Pet Talk: Recent Episodes
Audacy
From pet health to pet behavior, we've got experts to answer your questions. Doctors Andrea Dennis and Eva Ceranowicz handle the health questions and alternate episodes with Laurie Fass, who can answer your questions regarding animal behavior.
Laurie Fass discusses how animals communicate, highlighting the book Why Animals Talk: The New Science of Animal Communication by Arik Kershenbaum. She focuses on how dogs and cats vocalize, with an emphasis on dogs, exploring why they vocalize, the meaning behind different vocalizations, and how pet owners should respond. Additionally, she takes a call from a listener seeking advice on integrating a new cat into a home with other cats, addressing issues of feline conflict.Laurie announced her upcoming group class starting in March. Information hereWindsor | Laurie Fass Dog TrainingWest Hartford | Laurie Fass Dog Training A book about animal communication Laurie recently read is "Why Animals Talk" by Arik Kershenbausm. Laurie gives a brief review of the book and weighs in on her experience with dogs and cats. A caller wanted to know the best way to calm his older cat's aggressive behavior towards a new cat.
Laurie Fass celebrates the Chinese New Year of the Snake with Brian Kleinman, owner of Riverside Reptiles Education Center in Enfield, discussing snakes, reptiles, and their rescue work. They explore the pros and cons of owning reptiles as pets, what to expect when caring for them, and the unique features of the center, which focuses on education, conservation, and showcasing reptiles and amphibians. For more information, visit www.riversidereptileseducationcenter.com.
A look back at past shows from 2024. A caller, who had called in before, had more questions about a Tom cat that has adopted him, and his 13 year old cat who is not always pleased about it.
Dr. Andrea Dennis explores a range of pet related topics, focusing on health, safety, and overall care. She addresses avian influenza (bird flu), offering valuable insights and precautions for those with backyard chickens to help prevent the spread of the disease. Additionally, she emphasizes the hazards of ice melts during winter and provides practical tips to protect pets. Dr. Dennis also answers questions from callers on various pet health issues, including animal cancer (such as melanoma and chemotherapy) and whether to remove a dog's lipoma. She offers holiday safety advice, emphasizing the need to keep toxic foods like chocolate away from pets, create safe spaces for them during holiday and New Year’s celebrations, and keep essential emergency numbers, such as the ASPCA Poison Control Center, readily available. She is also joined by Paul Massa, a longtime client and devoted pet parent. Together, they discuss the challenges and rewards of caring for aging pets, including ensuring their quality of life and making informed decisions about their well-being.
Laurie Fass discusses how dogs react to colder temperatures, including tips on protecting their paws, getting them used to boots, and washing their feet after walks. She highlights how different breeds and coats handle the cold and provides advice for helping pets during winter months. Laurie also addresses a caller's question about a stray cat adopting their home and shares insights on the impact of getting a pet during the holiday season.
Dr. Andrea Dennis shares insights on enjoying a safe and happy holiday season with pets. She provides tips on keeping dogs and cats safe around Christmas trees, ornaments, lights, cords, and tinsel, as well as gift ideas for pets and their owners. Additionally, she offers advice on preparing for winter and potential disasters, ensuring pets are well cared for during the season.
Laurie Fass recaps her Thanksgiving and shares what she gave her pets, discussing which human foods are safe and unsafe for animals. She also addresses leash manners and dog walking, emphasizing the importance of training while offering tips and statistics. Laurie takes a call about introducing a new cat into a household with an existing cat, providing advice on the process. Additionally, she responds to a question about choke collars versus harnesses, sharing her thoughts on the use of these tools.
Laurie Fass discusses the Peanut the Squirrel incident in New York State, sharing her perspective and what actions she would take in such a situation. She examines the various options law enforcement could have pursued, highlighting the distinction between the letter and intent of the law and how it can be misinterpreted when it comes to animals. Laurie also delves into the legalities of pet ownership, introduces notable animal laws, and offers her opinions on them.
With the holiday season fast approaching, Dr. Andrea Dennis shares valuable advice on pet care, starting with Thanksgiving. She highlights safe and healthy foods for pets, how to prepare them, and which foods to avoid. Additionally, she addresses callers' concerns about their pets, including issues related to itching, coughing, and claw trimming.
Laurie Fass discusses her experiences with separation anxiety in dogs, available treatments, and answers behavioral questions from callers about training, caring for elderly dogs, and working with rescue dogs.
