Episodes

  • Working Like Dogs - Episode 205 I Am Ingrid

    Working Like Dogs - Episode 205 I Am Ingrid
    Dec 13 2025
    Actor, writer, and advocate Aria Mia Loberti joins Marcie and Fenway to share the magic behind her new children's book, I Am Ingrid—a heartfelt story that speaks to both kids and adults about the meaningful path to becoming a guide dog. Aria invites us into "Ingrid's world," where courage, identity, and a pair of beloved plastic pearls shine at the center of the tale. In this uplifting and insightful conversation, she explores disability representation, the heart of guide-dog work, and the universal longing to follow our dreams. It's charming, wise, and full of joy—an episode you won't want to miss.

    EPISODE NOTES: I Am Ingrid

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    42 mins
  • Working Like Dogs - Episode 204 Feathers, Fins, and Four Paws: Empathy in Motion with Kyle Kittleson

    Working Like Dogs - Episode 204 Feathers, Fins, and Four Paws: Empathy in Motion with Kyle Kittleson
    Nov 13 2025
    Kyle Kittleson brings the wow! In this fantastic, fun interview, Kyle shares wild and wonderful animal-training stories (yes, dolphins!) and how those lessons power his work as host of MedCircle—where he translates expert mental-health insights for everyday life—and creator of Baba Blast, a kids’ series that builds empathy and resilience. We dive into grief, practical tools for mental health, and the magic of human–animal connection that Working Like Dogs listeners love.

    EPISODE NOTES: Feathers, Fins, and Four Paws: Empathy in Motion with Kyle Kittleson

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    38 mins
  • Working Like Dogs - Episode 203 Canine Heroes in Action: Riley and Harley on the Frontlines of Disaster

    Working Like Dogs - Episode 203 Canine Heroes in Action: Riley and Harley on the Frontlines of Disaster
    Nov 7 2025
    Get ready for an incredible episode of Working Like Dogs! I’m joined by Sharon Gattas and Peter Sellas, two extraordinary handlers who know firsthand the life-saving power of canines in times of crisis. Fresh from their recent deployment to the Texas flood recovery, they’ll be sharing what it’s really like to work side by side with their remarkable Belgian Malinois partners, Riley and Harley. These highly trained dogs aren’t just companions —they’re dedicated rescuers, using their skills to bring hope and relief when disaster strikes. From the bond that fuels their teamwork to the grit it takes to face floodwaters together; Sharon and Peter’s stories will give you a front-row seat to the heart and heroism of canine recovery work.

    EPISODE NOTES: Canine Heroes in Action: Riley and Harley on the Frontlines of Disaster

    Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/working-like-dogs-service-dogs-and-working-dogs-pet-life-radio-original--6668004/support.
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    36 mins
  • Working Like Dogs - Episode 202 Listening to Dogs: Stress, Signals, and Welfare-Centered Research

    Working Like Dogs - Episode 202 Listening to Dogs: Stress, Signals, and Welfare-Centered Research
    Oct 23 2025
    If you work with (or just adore) canine partners, don’t miss this conversation with veterinary behaviorist Dr. Simone Sidel and researcher Jaci Gandenberger from the University of Denver’s Institute for Human–Animal Connection (IHAC). We dig into their new open-access paper, “Recognizing and Mitigating Canine Stress in Human–Canine Interaction Research,” and the big idea behind it: centering dog welfare so studies treat dogs as true participants—with consent cues, low-stress handling, and ethical protocols—rather than research tools. You’ll come away with practical ways to spot and reduce stress, design kinder sessions, and still produce rigorous science that benefits both species.

