Episodes

  • A Positive Approach to Aggressive Dogs with Michael Shikashio

    A Positive Approach to Aggressive Dogs with Michael Shikashio
    Apr 28 2026
    In this episode of Backyard Pet Talk, Shannon Riley interviews Michael Shikashio, an aggressive dog expert and founder of aggressivedog.com. Michael shares his journey from working in other industries to becoming a dog trainer after fostering dogs with behavioral challenges. He highlights how aggression in dogs is often a result of fear or discomfort, and stresses the importance of using positive reinforcement over aversive techniques. Michael discusses the role of culture in dog behavior, the significance of understanding a dog's emotional state, and the importance of empathy and communication in handling aggression. He also touches on the use of technology, such as devices that monitor dogs' health, to better understand underlying issues that might contribute to aggressive behavior. The episode wraps up with advice for trainers and dog owners on managing aggression, stressing the importance of seeking professional help, considering a dog's health, and understanding the context of the aggressive behavior. Check our Michael Shikkashio's website here: https://aggressivedog.com/
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    38 mins
  • From Science to Story: A Conversation with Patricia McConnell

    From Science to Story: A Conversation with Patricia McConnell
    Jan 29 2026
    In this episode of Backyard Pet Talk, Shannon Riley sits down with legendary animal behaviorist, author, and speaker Patricia McConnell to talk about her very first work of fiction, Away to Me. After decades of helping people understand dogs through science and compassion, Patricia shares what led her to write a novel—and how a lifetime of real-life dog behavior shaped the story. Set against the backdrop of rural Wisconsin, Away to Me weaves together dogs, loss, resilience, and truth, with canine characters portrayed as honestly and thoughtfully as the humans who love them. From her early days as a dog trainer to becoming a leading voice in applied animal behavior, Patricia reflects on her journey, her writing process, and the responsibility of telling dogs’ stories authentically. Whether you’re a longtime fan, a dog lover, or a reader curious about fiction rooted in real experience, this conversation is thoughtful, warm, and deeply engaging.
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    30 mins
  • Inside the Mind of a Veterinarian & Animal Advocate: Dr. Nancy Kay

    Inside the Mind of a Veterinarian & Animal Advocate: Dr. Nancy Kay
    Jan 9 2026
    In this episode of Backyard Pet Talk, host Shannon Riley welcomes veterinarian, author, and animal welfare advocate Dr. Nancy Kay. Dr. Kay shares her lifelong passion for animals, her more than 40-year career in veterinary medicine, and her path into writing and animal welfare advocacy. The conversation explores her influential books, Speaking for Spot and her newest release, A Dog Named 647, along with her early blogging days. Shannon and Dr. Kay discuss the importance of giving animals a voice, the evolution of veterinary care, and Dr. Kay’s ongoing commitment to animal welfare and client education. Check out Dr. Nancy Kay's new book, "A Dog Names 647", here: https://www.amazon.com/Dog-Named-647-Nancy-Kay/dp/B0FDS138LS More from Dr. Nancy Kay: Website - Dr. Nancy Kay Substack - kayn.substack.com Other Books! - General 2 — Dr. Nancy Kay
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    30 mins
  • The Dogs Behind the Pages with Karen London

    The Dogs Behind the Pages with Karen London
    Jan 9 2026
    In this episode of Backyard Pet Talk, host Shannon Riley welcomes back canine behaviorist, dog trainer, and author Karen London to discuss her newest book, My Dog’s Mystery Adventures and Other Stories From a Canine Behaviorist and Dog Trainer. Karen shares insights into her background in training, behavior, and science, and explains how the book reflects all sides of her work—from canine body language and play to shelter dogs, real-life problem solving, and everyday adventures with dogs. The two discuss how the deep emotional connections between people and dogs, focusing on how experiences like trauma, infertility, and abuse draw many individuals to work with animals. Karen shares personal stories about healing through dogs, the compassion that shapes the dog-care community, and the meaningful, human stories behind her books—including the real dogs who inspired the cover! Click here to check out Karen London's new book, "My Dog’s Mystery Adventures and Other Stories from a Canine Behaviorist and Dog Trainer": https://www.amazon.com/My-Dogs-Mystery-Adventure-Behaviorist/dp/1952960045
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    40 mins
  • The Power of Co-Sheltering with Dianne Canafax

    The Power of Co-Sheltering with Dianne Canafax
    Nov 14 2025
    When compassion meets action, lives truly change — for both people and their pets. In this powerful episode, we welcome back Diane, founder of KARE (Kitsap Animal Rescue and Education), to share her incredible journey from corporate trainer to passionate dog behaviorist, rescuer, and advocate for families in crisis. Diane takes us behind the scenes of HOPE, a groundbreaking co-sheltering program in Washington State that allows individuals and families experiencing homelessness or escaping domestic violence to stay safely with their beloved animals. For so many, pets are family — a source of comfort, safety, and unconditional love — yet traditional shelters often force people to make the heartbreaking choice between protection and companionship. HOPE changes that. Through empathy, trust-building, and an understanding of both human and canine behavior, Diane and her team are proving that compassion and structure can coexist. You’ll hear moving stories of resilience — including people who say this program quite literally saved their lives — and learn how KARE and HOPE are creating a model that communities across the country can follow. From training rescue dogs to building systems of compassion, Diana will inspire anyone who believes in the human-animal bond.
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    30 mins
  • Understanding Pets Through Art with Lili Chin

    Understanding Pets Through Art with Lili Chin
    Oct 9 2025
    Cats may seem mysterious, but just like dogs, they’re constantly communicating. In this episode, Shannon sits down with author and illustrator Lily to talk about her book Kitty Language—a fascinating guide to feline body language, scent communication, and the subtle ways cats share their feelings. From the importance of recognizing fearful versus confident signals to surprising lessons about how scent can completely change the way cats interact, this conversation highlights how much our feline friends are saying if we only know how to listen. Lily also shares personal stories about her own cats, the challenges of misunderstood behaviors, and how she blends her creative talents with her passion for animal behavior. If you’ve ever wondered what your cat is really trying to tell you—or if you’ve experienced those puzzling moments when a trip to the vet turns into a sudden conflict between bonded cats—this episode will give you insight, tools, and appreciation for the rich world of feline communication. Be sure to check out Lily’s books, art, and resources, available online and in select bookstores.
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    30 mins
  • Understanding Cues with Kathy Sdao

    Understanding Cues with Kathy Sdao
    Jul 17 2025
    In this episode of Backyard Pet Talk, Shannon Riley sits down with renowned animal behaviorist and author Kathy Sdao to explore one of the most fundamental—and often misunderstood—concepts in training: cues. From dolphins to dogs, Kathy shares her journey and explains how cues are more than commands—they’re invitations for communication. Whether you're a pet parent or professional trainer, this episode is packed with insight and inspiration. Stay curious! Connect with Kathy Sdao: https://www.kathysdao.com/ You can find Kathy Sdao’s book, “Plenty in Life is Free – Reflection on Dogs, Training and Finding Grace, here: https://www.dogwise.com/plenty-in-life-is-free-reflections-on-dogs-training-and-finding-grace/?srsltid=AfmBOorlLVURvvgq8giyZX870h4z1DwsCOkD8ucFKM1ZMVpJ7ONdtkmf
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    50 mins
  • From Chickens to Canines: Inside KARE with Dianne Canafax

    From Chickens to Canines: Inside KARE with Dianne Canafax
    Jul 2 2025

    How one woman turned her passion into a life-changing mission for animals and people
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    30 mins