November is National Senior Pet Month, and Dr. Andrea Dennis shares the joys of adopting senior pets while cautioning that it may not be suitable for everyone. She defines what constitutes a senior pet and addresses hyperthyroidism in older animals, particularly in cats. Dr. Dennis highlights key signs to watch for, treatment options, and discusses the ways we connect with our pets.
Dr. Andrea Dennis talks about how to keep pets safe during Halloween, covering key issues such as managing pet anxiety when guests come over, animals tolerating costumes, and the risks associated with Halloween candy. She also offers tips to help pets navigate the holiday more comfortably.
Laurie Fass talks about online pop-up ads focused on dog training and animal products, the risks associated with retractable leashes, dressing pets in Halloween costumes and jackets, the impact of daylight saving time on animals, and the importance of choosing the right dog for you.
Laurie Fass discusses the precautions to take with robotic automated litter boxes for cats and emphasizes the importance of thoroughly understanding reviews, contracts, and guarantees related to animal products and services.
There are so many new and surprising types of kitty litter. It can be confusing picking one that's right for your cat. "The Kiffness" is a South African musician who is known for making funny and clever musical mixes often using sounds from dogs and cats. Recently he went viral with a mix spoofing Trump's comments about "they're eating the dogs and eating the cats". Resource guarding is a common problem. Laurie discusses how natural instincts and domestication can lead to these issues.
An escaped donkey living with an elk herd, a lost Bull Terrier living with coyotes, and one author's bizarre "con" of having a Shih Tzu are some of the things you can find on the internet. Laurie explains many of the misconceptions people have about dog training
Dog bites, when dogs are unfairly accused and how insurance companies make exceptions for dog owners. Some rescue groups are going to puppy mill dog auctions and buying dogs at exorbitant rates. Good dog breeders and good rescues have a lot in common. Callers wanted to know; why her Labrador retriever won't play ball at her boyfriend's house, why can't puppy mills be stopped ?, and a caller wanted to point out reasons to get a dog from a reputable breeder and express some of his safety concerns.
Today's show featured Liz Bennett from Bandits Place Rescue and Wildlife Rehabilitation. Liz wants people to know that despite the bear population remaining the same, human confrontations keep increasing. She dispelled some myths about wildlife and gave some ideas about how to keep you and your pets safe.
Laurie weighs in on the Kristi Noem news story about her shooting her dog and goat. Can any dog be trained to do anything and can most dogs be trained to be good pets? A caller wanted to share some humor by sharing the definition of an "ask-hole". Another caller wanted to know how to stop her dog from constantly pawing her and jumping on the back door.
Today's show was about aggression in dogs and cats. There are many different types of aggression. Laurie discusses some of these and makes the point that a pet having good discretion is the difference between inappropriate and appropriate aggression. A caller had a question about introducing a German Shepherd puppy to his two cats.
How are animals going to react to the eclipse? Laurie makes some predictions. Scientists are planning to resurrect the woolly mammoth in a few years. Maybe it's not a good idea. Laurie recounts a dog she had named Tino. A caller who lived in the path of a full solar eclipse in South Dakota in the 70's recalls a friend with a dairy farm describing his cows coming in to the barn in the middle of the day when it got dark, not their usual time, and it took 3 months for the cows to reorient to real time. A caller wanted advice on how to teach his dog not to jump.
Animals are capable of complex thinking. To illustrate this Laurie shared stories about an African Grey parrot, a chimpanzee, and a fox. Callers had questions about a new cat with dandruff, a new puppy getting along with their older dog, a temperamental three-pound poodle, and a labrador hound mix who gets scared of loud noises.
Rabbits were the subject of the day. Dr. Tanya Battison, rabbit expert, explained why you should think carefully before getting a rabbit as a pet, especially as an Easter gift. Rabbits are not easy pets. Dr. Battison explained the many responsibilities involved with having a pet rabbit as well as the fun side. She is the veterinarian for Every Bunny Counts Rabbit Rescue. Home - Everybunny Counts (everybunnycountsct.org) More information about Dr. Battison can be found hereDr. Tanya Battiston, DVM | Star Meadow Animal Clinic and here Transcendent Souls Illuminated LLC | Spiritual Mentor | 5 Grosvenor Place, Farmington, CT, USA
There are so many gadgets, gizmos, and supplements for pets. Which ones are useful and which ones aren't? A caller with an itchy Puggle wanted advice, and a "frantic mom" wanted suggestions for her new, sometimes overly rambunctious rescue dog.
