoskeletal issues, gastrointestinal concerns, skin conditions, and emotional challenges. Lavoni has a bachelors degree in Animal Science and a Masters in Asian Medicine.

If you have a question that you'd like answered about your dog, write to us at GoodDog@SmarterPodcasts.com

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Greyhounds have been racing since biblical times, though the sport is dying a slow death in the U.S. There are only about 50 dog tracks remaining in 15 states; other states have banned the sport. Yet, thousands of greyhounds are euthanized each year when their careers end. Rescue organizations, like REGAP, Retired Greyhounds as Pets, foster these dogs and then make them available for adoption as family pets. In this episode of the Good Dog Podcast, Joanne speaks with Ken Marten of the Michigan chapter of REGAP and dispels the myths about this lovable breed.

If you have a question that you'd like answered about your dog, write to us at GoodDog@SmarterPodcasts.com

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While shelter dogs often come with baggage, there are many who will make perfect pets. In this episode of Good Dog, Jan McHugh Smith, President of the San Francisco SPCA, advises listeners on how to select the right dog for your lifestyle from an animal shelter. Many dogs arrive at shelters because their owners moved and the new landlord wouldn't accept pets. The SFSPCA has an Open Door Program that helps dog owners find pet-friendly housing and makes recommendations on how to approach landlords on this topic. Go to SFSPCA.org for tons of great information on renting an apartment with a dog.

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Designer or hybrid dogs have become high fashion in Hollywood, but Gary Garner, founder of the American Canine Hybrid Club, has been breeding and registering these pups for decades. In an effort to capture the characteristics of two different breeds, breeders have been experimenting with every conceivable mix. Imagine a chihuahua-dalmation (chimation?). Some combinations are best left to the imagination! Many mixes include poodles in an attempt to create non-shedding non-poodles, but there are no guarantees. Learn all about hybrid dogs on this episode of Good Dog.

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In recent years, our pet dogs have been treated to an ever increasing array of products and outfits. Nothing is too fine for our furry friends. Now, in SF and other California cities, pampered pooches can stay at the Wag Hotel where high end suites come complete with video showing of films about dogs. On this week's episode of "Good Dog", Joanne tours the Wag Hotel with general manager Brian Rios. Get ready: Wag Hotel may be coming to your city next!

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Many of us agree that it's responsible to end our dogs' lives to save them from pain when there's no hope of recovery. But rarely does the decision to euthanize one's pet come easily. In this week's episode of "Good Dog", Joanne speaks with her veterinarian, Dr. Gary Jones, who compassionately ended Farfel's life, the dog in whose memory "Good Dog" is dedicated. Hear about the decision to euthanize, how it's changed over the years, and what it means to vets.

Please click on the Pooch Pix page at GoodDogPodcast.com. We have photos of our dog friends who love the Good Dog Podcast. Send us a digital photo of your dog listening to the Good Dog Podcast on an iPod or you computer, along with the dog's name, your city and state and a caption for the photo. Send it to GoodDog@SmarterPodcasts.com

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Years ago, Dobermans were the dogs to be feared. Then it was the Rotweiller. Today, pit bulls are in the proverbial dog house with advocates touting the sweetness of the breed and adversaries saying they have no place in our communities. Listen to experts on both sides of the fence discuss the breed and recent moves to legislate against pit bulls. Guests on this episode of the "Good Dog" Podcast include Mary Harwelik of The Real Pit Bull.com, Marcy Setter of Pit Bull Rescue, and Oklahoma State Representative Paul Wesselhoft who, for many years, has been trying to make his constituency safe from pit bulls.

