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It's Training Cats and Dogs! (Naomi Rotenberg, Praiseworthy Pets)

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DateTitreDurée
28 Jun 2022How to Use Possession-Based Toy Play for Reinforcement: Masterclass Sneak Peek00:12:19

While reaching for the cookies is a common go-to for reinforcement, there are other forms that are just as powerful - sometimes even more so than food!

Listen to this episode to learn the basics of possession-based play skills so you can have a fantastic alternative to food in your reinforcement toolbox.

This bite-sized episode is a peek into one of Naomi's Cat and Dog Coexistence Club Masterclasses.

Time Stamps:

[00:55] Introduction: The Power of Play

[01:15] What is Reinforcement?

[02:34] The Three Main Types of Reinforcing Events

[06:19] The Easiest for Reinforcing: The Completely Controlled Events

[07:54] The differences between Play-based Reinforcement and Food-based Reinforcement

[09:55] Teaching Toy Skills: Types of Play

[11:03] Teaching Toy Skills: The Framework of Possession-based play

If you want access to these Masterclasses live, you can join the Cat and Dog Coexistence Club! Membership is included in all of my private training programs so head over to the Praiseworthy Pets website and take the quiz to find out which program would suit you best!

Resources

Read the transcription or watch the section of the Masterclass from this episode

Episode 33: Treat Options for your Non-food Motivated Pet

12 Oct 2021When "Let them work it out" Doesn't Work Out - Part One - With Ran Courant-Morgan00:49:55

What happens when the perfect dog for you isn't the perfect dog for your household? ⁠

⁠How can a reactive dog bursting with energy and constantly under stress succeed in a home where the resident cats *literally* keep her up at night?

That's exactly what happened when @rantalksdogs brought home Lenny. In the first part of this two-part interview, Ran took us through the intricacies of Lenny’s cat-related distress and what steps they took to try and bring some peace and coexistence to the household.

Key Moments

[1:26] Our cast of characters

[5:29] Ran's history with animals and first finding Lenny

[7:11] Introducing Lenny into the household and the problems that started

[13:27] The decision to rehome and how it fell through

[15:43] What is a Functional Analysis?

[22:09] When there's too much stress in the household preventing any form of training

[26:15] Training with punishment and the side effects, clearly defined criteria

[37:50] Break down of why the procedure was effective

[41:00] The importance of professional support when using punishment-based training

[43:08] Genetics and behavior predisposition

Key Links

Dog Behavior Institute

Humane Hierarchy

Ran's Instagram

The PETS Process Guide

22 Mar 2022The “Cool as a Cucumber” Challenge for Multi-Pet Relaxation00:21:22

Relaxing is tough sometimes. When you’re feeling stressed or freaking out, being told to just “relax” often has the opposite effect. In fact, it usually makes people tense up or get even more stressed.  

Instead, you need to set the stage for relaxing. Cue in the spa music and candles. Well, did you know it’s the same with our pets?

If you want to achieve a relaxed environment with your cats and dogs, you need to work on setting the scene and teaching relaxation with the appropriate cues.

In this special episode, I explain how to teach your cats and dogs how to relax and highlight some common mistakes I see people making. Plus, I’ll tell you all about my exciting “Cool as a Cucumber” challenge that will help you become a Zen master to your pets in no time.

Key Moments

[01:02] What is relaxation?

[03:37] The Cat Dog Relaxation Protocol

[10:53] Why it’s important to help animals relax by themselves first before teaching them to relax together

[13:04] Key mistakes people make when teaching relaxation

[14:30] What is a space-reducing animal?

[15:22] What is a space-seeking animal?

[19:12] How to teach relaxation with a space-reducing dog and space-seeking cat

[19:55] The “Cool as a Cucumber” Challenge

Key Links


26 Jul 2022Episode Rewind: Control Unleashed with Cats and Dogs - with Leslie McDevitt01:05:58

Naomi's off on vacation so this week we're rewinding back to one of the podcast's earlier episodes! Revisit Naomi's chat with the amazing Leslie McDevitt, author of the popular Control Unleashed books and DVD series.

Leslie broke down how she sets up her house to allow for easier introductions and how she uses Control Unleashed games and concepts to keep her cats and dogs living happily together.

Key Moments

[3:59] How Leslie first started working with animals

[7:00] Leslie introduces her three dogs

[12:17] Leslie introduces her two new kittens

[13:11] Leslie’s specific method for introducing cats and dogs to each other

[15:22] How to set up your own kitten paradise enrichment zone

[17:13] Why Leslie likes to use crates to during introductions 

[19:20] How to work with dogs who aren’t familiar with cats

[21:49] The next step after initial introductions

[24:37] Why it’s important to give cats a way out of stressful situations

[28:18] Using food and play as a gauge of comfort levels

[31:59] What to do if you’re worried about cat and dog chases around the house

[33:21] How Leslie handles her border collie’s stalking instinct

[37:10] Why you should reward default behaviors consistently

[43:10] Balancing dogs with young children at home

[46:00] How to go easy on yourself when training a house full of pets

[48:23] Easy mistakes to make when following Leslie’s Control Unleashed methods

[52:50] How the Super Bowls game can teach you about threshold behaviors

[56:35] How to play parallel CU games

[58:19] Using social learning to your advantage

Key Links


Your Next Step:

Naomi will be back with a new episode next week! But if you enjoyed taking this look back, you can do your own rewind to some of our earlier episodes. Check out another interview with a pet professional! Or maybe a deep dive into a specific topic?

With the 50th episode of the show quickly approaching, we want to celebrate! What would you love to hear on our special episode? DM Naomi on Instagram @praiseworthypets with your suggestions!

21 Sep 2021Meeting the Needs of a Suburban Herding Dog00:19:15

How do you provide enrichment for a highly active herding dog while you’re living in the suburbs? Naomi talks to Kristina Mok about her cattledog pup Lexa and her elder cat Pippi.


In this episode we discuss:

Our cast of characters: Lexa and Pippi

  • Lexa is an Australian cattledog pup, full of excitement and energy     
  • Pippi is a former rescue cat that’s been part of Kristina’s family for thirteen years

Starting Problems

  • A very activity driven puppy and an old cat sharing a household
  • Living the suburbs
  • First-time dog owners
  • An older woman means running with a cattledog is not her forte

What did Kristina think Enrichment meant before joining the Club?

