In this episode, Victoria Stilwell sits down with Dr. Maggie O’Brian, a board-certified veterinary behaviorist, to uncover the complexities of animal behavior. They dive deep into the critical role veterinary behaviorists play in addressing issues like aggression, compulsive disorders, and cognitive decline, alongside the importance of collaboration with trainers and vets. Dr. O’Brian also busts myths about pet medication and offers practical advice for traveling with anxious pets during the holidays.

Listeners will gain insights into identifying when to refer pets to a veterinary behaviorist, handling resource guarding, and understanding the nuances of canine cognitive dysfunction. Dr. O’Brian emphasizes a team-based approach to care and explains how science-based strategies and medication can lead to happier, safer pets. Whether you’re a trainer, pet owner, or animal enthusiast, this episode is packed with valuable takeaways!

To learn more about Dr. O'Brian, visit Virtual Veterinary Behavior Medicine or Southeast Animal Behavior and Training.

Join Victoria Stilwell and Holly Firfer as they celebrate 20 years of "It's Me or the Dog." Holly is the VP of programming and Development for ReachTV and Scripps New Anchor. She is a former radio DJ, news correspondent and Victoria's podcast companion for many years.

Victoria shares her journey from acting to dog training, the creation of her groundbreaking TV show, and the evolution of her mission to educate pet owners and trainers worldwide. The episode highlights memorable moments from the show, the challenges of tackling severe behavioral issues, and the joy of fostering relationships between dogs and their humans.

They also delve into Victoria's educational initiatives, from the Victoria Stilwell Academy to online courses designed for dog enthusiasts and trainers. With stories of success, humor, and heartfelt connections, this episode showcases the enduring impact of positive reinforcement training.

In this insightful episode, Victoria interviews dog behavior expert Bob Ryder on the complexities of canine separation anxiety. Bob shares his own journey from avoiding cases of separation anxiety to becoming a certified expert in it. He discusses how separation anxiety is often misunderstood as misbehavior or stubbornness, instead highlighting it as an involuntary and intense fear response. By likening this anxiety to human phobias, he invites listeners to view affected dogs with compassion and patience.

Bob delves into the latest methods for helping dogs with separation anxiety, from suspension of absences to systematic desensitization. He explains how training should focus on reprogramming a dog's response to alone time through gradual, fear-free exposures. Bob also discusses the importance of supporting families in finding creative solutions to avoid leaving their dogs alone while training, showing that successful outcomes rely on both empathy and a well-planned approach.

To learn more about Bob, visit https://www.pawstrans.com/.