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Covered in Pet Hair is a boozy cat & dog podcast for pet lovers! Join pet pros and enthusiasts for drinks, games, and pet care tips. with host, Isabel Alvarez Arata.
"Covered in Pet Hair" Theme Song Written & Produced by Mark Winter
© Copyright 2020 Such Fun Music (ASCAP)
In this episode, Isabel shares a drink and a chat with Gordon Templeton and Andrew Churley, the guys behind Optimus Gear, makers of a revolutionary dog car harness that is currently the only crash-rated car harness on the market. Born from an incident with Gordon's pup, Nala, the idea for the Defender Harness evolved over seven years. Together, Gordon and his friend and Sales and Marketing Manager, Andrew, share their passion for pet safety with pet parents around the world by providing innovative, top-notch quality products that take vehicular safety very seriously. Watch and learn about the lack of regulation in pet-specific vehicular safety and how dangerous a quick trip to the vet can be for a pet that is improperly restrained. In addition, discover what makes Optimus Gear so different and why they are the best product currently on the market for car safety and dogs.
Listen to Episode #106 Now:
Show NotesIn today's episode, Isabel interviews Rob Kovler, CEO of Therapetixx. Therapetixx is a brand of plant-based pet products that offer therapies for common pet ailments. In the episode, Isabel asks Rob to identify key differences in the way in which conventional veterinary medicine approaches pet-related health conditions and how a holistic approach might look. Together, Isabel and Rob learn what makes grass turn yellow and burn when a pet pees on it and how this unsightly side effect of having a dog can be remedied. Because people love their pets and their lawns, Therapetixx designed a product to keep the grass greener and grasses thriving. Enjoy!
Listen to Episode #105 Now:
Show NotesJoin Isabel and inventor, Kirsten Brand, to discuss how Kirsten was inspired to invent noise-canceling headphones for dogs. Raising a noise-phobic dog is no easy feat and Emma, Kirsten's beloved dog, showed many of the typical signs of noise phobia and noise-induced anxiety during storms and fireworks. Wanting to come up with a solution for a problem that 1 in 3 dogs - maybe more - experience regularly, Kirsten not only developed a product that is comfortable for dogs to wear but also plays relaxing music to enhance their enjoyment. Play along to learn just how serious the problem of noise-phobia can be for dogs and their families and get some tips on how your dog can be trained to accept the technology. Then, listen as Kirsten shares her Shark Tank experience and how the sharks got it very wrong with her product. Enjoy the show!
Listen to Episode #104 Now:
Show NotesJoin Isabel as she celebrates love with her favorite bromance, the one between Nathan the CatLady Kehn and Sterling "TrapKing" Davis. These two cat lovers are advocates, rescuers, and best friends. They travel the US educating and motivating cat lovers at events, conferences, fundraisers, and more. In this episode, Isabel asks Nathan and Sterling how they met, how they got into their work with cat rescue, and more. Isabel makes the guys blush with her game, "Cat-Inspired Pick-up Lines" and gets to know their cat daddy style in "Never Have I Ever: Cat Dad Edition." Grab a beverage and join the trio for laughs, love, and cats on this awesome episode. Enjoy!!!
Listen to Episode #103 Now:
Show NotesIn this episode, we get to know Shaina Denny, Founder and CEO of Dogdrop Dog Daycare. Shaina's dog, Poppy, was a playful, energetic puppy and inspired Shaina to use her extensive business skills to benefit dogs and their families. Dogdrop members (the dogs) and their humans get top-notch care and customer service in conveniently located centers. Committed to the quality of the care they provide, Dogdrop also prioritizes their employees with dedicated and extensive training programs and thoughtful scheduling that prevents burnout. Learn more about this awesome organization as Isabel and Shaina exchange pet industry experiences and dig into the many benefits of flexibility in pet care. Enjoy!
Listen to Episode #102 Now:
Show NotesSamm Hutchison, Founder of Bear's Bites and Co-Founder of the Bear's Bites Foundation, is a personal friend of Isabel's. In this fun and informative episode, Isabel and Samm celebrate the holidays while Samm shares her relatively short yet wildly successful pet industry journey. Samm and Isabel discuss Samm's 'Grinchy' take on the holidays and her unrelenting love of dogs, namely her dog, Bear.
Samm also lets us in on her treat-making operation, how long freeze-dried and dehydrated treats last, and more. These two boozy pet lovers have such a great conversation and time that listeners will feel like they too are catching up with old friends. Enjoy the show!
Listen to Episode #101 Now:
Show NotesJoin Isabel and Sally Williams, Founder of Mission Meow, to learn about what makes Mission Meow different from any other feline rescue and advocacy organization. Sally and Isabel discuss disappointing rescue stats and how Sally went from helping pet parents pay for their pet's cancer treatments to now rallying the troops - aka businesses - to support feline rescues. Play along as Sally tells us why senior cats rock, how to meet the perfect cat for you, and more. You won't be disappointed in this discussion from two boozy pet lovers!
Listen to Episode #100 Now:
Show NotesJoin Isabel as she catches up with a fantastic pet lover and new friend. Carolyn Rafferty and Isabel met in person at SuperZoo in 2023. They hit it off immediately. Carolyn and her husband, Robert, created a fantastic product and, in this episode, Isabel asks her all about what inspired their litter box tool and the process of creating the product and getting it to market.
Isabel and Carolyn also discuss how Carolyn is raising her children to be cat lovers and the ages during which kids can help with cat-related chores. Whether you have kids or not, you'll surely learn a lot about litter boxes, cat care, and more in this awesome episode.
Listen to Episode #99 Now:
Show NotesThis week's episode is all about thanksgiving. Whether we're looking forward to celebrating the holidays or are in the midst of profound pet loss and grief, Mindy Meiering of Rainbow Bridge Deck gives tons of helpful tips for being true to ourselves and our emotions this holiday season.
Isabel and Mindy discuss how holidays can be overwhelming for many. Mindy gives us permission to skip the party, leave early, and take care of ourselves this time of year.
Listen to Episode #98 Now:
Show NotesWe all know military working dogs have a tough job but do we know what happens when they retire? In this episode, Isabel interviews Bob Bryant, Co-Founder of Mission K9 Rescue, a 501c-3 that rescues, reunites, rehomes, rehabilitates, and repairs military working dogs when their working days are through. For many of these dogs, the process of finding their way back to their soldier, their country, and a permanent living situation is hard but Mission K9 makes sure that every dollar they earn from donors goes right to the care of these important canine soldiers. Learn more about the organization, the challenges they face, and the way you can get involved while enjoying Bob's banter and Isabel's games. Enjoy the show!
Listen to Episode #97 Now:
Show NotesTom Aiello founded Operation Good Boy after realizing that the military story was a beloved part of American culture that many people, including pet lovers, enjoy. In this episode, Isabel learns more about Tom's vision, his loyal pack, and how Operation Good Boy gives back to the military K9 community.
Military aficionados will love our first game in which we cover military training programs such as Delta Force and Army Ranger School. Shoppers like Isabel will enjoy the second game in which Isabel names some of Operation Good Boy's unique products and discusses how they relate back to Tom's military service
A perfect way to celebrate Veteran's Day 2023, Tom closes the interview with a toast to all the servicemen, servicewomen, and working dogs who give so much for our nation. Enjoy and cheers to military veterans!!!
Listen to Episode #96 Now:
Show NotesIn this episode, Isabel interviews Ross Hewitt, screenwriter and producer of the children's film, Kris the Cat. Kris the Cat is the story of a cat that belongs to an Icelandic queen and is based on an Icelandic folk tale. Having had 13 cats growing up, Ross is no stranger to the depth of cat-friendly friendships. He shares his appreciation of cats, their curiosity, and problem-solving skills while discussing the behind-the-scenes details of how Kris the Cat came off the page and into film form. Join Isabel in getting to know Ross and his masterpiece in this heartwarming episode about perseverance, living in the moment, and making dreams come true. Enjoy!