  • Hadn’t done a lot of reading but what she’s read said there was more than just running your dog.
  • Use its brain and then it will be more tired.
  • Needs more activities to play and use her brain
  • Dogs get naughty when they’re bored

What kinds of Enrichment has Kristina been doing with Lexa

  • A lot of sniffy walks
  • Slept really well after walks despite not doing any running            
  • Training during walks
  • Stop/sit at roads
  • Release of food items she finds
  • Activities at home
  • Snuffle mats
  • Food dispensing toys
  • Hiding things in yard to sniff out
  • Paper bags to rip apart to find things

Working backward to develop Enrichment

  • Didn’t realize how to work backward until learned in the Club
  • Learn what she needs in her day rather than just giving her all the things to do
  • Focus more on the behavior/needs
  • Think about the times of day and what she might need
  • First thing in the morning playing some tug before she eats
  • Keeps agitation down because she’s had a play and Kristina can continue on with her day
  • If she’s overstimulated
  • Scatter feed, snuffle mat to help bring her back down with focus activities
  • If she’s chewing on things she shouldn’t
  • When did she last have her bone?

Enrichment is not for us, but for them

  • Shift the focus to their needs, not the behaviors that we want to see
  • Satisfy their needs and then the good behaviors will come
  • Develops good communication
  • Agency for the pet. Give them some choice
  • Allows you to understand pet’s needs more

Enrichment is not just for dogs

  • Pippi the cat also benefits from enrichment though it takes a different for to Lexa’s
  • Quiet sitting and companionship (social bonding)

Enrichment catered to the individual

  • Give the option of different activities but allow them to guide what they like the most
  • Different animals enjoy different things
  • Eg. Social bonding over physical activities (play)

Next Enrichment projects?

  • Lexa: Canine nose work classes
  • Pippi: Building some places for her to go up high and safe

Enrichment: one step at a time

  • Take it one activity at a time
  • No need to overwhelm pets with lots of different enrichment plans

Who’s in this episode?

Naomi Rotenberg

08 Mar 2022Not All Cats Are A$$holes! - With Beth Brown01:02:38

Are all cats assholes? Of course not! For reasons unbeknownst to them, cats have gained a reputation that misleads people into thinking that all cats are (for lack of a better word) catty.

This couldn’t be farther from the truth, and I’m on a mission to put a stop to this cat prejudice once and for all.

My special guest on this episode of It’s Training Cats and Dogs is the incredible Beth Brown (CCBC, CPDT-KSA, CCUI), Ear to Tail owner and behavior expert who works with shy and fearful animals. Her biggest pet peeve is when people assume it’s normal for a cat to be an asshole, which (spoiler alert) it isn’t!

Together, we discuss how Beth uses her expertise to help people manage relationships between their pets with a focus on multispecies homes.

So, if you want to find out how to turn your ‘asshole’ cat into a perfect angel, this is the episode for you!

Key Moments

[06:24] Common misconceptions about cats

[09:29] How to approach the adoption of unsocialized cats

[13:25] Why cats aren’t the low maintenance animals many people believe them to be

[15:29] The problem with treating your cat like a dog

[18:32] Body language cues to look out for when training multiple species

[24:25] Beth’s ideal type of client

[30:48] Beth shares the story about how she trained a shelter cat to become a show cat who won first place

[34:05] Why foster homes are so important for finding dogs and cats good homes

[36:40] Why we shouldn’t label our pets as ‘good’ or ‘bad’

[41:20] How to adjust your expectations when you welcome a new dog or cat into your family

[42:58] A story about how I met my cat Rio and how far he has come since his days at the shelter

[46:15] Beth reveals one of her favorite stories about a friend who adopted a ‘difficult’ cat

[52:23] How to get better at offering multiple choices for your pets

[54:34] Tips to help make everyday life more enjoyable (and less stressful) for your cat

[58:27] How training other animals can help you become a better trainer

Key Links


If you enjoyed this podcast episode, please remember to subscribe to stay up-to-date and leave a positive rating and review – it would mean a lot to me and my pets!

11 Oct 2022Ok, they're separated... now what?00:20:52

You bring a new pet home and you're keeping them separated from your resident pet like everyone says to do... but what are the next steps?!

In this Dog and Cat Chat, I give Agnes a plan of action for Daisy, her young, prey-drivey dog and Chrys, her newly adopted chill-dude orange cat.

What you'll hear in this episode:

  • why scheduling time for your cat to have the full run of the house (often) is important
  • why an "airlock" of barriers is essential
  • why the goal is NOT to get the animals closer to each other
  • what to do if the plan "doesn't work"

Want to dive a bit deeper?

Find links to the resources I discussed in this episode and some bonus content in the full show notes: praiseworthypets.com/podcast-shownotes/52

Sign up for your own Dog and Cat Chat!

Go to praiseworthypets.com/chat to book your own this free mini-coaching session.

And if you love the podcast and want to support me as I continue to create new episodes, join the other cat-and-dog people in the Podcast Supporters space inside the Cat and Dog Coexistence Club! Go to praiseworthypets.com/support-the-podcast to learn more ❤️

😺❤️🐶 😺❤️🐶 😺❤️🐶 😺❤️🐶

If you enjoyed this episode, please help me spread the word to other cat-and-dog people! You can:


07 Jun 2022"Gimme space, cat!" - Dog and Cat Chat with Lara00:19:15

We can all get a little cranky as we get older and that goes for our pets as well. When animals start dealing with ailments such as arthritis that cause pain and discomfort, is easy for them to find triggers in things that were no problem before.

That’s the situation with Lara’s dog Bowie, who’s arthritis has caused some steps backward in his relationship with Neptune the cat. Before, they were coexisting peacefully and now, Bowie wants Neptune to stay away from his space!

So what can Lara do to help Bowie relax again and see Neptune as something completely unrelated to his aches and pains?

Key Moments

[00:32] The Cast of Characters: Bowie and Luna the dogs, Neptune the cat

[04:04] The theory: Bowie associates Neptune’s presence with pain

[06:15] Setting up a more relaxing environment for Bowie

[10:22] Helping Bowie remain calm when Neptune is around

[14:40] Can’t we just treat the pain?

[16:29] The next stage: Setups!

Resources I Mentioned:

Super Bowls - Leslie McDevitt

Intro to Super Bowls - my version


If you want to be awesome like Lara and book in for a Dog and Cat Chat, click here to reserve a timeslot!

04 Oct 2022What the hell is... "Cat Testing"?00:21:34

In this inaugural "What the hell is...?" episode, Naomi gives her cousin Kerry the skinny on the concept of cat testing.

This episode is for you if...

➔ your dog was "cat tested" in the shelter or rescue

➔ your dog wasn't "cat tested" in the shelter or rescue

➔ you don't know what "cat testing is"

➔ you just like the sound of the phrase "cat testing"

What you'll hear in this episode:

  • what cat testing is (sort of)
  • how it can help predict your dog's behavior around cats (sort of)
  • what you can do with the information you get from cat testing (sort of)

Want to dive a bit deeper?

