We all dream of that perfect journey when we first welcome a new pet, but animal ownership and companionship aren't always perfect; it's a journey of ups and downs. From those unforgettable moments of laughter to when we and our animals need a helping hand.
I'm Lauren, a clinical animal behaviourist, and Fur Real Conversations explores the realities of pet and animal ownership, one paw at a time!
I'll share experiences, valuable expert tips, and candid conversations that inspire, empathise with and motivate you to lead the best life possible with your pet.
Creating a harmonious home with cats and dogs is often considered a challenge, but seasoned cat and dog behaviourist Lisa is familiar with the process.
In this episode, Lisa shares her expert guidance and essential strategies for introducing these furry friends while reducing anxiety and stress for both pets.
Together, Lisa and I walk you through the crucial steps of pre-introduction scent swapping to the importance of observing initial interactions and practical solutions for everyday challenges, such as dogs chasing cats and the environmental stressors that affect feline behaviour.
Whether you're a new pet owner or looking to improve your multi-pet household, Lisa's insights offer actionable support to create a safe and loving environment for all.
Fur Real Conversations is produced and managed by Urban Podcasts (https://urbanpodcasts.co.uk/).
4 Jun 2024
Canine Body Language
By watching their body language, can you truly understand what your dog is trying to tell you?
In this episode, I unravel the subtle yet powerful world of canine communication. I tackle misconceptions such as assuming a dog rolling onto its belly wants a tummy rub when it might signal appeasement or discomfort.
Recognising canine body language cues early allows us to intervene before things escalate into aggression, ensuring our dogs feel secure and understood.
Fur Real Conversations is produced and managed by Urban Podcasts (https://urbanpodcasts.co.uk/).
14 May 2024
Fostering Domestic Felines
Recently, I adopted Luna, a feral cat, who has found her forever home with me.
In this episode, I explore the implications of caring for a cat like Luna in a rural environment while promoting her well-being and acknowledging her natural hunting instincts and their impact on local wildlife.
I'll reveal the careful balance between her independence and her security and the positives and negatives of indoor versus outdoor living for cats, reflecting on their temperaments and the surrounding environment's influence on their quality of life.
Fur Real Conversations is produced and managed by Urban Podcasts (https://urbanpodcasts.co.uk/).
30 Apr 2024
Understanding Reactive Dogs
Have you ever wondered what living with a reactive dog is like?
In this episode, I will share my personal experiences with my Greek rescue dog, Poppy, and the ups and downs of life with a sensitive canine companion. I will discuss how I initially felt embarrassed about her reactive behaviour but gradually realised it was a cry for help and not a sign of hostility.
You will gain insights and strategies on managing your reactive pet's environment, respecting their social boundaries, and recognising the importance of their downtime needs.
Fur Real Conversations is produced and managed by Urban Podcasts (https://urbanpodcasts.co.uk/).
16 Apr 2024
My Take on Crates
Imagine transforming the crate from a doggy jail cell to their zen den.
In this episode, I share my unconventional approach that turns the traditional crate into a voluntary sanctuary for our canine companions. By listening to my journey with Poppy, my rescue pup, you'll discover how trust and choice can make all the difference in creating a space that's not just tolerated but cherished by your furry friend.
I also share practical ways to incorporate crates into your dog's life, ensuring their comfort and well-being. As we navigate the intricacies of our dogs' restful retreats, we recognise that one size does not fit all.
Fur Real Conversations is produced and managed by Urban Podcasts (https://urbanpodcasts.co.uk/).
2 Apr 2024
The Journey of Adopting Overseas Rescue Dogs
This episode explores Charlotte's journey with Gizmo, a rescue dog from Bulgaria. Despite a traumatic start to life, Gizmo found a new home with Charlotte in the UK.
Charlotte shares her story, describing the complexities of building trust with a pet carrying the weight of a traumatic past. She talks about the joy that comes from forging a bond through understanding and compassion. Charlotte and I also discuss the adoption process, including the frustration of rejected applications and the surprising twists of virtual home checks.
If you, like Charlotte, are looking to adopt a pet from overseas, this episode offers a raw look at the challenges and triumphs you can expect.
Fur Real Conversations is produced and managed by Urban Podcasts (https://urbanpodcasts.co.uk/).
19 Mar 2024
Raising Ivy: The Joys & Hurdles of Puppy Parenthood
Introducing Ivy, my energetic cocker spaniel cross-border collie pup, into our family was emotional and well-planned. It required careful management of my older dog Poppy's need for tranquillity and my daughter's excitement.
Bringing a new furry member home meant balancing love and logistics. In this episode, I share my tips on creating a calm atmosphere at home that embraces both our two-legged and four-legged family members.
Fur Real Conversations is produced and managed by Urban Podcasts (https://urbanpodcasts.co.uk/).
5 Mar 2024
Katie & Sooty's Story: The Wondering Spaniel
There's something magical about how a scampering set of paws and a wagging tail can turn a dreary day into one filled with hope. That's precisely the kind of magic Katie, The Wondering Spaniel on Instagram, and I unpack as we explore her inspiring bond with her cocker spaniel, Sooty.
In this episode, Katie shares her advice on selecting the right dog for your mental well-being, drawing from her experience with high-energy breeds. She also discusses patience, the importance of incremental progress, and preparation for dog-friendly camping adventures.
Fur Real Conversations is produced and managed by Urban Podcasts (https://urbanpodcasts.co.uk/).
20 Feb 2024
My Take On Obedience In Dogs
Poppy's tail wags might look like simple gestures of happiness, but to me, they're a testament to our journey of redefining the word 'obedience' in pet training. With my background as a clinical animal behaviourist, I've learned that true harmony with our pets isn't found through demanding compliance—it's cultivated through respect and understanding.
