Canicross Conversations

In today's episode we're joined by Belle from Canicross Midlands, who talks us through the rewards of marshalling at canicross races

In this deeply insightful episode of Canicross Conversations, hosts Louise Humphrey and Michelle Mortimer are joined once again by canicrosser and endurance athlete Tamara Beach to shine a spotlight on RED-S (Relative Energy Deficiency in Sport). Returning after her first appearance in Episode 133, Tamara shares her personal journey through recognising, and recovering from, RED-S. The conversation is open, informative, and immensely relatable, breaking down medical jargon into real-life experiences. Tamara bravely discusses the physical and mental toll of under-fuelling in sport, her missteps with nutrition, and the pervasive influence of diet culture on female athletes. Listeners will gain a better understanding of how RED-S can manifest, why it's not exclusive to elite or female athletes, and why proper fuelling – especially with carbohydrates and fats – is so essential. She also explains how she transitioned her mindset from restriction to recovery and performance sustainability, offering practical tips and encouragement for others who may be in similar positions. Whether you're a competitive canicrosser, recreational runner, or just trying to balance sport and well-being, this episode will resonate and inform. Tamara's story is both a caution and a call to listen to your body and treat it with the respect it deserves.   Topics and timings 7.26 – introduction to RED-S and Tamara's background 11.16 – understanding RED-S and energy deficiency explained 13.19 – early signs and influence of diet culture 15.07 – hidden symptoms and being on the pill 17.14 – fuelling myths and constant fatigue 19.14 – stress fracture as a wake-up call 22.13 – recovery approaches and baby steps 28.06 – navigating GP advice and diagnosis challenges 32.58 – medical tests, MRI and DEXA scan results 34.07 – realising individual ‘set points' for body composition 35.33 – RED-S in sport: rock climbing and canicross examples 38.12 – spreading awareness and advice to others 42.54 – performance gains from consistent fuelling 45.02 – eating before morning training and second breakfasts 47.16 – wrap up and Tamara's top advice for those who suspect RED-S

In this special episode of Canicross Conversations, hosts Louise and Michelle welcome back two popular guests: Georgie Lambert from Nonstop Dogwear and Katie Kirkup, founder of Trail Dog Events. Together, they unveil an exciting new venture: "Connect and Paws"—a human and dog wellness weekend set against the breath-taking backdrop of Druridge Bay, Northumberland from 4–6 July 2025.   Born from Katie's vision, and shaped into reality with Georgie's support, this event invites the canicross and wider dog-loving community to take a break from the high-speed pace of life. Instead, it's all about slowing down, reconnecting with nature, bonding with your dog, and forming meaningful connections with others. Activities include morning cani-treks, yoga, Pilates, forest bathing, labyrinth walking, sound healing, photography walks, and expert talks on both human and dog nutrition. Designed for every type of dog and owner, whether you're a seasoned canicrosser or just enjoy a gentle stroll with your pup, there's something for everyone.   With limited spots available (only 50 tickets), this is an exclusive and intimate retreat. Expect live music, thoughtful journalling, delicious local street food, paddle boarding, and even glamping. It's an immersive weekend designed to inspire mindfulness and wellness—for both ends of the lead.   Topics and timings 7.00 – Meet Georgie and Katie again 8.10 – The birth of Connect and Paws 9.05 – Why summer matters for community 10.50 – Event overview and intention 13.00 – Activities: from yoga to labyrinth walking 16.50 – Supporting dogs with space and respect 21.00 – Expert talks from Holly Barker and Renee McGregor 26.00 – What Georgie and Katie are most excited about 29.30 – Kit demos, community spirit, and good food Resources mentioned Episode 82 with Katie Episode 4 and 44 with Georgie   Links mentioned Connect and Paws: https://www.traildogevents.co.uk/connectandpaws Nonstop Dogwear: nonstopdogwear.com    

Louise and Michelle chat to journalists Lily Canter and Emma Wilkinson about their new book Ultra Women

Sarah Stokes shares her first experience of racing with Louise and Michelle in this episode

Louise and Michelle chat to Gabby, one of the co-founders of Bournemouth Canicross about how their community has grown over the last four years since the group was first formed. It's an uplifting, positive episode about the power of community. 

