This is Lives Touch by Pets, a show for those who love and are loved by pets. I am your host, certified trainer Lisa Desatnik, CPDT-KA, FFCP, FDM, CPBC, with So Much PETential.
My goal with Lives Touched by Pets is for it to be a friendly, personable podcast that will give you reasons to laugh and celebrate, pause, reflect, and feel understood, there will be stories and interviews you may relate to. Hopefully, you will leave feeling like you were impacted in a meaningful way. And if you are, then you know what? I did my purpose.
Visit my website at www.somuchPETential.com (https://somuchpetential.com/)
Please also consider following So Much PETential on social media.Facebook link – www.facebook.com/somuchpetential (http://www.facebook.com/somuchpetential)
Instagram link – www.instagram.com/somuchpetential (http://www.instagram.com/somuchpetential)
Youtube link – www.youtube.com/somuchpetential (http://www.youtube.com/somuchpetential)
Simone Mueller, MA is a certified dog trainer and dog behaviour consultant (ATN.AG) from
Germany.
She specializes in force-free anti-predation training and is the author of the two books of the
Predation Substitute Training series “Hunting Together” and “Rocket Recall”.
Simone is proud to be an Associate Trainer at the Scotland-based Lothlorien Dog Training Club
(AT-LDTC) and a member of both the Pet Professional Guild (PPG), the Pet Dog Trainers of
Europe (PDTE) and the Initiative of Force Free Dog Training.
Follow Simone’s work on Facebook and Instagram: #predationsubstitutetraining
Learn more: http://www.predation-substitute-training.com
Among what you will learn by listening:
What IS predation and what does it mean to have a dog with high prey drive?
What are some of the breed tendencies and how do they affect walking on a leash?
How does this relate to decompression? Do dogs with high prey drive need decompression?
What are some general tips when it comes to walking your dog?
To learn more about your host: Lisa Desatnik, CPDT-KA, FFCP, FDM, CPBC,
visit: www.SoMuchPETential.com. Follow So Much PETential on Facebook and Instagram.
If this episode is helpful, please considering LIKING and FOLLOWING it.
Thanks!
30 Jun 2025
Episode 13: Understanding Aggression in Dogs
Michael Shikashio CDBC, a dog aggression expert, discusses the causes and potential treatments for aggressive behaviors in dogs, explaining factors to consider when addressing aggression in this interview with Lisa Desatnik.
5 Jun 2025
EPISODE 12: Solving Parrot Screaming Problems
Certified bird trainer Barbara Bingham discusses Applied Behavior Analysis and shares strategies for solving screaming issues in parrots with host Lisa Desatnik in this interview.
22 Apr 2025
Episode 11: Service Dog vs Emotional Support Dog vs Certified Therapy Dog
Guest: Jessa Kenworthy CPDT-KA, ABCDT
Training Director at 4 Paws for Ability
Jessa has worked with 4 Paws for Ability placing life changing service dogs for over 16 years. Working with these dogs led her to an added passion of working with pet families at her local dog club and competing in multiple dog sports with her dogs. 4 Paws for Ability is a non-profit organization that breeds, raises, trains, and places service dogs with children and veterans who have disabilities. 4 Paws places over 120 service dogs annually, all trained with specific tasks and skills to mitigate the impacts of their partner’s disabilities. To date, more than 2,000 service dog teams have been created thanks to the dedication of our staff, volunteers, and donors. In this Episode, you will learn about the differences between:
a service dog
an emotional support dog
and a certified therapy dog
What is a service dog?
What is an emotional support dog?
What is the difference between and emotional support dog and a psychiatric service dog?
What is a therapy dog?
How are they trained?
Are their certifications?
Where are they allowed to be with their handler?
What types of work do they do?
Do they need to wear vests?
How can a business know if a service dog is a service dog?
For more information about 4 Paws for Ability, please visit: www.4pawsforabilityorg (http://www.4pawsforabilityorg).
For more information on this podcast host, Lisa Desatnik, CPDT-KA, FFCP, FDM, CPBC, please visit:
www.SoMuchPETential.com (http://www.SoMuchPETential.com).
23 Mar 2025
Episode 10: Acclimating A Puppy Or Rescue Dog To Alone Time
Guest:
Dr. Moira Hechenleitner, DVM, CSAT
Separation Anxiety Dog
Host:
Lisa Desatnik, CPDT-KA, FFCP, FDM, CPBC
So Much PETential
About Dr. Hechenleitner:
Dr. Moira Hechenleitner graduated from Mayor University College of Veterinary Medicine in 2007, in Santiago, Chile. She is a Certified Separation Anxiety Trainer (CSAT), with a postgraduate in Animal-Assisted Therapy.