Find links to the resources I discussed in this episode and some bonus content in the full show notes: praiseworthypets.com/podcast-shownotes/51

And if you love the podcast and want to support me as I continue to create new episodes, join the other cat-and-dog people in the Podcast Supporters space inside the Cat and Dog Coexistence Club! Go to praiseworthypets.com/support-the-podcast to learn more ❤️

😺❤️🐶 😺❤️🐶 😺❤️🐶 😺❤️🐶

If you enjoyed this episode, please help me spread the word to other cat-and-dog people! You can:


P.S. Here's Kerry's website - kerrypinnisicounseling.com (but she wants me to make sure you know that she isn't currently taking new clients for ongoing therapy, but if you are already in long term individual therapy and would like to work with her for EMDR or Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy, you can reach her through the website)

15 Mar 2022When Love Isn’t Enough - With Katya Lidsky00:51:08

Loving our pets is absolutely fundamental to making your pet partnership work. And yes, it is work a lot of the time.

Bringing a new animal home to your existing pets can be a tough thing to get right. It can take a lot of time, energy, and effort, so loving them is a big part of staying sane and keeping everyone happy.

But sometimes, love isn’t enough.

There’s bound to be a little tension, but with a lot of work, training, patience, and management strategies, that should all pay off. But sometimes, it just doesn’t. You might have tried every tactic under the sun to help everyone get along, and it still might not work.  

In a coaching call, I spoke with Katya Lidsky, animal lover, writer, and host of The Animal That Changed You podcast. We talked about her experience with fostering animals over the years and about the time she made the tough call to rehome a kitten to keep the peace with her other animals. Tune in to hear why it was the right call to make in Katya’s case.

Key Moments

6:43 – Katya talks about her experience of fostering animals

12:01 – Why cats react differently when coming home from a shelter

14:39 – Why you should aim for two layers of management between pets

17:18 – How Katya dealt with a difficult dynamic between two pets

21:25 – Why sometimes making a tough decision to rehome a pet is best

25:12 – How to know when to rehome vs. stick at it and continue training

27:09 – Using data to objectively look at conflict

36:15 – How to assess the effects difficult animals have on our health and family

39:55 – What a healthy pet coexistence looks like

44:16 – Why it’s important to make tough decisions based on your own needs

Key Links


24 May 2022When Hyper Dog Meets Scaredy Cat - Dog and Cat Chat with Michelle and Cal00:21:08

In this Dog and Cat Chat, Naomi talks with Michelle and Cal about preemptive management to make the upcoming introduction of an extremely active pitbull to a household with one attention-hungry cat and one anxious cat go as smoothly as possible.

Key Moments

[00:31] Introduction

[00:46] Merry the anxious cat

[01:22] Health concerns with feline anxiety

[02:25] Preemptive assistance before introducing anxious cat to new dog (to medicate or not)

[03:31] Sandy the attention hungry cat

[04:18] The relationship between Merry and Sandy

[04:52] Pike the very active pitbull who loves to chase

[06:51] The need for two different approaches for each cat’s integration with Pike

[07:08] Management suggestions for Merry

[08:48] Preparing for the possibilities of regression in the cat’s relationship

[09:22] Using double layers of management

[10:02] Calming exercise and enrichment activities for Pike

[10:05] Flirt pole

[12:37] How to set up management with cats who have access to outdoors

[13:37] Using the environmental management to stop chases quickly

[13:42] Training to turn away from distractions on cue

[14:18] Recap of all the suggestions

[15:13] Setting things up ahead of Pike moving in

[15:24] Gate recommendations

[16:38] Relaxation and training protocols

[17:02] Training the cats

[17:59] Creating a safe space for Pike

[18:58] Creating individual safe spaces for each cat

If you want to do a Dog and Cat Chat with me on the podcast, make sure to follow me on Instagram @praiseworthypets and head to my link in bio to schedule!

Resources

Outward Hound Tail Teaser

Squishy Face Studio Flirt Pole

25 Jan 2022Control Unleashed with Cats and Dogs - with Leslie McDevitt01:05:36

How should you properly use Control Unleashed techniques when working with your cats and dogs?

I recently spoke to Leslie McDevitt, author of the internationally popular Control Unleashed books and DVD series. Leslie shared how she has successfully integrated her own dogs with her new cats (and many fosters) using Control Unleashed techniques and a gradual introduction strategy that she adjusts based on each animal’s personality. 

Key Moments

[3:59] How Leslie first started working with animals

[7:00] Leslie introduces her three dogs

[12:17] Leslie introduces her two new kittens

[13:11] Leslie’s specific method for introducing cats and dogs to each other

[15:22] How to set up your own kitten paradise enrichment zone

[17:13] Why Leslie likes to use crates to during introductions 

[19:20] How to work with dogs who aren’t familiar with cats

[21:49] The next step after initial introductions

[24:37] Why it’s important to give cats a way out of stressful situations

[28:18] Using food and play as a gauge of comfort levels

[31:59] What to do if you’re worried about cat and dog chases around the house

[33:21] How Leslie handles her border collie’s stalking instinct

[37:10] Why you should reward default behaviors consistently

[43:10] Balancing dogs with young children at home

[46:00] How to go easy on yourself when training a house full of pets

[48:23] Easy mistakes to make when following Leslie’s Control Unleashed methods

[52:50] How the Super Bowls game can teach you about threshold behaviors

[56:35] How to play parallel CU games

[58:19] Using social learning to your advantage

Key Links


13 Dec 2022Evening chill time... Will your dog rest? Or lunge at the cat?00:25:42

Why might the same contexts trigger totally different behaviors in our pets? It can make their interactions really tough to predict...

In this episode, Naomi talks through the theoretical reasons why your pets' behavior might not be as predictable as the antecedent-behavior-consequence model seems.

What you'll hear in this episode:

  • the four (and a half) reasons* why different behaviors can happen in seemingly the same situation
  • how the intricacies of reinforcement can get complicated relatively quickly
  • why being a detail-oriented observer can help you predict your pet's behaviors

*note: there are MANY more reasons - these are just the ones I covered in this session :)

Want to get in on these Masterclasses?

Check out the 3 ways you can access the Club's monthly Masterclasses! Click here - praiseworthypets.com/masterclasses

Private Training Programs

If you've gotten stuck in your efforts to help your cat and dog get along... I can help you make progress again! Get 1:1 guidance and the support you need to get their relationship moving in the right direction. Go to praiseworthypets.com/services-for-pet-parents for more info.