Listen to Episode #95 Now:
Show NotesBritt Kascjak believes that the world of outdoor travel is exponentially better with furry friends by our side. As Founder of The Kas Pack, Britt is dedicated to helping pet parents incorporate their pets into their travel plans. She also loves Halloween!
Isabel couldn't resist inviting Britt to participate in Covered in Pet Hair's 2023 Halloween Special to discuss Britt's love of all things spooky, creepy, and outdoorsy. In this episode, Britt shares her family's adventuring experiences (and mistakes) in the hopes that, by listening, pet lovers will better connect with nature, discover new adventures, and build their outdoor skills along with their beloved cats and dogs. From ghost stories to surprisingly placed dead bodies, this episode has nothing on Wednesday Addams!
Listen to Episode #94 Now:
Show NotesIn this episode, Isabel discusses the whys and hows of navigating pet-friendly rental homes with El Paso-based top-producing realtor, Brian Hall. It's not always easy but there are ways to find the perfect pet-friendly rental home. Brian Hall, who specializes in military moves, helps pet parents ace their next rental application and interview by highlighting the importance of a pet resume, why size matters when it comes to pets, and what breeds he has seen present challenges in the rental process.
Watch this show today, and when looking for a new rental home. You and your pet will love the tips as they are sure to steer you into the right rental.
Listen to Episode #93 Now:
Show NotesSid Chand is the generous founder behind Booze for Paws, a spirits company that donates all profits to animal rescue. From whiskey to gin and some spirits in between, Sid knows booze and loves pets, which is what brought him on Covered in Pet Hair with fellow boozy pet lover, Isabel.
In this episode, Isabel and Sid learn whether or not the word whiskey should have an E, how Sid likes to drink his whiskey, and how many whiskeys one restaurant in San Diego offers aficionados. In addition, Isabel and Sid share their love of pets and animal rescue, their commitment to supporting homeless pets, and how small consumer choices can make a world of difference. Cheers!
Listen to Episode #92 Now:
Show NotesNicole Packin is back for a second time on Covered in Pet Hair. This time, she's talking about her mobile canine gym, based in the Dallas area. As the daughter of an Orthopedic Surgeon with a profound interest in canine physiology, Nicole combines her love of anatomy and desire to help dogs live life to the fullest as a fitness coach on wheels. Driving from home to home to allow dogs to experience one-on-one physical training and massage, Nicole brings healing, stamina, and endurance to dogs of all ages and fitness levels.
Join Isabel and Nicole as they catch up about all things pets, Nicole's move from Miami to Dallas, and all that canine fitness and massage have to offer Dallas pet lovers.
Listen to Episode #91 Now:
Show NotesIn this episode, Isabel had the pleasure of speaking with Colin Topham, the founder of alchemypet, a brand known for its innovative line of supplements designed to enhance various aspects of a dog's well-being. Their discussion starts with a round of Never Have I Ever - Dog Parent Edition then delves into the motivations and principles driving the creation of alchemypet's products.
Isabel provides an impromptu product review. She's a fan of the line because she used it with her old hound dog, Titan, before he went to the Rainbow Bridge. Don't worry, there are no tears to shed in this fun and relatable episode. Enjoy!
Listen to Episode #90 Now:
Show NotesIn this episode, Isabel interviews Jaron Lukas, who was a guest on Covered in Pet Hair's earlier seasons. Since their initial chat, Jaron has written a book and become even more passionate about canine nutrition than ever. Backed by science and knowledge he's acquired over years of learning about optimizing dog health and longevity, Jaron schools Isabel on nutrition for both dogs and humans. Do you eat spinach? You may not after tuning in.
Join Isabel and Jaron for an enjoyable and informative chat that will leave you with affordable and accessible improvements to your dog's diet. While Jaron runs a pet food company, he's out to help dog lovers do better by their dogs, one omega 3 at a time.
Listen to Episode #89 Now:
Show NotesDr. Julie Liu is a relief vet, cat lover, and Fear Free Certified Professional. Isabel met her at the Texas Pet Sitters Conference in February. She invited her to join her on Covered in Pet Hair to discuss Fear Free benefits for cats.
During the episode, Dr. Julie shares how her own cat's struggles with vet visits and what she does to prepare him. Dr. Julie gives listeners tips on how to prepare fearful cats for vet visits, how to find a Fear Free cat vet or cat-only vet practice, and more. Prepare to learn more about cats in this cat-specific episode. Enjoy!
Listen to Episode #88 Now:
Show NotesWith veterinary costs rising to unprecedented highs, pet insurance is top of mind for many pet parents. For this reason, Isabel invited Brian Jorgensen of MetLife Pet Insurance to discuss the need for pet insurance and how to create awareness and financial support for pet parents in the US. In this episode, Brian and Isabel discuss the situations that pets get themselves into that cost pet parents a fortune in veterinary bills. They also highlight mistakes pet parents make that land them and their pets at the emergency vet on a Saturday night. It's not always the pet's fault, is it?! Join Isabel and Brian for this fun and relatable chat about pet insurance. You'll be happy you did.
Listen to Episode #87 Now:
Show NotesIn this episode, Isabel invites animal advocate and puppy mill denouncer, Jo Anna Kloster, to discuss her journey of learning about and speaking against puppy mills. While trying to keep a very serious topic light, Isabel and Jo Anna play a game about the realities of puppy mills. And, they discuss the best ways to find ethical or reputable breeders instead of supporting sneaky and cruel breeding businesses.
Isabel shares her frustration with the impulse buying of dogs from breeders, which sets families up for puppy mill purchases. She and Jo Anna provide several better options and insights to help families get the best puppy.
Listen to Episode #86 Now:
Show NotesIn this episode, Isabel asks animal communicator and intuitive, Shannon Cutts, to help woo-woo pet parents navigate their spiritual connections with their pets. They discuss how to recognize a soul pet, what one feels when in their presence, and what's behind some of the instant connections pet parents feel with their animals. Shannon explains what she does in her business, Animal Love Languages, and how profound many of her clients' connections with their pets truly go. Enjoy this woo-woo episode as much as Isabel enjoyed bringing it to you!
Listen to Episode #85 Now:
Show NotesIn this episode, Isabel and her guest, Lisa Rimmert, discuss the role of humor in grief. Lisa Rimmert, the author of Stay: My Forever Friendship with an Aging Dog, shares her journey writing the book, her initial shock after losing her beloved Dakota, and how humor is a constant, even on the worst days of her life. During their chat, Isabel and Lisa discuss how and when to allow grief to enter the building after a monumental loss such as the loss of a beloved pet.
With a game about animal puns, lots of jokes about her stand-up routine, and many things in common, Isabel and Lisa speak candidly about their love of old dogs, how they try to support others during grief, and more. They even discuss macabre humor and why it's not as bad as we may think. Enjoy the show!
Listen to Episode #84 Now:
Show NotesIn this episode, Isabel invites expert dog trainer, Lorena Leon Patti, to discuss canine culture in the US. Lorena has worked with some of the best of the best in the dog training industry. She has attained some of the highest accreditations available to dog training professionals. Lorena is one of the most knowledgeable and profoundly dedicated dog trainers Isabel has had the pleasure to have on the show.
During their conversation, Isabel and Lorena navigate the goal of dog training and how to find a reputable and trustworthy dog trainer. They break down obedience, debunked science, and how our relationships with dogs can be described as a relationship between humans and aliens. Isabel and Lorena are both Latina women that grew up with very different views of dogs than they have now. As their understanding of dogs has evolved, so has the industry and dog culture at large.
