Episode 43 - Car Safety

We wear seat belts so why doesn't your dog? Liz, Petra, and Kate discuss the safety of your dog in the car. Where he should ride, different safety options that are available, and why they're important. In addition, they offer some tips for keeping car rides fun and safe.

Check out Liz's dog podcast & blog at "It's a Doggy Dog World!" Questions or Comments? Email Liz at: liz@petliferadio.com

Episode 42 - Old Dogs Are A Treasure

Old dogs are wonderful - a treasure. Old dogs know your moods and your feelings better than anyone else in this world. In this podcast, Liz, Petra and Kate talk about health concerns with old dogs, ways to help the old dog live more comfortably, and how to keep life interesting for the old dog.

Check out Liz's dog podcast & blog at "It's a Doggy Dog World!" Questions or Comments? Email Liz at: liz@petliferadio.com

Episode 41 - If You Didn’t Have A Dog…

People who don't have dogs - who don't share their lives with dogs - think dog owners are nuts. You knew that, right? After all, we choose our cars based on whether they will carry our dogs well, and clean easily. We choose flooring (carpet, tile or?) because of our dogs. Here are some of the things we came up with. Email us yours!

Check out Liz's dog podcast & blog at "It's a Doggy Dog World!" Questions or Comments? Email Liz at: liz@petliferadio.com

Episode 40 - Hints & Tips To Make Living With Dogs Easier

Petra, Kate and I have all lived with dogs for many years and we've each accumulated many tips to help us live with dogs. Dogs provide us with a lot of companionship, but when we share our lives with them, we are living with another species. Dogs don't understand that muddy feet can ruin a white fabric sofa! So tune in; perhaps some of our hints can help you and your dog.

Check out Liz's dog podcast & blog at "It's a Doggy Dog World!" Questions or Comments? Email Liz at: liz@petliferadio.com

Episode 39 - Dog Ownership On A Budget

In these tough economic times, everyone is being more careful with their money and tightening the purse strings. In this show we talk about some ways that you can save money yet care for your dog, as he deserves. We discuss veterinary care, dog food, grooming, toys and more.

Check out Liz's dog podcast & blog at "It's a Doggy Dog World!" Questions or Comments? Email Liz at: liz@petliferadio.com

Episode 38 - A Dog Vocabulary

Language, especially the English language, is a funny thing. In this podcast we're talking about two different aspects of the English language. In the first half of the show, we'll help you establish a vocabulary for your dog. What basic words should he understand?

In the second half of the show, we'll introduce doggerel that begins with 'dog.'  It's curious how many words and phrases begin with dog. Such as "It's a dog's life" and 'dog face", 'dog tags' and so much more. It's fun!

Check out Liz's dog podcast & blog at "It's a Doggy Dog World!" Questions or Comments? Email Liz at: liz@petliferadio.com

Episode 37 - Adopted Dogs Stages of Adjustment
Newly adopted dogs tend to go through several stages of adjustment as they get used to their new homes. In this podcast, we'll talk about those stages and what you can do to make the transition easier on both of you.

Check out Liz's dog podcast & blog at "It's a Doggy Dog World!" Questions or Comments? Email Liz at: liz@petliferadio.com

Episode 36 - What is Separation Anxiety?
Separation anxiety is, unfortunately, a common disorder that causes the dog to become uncomfortable - or even panic - when left alone. In this podcast we will take a look at what can cause this problem, what dogs may be more prone to it, and then what you can do to alleviate your dog's anxiety.

Check out Liz's dog podcast & blog at "It's a Doggy Dog World!" Questions or Comments? Email Liz at: liz@petliferadio.com

Episode 35 - Your Puppy Needs Socialization But Your Vet Says Keep Him at Home!
Socialization is vital for good mental health for your puppy as he grows up. Researchers and behaviorists know that isolated puppies do not grow up to be well adjusted adults - that socialization period between 10 and 16 weeks of age is vital. However, veterinarians routinely recommend that puppies be kept home until they have completed their vaccinations - which puts most puppies at five to six months age - way past that window of socialization. What can puppies owners do?

Check out Liz's dog podcast & blog at "It's a Doggy Dog World!" Questions or Comments? Email Liz at: liz@petliferadio.com

Episode 34 -The New AKC STAR Puppy Program
Have you heard about the AKC's new program for puppies? It is like a pre-Canine Good Citizen program for puppies and looks like it will be an exciting opportunity for both trainers and puppy owners. In this podcast, Petra, Kate and I talk about the program and what the 20 exercises are that puppies must pass to graduate from the program.