😺❤️🐶 😺❤️🐶 😺❤️🐶 😺❤️🐶

If you enjoyed this episode, please help me spread the word to other cat-and-dog people! You can:


23 Aug 2022Dog: "Back off, please!" Cat: "Yeah...Nope."00:23:20

If you've ever wondered whether your cat is teasing your dog for the fun of it or deliberately antagonizing the dog to get a rise out of them (and attention from you), this episode is for you.

In this Dog and Cat Chat, Chelsea and I come up with a plan to teach her mischievous cats how and when to give their reactive dog brother some space.

What you'll hear in this episode:

  • why "see cat ➔ eat cookie" isn't totally working
  • how "annoying little brother syndrome" affects your training plan
  • how to help your dog feel that his warnings are being listened to
  • why a dog that is reactive to things outside needs to be able to de-stress inside

Want to dive a bit deeper?

Find some bonus content in the full show notes: praiseworthypets.com/podcast-shownotes/49

Sign up for your own Dog and Cat Chat! Go to praiseworthypets.com/chat to book your own this free mini-coaching session.

😺❤️🐶 😺❤️🐶 😺❤️🐶 😺❤️🐶 😺❤️🐶

If you enjoyed this episode, please help me spread the word to other cat-and-dog people! You can:


05 Jul 2022Do my Cat and Dog Love Each Other TOO Much?00:20:27

Our pets' body language is often baffling! Behaviors that look like intense affection can mean something else entirely. When your cat and dog refuse to leave each other alone, how can you tell what is a positive interaction or not?

This is the struggle Abigail is having with her elderly cat Titus and her puppy Totchka. Is Titus’ intense greetings and grooming of Totchka not the prosocial interaction it appears to be?

Key Moments

[00:24] Introduction and Cast of Characters: Titus the elderly cat who tackles and forcibly grooms Totchka the puppy

[05:30] Examining an interaction - the duration, the body language, the environment and the human response.

[09:27] Why separating the pair before and after the interactions might not be the best plan.

[11:17] Using management and setups to safely teach Titus and Totchka to interact appropriately with each other safely.

[15:41] How reinforcing natural behaviors can help pets offer appropriate behaviors during problem interactions.

[17:35] Next steps: Recognizing progress and what to do next.

If you're awesome like Abigail and want some guidance regarding your pets' interactions, come join me on the podcast for a free Dog and Cat Chat! Just go to praiseworthypets.com/chat to book a time.

22 Feb 2022The More Behaviors, the Better - With Hannah Branigan01:03:32

Training cats and dogs isn’t just about eliminating problem behaviors. It might seem counterintuitive, but sometimes, encouraging more behaviors and more distractions can keep everyone in your household a lot happier.

Hannah Branigan, self-proclaimed dog training nerd and author of Awesome Obedience, joins me on this episode of It’s Training Cats and Dogs. She shares her journey to becoming a trainer, how she manages her multi-species household and her tips for success.

Key Moments

[5:41] Hannah gives us a backstory on her animals and how she became a trainer

[15:02] Introducing cats and dogs to each other safely

[19:14] Handling border collie stalking behavior

[24:55] Hannah’s tactics for keeping dogs and cats distracted from each other

[29:13] Why adding more behaviors can help to reduce problem behavior

[36:20] How her dogs learned to give her cats a wide berth

[38:04] Is avoidance behavior something to work on?

[40:51] How to tell when it’s time to intervene

[45:45] Hannah explains how she dealt with a dog vs. chicken incident

[49:19] Predicting predatory behavior in dogs

[52:23] Why you should focus on the range of behaviors, not just specific behaviors

[54:12] What sudden behavior changes tell us

[59:21] Why tracking your progress can help you stay motivated when training

Key Links


14 Dec 2021Your pet didn't ask for a new roommate! - with Laura Monaco Torelli01:00:55

This week, Naomi chats with Laura Monaco Torelli about the importance of developing training and management plans specific to your pet's behaviors, doing research on your pet's breed and learning to make informed decisions on your household's readiness for a new pet.

Key Moments

[02:51] Icebreaker: Two Truths and a Lie

[05:30] Cast of characters

[07:54] How Naomi was adopted by Rio

[11:54] Deciding if it's a good idea to introduce a new animal into the home

[13:49] Bringing in a new animal with no prior planning

[16:12] Management

[17:52] Cat noise - click - treat party!

[21:52] All behavior serves a function

[23:22] The differences between introducing kittens to dogs and older cats to puppies

[24:48] Creating a plan

[28:19] Advancing the plan/training

[30:13] Distant and Immediate antecedents

[33:39] Using pets baseline behavior to create plans and management

[38:58] The importance of considering your existing pets before introducing new ones

[42:07] Preparing for a new arrival instead of reactionary management

[45:04] Your expectations of yourselves, your pets and your trainer

[46:08] The importance of breed research

[49:35] The importance of wellness checkups

[51:40] It's okay if it doesn't work out

[53:28] Trainers need to establish a non-judgemental relationship

Key Links

Dog and Cat Introductions training video

Laura's Website

19 Jul 2022Do You Know Your Current Pet Enough to Add a New One? - with Caroline Mattioli00:58:01

Before bringing a new animal into your household, is your resident pet ready? In order to make the initial introduction and integration process go as smoothly as possible, one of the best things you can do is take a long, hard look at the pet(s) you already have!

Doing the prep work before bringing a new pet into the mix will set everyone up for success.

Caroline Mattioli, KPA-CTP joins Naomi to talk about how she introduced her resident dog Onyx to Jack the kitten and Tiki the Chihuahua. She details how knowing Onyx’s history, personality, and behaviors helped her implement the right training, management, and setups for her particular combination of pets. Listen in to hear Caroline's insights and step-by-step approach to laying the groundwork before bringing a new pet home.

Key Moments

[00:39] Introduction and Caroline's "Two Truths and A Lie"

[05:56] Caroline’s Cast of Characters: Onyx the German Shepherd, Tiki the Chihuahua puppy, and Jack the cat.

[11:40] The challenges of doing the KPA training certification program with a reactive dog

[13:45] How Caroline slowly introduced Onyx to a cat (not Jack)

[18:57] How knowing Onyx’s behavioral tendencies allowed for progression from tense interactions to happy snuggles

[25:08] Barrier frustration and setups

[32:43] Allowing your animals to practice conflict resolution without constant human interference (when appropriate and safe)

[36:30] How Caroline introduced Tiki the Chihuahua to Onyx and Jack

[39:55] Managing Tiki’s adolescent energy and Onyx being the "fun police"

[43:24] The difference in behaviors when a human in present or not (and Naomi's theory)

[46:59] The benefits of a group stay

[49:41] Things to consider before and after adding a new animal to your household

[52:31] How to help prepare a dog with a high prey drive to the addition of a cat to the household


Resources Discussed

Predation Substitute Training: book, webinar

KPA certification program

Naomi's dog Uri in his ex-pen during her KPA program

Onyx, Jack, and Tiki group stay


Episode Guest Info

Quick facts about Caroline Mattioli:

28 Sep 2021How to Train Your Cat with Linlin Cao00:58:21

Naomi chats with Linlin Cao about how training her two cats helped with the integration of two dogs into their household.

