Animal Tales

I certainly hope you’ve been missing my podcasts! I’ve taken a little hiatus to do some actual horse training, time with the family, some health issues, and a new grandchild! As I get back on track, I wanted this new episode to dive into some critical issues surrounding how mainstream media and vocal social media […] The post Animal Tales EPISODE 44: “Fake News” What to Believe? Credible Sources? appeared first on Radio Influence.

One of the most popular podcast episodes was a chat with Clinton Anderson, founder of Downunder Horsemanship who talked about horse training with Heidi. The original air date was May 2023, and Clinton certainly tells it like it is! Training our horses is vital to their well-being for life, and Clinton created The Method which, […] The post Animal Tales EPISODE 43: Horse Sense with Clinton Anderson appeared first on Radio Influence.

And even more importantly, WHY? The most loving and responsible thing you can do for your dog is make sure they are trained well with a solid foundation. Not only will you and your family get more enjoyment and dependability out of your animal, the dog will also be more comfortable, less anxious and/or aggressive. […] The post Doggone Good Information EPISODE 33: Breaking Down Dog Training; How To Be Successful! appeared first on Radio Influence.

We LOVE Elephants! These amazing creatures truly hold a special place in our hearts, yet are too often the focus of misguided attention and intense emotion. As I was privileged to grow up with elephants and interact with them throughout my life, I do understand why people are enamored with them. Unfortunately, there is so […] The post Animal Tales EPISODE 42: Everything Elephants! appeared first on Radio Influence.

This episode originally aired in March of 2023, and the information and insights shared and still highly relevant, and therefore worthy of revisiting. While the slogan ‘Adopt Don't Shop' may sound positive, it is actually more harmful than helpful to not only the animals, but also good folks who are searching for the right dog […] The post Doggone Good Information EPISODE 32: What You Need to Know – Shelters vs Breeders appeared first on Radio Influence.

Host Heidi welcomes Dr. Mike Siemens, the Executive Director of Protect the Harvest (PTH), for a robust and fascinating interview on a range of topics to include… Biden's 30×30 agenda intended to turn valuable farm and ranch land into conservation areas The potential impact to all of us on the proposed slaughter closure in Colorado […] The post Animal Tales EPISODE 41: Protecting Our American Rights and Freedoms appeared first on Radio Influence.

Hosts Heidi and Tommy are joined by a guest from Down Under, Gary ‘Gaz' Jackson, who is a world renowned dog trainer and author. Gaz does not mince words about his distaste for the so-called ‘trainers' who claim to use positive reinforcement only and/or call themselves ‘force free'. There is in fact no scientific training […] The post Doggone Good Information EPISODE 31: The ‘Positive Reinforcement/Force Free' Dog Training Myth appeared first on Radio Influence.

Be sure to tune in for a great conversation with Mike Bober, President/CEO of the Pet Advocacy Network. Mike discusses the role of his organization within the pet industry and how they are always in search of solutions to issues, while providing important resources, education and support for pet owners. Heidi and Mike have a […] The post Animal Tales EPISODE 40: ‘Caring About' VS ‘Caring For' Animals appeared first on Radio Influence.

This subject matter is the primary reason I launched the Doggone Good Information podcast! This is the ultimate cover up! Every single day there is strong messaging via commercials, media, social media ads and more that we must go adopt a shelter dog. And every day, there are more municipalities and even states considering and […] The post Doggone Good Information EPISODE 30: Local Strays or Imports – Where Are Shelter Dogs From? appeared first on Radio Influence.

An important and informative conversation with Sarah Falen Tate, a self-described ‘ranch kid' who hails from six generations of Wyoming ranchers. Through her company, Wild West Advocacy, she shares authentic stories about rural life, ranching, and agriculture, drawing from her own and her family's experiences. This engaging discussion covers topics like Biden's 30×30 land conservation […] The post Animal Tales EPISODE 39: Wild West Wisdom appeared first on Radio Influence.