Please click on the Pooch Pix page at GoodDogPodcast.com. We have photos of our dog friends who love the Good Dog Podcast. Send us a digital photo of your dog listening to the Good Dog Podcast on an iPod or you computer, along with the dog's name, your city and state and a caption for the photo. Send it to GoodDog@SmarterPodcasts.com

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Last winter, thousands of dogs and cats became ill with kidney disease after eating tainted pet food. Some pet owners continue to question the safety of commercial brands and wonder if they should be cooking their dog's food at home. On this episode of "Good Dog", we hear from Dr. Sean Delaney, VP of the American College of Veterinary Nutrition and Dr. Robert Poppenga, a professor of veterinary toxicology at the UC Davis School of Veterinary Medicine on what's safe to feed our pets, what's in commercial pet food, and how this recent contamination has probably made the industry more vigilent than ever before.

Please click on the Pooch Pix page at GoodDogPodcast.com. We have photos of our dog friends who love the Good Dog Podcast. Send us a digital photo of your dog listening to the Good Dog Podcast on an iPod or you computer, along with the dog's name, your city and state and a caption for the photo. Send it to GoodDog@SmarterPodcasts.com

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The status of dogs continues to rise in American society and hotels, restaurants, retailers, and municipalities are all responding loud and clear! Many of us want to take our pups along when we travel and in this episode of Good Dog, Maria Goodavage, author of The Dog Lover's Companion to California, (and separate editions for the Bay Area and LA) offers tips and suggestions for great vacations with four legged friends. Hear why Carmel, Mendocino, San Diego, and San Francisco are all great places to travel with dogs.

Please click on the Pooch Pix page at GoodDogPodcast.com. We have photos of our dog friends who love the Good Dog Podcast. Send us a digital photo of your dog listening to the Good Dog Podcast on an iPod or you computer, along with the dog's name, your city and state and a caption for the photo. Send it to GoodDog@SmarterPodcasts.com

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The World's Ugliest Dog is not only a site to behold; he's also a Good Will Ambassador for homeless & special needs animals. His owner, Karen Quigley, and other ugly dog parents share their stories on this episode of Good Dog.

Please click on the Pooch Pix page at GoodDogPodcast.com. We have photos of our dog friends who love the Good Dog Podcast. Send us a digital photo of your dog listening to the Good Dog Podcast on an iPod or you computer, along with the dog's name, your city and state and a caption for the photo. Send it to GoodDog@SmarterPodcasts.com

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The U.S. legal system has tended to view dogs as property, not as sentient (or feeling) beings. Attorney Carolyn Matlock is among those trying to change that. As managing editor of Animal Legal Report Services and author of "We've Got Feelings Too", Carolyn monitors and reports on court cases involving dogs. Hear about the gradual changes taking place in this field and win a personalized, autographed copy of Matlock's book on this episode of Good Dog.

Please click on the Pooch Pix page at GoodDogPodcast.com. We have photos of our dog friends who love the Good Dog Podcast. Send us a digital photo of your dog listening to the Good Dog Podcast on an iPod or you computer, along with the dog's name, your city and state and a caption for the photo. Send it to GoodDog@SmarterPodcasts.com

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Learn why dogs love their walks and how to best handle their annoying behaviors with Dog Trainer extraordinaire, Trish King. In this episode of GOOD DOG, Trish focuses on what happens in dog training classes and why they are great "dates" for you and your dog!

Please click on the Pooch Pix page at GoodDogPodcast.com. We have photos of our dog friends who love the Good Dog Podcast. Send us a digital photo of your dog listening to the Good Dog Podcast on an iPod or you computer, along with the dog's name, your city and state and a caption for the photo. Send it to GoodDog@SmarterPodcasts.com

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City dog owners have very different needs than those who live in suburban and rural areas. How, for instance, does a city dog know that the lobby of the apartment building isn't "outside"? As editor of UrbanHound.com, Laura Cavaluzzo addresses these concerns and provides city-specific information on dog runs, dog parks, pet-friendly getaways and more.

