This week Anna gets a first hand account of Puppy Farms in Ireland from the investigative journalist, Mark Edmonds. Mark and Anna discuss the horrific conditions the dogs are kept in, what legislation can be brought in to tackle it, and his harrowing experience with what are essentially gangsters.
This week Anna is joined by Rick Akers who talks about why he wants Justice For Reggie - a yellow Labrador pup who tragically died only a few days after he was brought home. A victim of the unscrupulous and callous puppy farming trade , little Reggie had short life and a painful death. Rick launched a petition to stop sales of animals online, at least to ensure traceability and accountability.
This week Anna talks to comedian, writer, and podcaster, Cally Beaton, as she embarks on getting a new puppy. Anna has mentioned in the past what potential new pet parents need to consider before committing but in this episode Anna takes Cally step by step on what she need to be thinking about.
Vet and Environmentalist Andrew Prentis joins Anna to chat about the excremental rise in dog mess since the pandemic began. Without pointing fingers, it seems that it's the owners of the pandemic puppies who do not understand why it's so important to pick up and bin poop as a responsible owner. We chat about whether a reluctance to pick up is down to some poop’s consistency, as generally overly processed diets can product voluminous soft poop that can be tricky to pick up. In contrast, naturally fed dogs tend to poop firm, easy to bag stools. We touch on the impact to the environment and whether an abundance of the smelly stuff is a public health risk. But as the minority spoils things for the majority, its time to shape up, not least for your dog’s reputation and self respect.
The Broadcasting legend Jenni Murray, famous for Woman’s Hour, joins Anna to chat about the dogs in her life. From Taffy her first, a Corgi mix, her Mini Schnauzers and to Butch the first of her Chihuahuas, playing a significant role in Jenni’s life, not least for being her steadfast companion as Jenni battled cancer.Through this journey Jenni and Butch became inseparable, with his funny quirks revealing how dogs most certainly have emotional intelligence, intuition , and a sense of humour. Jenni’s book My Boy Butch is a tribute to this little dog, as well as defining some of her darkest times. We chat about new animal legislation and sentience, whether dogs should be vegan, and why dogs are a social network without technology.The role of women and dogs and vice versa. What dogs teach us. And why dogs remain a constant in times of change. We chat about Jenni's new podcast Now I’m Grown Up, highlighting how we can adapt and develop news skills sets, and why life is just better with a dog.