Listen to Episode #83 Now:
Show NotesJody L. Teiche is a pet health expert and pet parent coach. She uses natural and holistic healing to boost pet health. She teaches pet parents how to be more involved in their pets' longevity and quality of life. By opening her client's eyes up to home remedies, homeopathy, the benefits of a whole foods diet, and more, she also inspires pet lovers to better care for themselves.
In this episode, Jody and Isabel discuss the power of homeopathy. Jody thinks homeopathy is elegant and an art form, and Isabel believes it's made her life as a parent easier. Although Isabel hasn't used homeopathy with her pets, she has used them with her children. After interviewing Jody, Isabel, and other pet lovers are sure to think of homeopathy and home remedies before rushing to the veterinarian for minor issues.
Listen to Episode #82 Now:
Show NotesIn this festive interview, Isabel chats with her husband and fellow boozy pet lover, Chris Arata. They discuss their love of cats and dogs, plans for future pets, experience as pet vs human parents, and more.
Chris came to the interview empty handed but he redeemed himself by being a good sport and sharing stories of his life married to a pet professional and rescue advocate. After helping raise neonatal kittens, old dogs, and everything in between, Chris is a pet lover in his own right. Listen to learn what animal-related pick-up line Chris and Isabel is the best way to break the ice.
In this episode, Isabel talks about the great products Sprinkle & Sweep recently brought to market with one of the company's founders, Patrick Shannon. Isabel discovered these products at SuperZoo in August and has been using them ever since. Pet products like their "magic powder" and deodorizing spray are not just a great way to keep pet lovers' homes smelling fresh and clean, they are necessary to control the health concerns associated with unmanaged pet messes. Throughout Isabel and Patrick's chat, you'll learn how Sprinkle & Sweep's products were developed and the brand-new product they have in development. You'll also learn why other popular accident pick-up options don't stand up to Sprinkle & Sweep.
Dr. Michael Dusa was a chiropractor for years. He's also been a fitness fanatic and bodybuilder since his teens. Once he was unable to continue his chiropractic practice due to health concerns, Dr. Dusa turned his attention to the homeless animal population, the overworked and underfunded shelters, and the rescues that desperately need help. He's working tirelessly to raise funds for animal welfare organizations with his brand of pet-focused apparel, The Fozzie Company. In this episode, Dr. Dusa and Isabel discuss the state of affairs for shelters and rescues in 2023 and why it's so important to support them right now. They also discuss some options pet parents have when facing the worst-case scenario - having to give up their pets for financial reasons. Dr. Michael Dusa is passionate about saving pets' lives and his work to Feed Them All™.
Ayoka Bubar is a certified professional dog trainer based in Canada. She specializes in training dog sports and is passionate about making training fun for everyone involved.
In this episode, Isabel speaks to Ayoka both about dog sport basics and about the lack of diversity in the pet industry. Ayoka wants to see more dog breeds and dog owners trying their hand at dog sports because of the many benefits dog sports bring to the lives of dogs and their humans. She also wants to see more BIPOC in the pet industry, be it in veterinary roles, pet care, grooming, or behavior. The pet industry is a multi-billion dollar industry. Ayoka and Isabel agree that there is room for everyone to be represented.
In this episode, Isabel interviews Laura Burgess, an interior designer and avid pet lover. Laura is Head Creative at 4 Cats & Dogs Home Furnishings, a brand that makes furniture and soft furnishings for pet-loving homes.
Drawing from her experience, Laura shares ideas on balancing a love of interior design and pets. While many of us strive to have a beautiful home with a design that's Instagram-worthy, being intentional and putting thought into our purchases, aesthetics, and more, ensures that our choices remain pet-friendly. Laura encourages pet lovers with a taste for design to know their pet's habits and routines, purchase quality items, and make choices that will protect their investments.
Join Isabel and Jessica Fisher of the Pet Parenting Reset on Covered in Pet Hair's 2022 Holiday Special for a discussion about pets and holiday gift ideas. As a dog trainer and pet parent coach, Jessica knows what works and what doesn't. She's a self-proclaimed 'picky pet parent' that only wants the best for her dog, Kim, and her lucky kitties.
In this holiday special, Isabel invites Jessica to play two gift-specific games in which she asks Jessica if she would consider gifting these popular pet products to her pets or the pet lovers in her life. Watch this episode before you invest in any pet products as gifts or for your own pets because you may just reconsider your choices. Enjoy and Happy Holidays!!!
Nitto is a global Japanese company that has been making innovative industrial materials for over 100 years. They are the makers of the best-selling lint roller in Japan. In this episode, Isabel chats with Virginia Mott, Nitto's Senior Marketing Manager who often dabbles in product design. Virginia was determined to bring a Japanese household staple, multi-use and premium lint rollers, to the US, especially to those that are constantly 'covered in pet hair.' She and her team did just that: they gave the lint roller a glow-up. Virginia and Isabel get to know each other as they discuss Nitto's newest product, ZeLo. Together, they learn about the different types of pet hair and the differences between "hair" and fur" in a game Isabel calls "Pet Hair Facts." Virginia shows off the many features that make ZeLo unique and Isabel gives her enthusiastic review.
Join Isabel for an informative and insightful conversation with pet cannabis expert and holistic pet mentor, Angela Ardolino, as they break down cannabis and medicinal mushroom use in pets. No stranger to CBD and all the controversy that surrounds it, Isabel comes prepared with questions to clear up the vocabulary that surrounds 'CBD terminology.' She also asks questions about the uses, Certificates of Analysis, and important nuances where sourcing cannabis is concerned.
Join Isabel and Amanda Friemann, Marketing Coordinator for BigBarker Dog Beds, for a chat about dog sleep and the importance of supporting our dogs in their sleep and as they age. Dogs need sleep just as much as humans. They can suffer from poor sleep hygiene and suffer many consequences as a result. They also need supportive beds to help them in their aging process. Isabel and Amanda discuss all these things while also learning dog sleep trivia including whether or not dogs suffer from narcolepsy. Grab your favorite drink or a cup of coffee to ward off your zzzzzzs and enjoy the show!
Join Isabel and her guest, Pam Webster, the Crocheting Cat Behaviorist, in a discussion about cats and stress. Pam tells us about the many cats she works with as a cat behaviorist and how stress affects them. With a background as a vet tech, Pam has worked with families to address many different cat behaviors. She also helps cats and their people harness-train in preparation for family adventures. Working with individual clients and preparing rescues for their forever homes, Pam understands the needs of cats.
Paw Power Nutrition was founded to empower dogs to live their best lives. The company set out to innovate a classic dog treat, peanut butter, by making the cleanest, most high-quality product while also formulating it with nutritional boosts for joint health, gut health, and more. In this episode, Isabel gets to know Paw Power Nutrition's Founders, Eric and Christine Schwartz. They share their mission to make dogs happy while supporting dog rescue with their innovative product. Isabel and her guests play a nut-specific trivia game and learn about "the most popular nut" and a fancy, imported nut that can cause toxicity in dogs. They also discuss all the ways that these entrepreneurs and dog people use their products to both help the medicine go down and spread the love.
Unfortunately, black cats have become a symbol of Halloween, putting them in danger of being hurt (or worse) for ritualistic or superstitious reasons. In this episode and in honor of National Black Cat Appreciation, Isabel speaks with cat lover and holistic cat practitioner, Pam Roussell of Purrfectly Holistic. Pam, like Isabel, is an advocate for educating the public on the beauty of black cats and the dangers associated with the many damaging myths and legends that have been handed down throughout history.
