Episodios

  • 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 m
  • 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 m
  • 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 m
  • 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 m
  • Teach Your Dog to Paddleboard Safely with Expert G Scott Graham

    Teach Your Dog to Paddleboard Safely with Expert G Scott Graham
    May 27 2025
    In this episode of Backyard Pet Talk, Shannon Riley chats with multi-talented author and paddleboarding enthusiast Scott Graham. Scott shares how he got into standup paddleboarding (SUP), why he started training his dogs to join him, and the unique steps he took to teach them safely and confidently. You'll hear about his inspiring background, his approach to dog training on the water, and his latest book all about SUP with dogs. Plus, Scott offers practical tips for anyone ready to try paddleboarding with their pup! You can find Scott’s book and follow his work on Instagram https://gscottgraham.com/book/sup-with-your-pup
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    30 m
  • Talking Pet Insurance with Fernando Sandoval from State Farm

    Talking Pet Insurance with Fernando Sandoval from State Farm
    May 14 2025
    In this episode of Backyard Pet Talk, host Shannon Riley sits down with Fernando Sandoval from State Farm to answer one of the most common questions pet owners have: Do I really need pet insurance? As veterinary costs continue to rise, more people are looking into how to protect their pets—and their wallets. Fernando breaks down how State Farm partners with Trupanion, what their pet insurance covers, and how easy it is to get started (hint: you don’t even need to be a State Farm customer!). ✅ Why pet insurance is becoming more important ✅ What State Farm offers and who it's for ✅ How to get a quote and what to expect ✅ Answers to common questions pet parents have Whether you're a new pet parent or just trying to plan ahead, this episode is packed with useful info to help you make a smart decision for your four-legged family members.
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    30 m
  • Purr-suing Passion: Launching a Cat Café & Empowering Women in Business

    Purr-suing Passion: Launching a Cat Café & Empowering Women in Business
    Apr 23 2025
    This week on the podcast, we’re thrilled to share a conversation that’s as heartwarming as a kitten curled up in a sunbeam. We sat down with Kat, the visionary behind a brand-new cat café that’s more than just a cute concept—it’s a bold entrepreneurial leap powered by passion, purpose, and plenty of purrs. Starting a business is never easy, and as a woman navigating the world of small business ownership, Kat brings honesty, creativity, and courage to the journey. From building a welcoming space where people can relax with adoptable cats, to launching unique merch and time-based cat-cuddle sessions, she’s truly crafting something special for the community. In this episode, we talk: How Kat turned her dream into reality The challenges (and joys!) of opening a cat café Why supporting women-owned businesses matters What’s next for the café—including sneak peeks at merch and experiences And of course... so much cat talk
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    30 m
  • Paws of Change: Deassa’s Dog Rescue Ripple Effect Animal Project

    Paws of Change: Deassa’s Dog Rescue Ripple Effect Animal Project
    Mar 31 2025
    In this podcast episode of Backyard Pet Talk, host Shannon Riley welcomes Deassa Benstock, the founder of the Ripple Effect Animal Project, a dog rescue in Napa, California. Shannon and Deassa have known each other for a long time, having worked together as vet techs. Deassa shares her journey into animal rescue, which started in college when she rescued a fearful dog with many issues. This experience led her to connect with Bad Rap, an organization in Oakland, and sparked her passion for rescue work. They discuss how people can help, including through social media, donations, and financial support, which allows organizations like Ripple Effect to continue their efforts in helping more animals Find out more about Ripple Effect Animal Project Here: https://rippleeffectnapa.rescuegroups.org/ Donate Here: https://rippleeffectnapa.rescuegroups.org/info/donate View Podcast Episode on YouTube here: https://youtu.be/pGFOFT6z23U
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    30 m