Dr. Andrea Dennis is joined by Dr. Ally Salazer, owner and founder of Canine Behavioral Blueprints to discuss the process of working with a certified animal behaviorist and your veterinarian to resolve unacceptable pet behavior which can often start with a medical issue
Dr. Andrea Dennis from the Bloomfield Animal Hospital recognizes February National Pet Dental Awareness Month. Along with answering questions from the listening audience, dental maintenance at home and in the veterinary hospital are discussed
In the news recently; dogs being stolen and a woman pretending to be a veterinarian performs a C section on a Bulldog resulting in the dog's death. Laurie cautions people and gives some suggestions to keep pets safe. A caller wanted to give a progress report about a stray cat he took in and how well it eventually acclimated with his cats. Another caller wanted to know how to handle her chihuahua who snaps when people move their hands away after belly rubs.
Laurie explains why she dropped out of college and decided to become a dog trainer. Three things Laurie didn't use for years, but changed her mind when she realized their value. Those things were crates, muzzles, and prong collars.
Dr. Andrea Dennis leads a discussion on osteoarthritis and the latest treatments for dogs and cats. She is joined by her guest, Dr. Sharon Campbell, Zoetis Animal Health lead in canine chronic pain
Liz Bennet from Bandits Place Animal Rescue and Wildlife Rehabilitation was a guest. Liz is also the ACO (animal control officer) from Southwick MA. Topics included the currently overcrowded dog pounds, Laurie's memories of an encounter with a bully ACO from years ago, how the standards for selecting ACOs have changed over the years, and an article about how the policies at the Victoria County Texas pound drastically improved the outcomes for the animals there.
Laurie complained about a tragic news story that had drastic misinformation claiming a woman was fatally mauled by her "French Bulldog". Callers had questions about their Jack Russel mix with barking problems, an American Eskimo with separation anxiety, a dog that barks at the TV and resists going outside, and a rescue cat that keeps throwing up.
Today's guest was Christine Johnson from Greyhound Rescue and Rehabilitation. Over the years a lot has changed at racetracks including the treatment of greyhounds. With only two remaining racetracks in the country there are fewer dogs for adoption. Greyhounds have special needs and potential adopters need to understand their unique qualities to see if you are a fit for them and if they are a fit for you, For more information go to greyhoundrescuerehab.org
Today's guest was Lynn Mannix from Intuition at Hand, a metaphysical store in Rocky Hill CT. Lynn's store carries products for humans and pets including custom made pajamas, coats and costumes. She also does intuitive readings and Reiki for pets and humans. For information about her store and events at the store check her website Home (intuitionathand.com). To see her custom made pet clothing check out her Etsy page Royaltailcoats.etsy.com RoyalTailCoats - Etsy Or just stop in at 2010 Silas Deane Highway Rocky Hill CT. Bring your dog. It's pet friendly.
People's descriptions of their dogs' behaviors frequently differ from reality. Liz Bennet, from Bandit's Place, called to find a home for a German X Dutch Shepherd female. You can see her here: Dog for adoption - Ruby Dee, a Dutch Shepherd & German Shepherd Dog Mix in East Hartland, CT | Petfinder Be careful believing information posted on Facebook and the internet. It can be misleading. A caller had a question about his 10 year old dog who whines incessantly at his wife. Another caller wanted to talk about how it's getting increasingly difficult to get an appointment with a vet, especially in an emergency.
A caller wanted to share his experience about his cat that went missing. A recent news story about a police dog attacking an unarmed trucker in Ohio prompted a discussion about bad training and irresponsible use of police dogs. A caller wanted suggestions for her dog that was throwing up.
Animals have a wide variety of personalities which can be interesting and sometimes challenging. There are some dogs just don't fit with their families. Sometimes animals, because of mischievousness or bullying, can act like jerks.
Laurie shared her experience calling Poison Control. A caller wanted people to let people know about the AKC's program, Reunited, which provides a microchip and in addition, poison control information. Another caller wanted to report back about how previous advice given on the show was working out well for her Gordon Setter who had been tormenting her Cocker Spaniel, and someone called to get advice about feeding a 31 pound cat named Butterscotch. Laurie had to vent about how dogs are portrayed on TV shows and movies.
Today's guest was Liz Bennet from Bandits Place Wildlife Rehabilitation and Rescue.Liz shared ideas on how to coexist with wildlife and avoid problems . A caller had a question about his 1 year old Coonhound getting out of control when she saw cars.