Hosts Heidi and Tommy take a deep dive into the recent news about a horse trainer who has several Olympic medals, and was recently disqualified from the Paris games for animal abuse when a video surfaced recently of her working with a horse. Tune in to hear our take on the issue. Our guest is […] The post Doggone Good Information EPISODE 29: Olympic Trainer Scandal/ Best Seling Author of “Dog Smart” appeared first on Radio Influence.

A fun and insightful conversation with animal trainer Lee Stevens. He has worked with a variety of species including dogs, primates, sea lions, and more. He provides an interesting, first-hand perspective regarding how the training method can differ by species, and yet many training principles remain the same. Lee, along with his wife Judy, created […] The post Animal Tales EPISODE 38: Baboons, Sea Lions and More! appeared first on Radio Influence.

Hosts Heidi and Tommy revisit the reason they started this podcast and why they believe it is important. While there are several other podcasts about pets, training, etc., they feel there is an open lane to discuss the tough topics and realities of dogs and their humans, and the varying philosophies surrounding having a pet […] The post Doggone Good Information EPISODE 28: Are You Ready For A Puppy or Dog? appeared first on Radio Influence.

With well over 90% of Americans being urbanites, it should not be surprising that there is more misinformation than ever about agriculture, livestock, farmers and ranchers. Mainstream media and social media influencers continue to jump on this bandwagon of insisting that animal protein and dairy is bad for us, that cows are bad for the […] The post Animal Tales EPISODE 37: Agriculture: Fact vs Fiction appeared first on Radio Influence.

Animal euthanasia is a complicated topic and evokes strong emotions. As one of the goals of the podcast for hosts Heidi and Tommy is to take a deep dive into difficult and controversial topics regarding dogs, they decided this uncomfortable topic is certainly worthy of discussion. While many groups online are devoted to ‘no kill' […] The post Doggone Good Information EPISODE 27: Euthanasia – A Difficult Conversation appeared first on Radio Influence.

The American mustang is a living legend; an American icon and true native American. The wild horses of America illicit a strong emotional response from people, and for many they symbolize freedom. Diane Delano fell in love with American mustangs over 40 years ago. For decades she has operated a non-profit, the wild horse rescue […] The post Animal Tales EPISODE 36: The Wild Horses of America appeared first on Radio Influence.

A fun interview with Cindy Herriott Wells who happens to be Host Heidi's sister. Cindy provides some amusing stories from her dog grooming business. She also talks about training dogs for performances, noting that the basic training and routines can be mastered in a matter of months. At that point, she notes, it is time […] The post Doggone Good Information EPISODE 26: All In The Family – Dog Training appeared first on Radio Influence.

Guest Emilie Clark reached out after listening to a prior Animal Tales episode to relay her story about how her dog was stolen by a rescue. She also dives into the research she has undertaken regarding dogs at auctions bought by rescues and shelters for resale. As a California resident, she saw firsthand how the […] The post Animal Tales EPISODE 35: The Journey From Animal Rights to Animal Welfare appeared first on Radio Influence.

Guest Tanya McCready shares the fascinating story of life with her family and their sled dogs in scenic and beautiful Canada. She smiles as she recounts how getting a pet Husky decades ago led to an amazing journey of ups and downs. She provides vivid descriptions for Hosts Heidi and Tommy of life on the […] The post Doggone Good Information EPISODE 25: Winterdance Sled Dogs appeared first on Radio Influence.

Nancy Tetzlaff, AKA Safari Jane reminisces on life with her family and their animals. Jungle Larry, her husband and partner, built a legacy with their animals and their sons that continues today. Nancy fondly recalls stories with the animals, and also talks conservation, and being a forerunner in the ‘edutainment' world. Listen in to enjoy […] The post Animal Tales EPISODE 34: “There's A Jaguar In My Kitchen” appeared first on Radio Influence.

Hank Wong, former police officer turned dog trainer provides a peek into the training of these amazing working dogs. From scent work, to apprehending criminals, these dogs and their human partners providing invaluable assistance to our communities! Also, the Biden's German shepherd is in the news again. His incident numbers are now in the double […] The post Doggone Good Information EPISODE 24: Police K9 Training appeared first on Radio Influence.