In this episode, Louise and Michelle chat to Morag, a trustee of Lincs Dobermann Rescue about her experience of rehoming Dobies, and her 'failed foster' with tri-paw Trooper. We hear all about Trooper's amputation and rehabilitation, proof that amputation is not the end, and can often be the start of a new life for many dogs like Trooper. https://dobiefest.co.uk/

Louise and Michelle chat to Gemma Knott at RAD Assistance Dogs.  RAD provides specialised assistance dog training to UK clients living with Mental Health Disabilities and/or Autism to become qualified handlers of their own assistance dogs. In this episode we chat to Gemma about what makes a good assistance dog, and also the disability laws the public should be aware of with regard to assistance dogs. https://www.radassistancedogs.org.uk/

Louise and Michelle chat to vet Hannah Capon about certain breeds' predisposition to canine arthritis, how we can prevent it, how to diagnose it and treatments.

In this episode, Louise and Michelle chat to Emily Thomas about her new book Canicross for Fitness and Fun

In this episode, Louise and Michelle chat to Fran Hannemann about how canicross fits into her home boarding and dog walking business, and her adventures with her three dogs.

In this episode we catch up with previous guest Elli, who was halfway through hiking the entire length of Britain with her dog Otto when we chatted to her in episode 68. We find out how the rest of her epic hike went, and chat to her about her recent attempt to complete the Spine Race Challenger South, a 108 mile challenge where she faced knee deep snow and extreme sleep deprivation. You can find Elli's videos on her YouTube channel 

Banjo was a rescue dog who was adopted by a (non-running) family, but when he escaped on his first day in his new home, fate intervened to introduce him to the canicross community, where he became a very well-loved character. We chat to his family and friends about their favourite memories of him.

In this episode, Louise and Michelle chat to Joe Swiffen from Mynydd Sled Dog Adventures about the challenges of setting up her husky sled dog adventure trails business in Wales during COVID. Joe is also doing great work with her Junior Sled Dog Sports Academy. We also learn A LOT about husky breeds. https://mynyddsleddogadventures.com/

We love bringing you canicross stories from our community, and in this episode Louise and Michelle chat to Sara McCarthy about how her second canicross season with her 'rocket dog' spaniel Logan is going. Sara has thrown herself into many cani-sports so far, to keep her working cocker spaniel Logan engaged and well exercised. We chat about their first experience of dog triathlon at Tri Dog, as well as their training for their upcoming (first) ultra marathon. Sara embodies the spirit of feeling the fear and doing it anyway! Follow Sara and Logan on Instagram Here's the link to The Stickler race in Dorset which Sara talks about in this episode: https://dorsetdoddlers.org/the-stickler/

In this episode, Louise and Michelle quiz podiatrist Kate Hammond about all those things you've always wanted to ask about looking after your feet, but have been too embarrassed or squeamish to ask. We cover: What size shoes to buy Does gait analysis matter? Socks Blister prevention and treatment Athlete's foot Losing a toenail Plantar fasciitis It's a fascinating episode, and we certainly learned loads!

In this episode, Louise and Michelle catch up with Duncan and Dizzy the Dalmatian about what they've been up to since we last spoke 2 years ago! There's also a new greyster, Peggy, in the family! YouTube Channel: www.youtube.com/@thatspottydogruns Instagram: @thatspottydogruns You can listen to the previous episode with Duncan here: https://www.canicrossconversations.co.uk/e/canicross-story-that-spotty-dog-runs-episode-49/ ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Join Louise and Pickle at the Irchy Park canicross race on Sunday 9th February 2025. It's a 5k adventure around Irchester Country Park, and is a great event for those looking to try their first canicross event. https://raceharborough.co.uk/canicross/

In today's special episode, we're diving back into an insightful chat we had with Karen Weir, an expert in menopause and strength and conditioning. This clip, recorded in March 2023 explores how the natural changes in our bodies during menopause affect our running. Karen breaks down the physical shifts we experience and offers advice on the way we train and eat. You can listen to the full episode (55) here: https://www.canicrossconversations.co.uk/e/why-is-strength-training-so-important-to-runners-during-perimenopause/

In this weeks episode we chat to Georgie Lambert from Non-Stop Dogwear about dog coats when and why we should use them.  From snow, rain and racing we chat which coats work and why.    