Liz Bennet, of Bandit's Place, called in today. Laurie wanted her to hear about three 7 month old puppies that need homes. The puppies are Cane Corso x Husky x Pomerianians. Laurie went to meet these pups last week and found them to be lovely dogs and the owner called in to give more details. Liz and Laurie discussed the challenges of owning multiple dogs. A caller had a question about giving adult formula dog food to a 6 month old Bernese Mountain dog, and another caller wanted suggestions about a dog who licks her feet. Laurie suggested people do a google search on small wild cats to learn about wild cats that are as small and smaller than house cats.
The Labrador Retriever has been the most popular dog for the last three decades until now. The French Bulldog has taken over the #1 spot. Laurie cautions people to be aware of the health issues for the flat faced breeds . Medication may not be the best answer for behavior problems. Dog training is not absolute. People need to be aware of what is necessary to make it work, especially if you choose to have someone else train your dog for you. Some people suffer from "the Emperor's New Clothes" effect when evaluating their dog's behavior.
A Bull Terrier mix was living with a pack of coyotes for months in Nevada. "Sniffspot" is a new website that connects people to fenced in spaces to rent their own private dog park. A caller had concerns about her 17 year old cat who wanders off and meows. Taking care of older pets needs special consideration and care. Laurie recalls why she dropped out of academia to become a dog trainer.
Arctic air prompted talk about coats, keeping pets in cars, and resurrecting the wooly mammoth. The silver lining in the blast of sub zero temperature is it might kill off ticks. A caller wanted to know what to do about her constipated Maine Coon cat. How do you judge a pet's intelligence? How important is intelligence for training and communicating, and how many types of intelligence are there?
Today's Pet Talk covered some of the unrealistic expectations people have about their pets. Callers had questions about a labradoodle who guards objects, a 5 pound poodle who barks excessively in the car,and a man who wanted suggestions for his daughter's over-rambunctious labrador. A man called to share his joy from getting kittens after a time with no pets. A woman wanted advice about selecting a cat that would get along with her current cat, and the last caller wanted to know what to do about a cat that is scared to get her nails clipped.
What are the differences between dogs and cats and how people relate to them? Callers had questions about a younger Gordon Setter bothering an older Cocker Spaniel, a Labrador x PitBull with its tail tucked, a Beagle who likes to whine all the time, and a 6 month old Border Collie who went after their 12 year old Sheepadoodle
Taking care of sick and older dogs is always a challenge. Laurie shared some of her recent struggles. Someone who does a remarkable job with these issues is Carrie Haggart from Out to Pasture Farm and Rescue in Coventry Connecticut. She specializes in taking care of animals that are terminal, sick, or handicapped.
Main Page (outtopasture.org)
A woman contacted Laurie off the air to ask about a device that is supposed to help with anxiety. Further research found what she was asking about, a PEMF technology device called Calmer K9. Calmer Canine® Anxiety Treatment System: Device Only - Assisi Animal Health
Laurie shared her love of reading and recommended any book by Sy Montgomery about animals.
Pets and kids can be great together as long as you keep your expectations realistic.
Are costumes for pets a good or bad idea? Some dogs benefit from wearing coats. Laurie offers some suggestions about what type of coats work best. A caller wanted to know if her neighbor's Siberian Husky would get cold if she stays outside all day and night, which prompted another caller to discuss animal cruelty and what the laws say about it.
The truth about "shock collars"? Laurie weighs in. Two callers share their opinions and experience.
New laws on tethering and appropriate shelter for dogs take effect today. Lauire explains why using Bitter Apple may not work, and how to use it so it will. Callers had questions about the best age to neuter kittens,how to introduce a dog to a new kitten, and what to do about an American Bulldog with swollen oozing joints and pulling on the leash. Laurie recounts people's comments about what they think she will tell them "because she is a dog Trainer" and how that may not be the case.
Most people recognize that every dog has their own personality, but did you know the same dog can have different personalities in different situations? Are big dogs really better behaved than small dogs? Callers had questions about a Chihuahua who barks and is not always comfortable with people, an unruly yellow Labrador Retriever puppy. and a cat that is starting to drink a lot of water.