What in the world?! American pets consume 25-30% of the meat that is consumed in the US. That's a lot of meat and a huge impact on the environment... namely, the deforestation of the Brazilian Amazon. In this episode, Kathleen Wojtowicz, Marketing Manager for Chippin, a company dedicated to pets and the planet, helps Isabel better understand the HUGE impact that having companion animals, specifically dogs, has on the environment. She also teaches us about two alternative proteins that present a fantastic way to reduce our pets' eco pawprints. Would you eat cricket protein??? Or feed it to your dog?
Doobert is an online software platform that is custom-built for pet rescuers and rescue organizations. Its founder, Chris Roy, has two passions: animals and aviation. He started flying animal rescues — transporting shelter dogs from high-kill locations to areas where they were more likely to be adopted - many years ago. After transporting hundreds of animals, Chris utilized his IT skills to put together a system to coordinate organization and communication within animal rescues and shelters. From there, his passion for the cause only grew as he learned more about the world of animal rescue and the challenges facing these organizations. Today, he's talking about his newest venture, Doobert Forward, which allows animal lovers to shop for their usual pet products while donating to shelters and rescues of their choice.
In this episode, Isabel and Erin Scott, host of the Believe in Dog Podcast, celebrate all things Baltimore and their mutual 'love of dog.' Isabel is a big fan of the State of Maryland, having attended college at the University of Maryland. Chatting with Erin, a born and raised Baltimorean, not to be confused with 'Baltimoron,' Isabel asks about Erin's work with B-More Dogs, a local rescue that helps Baltimore pets get much-needed veterinary care. Erin shares that many pet lovers in Baltimore are underserved and refers to some of the areas as "veterinary deserts."
Erin Moore was a successful dog trainer that had it all on paper but was burnt out and grumpy all the time. She needed help with her business and, by finding help from a business coach, became a business consultant and coach herself.
In this episode, Isabel and Erin take a deep dive into dog training as a career. They discuss why all dog parents need a dog trainer but not all dog trainers need to work with every dog parent. They talk about dog training certifications and whether or not they are truly necessary. Isabel and Erin consider the importance of values and finding the right client/trainer dynamic. Erin is a no-nonsense pet pro with lots of excellent advice to give. If you're in any kind of dog business, she's a go-to mentor.
Dom Hodgson is known as the UK's - and maybe the world's - leading pet business coach. He mentors pet industry business owners from around the world and has written various books on dog training and business growth. In this episode, Isabel invites Dom to play two games that help us learn more about this dynamic and straightforward business coach. He shares how UK pet owners are different from US pet owners and gives us a peek into his next book, which will teach business owners how to "Disnify" their pet businesses.
Isabel had a blast wrapping up Covered in Pet Hair’s second season with the duo behind the Pet Life Radio Original Podcast, Groomer Humor. This father/son, groomer/stand-up comic pair has over 40 years of dog grooming experience between the two of them and endless laughs both on stage and off.
In the season finale, Isabel invites Rudy V and Anthony Rey to play “Humor Rumor,” a true and false game about the benefits of humor on the human body. Did you watch the movie Patch Adams? It comes up when Anthony Rey drops some knowledge on us. To wrap up the show and season, Isabel invites “Dad” and Anthony to play “Never Have I Ever, Dog Lover Edition” in which she learns that the most difficult dog grooming clients tend to be Leo on the zodiac.
It's an ongoing discussion in the pet industry that cats are underestimated and underserved, especially when compared to dogs. Emily Hall of KittyCatGo is changing that. She and her family are out to inspire fellow cat lovers to include their cats in their travel and outdoor adventures. Emily believes that many cats crave adventure and engagement with their people and environment. She is passionate about teaching the cat adventuring community to safely explore with their cats, using proper gear, training techniques, and lots of rewards.
In this week's episode, Pam Johnson-Bennett, America's Favorite Cat Expert, helps us 'Think Like a Cat' by playing a game Isabel calls "POV: Cat" in which Isabel asks Pam what cats are thinking when common changes take place in their lives and homes. Pam also explains the complexity of adding a second cat to a single-cat household and why some cat personalities aren't the best match. In addition, Pam tells us that she doesn't like to see families bring kittens into homes where older cats live because the kitten doesn't quite know how to behave and the new addition tends to stress out the older cat. . Instead, Pam insists cat lovers match ages and personalities to ensure everyone thrives, always putting the resident cat first. All's fair in love and cats, right?
Cathy Bennett is a delight! She is the creator behind the Groovy Goldendoodles blog, co-host of the Girls with Dogs podcast, and therapy dog coordinator for one of the largest hospitals in the Southeast, MUSC. Cathy wasn't always a dog lover but, as is common in the pet industry, a dog changed her life and turned it upside down in all the right ways. Now, Cathy uses her self-described obsession with the breed to educate and entertain Goldendoodle lovers around the world.
In this episode, Isabel chats with friends and co-founders, Purvi & Ruchi, who came together to build a dog-centric social media platform that links dog parents with other dog lovers in their community. Isabel asks Purvi and Ruchi what inspired their dog-obsessed technology and they share their goals for the app-based platform.
As is customary, Isabel also invites her guests to play two awesome games: Pet Stats & Doggie Dates. Not surprisingly, Purvi and Ruchi ace Pet Stats because these two social entrepreneurs do lots of research on pets and the pet industry. In Doggie Dates, they share their favorite ideas for doggie playdates. Spoiler alert: the extrovert favors birthday parties while the more introverted co-founder prefers a one-on-one visit. Enjoy the show!
In this week's episode, Isabel chats with Aitch Alexandar, trans/queer author and cat lover/advocate. Aitch didn't grow up with cats but has always had an affinity with them, likely a trait he inherited from his father. Isabel and Aitch discuss a few of Aitch's favorite things including his favorite cat breed and how he likes his pizza in a game called "Aitch's Favs." Isabel also invites Aitch to read one of his poems. He chooses Tombstone, which is the final poem in his book, My Body is a Junkyard. In it, Aitch tells us that every single cat he meets is a rainbow and every pizza he eats is a poem, even the not-so-good ones. Aitch is a truly special soul, one that lights up in the presence of cats, speaks multiple languages, and has overcome much adversity to proudly be who he is today.
Isabel had a blast chatting with "Budgetdog" on all things pets and the many expenses that come along with pet parenting. Brennan Schlagbaum, Founder of Budgetdog, is a former CPA Audit Manager. He now helps people from all over the world pay off debt and build wealth with his advice and financial education. In this episode, Isabel and Brennan discuss the many costs associated with adopting and caring for a pet. Brennan would never advise anybody to give up their pet to save money, but he does believe that many pet lovers need to be more conscious about how many pet-related expenses they take on and how they budget for unexpected pet care needs. The goal of this informative and fun episode is for pet lovers to find a balance between their love of pets and the financial goals they've set for themselves and their families. Balance is hard to find but experts like Budgetdog break it down in ways that are easier to achieve.
What is a cat therapist? What herbs, essential oils, and other remedies can cats safely use? How does one offer an "aromatic" to a cat? Isabel asks all these questions and more in Cat Therapy, an interview with Holistic Cat Therapist, Julie-Anne Thorne. Julie-Anne left her fulltime unrelated career only a few years ago to become a holistic cat therapist. In her work as such, Julie-Anne helps connect cats to their humans. As in any holistic therapy work, Julie-Anne has many tools in her toolbox, from botanicals and behavior modification to enrichment and exercise. Watch this episode if you want to help your cat voice their wants and better meet their needs. You won't be disappointed!
Sara McLoudrey founded Decisive Moment Pet Consulting to help the positive pet training industry grow. Sara and her business are focused on two main goals: mentoring fellow pet professionals and sharing the Care with Consent concepts.
In this episode of Covered in Pet Hair, Sara plays "Walk of Shame" in which she calls out all the dog training mistruths and misinformation that she sees on social media. She also teaches Isabel the concept of "care with consent," which is about allowing a dog to choose the way they are handled. Different from cooperative care, care with consent is not always enthusiastic on the dog's part but is an important and nuanced step in bonding and enjoying our relationships with our dogs.