In a new canicross story, Michelle and Louise chat to guest Beckey about running, racing and wild swimming with her lab Agatha

In the final episode of 2024, Louise and Michelle take a look back at some of their favourite canicross stories of the podcast. What's yours?

In this episode, Louise and Michelle chat to Lisa from Mantrailing Global all about this exciting and accessible canine activity.   Mantrailing is a sport teaching dogs to find people by following their unique scent trail. All dog's have a natural ability to hunt and mantrailing provides them with an outlet to do this in a safe, controlled and constructive way. Lisa explains how this can have a very positive impact in other areas of a dog's life too. One of the many amazing things about this sport is it is fully accessible to all people and dogs, regardless of age, breed or disability. This includes dogs with confidence and reactivity issues. https://www.mantrailingglobal.com/

In this Christmas-themed episode, Louise and Michelle tackle the challenges of keeping dogs safe and happy during the festive season, and chat about two important episodes they recorded last year: Episode 91: Ask the Vet – Christmas Food Dangers for Dogs Vet Nick discusses the biggest food-related hazards for dogs at Christmas. From toxic foods like chocolate, raisins, and onions to tummy-troubling treats like fatty meats and rich desserts, Nick highlights common dangers lurking in holiday celebrations. He also shares advice on recognizing symptoms of poisoning or distress, such as vomiting, drooling, and lethargy, and offers clear steps to take in an emergency. This episode is packed with vital tips to protect dogs from festive food mishaps. Episode 92: Keeping Your Dog Stress-Free Over Christmas with Pamela Dempsey Canine behaviourist Pamela Dempsey joins the conversation to provide strategies for minimizing stress during the hectic holiday period. She emphasizes maintaining routines, creating safe spaces, and managing interactions with visitors to keep dogs calm and comfortable. Pamela also shares enrichment ideas, such as puzzle toys and scent games, to keep dogs mentally stimulated. From preventing overstimulation to handling festive anxiety, this episode offers practical advice to ensure a joyful and stress-free Christmas for dogs and their owners. These episodes are essential listening for dog owners looking to navigate the holiday season safely and stress-free, ensuring their canine companions enjoy Christmas as much as they do!

The festive season is here, and what better way to celebrate than with a collection of inspiring reads?

In today's fascinating episode, Louise and Michelle chat to writer Paul Besley all about his experiences of finding and training his Mountain Rescue Search Dog, Scout. It's a fascinating episode full of insights into training a working dog, and the human-dog bond. Paul's book, The Search: The life of a mountain rescue search dog team is out now

Those regular listeners amongst you will know the running joke that Michelle has never participated in a canicross race with her dog Poppy. She has finally found a brand new event close to her, and on this episode quizzes Trail Blazing Events Director Richard McQuilton-Morgan all about the race. It will be the first canicross event Richard has hosted too, so it makes for an interesting episode. We learn more about the challenges of putting on a canicross race, and how he's planning to make the event a great experience for all. We also catch up with Martin Grimshaw of Team Hounds, who was last on the podcast in episode 70. Michelle picks Martin's brains for expert advice on helping her and Poppy to prepare for their first race. Martin also tells us about his newest canine companion Kaos, and what he's been up to since we last chatted back in the summer of 2023. You can find out more about the canicross race and Richard's other Lancashire based events on his website https://www.trailblazingevents.co.uk/

Louise and Michelle chat to Clara Hewson, founder of The Muzzle Movement, about establishing a change in people's perceptions of muzzles, and creating a muzzle which allows dogs to drink, eat and pant fully. Find out the best way to accustom a dog to being comfortable with a muzzle, and inappropriate use of muzzles. We also ask Clara to bust a myth about muzzles in our newest feature. 