Laurie shares a story about the closest she came to doing wildlife rehabilitation, rescuing a baby mouse. A caller wanted advice about her cousin's Papillion who chases shadows. Sometimes things that don't seem to work may indeed work when done correctly. A caller wanted to know if his Great Pyrenees could be trained to walk in a mannerly fashion and a caller wanted to tell Laurie her advice from a call months ago, to just ignore his Maltese, worked out well.
The Netflix show "Man vs Bee" is a hilarious movie, featuring a dog named Cupcake played by Pixel, a collie poodle mix. If you are looking for a product to help with thunder storms or other anxiety issues Laurie tested Thunder Wunder chews on her dogs and it worked well. If there wasn't reason enough already, Southington police are arresting people who keep dogs in hot cars. Newington residents are reporting coyote attacks on their pets. Keep a close eye on yours. A caller from Enfield had a sad story about his Maltese getting attacked by 2 large dogs. Laurie shared some stories about things dogs and cats can perceive and understand that are unexplainable.
Today's Pet Talk explores some common misunderstandings. Does your dog really "know it's wrong", do it "out of spite", is "protecting you", has "fear" aggression, or separation anxiety? Is it really a bad reflection on you or your dog to get kicked out of doggie daycare? Callers today wanted help with a 7 year old cat who keeps attacking a 22 year old cat, and a Maltese who likes to terrorize other dogs and people.
The connection between animal abuse and violence to people is well established. The shooters in Buffalo and Uvalde both had a history of animal abuse. Laurie recommended taking a closer look and having a registry as another tool to prevent future mass shootings and other violent crimes. A caller was looking for some more comfortable alternatives to the cones used for dogs post surgery. Callers had questions about a puppy who drags his feet, a Great Dane mix who isn't coming reliably when called, a disagreement about the use of long lines for training being dangerous, and a Shiba Shepherd mix who likes to grab big chunks of grass.
Liz Bennett from Bandit's Place Animal Rescue and Wildlife Rehabilitation Center was today's guest. Liz described the differences between animals that may be dangerous and ones that aren't, how to react if you see a wild animal, and who and when to call for help if you need it. A caller had questions about a dog with megaesophagus.
Today's behavior edition explored the connection between what your pet eats, their weight, and their behavior. A caller had a question about getting a GPS device for his cat, and another caller had some questions about his dog's growling and why his dog won't stay on the couch with him.
Laurie Fass discusses, Will dogs protect you or your property and when it can get dangerous? The differences between area and personal protection dogs and what training can and can't do. A caller suggested pepper spray, another caller wanted suggestions for an arthritic dog, and beware of dog signs were discussed.
People hate daylight savings time, but what about pets? There are so many pet products, high tech pet toys and gizmos, some practical, some not. You can decide what might be good for you and your pet. A debate was prompted with a caller about using a laser for playing with dogs, frisbees, and glucosamine.
Today's show reminds people that you can use straw to control mud in your yard and reveals a new product called dooloop that keeps your used dog poop bags on your leash so you don't have to carry them. Do you think of your dog as a "fur baby"? Maybe that's not such a good idea. Find out why. Callers had questions about suggestions for removing skunk odor, what is the best dog to train, selecting a dog, and why a ten year old cat might stop using the litter box.
We talked about ‘Heart Health’ for Pets. Best ways to keep your pet from succumbing to heart failure.
Some cautionary notes about giving your dog Gabapentin. Keeping your pet safe and warm when the temperatures plummet. A caller wanted to caution people about using retractable leashes, another caller prompted the subject of keeping your pet and solving behavior problems rather than trying to rehome them. The most important thing, and the most difficult thing to teach, is awareness.
How to safely include your pet in holiday celebrations. And is it bad behavior or is it just your pet's personality? Callers had questions about a dog who licks things excessively, and a woman was worried about how to get her skittish cat to eat when her friend pet sits.
Do pets have a sense of time? How will they adjust to daylight savings time ending?
Tune in Saturdays 1-2pm and get all the information you need to become more informed about your pet. Listen on the air or download the all new Audacy app.
Hot weather reminders: in addition to being aware of overheating in cars, dogs can badly burn the pads of their feet from walking on hot ground. Listeners called in about a Havanese whose housebreaking habits went bad ever since they got a second dog, a question about the Seresto collar, and someone wanted to share that he had a dog who couldn't get up or walk until he was prescribed a medication from his veterinarian, called Galliprant. Now he is too feisty. Laurie discussed dangerous escape risks from improperly fitted collars and harnesses, ways dogs can escape from fenced yards, and the two behaviors that should never be ignored in puppies. Laurie