Best Cat Behaviorist Podcasts (2025)

1
Calmer Cats, Better Care: Feline Solutions for Vets and Groomers 4:19

1d ago4:19

4:19

If you’ve ever struggled with a fearful, vocal, or aggressive cat in your exam room or grooming station—you’re not alone. In fact, 60% of cat owners delay vet visits due to how distressed their cat becomes. And as you know, even the calmest cat can become a bundle of claws and cortisol in the wrong sound environment. Welcome to We’re All Ears—the p…

1
Science DOES Matter! 1:12:38

20h ago1:12:38

1:12:38

Dr. Kristina Spaulding returns to flip the script on the Amys! Research Bites is Dr. Spaulding’s podcast and platform for delivering applied animal behavior to non-scientists, and revealing how science and research apply to working and living with dogs in our everyday lives. Join the conversation about everything from the Mind-Body Unit, to the con…

1
Quieting the Kennel: How Science and Sound Are Changing Pet Care Environments 6:45

5d ago6:45

6:45

Today’s episode no. 4, focuses on a topic we don’t talk about enough: kennel noise. Whether it’s a veterinary hospital, a grooming facility, a boarding kennel, or an animal shelter, the overwhelming level of sound in these environments is not just uncomfortable—it’s unhealthy. Let’s talk about how we can fix that. Recommendations for sonic environm…

1
#119 - Try it: Teach "Go To A Safe Space" From Behind a Barrier 9:16

3d ago9:16

9:16

In this episode of Enrichment for the Real World, Emily Strong shares two ways to teach your dog to go to a safe space from behind a barrier—a skill that supports emotional regulation and improves outcomes for both aggressive and behaviorally healthy animals. You'll learn when and why Pet Harmony uses this technique (spoiler alert: a lot!), how it …

1
Fireworks & Fur Babies: Helping Dogs, Cats, and Horses Stay Calm This Summer 8:12

6d ago8:12

8:12

Every summer, fireworks light up the skies—and while we’re celebrating, our pets are often trembling with fear. For dogs, cats, and especially horses, fireworks can feel like an unpredictable, invisible threat. The sudden loud bangs, high-frequency whistles, and vibration can trigger intense fear responses. But the good news is: we can prepare. In …

1
Veterinary behaviorist Dr. Christine Calder explains what cooperative care is all about

4d ago

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Co-editor of Low Stress Handling: A Practical Guide to Cooperative Care, Training, and Behavior Modification, veterinary behaviorist Dr. Christine Calder explains what cooperative care is about. For example, how you may train your dog or cat to comply contentedly with having nails trimmed. And what’s the most important cue you can teach a cat or do…

1
Managing Pet Anxiety: The Science of Calm 5:21

7d ago5:21

5:21

In this 2nd episode of We’re All Ears, host Janet Marlow, sound behaviorist and founder of Pet Acoustics, explores how stress affects dogs and cats — not just emotionally, but biologically. Learn how sound impacts pet biometrics like heart rate and cortisol levels, and discover how species-specific music from the Pet Acoustics+ app can transform th…

1
Helping Your Dog Thrive with Hearing Loss 7:52

10d ago7:52

7:52

Welcome to We’re All Ears — A New Way to Listen to Your Pets Episode Summary: In this premiere episode of We’re All Ears, host Janet Marlow — internationally recognized sound behaviorist, founder of Pet Acoustics, and creator of the Pet Acoustics+ App — takes listeners inside the often-overlooked world of pet hearing health. Janet explains how dogs…

1
#118 - Amber Quann: Biofeedback, Beer, & Backpacks 1:19:21

10d ago1:19:21

1:19:21

What do biofeedback, brewery manners, and doggy backpacks have in common? Amber Quann, CEO and Head Trainer at Summit Dog Training, weaves them together beautifully in this episode of Enrichment for the Real World. Host Emily Strong and guest, Amber Quann dig into the nuances of dog relaxation, not just as a one-size-fits-all goal, but as a spectru…