In this episode we discuss:

Our cast of characters

Simon: 7-year-old cat

Tiffany: 6-year-old cat

Niko the dog

Sunny the dog     

  • Simon was their first pet – adopted just after graduate school, thinking a cat would be an easier pet to adopt first.
  • Tiffany was a little stray kitten found in Chinatown, Houston. Was going to be taken to the shelter before Lin Lin’s husband fell in love with her.
  • Niko was supposed to only be a foster pup but ended up a permanent member of the family
  • Sunny, a lovable retriever is the baby of the family

Introducing Tiffany the Kitten to Simon the Cat

  • Took Simon a long while to get used to Tiffany. He was scared of her.
  • Back then, Lin Lin didn’t know much about animal behavior but had read that sometimes older cats can be scared of kittens.
  • Simon had never really interacted with other cats before
  • Kept them separated for about a month
  • Used a baby gate
  • Always interaction with supervision

Bringing Niko the dog into the family

  • Niko was a shelter dog.
  • Had been fostered but had very bad kennel cough so it stressed him out
  • Was not planned to go home with Lin Lin but one thing lead to another and he was in the car ready to go to his foster home to recover from his kennel cough
  • But he never left!
  • The introduction to the cats went very poorly
  • Was only 6 months old and starting to be very hyperactive
  • Very reactive to the cats
  • Digging at the door to get to the cats if they were locked away

Finding solutions to the interactions between Niko and the cats

  • Niko was already crate trained
  • Installed a baby gate for double protection
  • Focused on management
  • Niko could go about his business despite knowing the cats are in the house instead of trying to get at them

Baby gates/Locking in rooms – steps to cat-dog introduction

  • Many steps before dogs and cats can interact if there are initial issues
  • Even a baby gate can be too fast, too soon
  • Need to teach Niko to settle on his own before introducing the cats further

Using the right kind of training

  • Started off with reactive training which produced a negative result
  • Increased levels of stress
  • Had to keep increasing the correction – obviously not working
  • Switched to positive reinforcement training
  • Things got better with the cats
  • Lin Lin read up on body language and learned to understand his behavior much more

Behavior focus

  • Focus on behavior helped minimize blowups
  • Subtleties of body language helped signpost behavior before it escalated
  • Body language that doesn’t look problematic can be early indicator of behavior that will cause problems
  • Allowing both animals to feel safe to do normal things before introducing them
  • Otherwise very synthetic, one-side interaction
  • Different animals like different things
  • Simon likes to be chased by the dogs. Tiffany doesn’t.
  • Tiffany needs high places to feel safe when the dogs are in the room

Gradual introduction between Niko and the cats

  • Controlled the interaction distance
  • Baby gates
  • Holding the cats
02 Aug 2022Choreographing routines for your cat and dog00:30:48

It’s hard work managing a full house even when everyone gets along, and for Bee, whose pets can’t be in the same space without tensions running high (and sometimes blood being shed!), it’s getting beyond frustrating.

In this episode, Naomi shares some strategies on how to adjust "baby gate hell" and teach King and Ralph how to effectively give each other space.

Key Moments

[01:48] King's increasing aggression towards the dog, who wants any kind of attention from him, even if she's getting beat up

[06:59] Using setups and cues to teach King less aggressive alternatives for seeking space

[09:50] The pets' current interactions through baby gates at the top and bottom of the stairs

[11:25] Choreographing and rehearsing more appropriate "dances" for the animals to perform when they see each other

[15:38] Creating baby-friendly management

[17:50] Next steps:

  • reinforcing easier versions of "cat appears, move away" for Ralph to get the hang of it, using management when King actually comes down for now
  • changing up how King feels about Ralph by having him see her when she's occupied with something else
  • taking note of any patterns/times of day when conflicts tend to arise, and choreographing "dances" for those sticky spots

[27:15] Switching from a negatively reinforced lack of enrichment to a positively reinforced enrichment routine

Your Next Step:

If you're awesome like Bee and want some guidance regarding your pets' interactions, come join me on the podcast for a free Dog and Cat Chat! Just go to praiseworthypets.com/chat to book a time.

15 Nov 2022My dog adopted a cat, and now I have to pay for it! - with Kayla Fratt00:46:20

What do you do when you find the perfect kitten in a ditch right before you embark on a months-long journey through North and South America in a Sprinter van? Bring him along, of course!

In this chat with fellow pet professional Kayla Fratt, we talk about the recent addition to her "van-hold" - Norbert.

What you'll hear in this episode:

  • why Norbert's temperament (and age) made him a perfect small-space travel buddy
  • how "green flag behaviors" influenced Kayla's decision to adopt Norbert
  • why Norbert's natural rhythm is messing with Kayla's sleep (and some troubleshooting we did together)
  • how you can tweak the introduction framework (but don't skip steps)
  • what to consider when harness training your cat

P.S. If you want to catch up on my first chat with Kayla before you listen to this "Part Deux" - listen to it here

Want to dive a bit deeper?

Check out this episode's show notes for Kayla's full bio and contact info, pictures of Norbert, Niffler, and Barley, bonus content, and the resources we mentioned - praiseworthypets.com/podcast-shownotes/57

If you're a pet professional...

Get in touch with Naomi to get a second set of eyes on one of your current cat-dog cases with a Pet Pro Strategy Session!


And if you love the podcast and want to support me as I continue to create new episodes, join the other cat-and-dog people in the Podcast Supporters space inside the Cat and Dog Coexistence Club! Go to praiseworthypets.com/support-the-podcast to learn more ❤️


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26 Apr 2022New Dog! It's Going Well...I Think? with Lauren Hurlock00:23:21

Being proactive when you first introduce a new pet is a fantastic way to nip any potential problems in the bud.

Lauren joined me for a Dog and Cat chat to get some tips on setting up management and training behaviors for the brand new addition to their two cat household - a poodle named Lou.

