Canine Connection Podcast

Episode 24: Interview with Laura Holder on Conservation

In this episode of the Canine Connection podcast, Laurie and Petra interview Laura Holder, a conservation dog handler who discusses her unique work with dogs in environmental conservation. Laura shares her journey from corporate America to training dogs for various detection tasks, including bumblebee nest detection and turtle monitoring. The conversation explores the importance of understanding dog behavior, the challenges of fieldwork, and the benefits of nose work for building confidence in dogs. Listeners will gain insights into the collaborative nature of conservation projects and the vital role that dogs play in protecting endangered species. In this engaging conversation, the speakers delve into the fascinating world of dog training, focusing on the incredible memory and unique personalities of dogs. They discuss the importance of observing dog behavior, innovative training techniques in nose work, and the role of breed in shaping a dog's abilities. The conversation also touches on the mental management required in dog training and the balance between passion and professionalism in the field. Listeners are encouraged to appreciate their dogs as teachers and to observe not only their own dogs but others as well to enhance their training skills.CHAPTERS:00:00 Introduction to Conservation with Dogs02:11 Laura's Journey into Dog Training03:23 The Role of Conservation Dogs05:13 Ernie's Conservation Work07:21 Training Dogs for Multiple Species09:13 Verifying Bumblebee Nests11:06 Planning Field Work with Dogs12:29 Field Work Dynamics13:32 Weather Challenges in Conservation Work15:27 Energy Management for Working Dogs17:10 Teaching Dogs to Range19:31 Self-Taught Skills in Conservation21:28 Reading Your Dog's Behavior23:46 The Humbling Nature of Nose Work25:38 Encouraging Independent Problem Solving27:20 Building Confidence in Dogs28:50 Handling Dog Stress in Training30:34 Resilience in Dog Training32:21 The Benefits of Nose Work34:42 Integrating Nose Work with Other Sports36:40 Final Thoughts on Training and Conservation40:31 The Incredible Memory of Dogs42:46 Understanding Dog Personalities in Training44:38 The Importance of Observing Dog Behavior48:44 Innovative Training Techniques in Nose Work54:27 The Role of Breed in Dog Training59:07 Managing Expectations and Mental Resilience01:06:07 Balancing Passion and Professionalism01:13:37 The Journey of Self-Awareness in Dog TrainingFOLLOW US:https://www.youtube.com/@canineconnectionpodhttps://www.facebook.com/canineconnectionpodcastPETRA:https://www.facebook.com/petrafordtrainer/www.petrasdogresourcecenter.comLAURIE:https://www.facebook.com/laurie.strimaviciushttps://www.facebook.com/groups/trainme2025

Episode 22: Interview with Katelyn Graham

In this episode of the Canine Connection podcast, Katelyn Graham from Katalyst Kennels shares her journey in breeding working dogs, particularly for detection purposes. She discusses her involvement in a government program aimed at creating a stable domestic supply of detection canines, the importance of understanding drive and arousal in dogs, and how to select the right puppy for specific needs. The conversation emphasizes the complexities of breeding, training, and managing high-energy dogs, as well as the significance of matching a puppy's traits to the handler's style and goals. In this conversation, the speakers discuss the complexities of choosing the right puppy for various lifestyles, emphasizing the importance of understanding dog behavior, realistic expectations, and effective communication with breeders. They explore the significance of genetics in dog training and the responsibility of dog ownership, highlighting the need for potential dog owners to be informed and objective in their decisions. CHAPTERS:00:00 Introduction to Catalyst Kennels and Caitlin's Journey02:15 Caitlin's Government Puppy Program03:27 The Importance of Breeding for Detection Work08:00 Domestic Breeding Initiative Explained13:53 Raising Puppies for Performance vs. Detection18:51 The Ideal Traits for Detection Dogs24:56 Challenges in Selecting the Right Puppy27:37 The Challenge of Managing High-Energy Dogs30:18 Understanding Drive and Arousal in Dogs36:08 The Importance of Efficiency in Dog Training41:05 Selecting the Right Puppy for Your Lifestyle50:57 The Emotional Decision of Choosing a Puppy52:33 Understanding Dog Behavior and Owner Expectations57:20 The Importance of Responsible Breeding Practices01:02:20 Finding the Right Fit: Matching Dogs to Owners01:06:52 Educating Yourself Before Getting a Dog01:08:08 Understanding Consumer Education in Dog Breeding01:10:29 The Role of Breeders in Dog Selection01:12:57 The Importance of Clear Communication with Breeders01:14:50 Observing Puppy Behavior for Better Selection01:19:12 Identifying Traits for Performance Dogs01:22:44 The Impact of Genetics on Dog Behavior01:27:45 The Responsibility of Dog Owners01:30:45 Supporting the Next Generation in Dog TrainingFOLLOW US:https://www.youtube.com/@canineconnectionpodhttps://www.facebook.com/canineconnectionpodcastPETRA:https://www.facebook.com/petrafordtrainer/www.petrasdogresourcecenter.comLAURIE:https://www.facebook.com/laurie.strimaviciushttps://www.facebook.com/groups/trainme2025