Cindy Schonholtz, pro rodeo consultant, chats with Heidi about animal welfare, public perception, and where things stand today with attempts to ban rodeos in certain states and municipalities. You will hear often on the podcast, this outcry for outright bans does NOT overwhelmingly come from those who attend and/or participate in rodeos or other animal […] The post Animal Tales EPISODE 33: This Isn't Her First Rodeo! appeared first on Radio Influence.

While you don't hear this perspective in the media or popular narrative, there are still plenty of people who prefer the choice to buy a puppy at a reputable breeder or pet store. Dan Cohn, is the Owner and President of Sunshine Puppies with several stores in the Tampa Bay area. He chats with hosts […] The post Doggone Good Information EPISODE 23: Puppy Love! appeared first on Radio Influence.

Host Heidi chats with race horse owner and author Miles Henry. They take a peek behind the barn doors to talk about the horses and people involved in racing, and horse care in general. Where the horses are sourced, how they are trained, and how and when they are retired. Step in the starting gate […] The post Animal Tales EPISODE 32: “And They're Off!” Talking Horse Racing with Miles Henry appeared first on Radio Influence.

Chris Fleming, the CEO of Pinnacle Pet talks with hosts Heidi and Tommy about how his company, Pinnacle Pet provides strict protocols for breeders who raise puppies, and the Canine Care Breeder Certification program from Purdue University. Their lively and informative conversation also turns to shelters, imported puppies, and the problem with the ‘adopt don't […] The post Doggone Good Information EPISODE 22: Breeder Certification appeared first on Radio Influence.

Ben Cooper the Beekeeper provides an informative, fun, and fascinating peek into the hive; the world of bees and beekeeping. Host Heidi is joined by guest host Tommy Fahey (also the cohost of the Doggone Good Information Podcast). Episode Links Find a Beekeeper Email Ben Cooper We Need Bees! If you sincerely care about the […] The post Animal Tales EPISODE 31: Bee Informed about Bees! appeared first on Radio Influence.

The hosts, Heidi and Tommy open the conversation by discussing the recent seizure of zoo animals in Virginia. They also discuss the ongoing bullying of a local animal welfare group that is trying to seek solutions to pet adoptions; pairing people and families with the right animals. No good deed goes unpunished! All of this […] The post Doggone Good Information EPISODE 21: Are Good Intentions Towards Animals Actually Harming Them? appeared first on Radio Influence.

Mindy Patterson, President of The Calvary Group engages in an emotional and robust conversation about what appears to be the illegal seizure of animals including killing some of them from a small zoo. Don't miss the video in show notes that provides more detail from the owner of the zoo about animal abuse at the […] The post Animal Tales EPISODE 30: The Cavalry is Here! Protecting Animal Owners Rights appeared first on Radio Influence.

Hosts Heidi and Tommy discuss an issue that recently took place in Florida where the head of an SPCA created a partnership with breeders and pet stores. At face value, it might seem to fly in the face of the mission of the SPCA, but as always, #thereismoretothestory! Hear the hosts break it down, and […] The post Doggone Good Information EPISODE 20: Bullying in the Name of Animal Welfare; And, Aging Pets; When to Let Go appeared first on Radio Influence.

Tom Albert is a Government Affairs Consultant who is currently working with the Zoological Association of America (ZAA), one of the nation's largest zoological associations. Heidi and Tom discuss the role zoos play in keeping animals prevalent in people's lives, as well as important research and conservation. They also question why many people have mixed […] The post Animal Tales EPISODE 29: Legislating Animals Out Of Our Lives appeared first on Radio Influence.

Hosts Heidi and Tommy delve into a difficult topic with their guest Colleen Lynn who operates the website, dogsbite.org. She maintains statistics on dangerous dogs, dog bites, maulings and even deaths as a result of dangerous dogs. Their discussion is a deep dive into breed specific legislation including pitbull and bully breeds. In Florida, Governor […] The post Doggone Good Information EPISODE 19: Breed Specific Regulations & Legislation appeared first on Radio Influence.