Doobert is an online software platform that is custom-built for pet rescuers and rescue organizations. Its founder, Chris Roy, has two passions: animals and aviation. Many years ago, he started flying animal rescues — transporting shelter dogs from high-kill locations to areas where they were more likely to be adopted. After transporting hundreds of animals, Chris realized that coordinating the ground and aviation legs was inefficient, at best. He knew there had to be a better way. Utilizing his IT skills, he hired developers to put together a system to coordinate the trips. From there, his passion for the cause only grew as he learned more about the world of animal rescue and the challenges facing these organizations. In this episode, I ask Chris all about the importance of technology in animal rescue. We learn how Doobert helps rescues and how saving rescues time also saves animals.
Whitney Bullock has been working with cats for over 15 years. She is the only Certified Feline Master Groomer in Charleston, South Carolina, and the surrounding areas. Whitney is a social media maven with over 50,000 followers on Instagram alone. In this episode, Isabel invites Whitney to play three games with her. In the first game, "Purrrrcentage," Whitney answers Isabel's questions with an estimated percentage to gauge how pet parents and their cats perceive cat grooming, how often they take their cats to the groomers, and more. In the second game, "Mat Chat," Whitney gives Isabel a lesson on why cats need certain things "groomed" and what causes certain messes. Before wrapping up the show, Isabel puts Whitney in the hot seat in a game she calls "Haters Gonna Hate." Whitney is a great sport and a true expert in the field of feline grooming but even that doesn't save her from the online know-it-alls. In this last game, Isabel gives her a chance to face the haters once and for all.
Abigail Witthauer founded The Roverchase Foundation in 2015. The Roverchase Foundation is a 501c3 non-profit dedicated to providing professionally trained service animals to individuals with disabilities. They are hopefully expecting their "G" litter this spring if Mother Nature cooperates. Abigail's latest mama is not yet ready to be bred. Abigail explains the gestation period of dogs and why her smart mama might be holding out. In this episode, Isabel and Abigail play Service Dog Fact or Fiction, discuss the very interesting history of service dogs in a game called The History of Service Dogs, and talk about how regulation is needed to ensure that the dogs and their partners in the disability community get the respect and support they deserve.
Krista Karpowich is canine-obsessed, especially when it comes to dogs' health and wellness. In this episode, Isabel does her best to get to know Krista on a personal level by playing "Would You Rather," a game in which she asks Krista to choose between two things that are, at face value, equally desirable. Krista is a natural-minded dog nutritionist with lots of experience trying and recommending pet products, which is why Isabel invites her to play "Shopaholic takes the pet aisle" in the second part of the show.
In this game, Isabel gives Krista 2-minutes to list all the best pet products. Krista runs out of time but we learn about some really special and practical dog products - from food to supersonic tick repellent. Oh my! Krista is a wealth of knowledge and a fellow bourbon drinker. She and Isabel had a great time talking about dogs and the small ways that pet parents can make our dogs' lives better. Enjoy the show!!!
In this episode, Isabel interviews Julie Posluns, Applied Animal Behaviorist and Founder of Cat School, an online training school where cats can learn fun and practical behaviors. Julie and Isabel play "Cat School" a game in which Julie imagines a typical day in a Pre-K class and swaps the kids out for cats. She tells Isabel what the cats would do if forced to adopt a school day as humans do. Unsurprisingly, the cats probably wouldn't be as cooperative as the kids.
Despite cats' likely unwillingness to sit in a morning circle, Julie believes that all cats can benefit from training and enrichment, plus, she knows that training helps to strengthen the cat-human bond and can prepare our cats for real-world experiences. She also believes that online training is an excellent complement to in-person training, especially for cats. Don't miss this episode if you want to teach your cat some tricks, behavior modification, or have ever dreamt of walking your cat on a harness.
For Covered in Pet Hair's 50th episode, Isabel had the pleasure to interview Callie McCullough who comes from a musical family, has been playing the guitar since she was a child, and is a rising country music star. In the episode, Isabel and Callie discuss the history of country music, their mutual love of fashion, and, of course, Callie's rescue cat, Kitty. Callie is as beautiful as she is delightful. She's a pleasure to chat with and is gaining much-deserved recognition for her musical talents as well as her personality and style. Grab a drink and join Isabel and Callie for fun, chatter, and celebration. About Callie McCullough A modern songwriter inspired by timeless bluegrass and old-school country music, Callie McCullough has chased her unique muse for years, making contemporary roots music that nods to the legends who came before her. Her new album After Midnight is out now.
Roman Gottfried is a holistic behavior consultant. In this episode, Isabel asks him about holistic dog training, what is considered holistic and what is not. They discuss how dog training should include the whole dog, considerations about any trauma the dog may have experienced, and managing triggers to help the dog reach its full potential. Roman is a complex trauma survivor and has applied his journey toward healing to his approach to helping dogs and their families. He tells us how dogs in the wild do not experience trauma and what he uses to address dog trauma and dog training. This is an episode Isabel hopes will reach all dog owners because she believes that understanding the commonalities we share with our dogs, how life experiences shape all species, and how we can help each heal other promises to improve the lives of dogs and people everywhere.
In this episode, Isabel chats about books and dating, two of her favorite things to talk about, with Kendra Clark, a corporate attorney in the cannabis world and an author/blogger in the pet world. Isabel asks her how she finds time to do all she does and gets her input on how dogs help singles find their ideal mates.
Kendra is a great sport and has some very good insights into the ways dogs improve our lives, including our dating game. Kendra shares some tips on dating with dogs and the legalities to consider as well as why it's important to take it slow and make sure your new mate will pick up poop in the backyard before committing.
Most working moms will tell you that "mom'ing" while working is hard, but it's just as difficult to truly grasp the challenges working parents face when pulled in a million professional and personal directions.
In this episode, Isabel gets real about her motherhood journey with a fellow pet industry mom, Stephanie Nelson, who runs a pet care service in San Marcos, TX. Her business, On Paws Professional Pet Services was founded in 2015 and offers pet sitting and doggy day care services.
Amy Shever volunteered for many years at animal shelters in Northern California and witnessed pets tragically euthanized because pet owners died without planning for their continued care. Inspired by these tragic circumstances, Amy established the nonprofit, 2nd Chance 4 Pets, in 2004 and volunteers as the organization’s Director. The all-virtual-volunteer organization provides pet owners, veterinarians, animal welfare groups and senior organizations with free resources to help pet owners plan for the possibility that their pets might outlive them. In this episode, Amy and Isabel discuss the staggering number of pets that are surrendered due to their owners' death. Amy gives practical advice on how to begin planning, how to choose a guardian, and how to get started on a will that will identify such guardians. If you have a pet, this is a must-listen episode.
Let's talk about cats and the ladies that love them! In this episode, Isabel interviews Jae Kennedy and Adrienne Lefebvre, known on social media as The Two Crazy Cat Ladies. To start, they play a drinking game - Two Truths and a Lie - in which Jae may have cheated and Adrienne gets Isabel thinking. Jae and Adrienne have never met Isabel before but they figure out her lie tout suite, probably because they love wine as much as Isabel does. From welder (Adrienne) and dog product maker (Jae) "in a past life," these two crazy cat ladies believe that cats aren't as popular or as spoiled as dogs are but they are working to make the lives of cats better by educating their families and creating natural supplements with cats in mind. Isabel quizzes them on their knowledge of cats and their behavior and they all have a great chat about how truly underrated cats can be.