1
Puppy yoga classes using puppy mill pups are popping up all over Chicago and the city has taken action

11d ago

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Illinois Director of the Humane Society for Animals Marc Ayers joins Steve Dale to explain how the seemingly harmless and fun puppy yoga classes may be sourcing puppies from puppy mills. In Chicago, this is illegal, and the City has taken action. https://serve.castfire.com/audio/7459762/7459762_2025-06-08-183802.64kmono.mp3 Recent Posts Steve Dale’…

1
All you need to know about a new and improved pheromone product which will reduce anxiety in your pets

11d ago

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Veterinary behaviorist Dr. Beth Strickler makes an exciting announcement which will save lives of dogs, cats and rabbits. There’s a new and improved pheromone product available which will reduce anxiety, the Secure line of products by Signs. After all, behavior is the number one cause of death for pets and the most common behavior issues occur beca…

1
We're Off to See the Wizard! 54:47

15d ago54:47

54:47

Steve Dale has his pulse on the veterinary and training world at all times - thats why we call him the Wizard! Join the Amys and certified Animal Behavior Consultant, pet expert, public speaker, and host of Steve Dale's Pet World, the fabulous Steve Dale, as they discuss heart disease in cats and emerging new treatments. They also delve into behavi…

1
#117 - Training an Aggressive Dog Safely: The Ins and Outs of Protected Contact 43:08

17d ago43:08

43:08

In this episode of Enrichment for the Real World, Allie Bender and Emily Strong chat about the use of protected contact including what it is (and no, it isn’t just putting up a gate or a fence), how to adjust your plan based on needs and progress, tips to avoid the temptation to rush, and advice to ensure that you’re not just relying on barriers to…

1
Dog trainer Zak George talks why shock collars are problematic and more

18d ago

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Hard to believe that a dog training organization that seeks to set licensing standards for dog trainers is willing to accept the use of shock collars. Dog trainer Zak George explains why that is unacceptable. He notes that while the use of shock can stop of a problematic behavior in its tracks, it will also cause significant collateral damage to th…

1
#116 - Try It: Budget-Friendly Enrichment from Everyday Items 17:58

25d ago17:58

17:58

When it comes to enrichment, we often think we need fancy tools, expensive toys, or complicated activities—but what if the best enrichment was sitting in your recycling bin? In this episode of Enrichment for the Real World, Emily Strong (she/they) shares how you can use everyday household items—yes, even your trash—to bring joy, engagement, and beh…

1
The most common behavior problem in dogs, the role the economy is playing in relinquishing of pets, and more

25d ago

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Veterinary behaviorist Dr. Nicholas Dodman, Co-founder of Center for Behavior Studies explains what this non-profit to support pet studies and keeping pets in homes is all about. Dr. Dodman reveals the most common behavior problem in dogs. Why do dogs sometimes have compulsive behaviors, such tail or light chasing, and what can be done to help thes…

1
Tails of Tethered Cord Syndrome : A Medical Mystery 44:02

30d ago44:02

44:02

Is your pet a medical or behavioral mystery? Searching for the veterinary version of Dr. House can be frustrating. Join the Amys as they discuss Malus - a very special Terrier with a medical mystery. Without his mom Katrina pushing for a diagnosis, Malus' behavior would never have improved. Learn more about this mysterious disorder - Tethered Cord …

1
#115 - Present Over Perfect: Enrichment That Matters 1:01:16

1M ago1:01:16

1:01:16

Episode Overview: Raise your hand if you've ever felt like you’re not doing enough for your pet. 🙋‍♀️🙋‍♂️ Whether you're a devoted pet parent or a seasoned pro, enrichment burnout is real—and it’s sneaky. In this episode of Enrichment for the Real World, Emily (she/they) and Pet Harmony Behavior Consultant Claire Horvat (she/her) explore how perfec…