Scott Dorenkamp, Livestock Program & Government Relations Manager for the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association (PRCA) and Heidi talk Rodeo. Everything from how rodeo began, self-imposed regulations, animal care, and the way of life for the people and animals. There are attempts across the country to ban rodeos, yet many have not even attended an event. […] The post Animal Tales EPISODE 28: R.O.D.E.O! appeared first on Radio Influence.

Hosts Heidi and Tommy are joined by world-class dog groomer Donna Skura. A fun and informative conversation providing insight as to how to choose a groomer, what to expect, how to train your dog to get ready, and have the best overall experience for both you and your dog. Also, what to consider if you […] The post Doggone Good Information EPISODE 18: Salon & At Home Grooming Tips From A Professional appeared first on Radio Influence.

Missy Dassinger tells the story of her family's animals at their ranch in ND, and attempts by local officials, a veterinarian, and animal rights groups to confiscate their animals, or at least the ones with value. The Humane Society of the United States, an animal rights group, had offered $5000 to anyone who turned in […] The post Animal Tales EPISODE 27: Stand Off in North Dakota appeared first on Radio Influence.

President Biden's German shepherds are making news again. Listen in to hear what is getting the dogs, Major and Commander in hot water. Hosts Heidi and Tommy also welcome a guest – professional dog trainer Amy Pishner of Valor K9. Amy provides some wonderful insight into her experience training dogs from puppies to service dogs. […] The post Doggone Good Information EPISODE 17: Canine Confrontation at the White House! appeared first on Radio Influence.

JJ Jones, Executive Director of the National Institute for Animal Agriculture, believes it is healthier to have a conversation, not a confrontation regarding animal agriculture. Emotions run high as the now primarily urban population of the USA questions and even vilifies those who farm and ranch, and provide our food. Heidi and JJ engage in […] The post Animal Tales EPISODE 26: Conversation Not Confrontation appeared first on Radio Influence.

Hosts Heidi and Tommy embark on a fun and enlightening recap of the first 15 episodes. Everything from training, positive reinforcement, operant conditioning to breed specific issues, dangerous dogs and more. Shelters, rescues, pet stores and breeders for sourcing dogs. Legislative issues affecting pets, and so much more! They highlight their favorite episodes and information. […] The post Doggone Good Information EPISODE 16: Fan Favorites! appeared first on Radio Influence.

Americans love animals, and enjoy visiting zoos and animal facilities. But have you ever considered what happens when there is some type of disaster or emergency that requires all hands on deck at an animal facility, or even evacuations of various species of animals. Executive Director of ZDR3, Julia Wagner walks us through what their […] The post Animal Tales EPISODE 25: ZDR3 – Animal Response, Rescue, and Recovery appeared first on Radio Influence.

The most loving and responsible thing you can do for your dog is ensure they have a great foundation! One of the primary components of this is being able to successfully walk your dog. Hosts Heidi and Tommy feel so strongly about this topic that they have devoted an entire episode to how to achieve […] The post Doggone Good Information EPISODE 15: It's A Walk In The Park! appeared first on Radio Influence.

The Borges family have been providing sleigh and carriage rides for five decades. Just like in NYC and other areas around the country, there is now an outcry to ban them, and a petition circulating in Lake Tahoe. This is a philosophical, ideologic, emotional outcry. Time and again, animal professionals and experts indicate the horses […] The post Animal Tales EPISODE 24: Sleigh Bells Ring – Are You Listening? appeared first on Radio Influence.

Are raw diets a fad, or a great choice for pet owners? Hosts Heidi and Tommy break down the information on commercial dog foods since they were introduced in the US. They follow and discuss the evolution of dog foods including the popular raw diets. How many options do you/should you offer your dog? How […] The post Doggone Good Information EPISODE 14: Feeding Your Dog – The Raw Truth appeared first on Radio Influence.

