In this episode, we get to know Shaina Denny, Founder and CEO of Dogdrop Dog Daycare. Shaina's dog, Poppy, was a playful, energetic puppy and inspired Shaina to use her extensive business skills to benefit dogs and their families. Dogdrop members (the dogs) and their humans get top-notch care and customer service in conveniently located centers. Committed to the quality of the care they provide, Dogdrop also prioritizes their employees with dedicated and extensive training programs and thoughtfu...
Feb 20, 2024•31 min
Samm Hutchison, Founder of Bear's Bites and Co-Founder of the Bear's Bites Foundation, is a personal friend of Isabel's. In this fun and informative episode, Isabel and Samm celebrate the holidays while Samm shares her relatively short yet wildly successful pet industry journey. Samm and Isabel discuss Samm's 'Grinchy' take on the holidays and her unrelenting love of dogs, namely her dog, Bear. Samm also lets us in on her treat-making operation, how long freeze-dried and dehydrated treats last, ...
Feb 05, 2024•36 min
Join Isabel and Sally Williams, Founder of Mission Meow, to learn about what makes Mission Meow different from any other feline rescue and advocacy organization. Sally and Isabel discuss disappointing rescue stats and how Sally went from helping pet parents pay for their pet's cancer treatments to now rallying the troops - aka businesses - to support feline rescues. Play along as Sally tells us why senior cats rock, how to meet the perfect cat for you, and more. You won't be disappointed in this...
Jan 24, 2024•45 min
Join Isabel as she catches up with a fantastic pet lover and new friend. Carolyn Rafferty and Isabel met in person at SuperZoo in 2023. They hit it off immediately. Carolyn and her husband, Robert, created a fantastic product and, in this episode, Isabel asks her all about what inspired their litter box tool and the process of creating the product and getting it to market. Isabel and Carolyn also discuss how Carolyn is raising her children to be cat lovers and the ages during which kids can help...
Jan 02, 2024•45 min
This week's episode is all about gratitude and thanksgiving. Whether we're looking forward to celebrating the holidays or are in the midst of profound pet loss and grief, Mindy Meiering of Rainbow Bridge Deck gives tons of helpful tips for being true to ourselves and our emotions this holiday season. Isabel and Mindy discuss how holidays can be overwhelming for many. Mindy gives us permission to skip the party, leave early, and take care of ourselves this time of year. EPISODE NOTES: Healing Thr...
Dec 13, 2023•45 min
We all know military working dogs have a tough job but do we know what happens when they retire? In this episode, Isabel interviews Bob Bryant, Co-Founder of Mission K9 Rescue, a 501c-3 that rescues, reunites, rehomes, rehabilitates, and repairs military working dogs when their working days are through. For many of these dogs, the process of finding their way back to their soldier, their country, and a permanent living situation is hard but Mission K9 makes sure that every dollar they earn from ...
Nov 27, 2023•31 min
Tom Aiello founded Operation Good Boy after realizing that the military story was a beloved part of American culture that many people, including pet lovers, enjoy. In this episode, Isabel learns more about Tom's vision, his loyal pack, and how Operation Good Boy gives back to the military K9 community. Military aficionados will love our first game in which we cover military training programs such as Delta Force and Army Ranger School. Shoppers like Isabel will enjoy the second game in which Isab...
Nov 10, 2023•36 min
In this episode, Isabel interviews Ross Hewitt, screenwriter and producer of the children's film, Kris the Cat. Kris the Cat is the story of a cat that belongs to an Icelandic queen and is based on an Icelandic folk tale. Having had 13 cats growing up, Ross is no stranger to the depth of cat-friendly friendships. He shares his appreciation of cats, their curiosity, and problem-solving skills while discussing the behind-the-scenes details of how Kris the Cat came off the page and into film form. ...
Nov 06, 2023•30 min
Britt Kascjak believes that the world of outdoor travel is exponentially better with furry friends by our side. As Founder of The Kas Pack, Britt is dedicated to helping pet parents incorporate their pets into their travel plans. She also loves Halloween! Isabel couldn't resist inviting Britt to participate in Covered in Pet Hair's 2023 Halloween Special to discuss Britt's love of all things spooky, creepy, and outdoorsy. In this episode, Britt shares her family's adventuring experiences (and mi...
Oct 27, 2023•46 min
In this episode, Isabel discusses the whys and hows of navigating pet-friendly rental homes with El Paso-based top-producing realtor, Brian Hall. It's not always easy but there are ways to find the perfect pet-friendly rental home. Brian Hall, who specializes in military moves, helps pet parents ace their next rental application and interview by highlighting the importance of a pet resume, why size matters when it comes to pets, and what breeds he has seen present challenges in the rental proces...