Key Moments:

[00:39] Introduction to the cast of characters: Callie the Tortie, Buster the black cat and the new addition, Lou the poodle

[01:51] The current state of affairs with Lou’s introduction

[02:53] Lou’s current temperament and behavior

[03:42] How Lou’s current interactions with the cats are going

[04:10] Deeper look into current interactions - BIG behaviors

[05:44] Ways to manage interactions and environment for both the dog and cats to have safe spaces.

[06:05] Building a management plan for minimizing behaviors in sticky spots

[08:02] Creating a settle place for Lou outside the kitchen

[09:21] Feeding the cats up high in the kitchen

[10:08] Teaching Lou to recognize subtle cat body language

[10:30] List of recognizable stressed body language

[10:52] Training Lou with the Whiplash Turn

[12:44] Setting up treat stations

[13:06] What does a happy dog and cat relationship look like?

[16:42] Using established, individual cues in managed interactions

[17:49] Training go to place behaviors in both cats and dog

[19:07] Tips for recognizing management needs

[19:46] Managing couch time

[21:10] Logging behaviors

If you’ve just recently added new animal to your family and want some ideas on how to examine any potential problems and create a management plan, you can be awesome like Lauren and do one of these Dog and Cat Chats! Head over to praiseworthypets.com/chat to sign up.

29 Mar 2022But... My Pet Can't Relax Around Food!00:09:17

Do you dream of a peaceful coexistence between your pets?

Or does your dog launch into action if your cat so much as moves from their spot? Does your cat struggle to relax if your dog is playing?

If only everyone could chill out a little!

Lots of people come my way hoping for just that, which is why I launched the Cool as a Cucumber Challenge. This challenge is for those who want a dedicated program to help their pets coexist peacefully.

But there’s a common wall that people come up against. How do you get dogs and cats to relax around each other when they go bonkers over food? Food reinforcement is a huge part of training and is part of my relaxation protocol, so this episode is all about that.

Before you jump into the Cool as a Cucumber Challenge, here’s a freebie that will help you rethink and outline your food reinforcement strategy so you can get the most out of the challenge.

Key Moments

[0:48] Why you should plan for the unexpected

[1:50] Rethink your food-based reinforcement strategy

[2:26] Why you should sometimes use the lowest-value food you can

[3:58] How our behavior when giving treats influences our pet’s mood

[5:03] How to calmly signal that food is on the way

[6:27] Why you can’t just switch up your reinforcement strategy and expect miracles

[7:15] Why you should refresh your reinforcement strategy before attempting the relaxation protocol

[8:24] How to know your pet’s ready for the relaxation protocol

Key Links


17 May 2022"Force Free" Pet Training and Parenting - with Nicole Soule00:51:38

Naomi chats with Nicole Soule of How to Train a Dream Dog about the similarities between being parents of young children and animal trainers, raising children alongside pets and her own adventures of moving her own multi-species household in with her fiancé and his dog - all while being pregnant with their first child!

Key Moments

[00:34] Guest introduction

[01:19] Icebreaker: Two truths and a lie about Nicole

[04:22] Training Service Dogs

[05:29] Cast of characters: Charlie the human, Voo the cat, and Copper and Olive the dogs

[07:30] Voo’s resistance to change/problems with UTIs through stress

[08:34] Changes for Voo: A new man-human, a new doggy roommate, and a new baby on the way

[10:11] Voo: a resource guarding cat

[10:40] Voo vs. Charlie - the incident

[12:06] Challenges surrounding Charlie’s different background in handling animal behavior

[12:37] Voo's extreme behavior around food

[14:48] Management to prevent conflict around food

[17:01] Being proactive not reactive

[18:31] The iceberg model of behavior

[20:44] Current state of affairs between Charlie and Voo

[22:11] Olive passing away and the effects on Voo and Copper

[22:57] Getting Voo and Copper ready for the new baby

[25:04] Preparing for changes in behavior when the baby started walking/moving about on her own

[28:07] "Inviter not invader": teaching baby to respect the pet’s space

[30:39] The similarities between managing dog/cat interactions and pet/baby interactions

[31:14] When to start teaching children how to interact with pets

[32:12] Researching and preparing ahead for children's interactions with pets (at different stages of their development)

[34:33] Can you be a force-free animal trainer while being a with less-than-force-free parent?

[39:08] Self-reflection/self-criticism as parents and as animal trainers

[40:39] How a background in animal training has helped in parenting

[43:18] The importance of “apologizing” to your pets and kids

[43:57] Understanding the need for positive interaction after conflict to reset the relationship

[44:28] Working through choices and no-choice situations with kids and pets

Resources Discussed:

Big Little Feelings Instagram

Taking Cara Babies

The No-Cry Sleep Solution

How to Train a Dream Dog

DM Naomi to suggest other trainers to interview!

09 Nov 2021Too Much Stress - with Dawn Hunterscheidt00:53:47

This week, Naomi chats with Dawn about living with stressed-out pets during stressful times and the different forms of management that can help find some peace.

Key Moments

[01:39] Cast of characters

[03:17] Background on the existing household pets

[04:35] Odin's backstory - not the dog they were looking for

[06:24] Adding Odin, the reactive puppy, to the family

[08:23] Early management setup

[09:46] The start of the stress

[11:06] Separation anxiety

[12:02] Things that could have been improved

[13:15] The flittering game

[17:40] Safety concerns

[21:08] Ritual conflicts

[22:31] Accidentally reinforcing unwanted behavior

[25:36] Living separately in the same house

[28:00] Medication

[30:33] Less base stress, means easier training

[32:03] Not using food?

[33:46] De-stressing for the humans

[35:46] Enrichment and bonding with each animal

[38:40] Prioritization and triage

[41:31] When the stress got really bad

[44:24] Dawn's advice

[49:14] Positive interactions

Key Links

The PETS Process Guide

Dawn's Instagram: @odin_pup

05 Oct 2021Coaching Call: Stress-free Setups with Elena00:39:27

This week, I'm taking you on a coaching call with one of the Club's founding members, Elena. We talk about some setups she's using, as well as ways to chart progress, make changes, and move through the later stages of her dog and cat coexistence journey.

In this episode

This coaching call with Elena focuses on the current setups she has for her dog Piper and her cat Ziggy - what is working, what isn't and ways that some simple changes to the setup might make things less stressful for everyone involved. Naomi and Elena talk about management and strategic interactions, the different phases of Setup as well as focusing on creating a safe space for both animals.

Naomi Rotenberg

https://www.instagram.com/praiseworthypets

https://www.praiseworthypets.com/                                    

08 Nov 2022Not making progress with the "typical" path to coexistence?00:20:58

What adjustments do you make to a "typical" integration plan when the cat doesn't make himself scarce?