Episode 23: Competing in Prestigious Events

In this episode of the Canine Connection Podcast, Petra and Laurie discuss the unique challenges and experiences associated with participating in prestigious events. They emphasize the importance of tailored preparation, managing expectations, and the impact of the environment on performance. The conversation also highlights the significance of mental management, building resilience in dogs, and the value of community support in navigating the competitive landscape. Listeners are encouraged to reflect on their experiences, learn from them, and maintain a positive perspective as they continue their dog training journeys.CHAPTERS:00:00 Introduction to Bigger Events02:46 The Pressure of Preparation05:32 Mental Management Strategies08:18 Dealing with Doubt and Expectations11:09 Learning from the Experience14:02 Understanding the Environment16:41 Performance Challenges at Big Events19:34 Keeping Perspective22:15 The Importance of Mental Management24:42 Reflections on Performance27:35 Conclusion and Future Strategies35:50 Travel and Preparation for Competitions39:16 Learning from Mistakes and Building Resilience43:10 The Role of Judges and Stewards in Competitions47:27 The Importance of Perspective in Dog Sports51:20 Encouraging Newcomers and Non-Traditional Breeds56:32 Handling Disappointment and Moving ForwardFOLLOW US:https://www.youtube.com/@canineconnectionpodhttps://www.facebook.com/canineconnectionpodcastPETRA:https://www.facebook.com/petrafordtrainer/www.petrasdogresourcecenter.comLAURIE:https://www.facebook.com/laurie.strimaviciushttps://www.facebook.com/groups/trainme2025

Random Reflections: Training Your Way

In this episode of the Canine Connection podcast, Petra and Laurie discuss the challenges of training dogs in environments where different philosophies prevail. They emphasize the importance of staying true to one's training methods, overcoming self-doubt, and finding joy in the process. The conversation also touches on the value of time and the significance of listening to one's gut feelings when making decisions in dog training and life.CHAPTERS:00:00 Navigating Different Training Methods03:23 The Importance of Personal Training Philosophy09:28 Overcoming Self-Doubt in Training16:26 Finding Joy in Dog Training22:36 Assessing the Value of Your Time29:06 Listening to Your GutFOLLOW US:https://www.youtube.com/@canineconnectionpodhttps://www.facebook.com/canineconnectionpodcastPETRA:https://www.facebook.com/petrafordtrainer/www.petrasdogresourcecenter.comLAURIE:https://www.facebook.com/laurie.strimaviciushttps://www.facebook.com/groups/trainme2025

Random Reflections: Trial Routines

In this episode of the Canine Connection podcast, Petra and Laurie discuss the intricacies of trial day for dog sports, focusing on the superstitions and routines that many handlers adopt to cope with performance anxiety. They explore the importance of having a structured plan, managing stress, and ensuring that both the handler and the dog are mentally prepared for the challenges of competition. The conversation emphasizes the need for acclimation, the significance of focus, and the necessity of bridging the gap between training and trialing to achieve optimal performance.CHAPTERS:00:00 Introduction to Trial Day Superstitions02:28 The Role of Routines in Performance05:03 Managing Stress and Expectations07:48 The Importance of Acclimation for Dogs10:35 Creating a Trial Day Plan13:16 Mental Management Techniques16:07 The Impact of Focus on Performance18:55 Training vs. Trialing: Bridging the Gap21:28 Final Thoughts on Preparation and MindsetFOLLOW US:https://www.youtube.com/@canineconnectionpodhttps://www.facebook.com/canineconnectionpodcastPETRA:https://www.facebook.com/petrafordtrainer/www.petrasdogresourcecenter.comLAURIE:https://www.facebook.com/laurie.strimaviciushttps://www.facebook.com/groups/trainme2025