Oct 19, 2023•39 min
Sid Chand is the generous founder behind Booze for Paws, a spirits company that donates all profits to animal rescue. From whiskey to gin and some spirits in between, Sid knows booze and loves pets, which is what brought him on Covered in Pet Hair with fellow boozy pet lover, Isabel. In this episode, Isabel and Sid learn whether or not the word whiskey should have an E, how Sid likes to drink his whiskey, and how many whiskeys one restaurant in San Diego offers aficionados. In addition, Isabel a...
Oct 03, 2023•33 min
Nicole Packin is back for a second time on Covered in Pet Hair. This time, she's talking about her mobile canine gym, based in the Dallas area. As the daughter of an Orthopedic Surgeon with a profound interest in canine physiology, Nicole combines her love of anatomy and desire to help dogs live life to the fullest as a fitness coach on wheels. Driving from home to home to allow dogs to experience one-on-one physical training and massage, Nicole brings healing, stamina, and endurance to dogs of ...
Sep 20, 2023•52 min
In this episode, Isabel had the pleasure of speaking with Colin Topham, the founder of alchemypet, a brand known for its innovative line of supplements designed to enhance various aspects of a dog's well-being. Their discussion starts with a round of Never Have I Ever - Dog Parent Edition then delves into the motivations and principles driving the creation of alchemypet's products. Colin discussed the inspiration behind his line of supplements, emphasizing the importance of both Eastern and West...
Sep 11, 2023•36 min
In this episode, Isabel interviews Jaron Lukas, who was a guest on Covered in Pet Hair's earlier seasons. Since their initial chat, Jaron has written a book and become even more passionate about canine nutrition than ever. Backed by science and knowledge he's acquired over years of learning about optimizing dog health and longevity, Jaron schools Isabel on nutrition for both dogs and humans. Do you eat spinach? You may not after tuning in. Join Isabel and Jaron for an enjoyable and informative c...
Aug 25, 2023•34 min
Dr. Julie Liu is a relief vet, cat lover, and Fear Free Certified Professional. Isabel met her at the Texas Pet Sitters Conference in February. She invited her to join her on Covered in Pet Hair to discuss Fear Free benefits for cats. During the episode, Dr. Julie shares how her own cat's struggles with vet visits and what she does to prepare him. Dr. Julie gives listeners tips on how to prepare fearful cats for vet visits, how to find a Fear Free cat vet or cat-only vet practice, and more. Prep...
Jul 11, 2023•40 min
With veterinary costs rising to unprecedented highs, pet insurance is top of mind for many pet parents. For this reason, Isabel invited Brian Jorgensen of MetLife Pet Insurance to discuss the need for pet insurance and how to create awareness and financial support for pet parents in the US. In this episode, Brian and Isabel discuss the situations that pets get themselves into that cost pet parents a fortune in veterinary bills. They also highlight mistakes pet parents make that land them and the...
Jul 03, 2023•45 min
In this episode, Isabel invites animal advocate and puppy mill denouncer, Jo Anna Kloster, to discuss her journey of learning about and speaking against puppy mills. While trying to keep a very serious topic light, Isabel and Jo Anna play a game about the realities of puppy mills. And, they discuss the best ways to find ethical or reputable breeders instead of supporting sneaky and cruel breeding businesses. Isabel shares her frustration with the impulse buying of dogs from breeders, which sets ...
Jun 19, 2023•47 min
In this episode, Isabel asks animal communicator and intuitive, Shannon Cutts, to help woo-woo pet parents navigate their spiritual connections with their pets. They discuss how to recognize a soul pet, what one feels when in their presence, and what's behind some of the instant connections pet parents feel with their animals. Shannon explains what she does in her business, Animal Love Languages, and how profound many of her clients' connections with their pets truly go. Enjoy this woo-woo episo...
May 31, 2023•42 min
In this episode, Isabel and her guest, Lisa Rimmert, discuss the role of humor in grief. Lisa Rimmert, the author of Stay: My Forever Friendship with an Aging Dog, shares her journey writing the book, her initial shock after losing her beloved Dakota, and how humor is a constant, even on the worst days of her life. During their chat, Isabel and Lisa discuss how and when to allow grief to enter the building after a monumental loss such as the loss of a beloved pet. With a game about animal puns, ...
May 09, 2023•45 min
In this episode, Isabel invites expert dog trainer, Lorena Leon Patti, to discuss canine culture in the US. Lorena has worked with some of the best of the best in the dog training industry. She has attained some of the highest accreditations available to dog training professionals. Lorena is one of the most knowledgeable and profoundly dedicated dog trainers Isabel has had the pleasure to have on the show. During their conversation, Isabel and Lorena navigate the goal of dog training and how to ...