In this episode, we chat to Dr Juliet McGrattan, author, speaker and former GP, about running and alcohol.   We answer all the common questions, such as: - is a daily glass of red wine really good for our health? - is that post-race beer helpful? - can you sweat out a hangover? - how does alcohol affect sleep quality and recovery? - is there a safe amount of alcohol consumption for athletes that won't hinder training or performance? - how does alcohol impact our hormones?   NEW - Stay tuned for our newest feature, Myth Buster, where we tackle common misconceptions.   You can follow Dr Juliet McGrattan on Instagram    If you need support with your alcohol consumption, the NHS website is a good place to start

In this episode, Louise and Michelle welcome back journalist and business coach Rachel Spencer for a chat about how to build good habits. We chat about what a habit is (and isn't!), how to make habits stick, and how to overcome the obstacles that keep us from making long-lasting changes. We also talk about strategies to stop habits that might not be so helpful to us as well. Whether you're working to improve your fitness, build consistency with your training, or set yourself up for success in any other part of life, this episode is packed with insights that are bound to help.   About Rachel  Rachel Spencer is a freelance writer specialising in the pet industry for national newspapers and magazines focusing on human interest stories, health, trends and technology. She works with pet business owners helping them raise their profile in the media and clients have appeared in the Telegraph, Guardian, Independent, BBC Breakfast, Mail Online, Daily and Sunday Express, and a host of pet titles like Edition Dog, Your Dog, Your Cat and industry titles including Pet Gazette and Pet Business World. Each week she shares tips on how small businesses can secure coverage on the Publicity for Pet Businesses podcast. Rachel provides consultancy services and runs a publicity coaching programme helping pet businesses stand out from the competition.    Find out more at www.publicityforpetbusinesses.co.uk    You can also find Rachel here:   https://www.instagram.com/rachelspenceruk https://www.facebook.com/rachelspenceruk https://twitter.com/rachelspenceruk https://www.linkedin.com/in/rachelspenceruk/   Recommended Reading Atomic Habits by James Clear This is a fantastic resource for anyone looking to make small changes that lead to significant results. Clear breaks down the process of habit formation into actionable steps and shares practical tips for building habits that last. It's all about focusing on small, 1% improvements that compound over time. The Power of Habit by Charles Duhigg The book explains the ‘habit loop' - a cue, routine, and reward - which drives human behaviour. Duhigg discusses how we form habits and how they can be reshaped to achieve goals. It's a great read for anyone looking to create lasting change for personal growth and business success.

Louise and Michelle quiz broadcaster and fellow podcaster Anna Harding about her experience of canicrossing and running throughout pregnancy, and how she has felt getting back into it as a new parent. We also chat about introducing a new baby to the family dog.

In this episode, Louise and Michelle chat to Nicky Edwards, a physiotherapist and experienced marathon runner. Together, they question Nicky on the key aspects we should be focusing on in training to help us prevent injury, including: strength training mobility recovery adapting training as we age the dangers of overtraining optimising training around hormonal changes, including menopause how to avoid common running injuries

We know parkrun no longer allows canicross, BUT we also know a lot of you have many happy memories of parkrun as it turns 20 years old, and we also know many of you still run with your dog there (allowing for the new rules around dogs). Canicross Conversations wants to celebrate the world of parkrun on its 20th birthday, so Louise and Michelle chat to Lucy Waterlow, author of new book The Ultimate Guide to parkrun. A great episode whether you are a brand new or regular parkrunner.

In this episode, Louise and Michelle chat to canicrosser Tamara Beach, who tells us about how she manages to fit in a high volume of training by training like a triathlete. It's a fascinating episode about finding the right training methods for you, and Tamara certainly has her sights on some big goals! 