Check out Liz's dog podcast & blog at "It's a Doggy Dog World!" Questions or Comments? Email Liz at: liz@petliferadio.com

Episode 33 - When Your Puppy Bites
Puppies bite. They don't have hands so they manipulate their world with their mouth. Unfortunately when a puppy continues to bite people it can lead to severe legal, criminal, ethical, and financial liabilities and the puppy/dog could end up euthanised. Far too many puppy owners, however, make excuses, "Oh he'll grow out of it." In this podcast we talk about the issue of puppy biting, what happens and why, and what you can do about it.

Check out Liz's dog podcast & blog at "It's a Doggy Dog World!" Questions or Comments? Email Liz at: liz@petliferadio.com

Episode 32 - Our Annual Holiday Show
Last year (Can you believe we've been recording these shows for you for more than a year?) we brought you a very informative holiday show so that you and your dogs could be both be safe and enjoy a happy holiday season. You might want to go back and listen to that show again. In this year's holiday show we talk about what to do when your pet can't travel with you. Should you look into boarding your pet? Having a pet sitter come into your home? Or? And although this podcast is about the coming holidays, it really does apply any time you need to leave your pet behind when you travel.

Check out Liz's dog podcast & blog at "It's a Doggy Dog World!" Questions or Comments? Email Liz at: liz@petliferadio.com

Episode 31 - Dog Food Revisited
We have talked about dog foods several times in podcasts but we feel this is important enough to revisit; especially since melamine is in the news again. Tune in and listen as we discuss melamine, what it is and why it's in the news now. We'll also talk about some of the agencies that govern dog foods (and dog food labels) and we'll also talk about the definitions for ingredients. Tune in and learn more about this important subject.

Check out Liz's dog podcast & blog at "It's a Doggy Dog World!" Questions or Comments? Email Liz at: liz@petliferadio.com

Episode 30 - Our Annual Halloween Podcast
It's hard to believe we've been doing these podcasts for more than a year but we have. What great fun! In this Halloween podcast, Petra and Kate and I talk about introducing your dog to costumes; about safety around trick or treaters; and about the dangers of candy - especially chocolate! But even with these warnings, Halloween can still be fun. So listen and enjoy!

Check out Liz's dog podcast & blog at "It's a Doggy Dog World!" Questions or Comments? Email Liz at: liz@petliferadio.com

Episode 29 - Raise a Puppy As You Wish Him to Grow Up
New puppy owners tend to ‘baby’ their puppy and make excuses for normal puppy behavior, “Oh, he’ll grow out of that behavior!” But that’s not necessarily true and young puppies are very capable of learning. So instead of risking that puppy behaviors will turn into adult problems; teach your puppy how you want him to behave from the beginning. It’s so much easier!

Check out Liz's dog podcast & blog at "It's a Doggy Dog World!" Questions or Comments? Email Liz at: liz@petliferadio.com

Episode 28 - Dogs and Other Critters
Dog owners often have other pets so how can you achieve that peaceable kingdom we'd all like to have? There are no magic wands but here are some hints and tips of teaching dogs to get along with cats, ferrets, horses and other critters.

Check out Liz's dog podcast & blog at "It's a Doggy Dog World!" Questions or Comments? Email Liz at: liz@petliferadio.com

Episode 27 - Have Fun With Your Training
Training is much more than sit, down, and stay; it's also about participating in dog sports, in playing games with your dog and even teaching him some fun tricks. We're firm believers in having fun with your dog. Tune in and hear some of the games and tricks we teach our dogs.

Check out Liz's dog podcast & blog at "It's a Doggy Dog World!" Questions or Comments? Email Liz at: liz@petliferadio.com

Episode 26 - More About New Products
Stuff we like - from toys to dog bowls to foods - that you might want to check out for your dog. We have no stock in these companies by the way and don't benefit financially. We just like these products!

Check out Liz's dog podcast & blog at "It's a Doggy Dog World!" Questions or Comments? Email Liz at: liz@petliferadio.com

Episode 25 - Grooming and Body Care
We receive questions on a regular basis from concerned dog owners about caring for their dog. Although we've talked about this subject before, these questions deserve answers. After all, our dogs can't care for themselves. So here is more about some concerns listeners have had.