Episode 44 of Covered in Pet Hair features one of the dog training world's most talented leaders. Michael Shikashio, dog aggression expert, and Isabel discuss the reward Mike yields from helping families that are struggling with their dog's aggressive behavior. As a renowned dog trainer specializing in canine aggression, Mike helps families attain peace with dogs that have a hard time managing the world around them. Aggression is complicated but it's something that a dedicated and knowledgeable trainer can successfully address, given the right tools, consistency, and compassion. Mike is a wealth of knowledge and an advocate for aggressive dogs, hoping to help families heal from the overwhelm and fear of fall-out from their aggressive dog's behavior.
The holiday spirit abounds in this episode with John Bartlett and Jessica Dwyer Bartlett. In it, we discuss ways in which cat parents can celebrate the holidays and decorate inside and outside their home while keeping their cats and keepsakes safe. In the first game, Never Have I Ever - Holiday Edition - we find out who has gotten drunk at a holiday party, who has regifted holiday gifts, and more. We learn about the festive cat that graces John and Jess' front yard and play a second game, Keep it or Gift it?! in which we discuss real cat-themed products and if John and/or Jess would keep them or give them away.
It's not every day that a law enforcement officer, trained to seek out proof and follow the letter of the law, comes out with a book about how a special bond with his dog led him to a spiritual awakening, but, thankfully, Brandon Wainwright did just that. A police officer of over a decade, Brandon was never one to jump on a bandwagon, especially when it didn't ring true to him. He needed to see it, feel it, and believe it before endorsing anything in life. Then, he lost his beloved Tyson, a Chihuahua/Doxie mix and that devastating experience changed everything. In this episode, Isabel invites Brandon to put his police senses to the test during the first game, Did it Happen? K9 Edition.
Have you ever heard the term canine mental health? If so, you may know this week's guest, Jenna Romano, because she's credited with coining the term and specializes in teaching families how to prioritize and ease their anxious dog's psyche.
In episode 41, Isabel and Jenna talk about Jenna's journey from showing dogs at the young age of 11 to her dog training business now in her late twenties. Jenna started training dogs to make extra money in college but soon realized that dog training was more her passion than her planned major, film studies. She left her coursework and never looked back. Today, Jenna has a fantastic social media and YouTube following as well as a program for pet parents that need specialized help in separation anxiety, reactivity, and more.
It was such a joy to have the opportunity to chat with Kimberly Gauthier, the creator behind the Keep the Tail Wagging blog, which is about to celebrate its 10th year anniversary. Kimberly has done years of research on feeding dogs raw dog food and how to keep things simple. She recognizes that life is generally 'too expensive, too complicated, and too time-consuming' as it is, she therefore doesn't think raw dog food should be as well. In this episode, I ask Kimberly to rebut the reasons dog parents usually give when they explain why raw feeding is not for them. In an honest and straightforward way, Kimberly agrees with some of these reasons but gives excellent tips on ways around them.
It was an honor for Isabel to sit down with Dr. Christopher Pachel of the Animal Behavior Clinic in Portland, Oregon. Dr. Pachel is one of fewer than 100 Animal Behaviorists in the WORLD! In this episode, Isabel and Dr. Pachel discuss what it takes to become a Diplomate of the American College of Veterinary Behaviorists and earn the right to call oneself an Animal Behaviorist. Apart from a Veterinary degree, and a bunch of research and on-the-job training, Dr. Pachel describes his 4+ year process of obtaining ACVB certification in the show's first game, "What's a Behaviorist?"
Are your pets in your funeral plans??? For Covered in Pet Hair's Halloween Special, Life After Death, I had the opportunity to talk to Traci Denver about things I have never thought about when it comes to funeral homes, cemeteries, cremation, etc. and how our pets fit into all that.
In Covered in Pet Hair Episode 37 with Tori Mistick of the Wear Wag Repeat blog and podcast, Isabel and Tori talk about why Tori chose to make women and dogs her focus. In short, Tori wants to dismantle the patriarchy and help dogs, one successful female pet pro at a time.
Tori is a lover of all things dog and stays active with her two older pups. As they age, she becomes more enamored with her senior pups and all the benefits that come with sharing her life with them. In this episode, Tori plays "Who Run the World" where she guesses if the accomplishments Isabel shares are those of an exceptional human female or of a proud canine.
Elizabeth Gallardo, a longtime rescue volunteer, works with her team and Miami Dade Animal Services to find cats forever homes after they spend some time being socialized around both cats and humans at The Cat's Meow Cafe in Miami. Humans pay a cover fee to enter, can purchase drinks and refreshments, including beer, and play with cats to their heart's content. It's a great concept and a serious undertaking.
Isabel quizzes Elizabeth on cat café trivia, asks all about The Cat's Meow's admission fee, available snacks, and more. Elizabeth shares how Covid-19 impacted their opening plans, how the concept of cat cafés came to be, and even gives us a brief virtual tour of the facility. Elizabeth is a true advocate for the homeless cats in Miami, Florida and Isabel can't wait to visit The Cat's Meow Café the next time she's in her hometown.
Jake Thomas, creator of Golden Hearts, a blog about Golden Retrievers, is Isabel's guest on Covered in Pet Hair's 35th episode. Isabel and Jake play Golden Retriever trivia and Jake aces the whole thing. He even adds additional trivia throughout the interview. In game 2, he lists all the reasons why he believes that Golden Retrievers are the best dogs ever. Did you know that Golden Retrievers have the loudest bark on record? Neither did Isabel but she learned a lot about this beautiful breed during her chat with Jake. Jake thinks Goldens make excellent guard dogs because they can deter intruders with one loud bark while looking absolutely adorable. Isabel had a golden retriever growing up and she shares how not to raise a Golden Retriever. She's thankful resources now exist to help families take better care of their pets than many did when she was growing up.
Isabel does her very best to keep this week's show upbeat and fun, while broaching one of the most important pet-related topics there is: pet loss and grief. Isabel talks to Wendy Van de Poll, Pet Loss & Grief Coach, about the ways in which loving and caring for our pets creates a bond unlike any other. Both agree that sharing our lives with our companion animals fulfills us and gives us purpose. Yet, no matter who we are or how much we love our pets, we will all be faced with the inevitable loss of our pets and the pain and grief that unfortunately follows.
This episode aims to help pet parents know what to expect of the grief that follows a terminal diagnosis or traumatic death, how pet lovers can create a new normal after their loss, and rituals they can include in their mourning period and beyond.
Professional pet care is more than just playtime but this week's guest, Doug Keeling, enjoys it just the same. A guy that is taking the pet sitting industry by storm with his positivity, enthusiasm, and varied contributions, Doug is just the person to talk to about pet sitting as a career. In this episode, Isabel invite Doug to play a couple games, including Badass Bookshelf, in which he lists out the most influential business books he's read and why they made such an impact. He also plays Book, Refer, Pass, inspired by the classic drinking game, Shag, Marry, Kill. He tells us about the creepiest thing he's experienced since starting his pet care business 8 years ago, and how he lived rent-free for almost half of this career as a pet pro.
Dale Ward wrote the book on raising the WORST.DOG.EVER but how bad was bad? Isabel asks her just that in Episode 2 of Covered in Pet Hair's second season. While sipping a cocktail that was much too strong (thanks to Isabel's "husbandger" who misread the pours,) Isabel asks Dale, professional dog trainer and author, about the dog that inspired her book Raising the Worst Dog Ever: A Survival Guide.
In this episode, Isabel and Dale discuss why dogs are "bad dogs" and how positive-based training helped Dale turn her relationship with Wylie around, and inspired her to work with dogs full-time to do the same for other families.
Who more fitting to kick off season two of Covered in Pet Hair than Arden Moore, a pet industry giant with a bartending license?!
Isabel and Arden play "What are They Having?!" a game Isabel knew she'd play with Arden before the show even made its debut. Arden is given the task to call out a drink that a pet parent would order at Ard's Den, her home office/bar/pet lounge, based on their preference for dog breeds. Are they having a messy shot, a fancy glass of champs, or something in between? Only Arden knows.