Dr. Hechenleitner is a founding board member of the Chilean Association of Professional Dog Trainers (APDT Chile) and has spent the last 15 years offering consultation services for pet guardians and teaching courses to dog professionals. She is a speaker on the topic of Separation Anxiety, giving seminars internationally in English and Spanish.
She helps dogs and their families from all over the world overcome separation anxiety through www.separationanxietydog.com (http://www.separationanxietydog.com). In 2025, she will be hosting her first virtual Separation Anxiety Dog Conference – on May 5, 2025. You can learn more at this link: https://separationanxietydog.thinkific.com/courses/separation-anxiety-dog-online-conference-2025 (https://separationanxietydog.thinkific.com/courses/separation-anxiety-dog-online-conference-2025)
What you will learn in this Episode:
When should you begin acclimating your new puppy to alone time?
What are some considerations when it comes to acclimating your puppy or dog to being alone?
Is crate training helpful and what strategies should you consider to teach your new puppy or dog to be comfortable in the crate?
How does having multiple dogs impact this acclimation?
If you enjoy this podcast, please ‘like’ it, follow my podcast and share it. I also want to invite you to follow So Much PETential on Instagram and Facebook. Learn more about my pet training at www.SoMuchPETential.com (http://www.SoMuchPETential.com)
13 Nov 2024
Episode 9: Learning about the Cincinnati Zoo's cat ambassador program and the dogs who are raised with cheetahs
Guest:
Linda Castañeda
Lead Trainer for the Cat Ambassador Program
at the Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden
About Linda:
Linda grew up in the concrete jungle of Los Angeles but was inspired by watching David Attenborough throughout her childhood. She was immersed in nature when she attended Lewis & Clark College in Portland, Oregon, where she earned a bachelor’s in Biology. After starting her biology career in field research in Eastern Oregon and then in West Africa, she decided to meld her passions for conservation and animals by making her way into the zoo field. Linda attended the Exotic Animal Training and Management (EATM) program at Moorpark College in Moorpark, CA and found her way to the Cincinnati Zoo as an intern, then a seasonal summer hire. Linda had a brief stretch in Chicago at Lincoln Park Zoo before making her way back to Cincinnati Zoo. She spends her day working with a variety of African species, including cheetahs, servals, a porcupine, a red river hog and domestic dogs and cats. While Linda is obsessed with cheetahs, she also works with global fishing cat conservationists through the Fishing Cat Conservation Alliance, where she serves on the board.
What you will learn in this Episode:
What is the Cincinnati Zoo Cat Ambassador Program, how did it start and why is it important?
What types of training does Linda and her staff do with the cheetahs?
Why do they raise baby cheetahs with dogs? How can you help?
For more information, please visit these links:
https://www.cincinnati.com/story/entertainment/2024/05/01/cheetahs-dogs-friends-cincinnati-zoo/73499121007/ (https://www.cincinnati.com/story/entertainment/2024/05/01/cheetahs-dogs-friends-cincinnati-zoo/73499121007/)
https://cincinnatizoo.org/becoming-an-ambassador-kris-and-remus-update/ (https://cincinnatizoo.org/becoming-an-ambassador-kris-and-remus-update/)
https://cincinnatizoo.org/celebrating-cathryn-hilker-on-her-90th-birthday/ (https://cincinnatizoo.org/celebrating-cathryn-hilker-on-her-90th-birthday/)
Learn more about your host Lisa Desatnik, CPDT-KA, FFCP, FDM, CPBC, at
www.SoMuchPETential.com (https://www.SoMuchPETential.com)
1 Jul 2024
Episode 8: What is a veterinary behaviorist and who should seek one?
Guest: Dr. Jill E Sackman, DVM, PhD
owner, Animal Behavior Consultants of Michigan
Dr. Sackman is a board-certified diplomate, American College of Veterinary Behaviors; and a board
certified diplomate of the American College of Veterinary Surgeons. She is the owner of Animal Behavior Consultants of Michigan, PLC where she practices an approach to behavioral medicine that combines learning theory, skilled medical training, and experience along with compassion and effective communication to create an integrated treatment plan that is tailored to the individual patient’s needs. Prior to starting her private practice, Dr. Sackman spent several years in research and development at Johnson & Johnson where she led a team of veterinarians and engineers in developing cutting-edge medical products. She is sought after internationally as a speaker on behavior.
Among what you will learn in this episode:
What is a veterinary behaviorist and how is a veterinary behaviorist different from a regular vet
When would it be a good time to be referred to or seek the assistance of a veterinary behaviorist
What are some of the reasons why physiology can impact aggression,
anxiety, guarding
What signs should someone be looking for to indicate an underlying physiology problem
You can learn more about Dr. Sackman and how she can help at https://www.animalbehaviormi.com/ (https://www.animalbehaviormi.com/)
Learn more about your host Lisa Desatnik, CPDT-KA, FFCP, FDM, CPBC, at
www.SoMuchPETential.com (https://www.SoMuchPETential.com).