1
Beyond The Biscuit: How to Train Dogs with Food the Right Way Force-Free Positive Reinforcement 30:25

1M ago30:25

30:25

Text Me Your Questions 🎧 Podcast Episode Description (for Spotify, Apple, YouTube, and RSS) In this episode, we debunk the myths and misinformation surrounding the use of food in dog training — including the age-old claim that “dogs trained with treats only work when food is visible.” Will Bangura, M.S., CAB-ICB, CBCC-KA, CPDT-KA, FFCP, internation…

1
Chicago’s oldest and most significant animal shelter fundraiser, Bark in the Park, returns to Lincoln Park on May 31st

1M ago

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Dog trainer Jeff Millman on a new way to think about dog bite prevention, which is actually Steve’s idea. Millman is the author of Triggers and Reactions: A Guide to Fixing Dog Behavior Problems: Volume One: On-Leash Aggression Anti Cruelty President Darlene Duggan talks about the city’s oldest and most significant animal shelter’s biggest fundrais…

1
#114 - Sami Griffin: Beyond Performative - Effective Gender Inclusivity for Pet Professionals 53:44

1M ago53:44

53:44

What does gender inclusivity have to do with pet behavior consulting? (Spoiler: everything.) In this episode of Enrichment for the Real World, Emily Strong (she/they) chats with Sami Griffin (they/them), a cat and dog behavior consultant with a passion for creating safer, more inclusive spaces—for pets and their people. Sami helps us move beyond su…

1
Susan Russell talks about her book ‘Midnight: Don’t Judge Me Ruiz’ and the still-existing long list of pit bull related fallacies

1M ago

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Once the executive director of Chicago Animal Care & Control, Susan Russell is now in Philadelphia and after a stint at an animal shelter there, she has authored Midnight: Don’t Judge Me Ruiz. She discusses the book and the still existing long list of pit bull related fallacies and Philly cheese-steak sandwiches. Good news about heart disease in ca…

1
#113 - Q&A: Enrichment Overload- When Is It Too Much? 38:53

2M ago38:53

38:53

Ever find yourself second-guessing if you’re “doing enrichment right”? You’re not alone—and this episode is here to clear things up. In this Q&A session, Allie Bender (she/her), Emily Strong (she/they), and Ellen Yoakum (she/her) tackle real questions from listeners who are curious (and maybe a little confused) about enrichment. They break down com…

1
Neutralizing cat allergies, Dr. Kevin Fitzgerald talks his autobiography, and more

2M ago

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You may recall Dr. Kevin Fitzgerald from Animal Planet’s Emergency Vets and E-Vet Interns or perhaps you’ve even seen him perform his stand-up act at a comedy club. He talks about what he’s learned about veterinary medicine from the best and about what he’s learned about show biz from the likes of the Rolling Stones to George Burns. He talks about …

1
Wag More, Bark Less 31:53

2M ago31:53

31:53

Ever wonder if your dogs and cats are happy? What constitutes happiness for our companion animals? Join the Amys and their esteemed guest, award-winning author and creator of Companion Animal Psychology, Dr. Zazie Todd, as they discuss the science of our pet's happiness. Dr. Todd remains a major voice and driving force behind the worldwide humane d…

1
#112 - Try It: Teach Your Dog "Find It" From Scratch 17:17

2M ago17:17

17:17

Looking for an easy way to enrich your dog’s life and support your behavior goals? “Find It” might be your new favorite go-to. In this episode of Enrichment for the Real World, Emily Strong (she/they) walks you through exactly how to teach “Find It” from scratch—even if your dog has never done scent work before. You’ll get a step-by-step guide that…

1
Chicago Animal Care and Control is turning a new leaf and is focused on absolute transparency

2M ago

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Straight up, asking questions listeners would want to ask of Armando Tajeda, Executive Administrative Assistant and Public Information Officer Chicago Animal Care and Control (CACC). He conceded the agency doesn’t have a long history (and that’s true in many other cities as well) of absolute transparency, that’s now changed. And offer Armando an op…

1
#111 - Scent Work for Dogs: Enrichment That Supports the Whole Household 41:50

2M ago41:50

41:50

Simple, flexible scent games that help your dog thrive—and give you a well-earned breather. If you’ve ever needed your dog to do something enriching without needing your full attention, or wanted to build your relationship through fun, sniffy games, this episode is your new best friend. In this week’s episode of Enrichment for the Real World, Allie…