Check out Liz's dog podcast & blog at "It's a Doggy Dog World!" Questions or Comments? Email Liz at: liz@petliferadio.com

Episode 24 - Summer Safety Part 2
In a continuation of our summer safety series, listen for information about predators that might endanger your pet, snake avoidance training, safety around wild animals, and more. This concludes our series on how to protect your dog at home, out for a hike, or while traveling in the summer. Be safe!

Check out Liz's dog podcast & blog at "It's a Doggy Dog World!" Questions or Comments? Email Liz at: liz@petliferadio.com

Episode 23 - Summer Safety Part 1
In our last show, we talked about summer safety for your dog in the car. This includes information about not leaving your dog in the car, seat belts, crates and much more. In this show, we're continuing the theme of Summer safety but we're discussing such wonderful things as Africanized bees, fire ants, fleas and ticks, poison sumac, cactus and more. Listen for some practical suggestions on how to keep your dog safe.

Check out Liz's dog podcast & blog at "It's a Doggy Dog World!" Questions or Comments? Email Liz at: liz@petliferadio.com

Episode 22 - Car Safety
We all like to take our dogs with us when we travel, run errands, or go to the park. But unfortunately there are dangers inherent in this unless we take some precautions. In this week’s show we’ll talk about some ways to keep your dog safe when he’s in the car with you. We’ve got lots of great information.

Check out Liz's dog podcast & blog at "It's a Doggy Dog World!" Questions or Comments? Email Liz at: liz@petliferadio.com

Episode 21 - AKC’s Canine Good Citizen Program
The American Kennel Club introduced the Canine Good Citizen program in 1989 and it has taken off. This is for all dogs - not just purebreds - and should be a goal for all dog owners. Listen to the show and find out all about it.

Check out Liz's dog podcast & blog at "It's a Doggy Dog World!" Questions or Comments? Email Liz at: liz@petliferadio.com

Episode 20 - Safe and Healthy!
Many of the questions that are asked of the instructors at Kindred Spirits Canine Education Center are about caring for dogs. Sometimes the question may be about controlling fleas or ticks, or about exercise, or any number of things concerning dog care, health, and safety. Now, all of the instructors are quick to point out that we are not veterinarians, but as long time dog owners ourselves, and professionals in dogs, we can answer most basic care questions. In this show, we answer many of the questions that we hear most often. If your questions are not answered here, or you need more help, don’t hesitate to call your veterinarian.

Check out Liz's dog podcast & blog at "It's a Doggy Dog World!" Questions or Comments? Email Liz at: liz@petliferadio.com

Episode 19 - Ten Training Tips
Training your dog - whether he is a show prospect, performance sports dog, or a well loved companion - can sometimes be overwhelming. But here are ten training tips that students at Kindred Spirits Canine Education Center in Vista, CA are given when they enroll in classes. These tips can help any dog owner and trainer. In addition, the trainers put together a list of some of the most common training mistakes. Hopefully you won't see yourself on this list! But if you do, this is a good time to make some changes! Enjoy!

Check out Liz's dog podcast & blog at "It's a Doggy Dog World!" Questions or Comments? Email Liz at: liz@petliferadio.com

Episode 18 - Pup Manners
Thanks for tuning in to “It’s a Doggy Dog World” This week we are continuing our series on puppies. In previous shows we discussed choosing the right puppy, bringing that puppy home, and last week we talked about housetraining. This show is all about helping that new family member grow up to be your best friend. Preventing behaviors that will lead to problems is certainly one step in that process, and teaching the puppy what to do instead is another. But for more, listen to the show! And enjoy!

Check out Liz's dog podcast & blog at "It's a Doggy Dog World!" Questions or Comments? Email Liz at: liz@petliferadio.com

Episode 17 - Housetraining Your Dog
Welcome to "It's a Doggy Dog World!" In previous weeks we talked about finding the right puppy for you and your household, and we discussed what to expect when you brought that puppy home. In this show, we're talking about housetraining - all about housetraining, from teaching your puppy a command to how to prevent problem behaviors regarding housetraining. So tune in and find out how to accomplish this with as little fuss and mess as possible. For more on housetraining, pick up a copy of Liz Palika's book, "The Pocket Idiot's Guide to Housetraining."

Check out Liz's dog podcast & blog at "It's a Doggy Dog World!" Questions or Comments? Email Liz at: liz@petliferadio.com

Episode 16 - Global Pet Expo
We went to the Global Pet Expo in San Diego recently. Wow! What a show. This is the largest trade show for pet products in the world! And we had a great time. Tune in and listen to some of the neat things we found there; from new dog foods to doggy sneakers; from awesome dog treats from New Zealand to toys from New Hampshire.