In this Dog and Cat Chat, Melissa and I come up with a plan to make Gem and Bart's interactions more predictable after a chase that ended with the cat in the dog's mouth 😲

What you'll hear in this episode:

  • why letting a bold cat decide when to see the dog might not be the best idea
  • how important it is to stop and congratulate yourselves on reaching a mini-milestone (because the journey to coexistence can be long)!
  • what kinds of setups to do when the dog is more freaked out than the cat
  • why you can't be one-and-done with a setup (even if your first attempt goes super smoothly)

Want to dive a bit deeper?

Find links to the resources I discussed in this episode and some bonus content in the full show notes: praiseworthypets.com/podcast-shownotes/56

Sign up for your own Dog and Cat Chat!

Go to praiseworthypets.com/chat to book your own this free mini-coaching session.

And if you love the podcast and want to support me as I continue to create new episodes, join the other cat-and-dog people in the Podcast Supporters space inside the Cat and Dog Coexistence Club! Go to praiseworthypets.com/support-the-podcast to learn more ❤️


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19 Apr 2022Talking Cats and Dogs with a Veterinary Behaviorist - with Dr. Hagar Hauser00:44:57

Veterinary Behavorist Dr. Hagar Hauser joined me for a deeper look into some of the more common behavioral problems between cats and dogs she sees come into the clinic and ways to address them. We also talked about her own adventures fostering kittens with her dog, Ronnie.

Key Moments:

[00:41] Guest Introduction

[02:55] Icebreaker: Two truths and a lie

[05:10] Introduction to Dr. Hauser’s pet household: Ronnie the dog and the new kittens, Bean and Bamba

[05:46] The foster kittens that became part of the family

[06:35] Setting up the house for a litter of foster kittens

[08:43] Ronnie’s first reactions and interactions with the kittens

[11:21] Using alternatives to food-based rewards for overexcited Ronnie

[12:04] Introducing Bean and Bamba to Ronnie after initial separation-based setup

[12:57] Assessing acceptable levels of stress for Ronnie

[14:57] Importance of knowing and establishing baseline cues and behavior

[16:04] A history of Ronnie’s negative behaviors and foundational training

[17:01] Knowing baseline behaviors outside of interactions with other household pets

[17:35] Ronnie’s reactions to cats outside of the home: high prey drive

[20:23] Differences in behavior inside and outside the house

[21:09] Animal backgrounds informing future behaviors

[22:40] When human intervention is necessary

[22:49] Dogs and cats communicate differently

[24:05} Training cats as well as dogs is important

[24:20] Redirecting behavior and cues

[26:15] Consistency in cues from the start

[27:42] Explaining the importance of behavior and interactions between animals during veterinary treatment

[28:48] Trigger stacking

[31:53] Making necessary separation a positive experience for everyone

[34:37] Medication and behavioral training for cats

[35:22] Three main goals of medication

[36:48] Difference in expressions of stress

[37:57] Ways to work through cat separation distress

[39:52] The difference in behavioral diagnoses between dogs and cats

[41:29] Tips for managing pets who both have separation distress but need to be separated from each other


Resources We Mentioned:

Cat separation anxiety papers by Dr. Schwatz

Understanding and treating separation anxiety syndrome in cats


Dr. Hauser's Contact Info:

Email: hhauser@metro-vet.com


Naomi’s Contact Info:

Instagram: @praiseworthypets

Website: praiseworthypets.com

07 Dec 2021Management? But my pet has separation issues! with Jackie Moyano00:47:49

This week, Naomi chats with Jackie Moyano about dog and cat's with separation anxiety, different ways of modifying management setups and the differing behaviors from one pet to another in the same household.

Key Moments

[01:46] A game of "categories": multi-colored dog breeds and enrichment options

[07:23] Jackie's pets and their history

[10:42] How Jackie introduced Slinky and Aero

[13:29] What she might have done differently

[16:15] Progress takes time

[18:01] Key behaviors to train

[19:03] The difference between stationing/"go to your place" vs. relaxed settle

[20:35] Recognize good behavior happens more than bad

[23:08] Options for management (especially around cat food!)

[25:46] What can you realistically handle right now? Have multiple options!

[26:45] An easy setup to foster positive emotions

[27:22] Considerations for older pets

[29:09] Predation of outdoor critters vs. indoor pets

[30:53] Specificity (lack of generalizability) of cat/dog testing

[34:57] Tips for animals who don't like being contained

[37:17] Enrichment doesn't always need to come from you!

[38:16] Creating management plans

[41:05] Variations on a relaxation protocol

[44:04] Advice for when you're thinking of introducing another animal

Key Links

Get on the waitlist for Naomi's upcoming PETS Process course - click here

Dr. Karen Overall's "Protocol for Relaxation"

Jackie's Info:


19 Oct 2021When "Let them work it out" Doesn't Work Out - Part Two - with Ran Courant Morgan00:30:14

In part two of my chat with Ran, we talk further on the side effects of punishment-based training, cat and dog body language, cat testing and getting professional help.

Key Moments

[00:37] More talk on punishment-based training side effects

[03:14] Coping mechanisms don't mean your cat and dog are "getting along"

[06:52] Cat testing

[08:42] Cat and dog body language

[10:10] Cat testing - part two

[13:33] Behavioral triggers and training

[16:35] Cat and dog body language - part two

[20:00] Getting professional help and finding community

[24:26] Naomi's one-on-one training and membership club

Key Links

Part One

Dog Behavior Institute

Humane Hierarchy

Ran's Instagram

The PETS Process Guide

14 Sep 2021Cat Enrichment Case Study: Piglet and Penny00:10:02

What does it take to develop an enrichment plan that works? This week, Naomi takes you through developing an enrichment plan. She spends some time taking you through a case study of Piglet the cat and Penny the dog and how enrichment helped them to learn to coexist.

In this episode we discuss:

Our cast of characters: Piglet and Penny

Penny is a 9-year-old, submissive dog with a lot of fears and quirks. She's successfully lived with other cats with no prior problems.

Piggy was a shelter cat, described as calm and a “lovebug” who was suffering from a previous injury. Once healed, his aggression towards Penny started.

They needed to be separated at all times.

Enrichment Plan Design: First Steps

Identifying the behaviors to focus on

  • Piggy would stalk, sniff and then bite Penny’s legs and tail
  • Penny responded very poorly to this

When did this happen?

  • Evening time when humans were not paying direct attention to Piglet or Penny

Why was it happening?