    EPISODE NOTES: Listening to Dogs: Stress, Signals, and Welfare-Centered

    Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/working-like-dogs-service-dogs-and-working-dogs-pet-life-radio-original--6668004/support.
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    36 mins
  • Working Like Dogs - Episode 201 Canine Companions

    Working Like Dogs - Episode 201 Canine Companions
    Oct 6 2025
    In this powerful and heartwarming episode of Working Like Dogs, hosts Marcie Davis and Fenway welcome Paige Mazzoni, CEO of Canine Companions - the groundbreaking nonprofit that founded the service dog movement in the United States. As the organization celebrates 50 years of transforming lives through expertly trained service dogs, Paige reflects on the legacy, growth, and deep human-canine connections at the heart of their mission. From powerful graduate stories to behind-the-scenes insights on innovation, accessibility, and volunteerism, this conversation offers a meaningful look into how service dogs are changing the world—one life at a time.

    EPISODE NOTES: Canine Companions

    Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/working-like-dogs-service-dogs-and-working-dogs-pet-life-radio-original--6668004/support.
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    35 mins
  • Working Like Dogs - Episode 200 Behind the Leash: How Service Dogs Transform Lives—Inside and Outside Prison Walls

    Working Like Dogs - Episode 200 Behind the Leash: How Service Dogs Transform Lives—Inside and Outside Prison Walls
    Sep 12 2025
    In this thought-provoking episode of Working Like Dogs, we’re joined by Kara Milotte, Manager of Client Services at the nationally recognized nonprofit NEADS and James “Chip” Harrington from the Massachusetts Department of Correction. Together, they offer a powerful look into the transformative partnership between NEADS and correctional facilities—and how this unique collaboration is changing lives through the training and placement of world-class service dogs. From fostering rehabilitation and purpose within prisons to creating life-changing bonds between dogs and their future handlers, this conversation is one you won’t want to miss.

    EPISODE NOTES: Behind the Leash: How Service Dogs Transform Lives—Inside and Outside Prison Walls

    Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/working-like-dogs-service-dogs-and-working-dogs-pet-life-radio-original--6668004/support.
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    29 mins
  • Working Like Dogs - Episode 199 Raising Heroes: Inside the Life of a Puppy Raiser

    Working Like Dogs - Episode 199 Raising Heroes: Inside the Life of a Puppy Raiser
    Aug 26 2025
    In this inspiring episode of Working Like Dogs, I sit down with two extraordinary women—Jeni Exley and Dr. Margaret Jones—who not only work at Craig Hospital, but also serve as passionate, dedicated puppy raisers for Canine Companions. Jeni has raised an incredible 19 puppies, and together, she and Dr. Jones co-raise future service dogs, creating a powerful team fueled by love, discipline, and purpose. They share what it’s really like to be part of the life-changing journey from puppy to service partner—and the incredible support system that surrounds them, including the expert trainers at Canine Companions. If you’ve ever wondered what goes into raising a service dog—or felt a tug at your heart to get involved—this episode is for you.

    EPISODE NOTES: Raising Heroes: Inside the Life of a Puppy Raiser

    Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/working-like-dogs-service-dogs-and-working-dogs-pet-life-radio-original--6668004/support.
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    37 mins
  • Working Like Dogs - Episode 198 Canine Partners of the Rockies

    Working Like Dogs - Episode 198 Canine Partners of the Rockies
    Aug 16 2025
    In this episode of Working Like Dogs on Pet Life Radio, Marcie and her co-host and service dog Fenway sit down with Kyle Lephart, Executive Director, and Miki Brewington, Client Services Manager, from Canine Partners of the Rockies Kyle and Miki share how their organization is transforming lives through the placement of expertly trained service dogs and facility dogs across Colorado. They also dive into their innovative community-based programs where these incredible dogs serve in schools, healthcare settings, and other places where their presence brings comfort, connection, and confidence. It’s a heartwarming and inspiring conversation that showcases the power of purpose-bred dogs and the humans who love and train them.

    EPISODE NOTES: Canine Partners of the Rockies

    Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/working-like-dogs-service-dogs-and-working-dogs-pet-life-radio-original--6668004/support.
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    32 mins