In this episode, we follow on from our last episode with Gail Irvine, and chat to Susan Fraser who has been helping Gail's boys, Robert and William to get into the sport of canicross, by loaning dogs to race, and accompanying them to competitions. 

In this episode of Canicross Conversations, Louise and Michelle chat to Gail Irvine of Team Irvine Gail shares her own journey, and her family's involvement in canicross, particularly her experiences in the sport with her young sons. Tune in as Gail provides valuable tips for getting youngsters involved in canicross and competing. From choosing the right dog to managing the demands of training, she offers insights to help parents encourage their kids to enjoy the sport.

In this unique episode of Canicross Conversations, we switch things up as Tracey Powiesnik from No Fuss Fill asks Louise and Michelle the questions! Tracey is eager to start her canicross journey with her Springer Spaniel, Harvey, and she's come prepared with all the questions beginners need to know. Find out: the basic principles of canicross and how it differs from regular running with your dog the ideal age for dogs to start canicross breed suitability how to assess if your dog is physically and mentally ready cover common beginner mistakes and how to avoid them essential training techniques and commands what equipment you'll need how to warm up and cool down tips on human running gear and much more! Whether you're just starting out like Tracey or looking to refine your canicross technique, this episode is packed with practical advice to get you and your dog off to a great start. Don't miss this special episode. Subscribe now.   This episode is sponsored by Non-stop Dogwear Join Non-stop in London for a fun and active day with your dog together with hundreds of other dogs and their owners. Support animal welfare with every step! All entry monies received will be donated to the Mayhew Animal Welfare charity. Complete a 1-mile course with your training buddy in any way you like, as many times as you would like! Whether you walk, jog, run or roll, the choice is yours.  Meet Non-stop Dogwear's team and learn how to be active with your dog. Get inspired by our brand's ambassadors and test out demonstration gear during your loop. You can complete as many loops as you like and follow the results on a live timing board! Treat your dog with a doggy cupcake when you are done with your loop. EXCLUSIVE! Be the first ones to discover and try a brand-new Non-stop dogwear product. Our dedicated team of dog sports experts will help you select the perfect gear for you and your dog. Where? Wormwood Scrubs, London, UK When? Saturday 21st of September 2024 from 12:00 to 17:00. You can start your loop anytime between 12:00 and 17:00. Entry fee: £5.00 per participant. All entry fees will be donated to Mayhew charity. If you wish to do more than 1 lap you will be able to. Enter here Follow the event for regular updates!  

In this insightful episode of Canicross Conversations, Louise and Michelle chat to dog behaviourist Alex Cooper, from Coxhill Behaviour. Alex shares her wealth of knowledge on managing reactive dogs, and effective muzzle training. This episode covers: primary causes of reactivity; how to identify triggers: steps to manage reactivity; desensitization versus avoidance; training tools and techniques; handling reactive situations; setting realistic expectations for progress; introducing a muzzle to your dog; common misconceptions about muzzles; signs to watch for ensuring your dog's comfort wearing a muzzle; best types of muzzles for canicross. Whether you're dealing with a reactive dog or considering muzzle training, this episode is packed with insights and expert advice. Tune in to learn from one of the best in the field, and discover how to better support your dog's well-being. Don't miss it—subscribe now.   Connect with Coxhill Behaviour on Facebook   ______________________________________________________ This episode is sponsored by Non-stop Dogwear Join Non-stop in London for a fun and active day with your dog together with hundreds of other dogs and their owners. Support animal welfare with every step! All entry monies received will be donated to the Mayhew Animal Welfare charity. Complete a 1-mile course with your training buddy in any way you like, as many times as you would like! Whether you walk, jog, run or roll, the choice is yours.  Meet Non-stop Dogwear's team and learn how to be active with your dog. Get inspired by our brand's ambassadors and test out demonstration gear during your loop. You can complete as many loops as you like and follow the results on a live timing board! Treat your dog with a doggy cupcake when you are done with your loop. EXCLUSIVE! Be the first ones to discover and try a brand-new Non-stop dogwear product. Our dedicated team of dog sports experts will help you select the perfect gear for you and your dog. Where? Wormwood Scrubs, London, UK When? Saturday 21st of September 2024 from 12:00 to 17:00. You can start your loop anytime between 12:00 and 17:00. Entry fee: £5.00 per participant. All entry fees will be donated to Mayhew charity. If you wish to do more than 1 lap you will be able to. Enter here Follow the event for regular updates!  