In this episode, I peel back the layers of traditional dog training, revealing a fresh perspective that embraces our furry companions' unique quirks and natural behaviours. You'll discover why your dog's penchant for digging isn't naughty but a genuine need and how creating outlets like a digging spot can transform your yard into a peaceable kingdom for both of you.
Fur Real Conversations is produced and managed by Urban Podcasts (https://urbanpodcasts.co.uk/).
6 Feb 2024
The Complex World of Canine Aggression
What is the truth behind your dog's aggressive behaviour? In this episode, I guide you through the often misunderstood signals of canine aggression.
I navigate the complexities of aggressive behaviours, debunk myths, and highlight the critical need for empathy and informed management. You'll learn to read the subtle cues of submissive behaviours and gain strategies to create positive associations with resource removal, building a trusting bond with your canine companion.
Fur Real Conversations is produced and managed by Urban Podcasts (https://urbanpodcasts.co.uk/).
23 Jan 2024
Navigating Your Cats' Territory with Lucy Hoile
Unlock the secrets to fostering a harmonious multi-cat home with clinical animal behaviourist Lucy Holie. Lucy shares her expertise and wisdom from her must-read book in this episode to help you understand the true nature of cats and navigate the social labyrinth of cat interactions.
You will discover that cats are more adaptable to shared living spaces than we often give them credit for, and we'll discuss practical strategies for reducing tension and ensuring each cat feels safe and catered to in their environment. This is a crucial step for any pet parent wanting to avoid common household conflicts among their furry companions.
Whether you're facing the challenges of rehoming or simply hoping to add another purring member to your family, this episode is packed with invaluable insights and advice that will guide you through the process with sensitivity and care for all your beloved pets.
Fur Real Conversations is produced and managed by Urban Podcasts (https://urbanpodcasts.co.uk/).
9 Jan 2024
Setting Goals & Resolutions
As a clinical animal behaviourist, I've faced the highs and lows that accompany the journey of pet training, and I'll be the first to admit it's been an emotional rollercoaster. There's something magical yet maddening about setting goals for our furry friends.
In this episode, I share my personal experiences with my dogs Ivy and Poppy while stripping away the illusion of social media perfection and dive into the nitty-gritty of dog training – from the unanticipated joy in a perfectly executed cue to the occasional despair when things don't go as planned.
I'll also explore the nuances of setting achievable targets, taking into account each pet's unique personality and pace while sharing strategies that can help carve out time for training in our daily routines.
Fur Real Conversations is produced and managed by Urban Podcasts (https://urbanpodcasts.co.uk/).
26 Dec 2023
Paws & Prey
When Jessie, my rescue cat, began her nightly escapades, delivering an array of "gifts" from the great outdoors, I was entrenched in the complexities of our feline companions' hunting instincts. What began as a quirk quickly unravelled as a source of intrigue and moral dilemma, balancing my love for wildlife and my affection for the stealthy hunter at home.
In this episode, I pull back the curtain on the sometimes-conflicting emotions of living with a predator in the domestic sphere. I explore the essential nature of cats' hunting behaviours, the challenges they present for those of us committed to preserving local wildlife, and how you can stimulate your cat and reduce the likeliness of them bringing in "gifts" from the great outdoors.
Fur Real Conversations is produced and managed by Urban Podcasts (https://urbanpodcasts.co.uk/).
12 Dec 2023
Choosing Your Pet Companion
Have you ever pondered over the life-altering decision to add a furry companion to your life?
In this episode, drawing from my personal experiences, I explore the world of pet ownership. I'll unpack the considerations of choosing between a rescue pet or a kitten/puppy and discuss the responsibilities of each option.
Fur Real Conversations is produced and managed by Urban Podcasts (https://urbanpodcasts.co.uk/).
28 Nov 2023
Puppy Priorities
When bringing a new fur baby into your home, getting your priorities set is a must. In this episode, I explore everything from toilet training to managing puppy biting and teaching your new pup to settle in.
I'll share firsthand the realities and practicalities of puppy ownership, the importance of consistency, and commitment to establishing good habits right from the start. I also will explain the crucial process of puppy socialisation - shaping their worldview with calm, positive experiences- the importance of understanding your puppy's behaviour and emotions and gradually introducing them to being alone.
Fur Real Conversations is produced and managed by Urban Podcasts (https://urbanpodcasts.co.uk/).
28 Nov 2023
My Journey So Far
Have you ever met a dog that changed your life? I did. Her name is Poppy, a rescue who turned my world upside down and set me on a career path I’d never anticipated.
I’m Lauren, now a clinical animal behaviourist, and in this episode, I wanted you to get to know me and how I have got to where I am today. I’ll share with you the trials and triumphs of living with Poppy, how our journey together opened my eyes to the complex world of animal behaviour and how I cope with looking after two horses while training my new puppy, Ivy.
I want Fur Real Conversations to be an honest and safe place where pet owners can ask questions, empathise and motivate each other so that together, we can lead the best life possible with your pet.
Fur Real Conversations is produced and managed by Urban Podcasts (https://urbanpodcasts.co.uk/).
21 Nov 2023
Welcome to Fur Real Conversations
We all dream of that perfect journey when we first welcome a new pet, but animal ownership and companionship aren't always perfect; it's a journey of ups and downs. From those unforgettable moments of laughter to when we and our animals need a helping hand.
I'm Lauren, a clinical animal behaviourist, and Fur Real Conversations explores the realities of pet and animal ownership, one paw at a time!
I'll share experiences, valuable expert tips, and candid conversations that inspire, empathise with and motivate you to lead the best life possible with your pet.
Fur Real Conversations is produced and managed by Urban Podcasts (https://urbanpodcasts.co.uk/).
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