Please click on the Pooch Pix page at GoodDogPodcast.com. We have photos of our dog friends who love the Good Dog Podcast. Send us a digital photo of your dog listening to the Good Dog Podcast on an iPod or you computer, along with the dog's name, your city and state and a caption for the photo. Send it to GoodDog@SmarterPodcasts.com

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Roselle was Michael Hingson's 5th guide dog; now retired, she can comfortably rest on her laurels. Michael and his canine companion were on the 73rd floor of the World Trade Center when the first plane hit on 9-11 and, together, they made their way to safety thanks to teamwork and trust. Hear Michael's incredible story and the lessons that apply to all of our lives on "Good Dog".

Please click on the Pooch Pix page at GoodDogPodcast.com. We have photos of our dog friends who love the Good Dog Podcast. Send us a digital photo of your dog listening to the Good Dog Podcast on an iPod or you computer, along with the dog's name, your city and state and a caption for the photo. Send it to GoodDog@SmarterPodcasts.com

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Not all animal shelters are the same. In this episode of GOOD DOG, Trish King explains the differences between SPCAs, Humane Societies, and the proverbial dog catcher and touches on aggression in dogs.

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By 8 weeks, according to Dr. Ian Dunbar, a puppy should be socialized, house trained, chew toy trained, and be able to come, sit and roll over. Choosing the right breed for your family is critical and the most honest people to ask are new puppy owners. This episode of GOOD DOG features great tips on training puppies. Listen for your chance to win a free copy of "Before and After Getting Your Puppy"!

DogStarDaily.com

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Marc Bekoff is professor emeritus of biology at the University of Colorado-Boulder and cofounder, with Jane Goodall, of Ethologists for the Ethical Treatment of Animals. In his book, "The Emotional Lives of Animals" and on this GoodDog podcast, Marc shares stories about the love, compassion, grief, embarrassment, anger and empathy that dogs experience from his years of scientific research.

http://literati.net/Bekoff/

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Never underestimate the canine sense of smell and what dogs can be trained to accomplish. On this episode of the "Good Dog" podcast, we'll hear about dogs who are successfully trained to alert their diabetic masters when the person's glucose is approaching the danger level. Turns out that humans emit a particular odor when their levels drop which dogs can detect. Dogs4Diabetics is a California-based nonprofit organization that is training and placing these dogs with diabetics. The stories that Program Director Carol Edwards shares are amazing!

www.dogs4diabetics.com

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Since 1942, Guide Dogs for the Blind has been enhancing mobility for qualified individuals by providing partnerships with trained dogs. In this episode of the “Good Dog” podcast, Joanne speaks with Anne Workman of Canine Community Programs about the different breeds they train, the pros and cons of having a guide dog, and how their program works, from conception through training and placement. Guide Dogs is entirely funded by private donation and there are no costs to the person receiving a guide dog. Volunteers are key to the success of this program and you’ll hear about the numerous ways to become involved – from helping to socialize puppies to housing breeders.

www.guidedogs.com

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Dogs don’t naturally behave the way we want them to behave; they must learn to adjust to a human environment. Dr. Ian Dunbar explains why threats and bribes don’t work with dogs and why it’s most important for dog owners to be clear on the difference between good and bad behavior. This episode includes tips on ensuring that your dog is friendly to people and knows where and when to pee and poop.

DogStarDaily.com

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Trish King, author of “Parenting Your Dog” discusses puppy behavior and how we can deal with it. If you have a question that you’d like answered about your dog, please write to GoodDog@SmarterPodcasts.com SmarterPodcasts.com, Delivering Sound Advice. Trish King, CPDT and author of “Parenting Your Dog” joins host Joanne Greene once again to discuss puppy […]

Trish King, CPDT and author of "Parenting Your Dog" joins host Joanne Greene for the inaugural Good Dog podcast. Topics discussed cover study of dog behavior, family dogs, walking, sniffing, naps, how behavior is dictated by breed and more.

If you have a question that you'd like answered about your dog, please write to us at GoodDog@SmarterPodcasts.com

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