Check out Liz's dog podcast & blog at "It's a Doggy Dog World!" Questions or Comments? Email Liz at: liz@petliferadio.com

Episode 15 - Choosing A Dog - Part 3
In the last two shows, we talked about choosing a dog and gave you some thing to think about as you made that decision. After all, this new dog will be a part of your family for 14 to 15 years so let's make sure you make the best decision possible! In today's show, we're talking about how to bring your puppy home. What should you do before you bring him home? When should he come home? And what should you expect? This can be a frightening and frustrating time (for you and your new puppy) so we'll talk you through some of the hard stuff.

Check out Liz's dog podcast & blog at "It's a Doggy Dog World!" Questions or Comments? Email Liz at: liz@petliferadio.com

Episode 14 - Choosing A Dog - Part 2
In this “It’s a Doggy Dog World” show, we are continuing last week’s discussion about adding a new dog to your family. Last week, we talked about things you should think about before taking that step; and in this show, we talk about how to find and choose a dog or puppy. There’s a lot to think about, including whether you want to rescue a dog from the local shelter or you want to buy from a breeder. In next week’s show, we’ll continue the discussion by talking about what to do and expect when you bring that new dog home.

Check out Liz's dog podcast & blog at "It's a Doggy Dog World!" Questions or Comments? Email Liz at: liz@petliferadio.com

Episode 13 - Choosing A Dog - Part 1
I'm quite sure most listeners to "It's a Doggy Dog World" are already dog owners, but you may be thinking about adding another dog to your household. Or perhaps a friend has been thinking about a dog. In this week's show, we'll be talking about some of the things to think about prior to bringing home a dog. Including such practicalities as whether everyone in the family wants a dog, Or the financial costs of dog ownership. So tune in and let us talk through some of the important aspects of dog ownership before you go out and get a dog.

Check out Liz's dog podcast & blog at "It's a Doggy Dog World!" Questions or Comments? Email Liz at: liz@petliferadio.com

Episode 12 - Therapy Dogs and Service Dogs
Do you know what the difference is between these two types of working dogs? Many people get therapy dogs and service dogs confused. In this podcast Liz, Petra and Kate will discuss the differences (and similarities) as well as what is required of the dogs and their owners. They will also talk about the Americans with Disabilities Act as it pertains to service dogs. Tune in for all the scoop!

Check out Liz's dog podcast & blog at "It's a Doggy Dog World!" Questions or Comments? Email Liz at: liz@petliferadio.com

Episode 11 - New Year's Resolutions
Have you made your New Year’s resolutions for yourself and your dog? The trainers from Kindred Spirits Canine Education Center in Vista, CA gathered together to talk about the resolutions they have made for themselves and their dogs, but also some problems they often run into in their training classes and so as a result, the resolutions some dog owners might wish to make. Maggie wants to make sure her service dog, Quimby, isn’t pushing her limits too much. Cayla wants to work with her German Shepherd, Teddy, and have him certified as a service dog before the holiday season next year. Debra says she needs to work on her relationship with her Australian Shepherd, Apache, because he doesn’t take her seriously even when he should. And there’s more! List to the show and perhaps get some ideas for yourself and your dog..

Check out Liz's dog podcast & blog at "It's a Doggy Dog World!" Questions or Comments? Email Liz at: liz@petliferadio.com

Episode 10 - Kids And Dogs
This week Petra Burke is our moderator, with Liz Palika, Kate Abbott and all of the trainers and assistant trainers from the Kindred Spirits Canine Education Center pitching in to help. We asked everyone to add to this show because we’re talking about kids and dogs and wanted a lot of input on this sometimes controversial subject. Should a child be responsible for a dog of his/her own? How can we prevent kids from being bitten by dogs? With dog bites at an epidemic level, especially with children, this is very important. Tune in to hear what was said.

Check out Liz's dog podcast & blog at "It's a Doggy Dog World!" Questions or Comments? Email Liz at: liz@petliferadio.com

Episode 9 - Living With A Disabled Dog
Dogs can have disabilities of many kinds, from blindness, deafness, the loss of a limb, hip dysplasia and more. Some disabilities come with old age, some may be due to injuries and other may be congenital defects. As much as we may feel sorry for the dog with a disability, our dogs don't need that pity. Dogs don't pout about their disabilities; they just get on with life. However, you can help your dog live a quality life in many different ways. Listen to this show for quite a few easy suggestions.