3 Jun 2024
Episode 7: Parenting A Dog And A Human Toddler
Are you a parent of a baby or toddler…and a dog? This episode is for you!
In my last episode, I spoke with my own teacher and mentor, Jennifer Shryock, owner and founder of Family Paws® LLC, about preparing for life with a baby and dog. I encourage you to go back and listen to that if you are an expecting parent.
This time Jen and I talk about parenting a toddler and a dog together. How to plan for minimizing stress, safety and getting everyone’s needs met.
That can be a challenge. I hope that this parenting discussion about families with a toddler and a dog will be helpful!
About Jennifer Shryock, CDBC: Jennifer Shryock is owner and founder of Family Paws® LLC. She is a certified dog behavior consultant (CDBC), has a bachelor’s degree in special education, with over 30 years’ experience. She has served on multiple boards, including the International Childbirth Education Association, and was vice president of Doggone Safe, a non-profit dedicated to dog bite prevention and victim support. A recognized expert on dog and baby/toddler interactions and safety, Jen has mentored hundreds of dog professionals, written and spoken extensively about these topics including in media such as The Wall Street Journal and Martha Stewart LIVING.
While working with a rescue organization from which she adopted her dog, Jen found herself supporting families with babies or young children overwhelmed by the challenges of their situations. The need she saw for support and education led her to build resources for new and expecting families. Family Paws® offers the highly endorsed international program Dogs & Storks® for expecting and adopting families, Dogs & Toddlers™, and educational programs for dog professionals globally. I am one of hundreds of licensed Family Paws parent educators worldwide who have completed Jen’s 13-week program to support young families.
For resources and much more information from Family Paws, please visit www.familypaws.com (https://www.familypaws.com).
For information about dog training (and parrot behavior consulting) with Lisa Desatnik, CPDT-KA, FFCP, FDM, CPBC, please visit www.SoMuchPETential.com (https://www.SoMuchPETential.com).
12 May 2024
Episode 6: Preparing For Life With A Baby And Dog
Jennifer Shryock is owner and founder of Family Paws® LLC. She is a certified dog behavior consultant (CDBC), has a bachelor’s degree in special education, with over 30 years’ experience. She has served on multiple boards, including the International Childbirth Education Association, and was vice president of Doggone Safe, a non-profit dedicated to dog bite prevention and victim support. A recognized expert on dog and baby/toddler interactions and safety, Jen has mentored hundreds of dog professionals, written and spoken extensively about these topics including in media such as The Wall Street Journal and Martha Stewart LIVING.
While working with a rescue organization from which she adopted her dog, Jen found herself supporting families with babies or young children overwhelmed by the challenges of their situations. The need she saw for support and education led her to build resources for new and expecting families. Family Paws® offers the highly endorsed international program Dogs & Storks® for expecting and adopting families, Dogs & Toddlers™, and educational programs for dog professionals globally.
I am one of hundreds of licensed Family Paws parent educators worldwide who have completed Jen’s 13- week program to support young families.
Among what we cover:
What is Active Awake Adult Supervision and why is it important?
Common challenges to give you thought
Tips for welcoming home your baby.
For resources and much more information from Family Paws, please visit www.familypaws.com (https://www.familypaws.com).
For information about dog training (and parrot behavior consulting) with Lisa Desatnik, CPDT-KA, FFCP, FDM, CPBC, please visit www.SoMuchPETential.com (https://www.SoMuchPETential.com).
4 May 2024
Episode 5: What is separation anxiety in dogs and is there hope?
23 Apr 2024
Episode 4: What is separation anxiety in dogs and is there hope?
Separation anxiety is a very real phobia for many companion dogs. Being alone is
downright terrifying for them. And that makes living with these dogs so very stressful for
pet parents.
This is the first of a 2-part series discussing Separation Anxiety and its treatment.
My guest is my own coach, teacher, and mentor when it comes to helping others find hope
with separation anxiety.
Dr. Moira Hechenleitner graduated from Mayor University College of Veterinary Medicine
in 2007, in Santiago, Chile. She is a Certified Separation Anxiety Trainer (CSAT), with a
postgraduate in Animal-Assisted Therapy.
Dr. Hechenleitner is a founding board member of the Chilean Association of Professional
Dog Trainers (APDT Chile) and has spent the last 15 years offering consultation services
for pet guardians and teaching courses to dog professionals. She is a speaker on the
topic of Separation Anxiety, giving seminars internationally in English and Spanish.
She currently resides in Noank, Connecticut and helps dogs and their families from all over
the world overcome separation anxiety. Learn more about her educational programs and
support for professionals and pet parents at www.separationanxietydog.com (https://www.separationanxietydog.com).