In this episode, Michelle and Louise chat to Hannah Kent, dog walker and canicross coach, about how her "difficult" dogs being kicked out of training inspired her to look at canicross, and she's never looked back. This episode is a real celebration of how canicross is for everyone, even - and perhaps, especially - those dogs labelled as "difficult".  

In this episode, Michelle and Louise learn about the roots of Non Stop Dogwear from co-founder Fredrik. It's a fascinating episode into research and development of new products, and we're interested to learn about the rising popularity of canicross in Asia and South Afrria, and how Non Stop are helping with education about dog welfare.

In this episode, Louise and Michelle chat to World Champion dog sledder Vicki Pullin. This is a fascinating dive into the training, mindset and determination of an elite athlete. 

In today's episode, Louise and Michelle chat to veterinary surgeon and orthopaedic specialist, and fellow podcaster, Rob Adams, to bust some myths about running with dogs. We chat about: The 5 minute per month rule How old should your dog be to start running? How far is too far? Recovery from injury Knowing when to retire your dog from canicross The benefits of supplementation for joints It's a fascinating episode with lots of surprising information in there. Let us know what you think.

In this episode, Michelle and Louise chat to ultrarunner Susie Chan all about her dogs, and ultra running. We find out why her dog Roy is so named in an exclusive story never told before, and hear about a dog she encountered in the desert who joined in the multi-day race with the competitors.  Susie's new book, Trails and Tribulations, is out now

Want to stay active over summer while keeping your dog safe in the heat? Peter Howse of Devon Howlers has just the challenge for you, with his Newnham Bark Sprint Challenge. Tune in for all the details and join the Newnham Bark Sprint Challenge Facebook page here

In today's episode, Michelle and Louise chat to Merili Freear about how she went from lockdown runner to ultra marathoner in the space of just a few years, and how running with her schnauzer Jack brings her lots of joy. Merili's book, Just Run, is out on 2nd July Follow Merili on Instagram 

In this episode, Louise and Michelle chat to Ben Skinner who is the 7th generation of his family to work in the business, and Nutrition Officer Zoe Russell, who gives us the lowdown on the Skinner's Get Out and Go! range. A family-run dog food business based in Suffolk, we learn all about Skinner's ethos, and history of feeding working dogs. A fascinating episode about what goes into dog food.   Poppy and Pickle certainly love their energy and recovery bars for fuel during and after a run!!   https://www.skinners.co.uk/

Have you found the perfect dog friendly cottage to take your dog away on holiday in? In this episode we chat to Rachel Spencer about what makes the perfect dog friendly cottage, and hear about how she has created on in Robin Hood's Bay in North Yorkshire. Sunnyside cottage: https://baytownholidaycottages.co.uk/our-cottages/property?s=sunnyside-cottage-robin-hoods Dog owner's guide to the cottage and RHB: https://thepawpost.co.uk/travel/dog-owners-guide-robin-hoods-bay/ On Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sunnysidecottagerhb On Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sunnysidecottagerhb https://rachelspencer.co.uk/

Michelle and Louise chat to James Maiden about his love of running ultra marathons with his Siberian Husky, Gunnar

From a body builder and weightlifter who had never run until lockdown, to adopting a rescue dog and discovering canicross, Michelle chats to Helen Milton who tells us about her Egyptian rescue spaniel Riley. 

Louise and Michelle chat to Sue Round about canicrossing in her fifties