A super important chat about Pet First Aid & CPR with Pet Tech Master Instructor and Texas' top Pet First Aid Instructor, Beth Bowers. In episode 30, Isabel wraps up season 1 with an episode that's bound to set pet parents and their pets up for a summer of fun in the sun! As a former Pet First Aid Instructor, Isabel believes that all pet parents should learn Pet First Aid - especially those that travel with their pets and/or include their pets in their adventures.
Amy Toman is an SEO. She specializes in search engine optimization. She also specializes in pet care businesses and helping them land their website on that coveted first page of Google's search results. As someone that doesn’t quite consider themselves a crazy pet person or directly involved with the pet care industry, Amy is surrounded by pet-crazed pet care industry professionals every day. As an expert in pet business' online presence and Google My Business listings, Amy knows pet people and what it’s like to work with them.
In Episode 28, Isabel and Elise McGlone, Founder of Rogue Valley Dog Training play "Is It +R?" and discuss whether or not certain popular dog training techniques are considered positive reinforcement, punishment, or "painful punishment." Elise shares her amazing journey in dog training, which started when she was only 13-years-old and training guide dogs for the blind with the permission of her parents, who didn't want to commit to a full-time pet at the time. Isabel and Elise break down a specific dog training technique - the use of spray bottles as behavior deterrents. Isabel shares the "technique" as it was explained to her by a dog trainer she worked with almost 15 years ago.
Kelly Forde is a former bartender turned mobile groomer. She says she'd rather get bit by a dog than deal with drunk people and who can possibly blame her? Dogs are way better company than drunks, no doubt.
Kelly is also the owner/operator of Lots O'Paws Mobile Dog Grooming in Northern Virginia. She's been serving Manassas, Bristow, Haymarket, and Front Royal, Virginia's dog-friendly families for years now and has won great recognition from the local pet loving community for her quality care and commitment to "making the world a more beautiful place, one dog at a time."
In this episode, Isabel digs into what it takes to establish and run a mobile grooming service. She asks Kelly about her grooming trailer, equipment, and more. Kelly doesn't hold back and even shares the pet peeves she deals with on a daily basis when working with - not the pets - but the pet parents. An open book, Kelly gives us a lesson on all she has learned since becoming Northern Virginia's premiere mobile groomer.
Pet retail industry entrepreneurs, AdreAnne and Andy Tesene share their secrets to creating pet boutiques that promote fun and education while encouraging pet parents to make the best decisions for their pets and employing a team of rock stars. This extraordinary couple, owners of Two Bostons - The Store for Happy Pets - in Chicagoland, are celebrating 16 years in business and recently opened a sixth location. They are unstoppable and, in episode 26, they share their secrets and knowledge with Isabel as they play "Cheers or Fears?!" and "If They Only Knew." Isabel asks how they made it out of the pandemic busier than ever and how they ensure that their company values continue to set them apart. AdreAnne and Andy share their favorite pet products, who is most "spendy" with inventory for the stores, and how they delegate responsibilities.
In episode 25, Pet Problems Solved, Isabel interviews Nicole Packin, a fellow Miami girl and pet pro. Isabel asks Nicole to solve common pet problems in a Miami-inspired game called "Yo, I'll Solve It!" and pitch her vision of her new venture, The Packin Method, in a game Isabel calls “The Fish Bowl.” The episode delves into the ways Miami Pet Concierge solves common practical pet problems and how Nicole has taken her experience with canine water therapy and massage to design The Packin Method, “a mobile canine gym for the ages.” Isabel and Nicole share the importance of using our resources when it comes to caring for our pets and reaching out to companies like Miami Pet Concierge to help with pet care when we get busy. Caring for pets and their physical fitness takes a village and, thankfully, many pet pros help families do just that.
In Episode 24, Isabel interviews the one and only Malena DeMartini, the foremost expert on separation anxiety in dogs. Malena helps families around the world with their separation anxiety-ridden dogs and describes separation anxiety as a phobia just like any that humans might experience, an irrational but very real fear.
Isabel plays "Is it a Myth?" with Malena in the hopes of debunking popular myths around the topic that serve only to delay much-needed relief. Isabel also has Malena consider popular "fixes" to separation anxiety and if she'd call them a "bravo" or a "bogus" approach in a second game she calls "BRAVO or BOGUS!"
This episode delves deep into the importance of addressing separation anxiety in dogs and the best ways to do so, while keeping it light and social. Grab a white wine spritzer or a martini and join us for a fun yet important chat on a syndrome that plagues approximately 22 to 55% of the pet dog population.
We've all heard that the pet food industry leaves a lot to be desired and have reasons to suspect that our dogs deserve better than what most pet food manufacturers sell us as "healthy dog food." But, how do we know for sure when the industry isn't exactly forthcoming and science seems to change daily?
In episode 23, Isabel has the opportunity to ask Jaron Lukas, Co-Founder and CEO of Yumwoof Natural Pet Food what he has found to be the good, the bad, and the ugly of the pet food industry. An industry insider, Jaron opens up about the challenges he's faced in the industry and how his company is doing things differently. Coming from the financial technology industry, Jaron has seen the dark side of companies' sole focus on margins and works tirelessly so that his company is able to succeed in the world of business while also delivering a product that he can proudly feed to his own dog and stand behind as a self-described foodie and health nut.
We all hope to be there for our pets as long as they live but what if fate takes a different turn? Isabel invited Christine Ciana Calabrese to discuss just that.
In Episode 22, Isabel talks about the importance of pet care planning for the unexpected with the author of books about planning for pets. Christine Calabrese wrote "What About the Dog" and "What About the Cat" after hearing that a well known cardiologist and author had a freak accident and died. Thinking that none of us is safe from the potential of a devastating accident that leaves us unable to care for our pets, or worse, Christine created her very complete and carefully curated books to help pet parents leave their loved ones prepared in the case they cannot continue caring for their pets.
Ashley Cook believes anyone can be an artist but that's only because art and design come so naturally for this New Jersey native. An "art school drop-out," and reluctant professional interior designer, Ashley's true passion lies in working with dogs and creating something out of nothing with her hands. She truly loves an underdog, whether she be adopting her foster, Captain, and helping him get a handle of his social and health challenges or bringing new life into her home, furniture, and one-of-a-kind garbage finds.
Michael Habicht has become the go-to guy for pet-related discussions on the new social media app, Clubhouse. He hosts upwards of 20 “rooms” every week on the app. The topics range from welcoming puppies to the home, to pet loss and grief, pet nutrition, and more. In episode 20, Michael and Isabel discuss the great conversations being had on Clubhouse, conversations to benefit both pet industry professionals and pet parents. Isabel considers Clubhouse an undiscovered gem and Michael is confident that pet lovers will be leaving platforms like Facebook to take advantage of Clubhouse’s forum-style set-up. Many refer to Clubhouse as a live podcast or show and Michael is making his mark by becoming the leader in pet education on the platform.
Rottweilers are strong, beautiful dogs. They have many fans, including Will Smith and his famous family. In the effort to learn more about this fascinating dog breed, Isabel had the pleasure of interviewing an avid Rottie enthusiast, German-born Judy C. Taylor of Bossy Pawz in Chicago, IL. They enjoyed German-inspired drinks while discussing all things raising, training, and loving Rottweilers, the W pronounced with a V in German. Judy and Isabel play Fun Facts - Rottie Edition and Judy gets a solid A+. She definitely knows and loves this breed. She talks about the pet sitting clients that turned her from a Doberman lover to a Rottweiler enthusiast and how she came to make Kovu and Kion her own.