1
Author Susan Hartzler talks about her latest books and shares her love for dogs

2M ago

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Unlucky in love but lucky with dogs, Susan Hartzler talks openly about her life in “I’m Not Single, I Have A Dog: Dating Tales from the Bark Side.” She explains that she’s fine and content today and accepting that she may from now on only have partners with four legs. And why in many ways, that is a good thing. Hartzler also talks about her book “T…

1
I Like Big Brains and I Cannot Lie! 1:01:37

2M ago1:01:37

1:01:37

Do you like BIG, JUICY, SEXY BRAINS as much as we do? (We're not talking about zombies again...) We're talking about something so much cooler – neuroscience! Join the Amys and their favorite neuroscientist, Dr. Marsha Penner, owner of Learning to Dog Training & Enrichment in Durham, North Carolina, for a mind-tingling discussion about the brain and…

1
Steve Dale is joined by Dr. Sheldon Rubin for an in-depth conversation about the dangers of heartworm disease, the importance of Anti-Cruelty, and more

2M ago

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Legendary Dr. Sheldon Rubin has been a guest on WGN radio dating back to Wally Phillips, when he was among the first veterinarians to talk regularly about pets in the media. Dr. Rubin is passionate about informing people of the dangers of heartworm disease which is nearly always preventable. He also recalls odd animals he’s dealt with, including a …

1
From Panic to Purrs: Getting Unstuck with Canopy Cat Rescue 50:01

2M ago50:01

50:01

Send us a text Sean from Canopy Cat Rescue takes us behind the scenes of an extraordinary mission—saving cats from towering trees across Washington State. As a professional arborist and mountain guide, Sean reveals how he and his partner Tom turned their climbing expertise into a specialized rescue organization that's saved nearly 8,000 feline live…

1
Steve Dale reveals the most popular and trendy dog breeds; learns more about Simon Tofield’s latest book; and more!

3M ago

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With over 300 million views on his Simon the Cat’s YouTube page, and several books published, Simon Tofield explains the origin of Simon and why he think his animated cat became an international sensation. With countless interviews under his belt this is the first time he explains why he feels he is so innately in touch with cat behavior. His lates…

1
Stressed The F Out! 1:37:46

3M ago1:37:46

1:37:46

Have you ever been stressed out? Were you experiencing eustress, distress, or toxic stress? Do you know what factors in your life have directly affected your stress threshold? Join the Amys and their bee-guiling guest, Dr. Kristina Spaulding - the stress expert - and founder of Science Matters Academy of Animal Behavior, as they discuss all the F w…

1
Calm Your Reactive or Aggressive Dog with "Look at That" Training 31:19

3M ago31:19

31:19

Text Me Your Questions Certified canine behaviorist Will Bangura shares a powerful force-free approach to help dogs with reactivity or aggression without using corrections or punishment. • Understanding that reactive behavior stems from anxiety, stress, and fear • Why corrections and punishment only suppress behavior without changing emotional stat…

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Major advancements and breakthroughs for your cat’s health; How your dog can become an assisted therapy animal; and more

3M ago

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Pretty much everything we know about cats was once funded by the non-profit – EveryCat Health Foundation. Jackie Ott Jaakola, Executive Director, explains further and how recently treatments have been found for feline infectious peritonitis (FIP) and feline hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (the most common heart disease in cats). In fact, anyone can att…

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Cat Minds Decoded with Dr. Kristyn Vitale 53:49

3M ago53:49

53:49

Send us a text Ever wondered what's really going on inside your cat's mind? Prepare to have your understanding of feline behavior completely transformed in this captivating conversation with Dr. Kristyn Vitale, a certified applied animal behaviorist and pioneering researcher in feline social cognition. Dr. Vitale dismantles the persistent myth that…

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Peeing Pooches & Prolapsing Pythons: The Weird World of Pet Problems - Episode 206 32:22