Check out Liz's dog podcast and blog at "It's a Doggy Dog World!"

Episode 8 - Holiday Safety
This is the time of year to give thanks for friends and family, and that definitely includes all our four legged friends. The holidays have hazards, too, of course, from the turkey carcass after Thanksgiving dinner to the decorations on the Christmas tree. After all, to puppy, those bright bolored balls on the Christmas tree look just like the balls he plays with – just shinier! In this show, Liz, Petra and Kate offer some advice on how to keep your canine best friend safe. They also talk about ways to incorporate your dog into the holiday celebrations, including protecting Santa from your dog as Santa delivers his holiday gifts!

Check out Liz's dog podcast and blog at "It's a Doggy Dog World!"

Episode 7 - Pure Breeds, Mixed Breeds & Designer Dogs

Petra, Kate and I have been seeing an increasing number of designer dogs (or breeds) in our classes. Although we don’t have a problem with mixed breeds dogs; we’ve all owned mixed breeds, we do have a problem when the new owners of these dogs have unrealistic expectations.

I also feel that people are paying way too much money for these mixed breed dogs; especially when there are so many in the local shelters and humane societies who can be adopted for very reasonable prices. Tune in and listen as we discuss what a pure breed is, what these designer breeds are and some of our thoughts on the subject.

Episode 6 - Traveling With Your Dog - Part 2
“Petra, Kate and I, and our significant others, all enjoy traveling with our dogs. Granted, we also travel without them once in a while. But when you bring your dog with you, it adds a different perspective to things. You may notice things you wouldn’t have otherwise seen. In addition, it’s fun to watch the dog’s reactions to new situations. However, traveling with a dog requires some preparation. This show will help you make sure you and your dog are ready to take off together.”

Episode 5 - Traveling With Your Dog - Part 1
“Petra, Kate and I, and our significant others, all enjoy traveling with our dogs. Granted, we also travel without them once in a while. But when you bring your dog with you, it adds a different perspective to things. You may notice things you wouldn’t have otherwise seen. In addition, it’s fun to watch the dog’s reactions to new situations. However, traveling with a dog requires some preparation. This dog podcast will help you make sure you and your dog are ready to take off together.”

Episode 4 - Tricks & Treats!
Halloween can be a fun time of year with people in costumes, lots of candy, and many parties. Your dog can part in this with you as long as you take some precautions to keep him safe. Don’t let him get into the candy (and don’t forget chocolate is poisonous to dogs!). Introduce your dog to a costume well before Halloween so he gets used to it gradually, and make sure it’s safe for him to wear. Let him see you put on your costume, too, so he isn’t afraid of it. Many groups use a Halloween party as a fund raiser for their efforts and these parties can be great fun. Kindred Spirits Canine Education Center in Vista, CA is sponsoring their 18th Annual Halloween Party this year as a fund raiser for their service dog training program and for the North County Chapter of the Love on a Leash therapy dog group. If you belong to a dog group or club, you may want to think about a party like this, too.

Episode 3 - Keeping Your Dog Safe In A Disaster
Today pets are no longer animals relegated to the back yard; they are a vital and well loved part of our family. When emergencies happen, it’s important to be able to keep your pet safe, either in your home with you or with you as you evacuate. A well stocked emergency kit and a first aid kit are very important, as are plans. If you have to evacuate, where will you go? Prior planning is very important. In this dog podcast, we’ll give you some important tips on how to plan for a future disaster.

Episode 2 - Fearful Dogs
Living with a fearful dog can be tough; not only for the dog who is so worried and afraid, but also his family. No one likes to see a dog suffering from fear and we would all like to alleviate that fear. In this show we’ll be talking about what causes a dog to be afraid and some of the ways to avoid those things. We’ll also discuss what to do and what not to do should your dog be afraid of something specific, such as the garbage truck going by or a motorcycle.

Plus, Halloween is a few weeks away but we’ll talk a little about how you can prepare your dog for Halloween so he won’t be afraid of masks and costumes.

Episode 1 - Managing A Busy Dog
It’s a Doggy Dog World is all about living with dogs; the challenges as well as the joys. This week we’re talking about how to live with and manage a busy dog. A busy dog is one who if not kept busy, will find something to amuse himself. Unfortunately, that can be the kitchen trash can, the leg of your dining room table, or he may simply decide you need to amuse him. But you can manage a busy dog and we’ll take a look at easy ways to do it.