Best friends and self-described ‘Modern Cat Ladies,’ Rita Reimers and Linda Hall, share the story of how they became BFFs and play a little game called 123 BFF, which was inspired by a Seventeen Magazine bestie quiz. As cat moms to over 30 rescue cats combined and with over 30+ years of experience as pet parents and pet professionals, Rita and Linda, know their stuff. These crazy fun cat ladies tell it like it is, how they met on a Richard Simmons Cruise to Lose, how they came to work together, and what they think about all things cat training. Isabel asks about their podcast, 19 Cats & Counting, Rita talks about her television aspirations, and Linda recalls that time she made Mel Gibson cry in the movie What Women Want.
Jenorise Mejia, Founder and Owner of Winter Park Pet Concierge in Florida, isn't your average pet care business owner. She has a background in wedding planning and, in addition to managing her pet sitting/dog walking business, works as a wedding pet attendant, helping couples make their dream of involving their dogs in their special day a pleasant and memorable reality.
In Episode 16, Isabel asks Dr. Edward Bassingthwaighte, a holistic veterinarian based out of Melbourne, Australia about his uses of natural medicine and alternative approaches to treat his patients. Dr. Edward founded and teaches a healing modality known as Whole Energy Balance Bodywork that benefits dogs, cats, small mammals, chickens, reptiles, you name it. She asks for tips on how to keep our pets healthy long term and any additional support we can give our senior pets, including details about his proprietary WEBB method.
In Episode 15, Abby Volin and Isabel dive into the emotional support animal conundrum. Abby hates the term "emotional support animal" and explains that it's not only a misnomer, but has also become a punch line. Abby doesn't know why the highly incorrect term has taken off but feels that it further stigmatizes those with disabilities, something she works tirelessly to prevent. She, instead, insists that the term for animals that do not qualify as "service animals" is "assistance animals" and she coined the term Animal Accommodation Law to ensure that companies, government entities, and people with assistance animals can work together to accommodate these important animals, protecting their important role in the lives of many Americans.
In episode 14, Vampire's Best Friend, Isabel interviews Tim Mitchum, President of WINPRO Pet, makers of blood protein supplement chews for dogs. Always a fan of a theme, Isabel invites Tim to play "Vampire Lies" while sipping a blood orange Flybird margarita. Tim enjoys a glass of Scout and Cellar Zinfandel while wondering if vampires really exist and what he's gotten himself into.
In Episode 13, Poop & Plastic, Isabel interviews the self-appointed Poop Bag Girl, a woman that set out to make better poop bags and one-of-a-kind poop bag holders. A true expert in all things poop and plastic, Jennifer Blaese owns GreenLine Pet Supply. Jennifer and Isabel have a lot in common including their love of animals, concern for the environment, and penchant for discussing poop, an unavoidable topic in the pet care industry.
On Episode 12, Doggie Deeva, Dee Hoult (see what she did there?!) chats with Isabel about all the ways training thousands upon thousands of dogs over more than a decade prepared her to parent her now three-year-old human, Jack. She plays "Dog vs. Kid," telling Isabel who takes longer to train in common behaviors like potty training and inside voices. She also plays "Right Fit" and discusses how she helps families find the perfect rescue or shelter pet through her Family Pet Selection services.
In episode 11, Wash & Wear, Isabel interviews Brigette Cox of Classy Canine Daycare in Dallas, Texas. Being the first groomer to appear on Covered in Pet Hair, Isabel had a ton of questions for Brigette. She kept asking questions - even though she insisted each was "the last question, I promise."
Married & running a pet sitting business together, Jessica & Chris Milam of Fur Services Fur Pets in Dallas, Texas bomb Isabel's movie-themed trivia game even though they like to call themselves movie buffs. Thank goodness it's not a drinking game cuz they would have run out of drinks 9 minutes into the interview.
In Episode 9, The Funky Bunch, Isabel interviews a pet sitting, podcasting couple of parents, Collin and Meghan Funkhouser. These busy entrepreneurs sip sweet tea as they tell Isabel what it's like to raise humans while pet sitting, boarding dogs, and podcasting, how they got their start in the pet care industry, and why Meghan wasn't impressed with the music Collin chose for their podcast, Pet Sitter Confessional. Between laughs, Isabel plays "The Funky Bunch" and "Good, Bad, Helicopter" with these two expert pet and human parents.
In Episode 8, Isabel interviews her dear friend and former business partner, Beth Wherry Acker. Since they decided to close down their in-home pet care business, The Wag Pack, back in August 2020, Beth and Isabel have both been busy reinventing themselves in the pet care industry. Isabel launched Covered in Pet Hair and Beth launched Dog Minded Training, where she works with dogs and their families one-on-one, board dogs in her home, and even offers board-and-train and doggie day care training options.
In Episode 7 of Covered in Pet Hair, Isabel chats with a person that loves dogs so much, she goes as far as to board them in her own home. Isabel and Deanna Schaar play "No Vacancy" to gauge just what a dog would have to do to never be invited back to the aptly named, Deanna's Dog House. They discuss prerequisites for boarding at Deanna's boutique in-home facility, and how she manages up to 10 dogs plus her own 4, ranging from 1 to 14.5 years of age.
In Episode 6, Wendy Van de Poll, international best selling author, intuitive, and pet lover shares her fulfilling and successful life as an author, despite a misguided and cruel teacher's assurance that she could not make it as a writer. Her talent and hard work have yielded 23 books and 12 best selling titles across multiple genres, including pet loss and grief, entrepreneurship, and cozy mysteries for budding witches and hopeless romantics.
Wendy also discusses the many ways in which she helps aspiring authors take their stories from concept to reality. Well connected, experienced, and having made lots of mistakes along her indie publishing journey, Wendy offers rookie writers guidance based on her intuition, spiritual connection, and expertise.
In Episode 5 of Covered in Pet Hair, Jessica Abernathy, President of the National Association of Professional Pet Sitters, shares encouraging words about the pet sitting industry and its participants; each so resilient that NAPPS rewarded all of its members with the 2021 Business of the Year award.
During the show, Isabel asks Jessica about her cat's peculiar name and how he earned such an unexpected moniker. Jessica describes her kitten rescue efforts and her knack for giving her fosters terrible names, which, at least in this one case, stuck permanently.
Former pet industry entrepreneur turned business coach, Lauren Heath, aka Empathpreneur, chats with Isabel about how Covid-19 obliterated her small pet care business in 2020, how she bravely accepted the inevitable shift, and what she has planned for 2021 and beyond.
Lauren, a strong believer in the power of video, also discusses how pet parents can help small businesses by engaging with their social media, giving referrals, and reviewing their products and services. Passionate about encouraging pet parents and business owners alike, Lauren is excited for the new year. She and Isabel toast to what's to come and emphatically say "BYE, 2020!"
Raw feeding expert, Scott J. Marshall II, gives Isabel a lesson on the misconceptions, certifications, and best practices associated with feeding dogs fresh, raw foods. In this episode, we get into that one time Scott almost burned down his mom's house, what he feeds his dogs, and how he wishes he had more freezer space, or less, depending on the day. Isabel asks about the logistics of meal prep, sourcing, and expenses associated with raw feeding. Scott is a true expert and makes a great guest. His dedication to his craft shines bright.
Newlywed cat experts, John and Jess Bartlett, give Isabel a detailed rundown of their lives raising 9 cats of their own while fostering others for the world to see. These two cat lovers have a ton on their plate but their passion for cats and educating cat people knows no bounds. Together, John and Jess are making the world a better place, 24 cat trees and 11 litter boxes at a time.
Isabel & world renowned Animal Communicator, Tim Link, discuss the many unconventional yet effective care options available for pets, their health, and their psyche. From prosthetic testicular implants, to manifesting the perfect pet, and interrupting a cat's intimate moment, this show is jam-packed with unexpected expert insights that all pet parents can enjoy.
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