Among what you will learn from listening:
What is separation anxiety?
How does separation anxiety differ from confinement distress?
Are there causes of separation anxiety?
When you bring home a puppy or rescue dog, how can you acclimate to alone time?
Is there hope?
Come back to the second of this 2-part series with Dr. Hechenleitner as we talk about the
treatment of separation anxiety.
Thanks for listening!
As a reminder, learn more about Dr. Hechenleitner and her support for dog owners and
dog professionals at www.separationanxietydog.com (https://www.separationanxietydog.com).
Learn more about me and my dog training at www.SoMuchPETential.com (https://www.SoMuchPETential.com).
7 Apr 2024
Episode 3: When Your Pet Crosses The Rainbow Bridge - Part 2
Episode 3: When Your Pet Crosses The Rainbow Bridge
In this first of a two-part episode, Lisa Desatnik, CPDT-KA, FFCP, FDM, CPBC, talks with Tammy Wynn, founder and CEO of Cincinnati, Ohio-based Angel’s Paws. You will gain a deeper understanding of supporting your pet, yourself, and others as your journey toward and past the Rainbow Bridge.
Angel’s Paws is the first complete end of life service offering in home pet hospice, including in home euthanasia, private cremation, free pet loss support groups and one to one grief counseling. The organization has compassionately helped over 30,000 pet parents through this process.
Tammy is a licensed therapist with over 30 years of experience. During the six years of preparation to open Angel’s Paws, she took a job as a hospice social worker to fully understand hospice and its operation in order to bring it to the animal world AND THEN studied to become a registered vet tech (RVT), the nursing equivalent in veterinary medicine, to truly bring the full spectrum of pet hospice to a reality.
Among the topics that will be covered:
The stages of grief
The Rainbow Scale and how it can help you to know when it is time to let go
The importance of self-care
Supporting a friend who is going through this process with their pet
Why celebration is helpful to your grieving process
In the second episode of this series, Lisa will talk with Tammy about how children grieve pet loss, and how to help them.
Learn more about Angel’s Paws here: https://www.angelspaws.com/ (https://www.angelspaws.com/)
31 Mar 2024
Episode 2: When Your Pet Crosses The Rainbow Bridge - Part 1
Episode 2: When Your Pet Crosses The Rainbow Bridge
In this first of a two-part episode, Lisa Desatnik, CPDT-KA, FFCP, FDM, CPBC, talks with Tammy Wynn, founder and CEO of Cincinnati, Ohio-based Angel’s Paws. You will gain a deeper understanding of supporting your pet, yourself, and others as your journey toward and past the Rainbow Bridge.
Angel’s Paws is the first complete end of life service offering in home pet hospice, including in home euthanasia, private cremation, free pet loss support groups and one to one grief counseling. The organization has compassionately helped over 30,000 pet parents through this process.
Tammy is a licensed therapist with over 30 years of experience. During the six years of preparation to open Angel’s Paws, she took a job as a hospice social worker to fully understand hospice and its operation in order to bring it to the animal world AND THEN studied to become a registered vet tech (RVT), the nursing equivalent in veterinary medicine, to truly bring the full spectrum of pet hospice to a reality.
Among the topics that will be covered:
The stages of grief
The Rainbow Scale and how it can help you to know when it is time to let go
The importance of self-care
Supporting a friend who is going through this process with their pet
Why celebration is helpful to your grieving process
In the second episode of this series, Lisa will talk with Tammy about how children grieve pet loss, and how to help them.
Learn more about Angel’s Paws here: https://www.angelspaws.com/ (https://www.angelspaws.com/)
19 Mar 2024
Episode 1: Meet Lisa Desatnik, your host of Lives Touched By Pets.
I have always had a heart for nonhuman animals. It was about 24 years ago when I began studying behavior because of a problem that I had with my own pet. I was really fortunate at the time to have found Dr. Susan Friedmann, who then had a listserv for parent owners around the world, teaching people how to solve issues using ABA or Applied behavior Analysis with their own pets. I'll tell you what, it opened my heart. It opened a floodgate of curiosity, and I have not stopped learning ever since then. I first began writing about behavior, and I kept studying and studying and gradually, with more knowledge, I started earning certifications. I then went full-time into training, and now I do a lot of both consultations and training for manners and helping puppies to succeed, and also working with families that have some pretty difficult and challenging behavior issues with their pets. It's really rewarding.
Reach and audience
Public platform figures. Ratings count people who left a rating, not total listeners.
YouTube views
108,381
Score snapshot 15 Sept 2025
Apple Podcasts (US)
5.0 / 5
3 ratings
Podcast Authority Score: 48 / 100
A composite of feed quality, social presence, YouTube performance and engagement. Read the methodology.
Quality
51
Social presence
0
YouTube
82
Engagement
32
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