3M ago32:22

32:22

Send us a text Rewind back to Sunday 9-7-2003 (hour 2) In the episode you will hear Mark, Donna, Brad, & Jamie The difference between Italy and the USA Bruce listening on KFAB a mix breed dog is peeing on the carpet if not in her kennel. Mrs. Wilson listening in Westland Michigan. I have a baby squirrel that fell out of its nest. What should I do w…

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#110 - Q&A: Enrichment Strategies for Pets with Allergies 35:07

3M ago35:07

35:07

Anyone who has a pet with allergies knows that it can be rough to create an enrichment strategy that fits their needs. Depending on the type and severity of that allergy there can be a lot of restrictions. In this episode, we discuss the allergy journies we've gone on with our own dogs and how we've created enrichment strategies around allergy rest…

1
Who will win the Windy City Sweets cookie contest?

3M ago

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Oh rats! It’s a real dog sport, and now available in Evanston from City Sniffers. Megan Renner is a Certified Canine Sports Training Professional and Certified Canine Training & Behavior Specialist. Currently she is a judge for Happy Ratters and Rat Games. What the heck is that all about? Who will win the Windy City Sweets cookie contest, which ben…

1
10 Critical Mistakes That Sabotage Your Dog Training (And How to Fix Them) 36:04

3M ago36:04

36:04

Text Me Your Questions Support the show If you need professional help please visit my Dog Behaviorist website. Go here for Free Dog Training ArticlesBy Will Bangura, M.S., CAB-ICB, CBCC-KA, CPDT-KA, FFCP is a World Renowned Dog Behaviorist, Certified Dog Behavior Consultant, Certified Professional Dog Trainer, and a Fear Free Certified Professional with over 36 years of experience with the most difficult

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Vet Med For Idiots By Idiots - Part 1 1:07:23

3M ago1:07:23

1:07:23

Have you ever wondered what happens when the world turns upside down? Do you know Angela Bassett? Does she run a Board and Train? Join The Amys and their idiotic guests Cory & Kent, co-hosts of the Vet Med For Idiots By Idiots podcast, for an obnoxiously long discussion on the history of veterinary behavior and dog-human interactions. Do you know h…

1
Why Does Your Dog Invade Personal Space? - Episode 205 32:19

3M ago32:19

32:19

Send us a text Rewind back to Sunday 9-7-2003 (hour 1) In the episode you will hear Mark, Donna, Brad, Jamie, & Jason the intern Do you kiss your pets? Do you talk to them Kirby the stock tip cat Fact or Fiction A cat was given baby tylenol. That is a BAD thing. Kayla listening on KFAB - What can I put in my rat's cage? Are cedar chips bad? (spoile…

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#109 - Assessing Risk for the Safety Enrichment Category 56:22

3M ago56:22

56:22

We're asked all the time about enrichment that isn't related to food. Well, here we are, folks! Today's episode is all about the safety category of enrichment. We'll discuss how to perform a risk assessment for your pet's enrichment strategy. You can find the full episode show notes here.By Pet Harmony

1
Certified Dog Trainer Kathy Callahan offers unexpected advice to new puppy parents

3M ago

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Funny lady JoAnne Worley from TV’s Laugh In and countless TV shows and stage work also happens to be President of Actors and Others for Animals. She talks about the mission and work of the non-profit, including a continued focus on spay/neuter and supporting the wildfire’s animal victims. The big question? Will she gift Steve Dale and WGN listeners…

1
Steve Dale: How to stop your dog from eating its own waste

3M ago

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WGN Radio’s pet expert and host of Steve Dale’s Pet World and Steve Dale’s Other World joins Wendy Snyder, in for John Landecker, to discuss what you can do if your dog will not stop eating its own waste. https://serve.castfire.com/audio/7320273/7320273_2025-03-13-024513.64kmono.mp3 Recent Posts John Landecker Bill Snyder: Is a heat wave approachin…

Podcasts Worth a Listen

Cat Behaviorist Podcasts

Podcasts Worth a Listen