Apr 23, 2023•55 min
Jody L. Teiche is a pet health expert and pet parent coach. She uses natural and holistic healing to boost pet health. She teaches pet parents how to be more involved in their pets' longevity and quality of life. By opening her client's eyes up to home remedies, homeopathy, the benefits of a whole foods diet, and more, she also inspires pet lovers to better care for themselves. In this episode, Jody and Isabel discuss the power of homeopathy. Jody thinks homeopathy is elegant and an art form, an...
Apr 03, 2023•41 min
In this festive interview, Isabel chats with her husband and fellow boozy pet lover, Chris Arata. They discuss their love of cats and dogs, plans for future pets, experience as pet vs human parents, and more. Chris came to the interview empty handed but he redeemed himself by being a good sport and sharing stories of his life married to a pet professional and rescue advocate. After helping raise neonatal kittens, old dogs, and everything in between, Chris is a pet lover in his own right. Listen ...
Mar 21, 2023•44 min
In this episode, Isabel talks about the great products Sprinkle & Sweep recently brought to market with one of the company's founders, Patrick Shannon. Isabel discovered these products at SuperZoo in August and has been using them ever since. Pet products like their "magic powder" and deodorizing spray are not just a great way to keep pet lovers' homes smelling fresh and clean, they are necessary to control the health concerns associated with unmanaged pet messes. Throughout Isabel and Patri...
Mar 07, 2023•44 min
Dr. Michael Dusa was a chiropractor for years. He's also been a fitness fanatic and bodybuilder since his teens. Once he was unable to continue his chiropractic practice due to health concerns, Dr. Dusa turned his attention to the homeless animal population, the overworked and underfunded shelters, and the rescues that desperately need help. He's working tirelessly to raise funds for animal welfare organizations with his brand of pet-focused apparel, The Fozzie Company. In this episode, Dr. Dusa...
Feb 10, 2023•36 min
Ayoka Bubar is a certified professional dog trainer based in Canada. She specializes in training dog sports and is passionate about making training fun for everyone involved. In this episode, Isabel speaks to Ayoka both about dog sport basics and about the lack of diversity in the pet industry. Ayoka wants to see more dog breeds and dog owners trying their hand at dog sports because of the many benefits dog sports bring to the lives of dogs and their humans. She also wants to see more BIPOC in t...
Jan 25, 2023•36 min
In this episode, Isabel interviews Laura Burgess, an interior designer and avid pet lover. Laura is Head Creative at 4 Cats & Dogs Home Furnishings, a brand that makes furniture and soft furnishings for pet-loving homes. Drawing from her experience, Laura shares ideas on balancing a love of interior design and pets. While many of us strive to have a beautiful home with a design that's Instagram-worthy, being intentional and putting thought into our purchases, aesthetics, and more, ensures th...
Jan 17, 2023•32 min
Join Isabel and Jessica Fisher of the Pet Parenting Reset on Covered in Pet Hair's 2022 Holiday Special for a discussion about pets and holiday gift ideas. As a dog trainer and pet parent coach, Jessica knows what works and what doesn't. She's a self-proclaimed 'picky pet parent' that only wants the best for her dog, Kim, and her lucky kitties. In this holiday special, Isabel invites Jessica to play two gift-specific games in which she asks Jessica if she would consider gifting these popular pet...
Dec 22, 2022•43 min
Nitto is a global Japanese company that has been making innovative industrial materials for over 100 years. They are the makers of the best-selling lint roller in Japan. In this episode, Isabel chats with Virginia Mott, Nitto's Senior Marketing Manager who often dabbles in product design. Virginia was determined to bring a Japanese household staple, multi-use and premium lint rollers, to the US, especially to those that are constantly 'covered in pet hair.' She and her team did just that: they g...
Dec 17, 2022•37 min
Join Isabel for an informative and insightful conversation with pet cannabis expert and holistic pet mentor, Angela Ardolino, as they break down cannabis and medicinal mushroom use in pets. No stranger to CBD and all the controversy that surrounds it, Isabel comes prepared with questions to clear up the vocabulary that surrounds 'CBD terminology.' She also asks questions about the uses, Certificates of Analysis, and important nuances where sourcing cannabis is concerned. As a bonus, Angela educa...
Dec 10, 2022•57 min
Join Isabel and Amanda Friemann, Marketing Coordinator for BigBarker Dog Beds, for a chat about dog sleep and the importance of supporting our dogs in their sleep and as they age. Dogs need sleep just as much as humans. They can suffer from poor sleep hygiene and suffer many consequences as a result. They also need supportive beds to help them in their aging process. Isabel and Amanda discuss all these things while also learning dog sleep trivia including whether or not dogs suffer from narcolep...
Dec 01, 2022•28 min