Heidi hosts a great and informative conversation with Jack Hubbard, Executive Director for the Center for Environment and Welfare. Jack is working hard to expose the multimillion-dollar accounts of animal rights groups who say they raise money to care for animals. But where does the money actually go? Which groups? Tune in to learn why […] The post Animal Tales EPISODE 23: Never Let the Truth Get In the Way of a Good Story appeared first on Radio Influence.

Hosts Heidi and Tommy take on one of the hottest and most contentious topics in the dog world… Breed specific bans Is it really the deed and not the breed? Merit on both sides of the discussion Other topics… Why did the CDC extend its ban for another year on dog imports from over 100 […] The post Doggone Good Information EPISODE 13: The Great Debate – Breed Specific Legislation appeared first on Radio Influence.

Another amazing episode talking elephants with Sarah Conley from the International Elephant Foundation (IEF). You may be surprised to learn about the biggest threat to their survival. How do we keep elephants in our lives? Why zoos and exhibits are vital to their survival. How you can get the most bang for your donation bucks […] The post Animal Tales EPISODE 22: Loving Elephants to Death appeared first on Radio Influence.

Hosts Heidi and Tommy discuss do's and dont's for hot weather. Tips for keeping your dog cool and safe Recognizing overheating Handling an overheating emergency They also discuss… How many dogs are too many for one dog walker? New raw diets and dog foods – pros and cons Whether or not to keep your pet […] The post Doggone Good Information EPISODE 12: The Dog Days of Summer – Warm Weather Tips appeared first on Radio Influence.

Guest Ryan Easley and his family founded and built Growler Pines Tiger Preserve in Hugo, OK. They provide guided tours which includes a show/demonstration with the tigers, to the delight of the audience. Ryan's tigers, all born in human care, serve as ambassadors for their wild cousins. The Easleys support conservation programs that care for […] The post Animal Tales EPISODE 21: Looking Into – The Eye of the Tiger appeared first on Radio Influence.

The summer season is upon us, and with that comes fireworks and thunderstorms. Hosts Heidi and Tommy note that they hear concerns from their clients on fireworks weeks prior. Is that concern of yours making your dog nervous? Are drugs and thunder vests the answer? The hosts have other thoughts on the matter. Tune in […] The post Doggone Good Information EPISODE 11: Scary Dog Stuff; Fireworks and Thunderstorms! appeared first on Radio Influence.

Heidi talks with Monica Welde, the owner and cofounder of Bearadise Ranch, a bear preserve in Florida that is home to a beautiful group of bears. Tune in to hear Monica discuss their habitat, enrichment programs, and what a bear actually feels like! Monica notes that Bearadise ranch offers unique summer camps that parents love, […] The post Animal Tales EPISODE 20: Getting Down To The BEAR Facts! appeared first on Radio Influence.

Heidi and Tommy's guest is Jessica Cooke, founder of Yuppy Puppy Pet Spa, and the Director of the non-profit Yuppy Puppy Forever Rescue. She takes us behind the scenes at her spa and rescue. Her goal with the rescue is setting dogs up well to get adopted which includes training the dog, and working with […] The post Doggone Good Information EPISODE 10: You Can ‘Teach an Old Dog New Tricks'! appeared first on Radio Influence.

Heidi and Animal Agriculture Alliance President Hannah Thompson-Weeman engage in an important and timely conversation regarding the people behind our food production, how farmers prioritize sustainability, as well as the surprising number of people each farmer can feed. They dispel some of the ridiculous scare tactics utilized by the animal rights groups, and even our […] The post Animal Tales EPISODE 19: Safeguarding the Future of Animal Agriculture and our Food appeared first on Radio Influence.

Heidi and Tommy host a fun and informative discussion with guest Cassidy Koch, a millennial who provides a peek into the mindset of the younger generation, and how they feel about and interact with their pets. Not surprisingly, there is a shift in this mentality, and marketing is often aimed at and tailored to these […] The post Doggone Good Information EPISODE 9: Talking Dogs and Animals with a Millennial. The Gen Z and Millennial Mindset appeared first on Radio Influence.