  • What physical needs were the behaviors related to?
  • Play: Piggy is a very active cat with lots of energy
  • Attention seeking: negative attention from humans after aggression towards Penny
  • What physical needs were the behaviors not related to?
  • Defensive behavior: Penny was actively avoidant of Piggy. There should be no need for Piggy to act defensively

Enrichment Plan Design: Goals

Goal 1: channel the undesired behavior in situations we have more control over 

  • Get Piggy to practice stalking, crouching and biting
  • Wand play with Da Bird at scheduled times
  • “Kitty bowling” – tossing pieces of kibble down the hall for the cat to chase and eat.
  • Cat’s Meow or other automated movement toys. 

Goal 2: get the physical need met as a result of other "acceptable" behaviors (or for free)

  • give Piggy attention and movement around the space with a fuzzy thing to bite
  • attention and food for calm behaviors on the couch during that time
  • having multiple stuffed toys out for spontaneous exploration, parallel play

Goal 3: needs to be easy to fit into a busy day

What worked?

Da Bird: adjusted technique and timing. Already using Da bird but offered it preemptively rather than a response. He jumped, scratched, and climbed on furniture during play – but his humans were OK with those "extra" behaviors.

Stuffed toys always in the living room: both Piggy and Penny now play near each other with separate toys.

Reinforcing any non-biting/stalking Penny behaviors: this led to relaxation on either side of the rug or couch with no problems.

What didn’t work as well?

Kitty bowling: not an option because Piggy ate primarily wet food (and he has a weight problem)

Buying any more toys: they already had plenty

Who’s in this episode?

Naomi Rotenberg

https://www.instagram.com/praiseworthypets

https://www.praiseworthypets.com/                                    

Resource Links

Go Cat Feather Toys: Da Bird

Cat’sMeow Motorized Toy

10 Jan 2023Can a dog with prey drive live with a cat? - with Simone Mueller00:55:29

Dogs are predators who often see cats as prey. How can we help them live peacefully together? What is prey drive anyway?

There's all of this and so much more in this chat with Simone Mueller, world-renowned trainer and behavior consultant who literally wrote the book on predation in dogs (and how to address it).

We talk about:

  • why (and how) her method of training dogs who chase cats is different than mine
  • how to train FOR the situation, and not IN the situation (sort of)
  • how to identify whether your dog wants to eat your cat or play with them (and why it might not even matter)!

Want to dive a bit deeper?

Check out this episode's show notes for Simone's full bio and contact info, pictures of PETS, bonus content, and the resources we mentioned - praiseworthypets.com/podcast-shownotes/prey-drive-towards-cats

If you're a pet professional...

Get in touch with Naomi to get a second set of eyes on one of your current cat-dog cases with a Pet Pro Strategy Session!

And if you love the podcast and want to support me as I continue to create new episodes, join the other cat-and-dog people in the Podcast Supporters space inside the Cat and Dog Coexistence Club! Go to praiseworthypets.com/support-the-podcast to learn more ❤️

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22 Feb 2023We weren't making progress... then we joined the Club!00:32:47

Have you been working with your pets for a while to try to get them to live together peacefully... but you're just not seeing the results you want?

In this episode, Naomi talks with Menghan, one of the amazing members of the Cat and Dog Coexistence Club. Menghan breaks down her experience in the community and the transformations her cat (Lindy) and her dog (Penny) have gone through since getting more personalized help with their training plan and support from other super cool cat-and-dog people 😎

What you'll hear in this episode:

  • how Lindy and Penny's relationship started (and how they interact now)
  • why they didn't get much closer in the first month of Club membership
  • what Menghan was trying before she reached out for more help
  • when the pets had a breakthrough and things started to fall into place

Want to dive a bit deeper?

Find pics/videos of Penny and Lindy throughout their journey to coexistence (and some of the questions Menghan posted in the community) in the full show notes: praiseworthypets.com/podcast-shownotes/62

And if you love the podcast and want to support me as I continue to create new episodes, join the other cat-and-dog people in the Podcast Supporters space inside the Cat and Dog Coexistence Club! Go to praiseworthypets.com/support-the-podcast to learn more ❤️

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30 Nov 2021Don't Antagonize the Dog! - Coaching Call00:20:11

This week, Naomi takes us into a private office hours session with Kenna and Aaron, members. of the Cat and Dog Coexistence Club who are working on integrating Kenna's grumpy cat (Stella) with Aaron's dog (June) and two cats (Jack and Shanks). They discuss the different training projects each of the animals is working on, and how they will come together in the future.

Key Moments

[00:25] Introduction to the Cast of Characters and their history

[02:19] Progress with Stella

[04:46] Helping Stella learn to move away when stressed

[7:40] Brainstorming where Stella's safe place will be in the living room

[10:26] Coaching through "place" proofing with June (rep by rep)

[16:44] Ways to use treats with cats who snarf food

Key Links

Instagram

The Cat and Dog Coexistence Club

29 Nov 2022My cat is making the dog nervous!00:33:02

Does your cat do some things that kinda freak your dog out?

In this Dog and Cat Chat, Naomi and Matilda talk through some ways to address both sides of cat-dog relationship - to find appropriate outlets for Beau's sometimes over-the-top behavior AND to give Delilah the skills to cope when he triggers her.

What you'll hear in this episode:

  • why you might not want your dog to lay down and "be calm" when the cat is being exciting
  • how you noticing "pre-behaviors" gives you insight into what is triggering your pets
  • what to do about "[horizontal] zoomies"
  • when reinforcing with food might not be the best option

Want to dive a bit deeper?

Find links to some bonus content in the full show notes: praiseworthypets.com/podcast-shownotes/58

Sign up for your own Dog and Cat Chat!

Go to praiseworthypets.com/chat to book your own this free mini-coaching session.

And if you love the podcast and want to support me as I continue to create new episodes, join the other cat-and-dog people in the Podcast Supporters space inside the Cat and Dog Coexistence Club! Go to praiseworthypets.com/support-the-podcast to learn more ❤️


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21 Mar 2023If it’s not working out, what are your options? - with Gia Savocchi00:47:26

In some cases, you can be doing ALL the right things to help your pets coexist, but everyone is still stressed and unable to live together peacefully.

Unfortunately, there's a lot of pressure on well-meaning pet parents who are struggling. And that really sucks.

In my chat with fellow pet professional Gia Savocchi, we talk about:

  • how external pressures might cause people to keep their pets in a less-than-ideal situation
  • the unhealthy double-standard: adoption = good, rehoming = bad
  • how to intervene in conflicts between your animals (instead of relying on one to stand up for themselves)
  • why educating the general public about normal dog and cat behavior is so important

Want to dive a bit deeper?

Check out this episode's show notes for Gia's full bio and contact info, pictures of her pets, bonus content, and the resources we mentioned - praiseworthypets.com/podcast-shownotes/64


If you're a pet professional...

Get in touch with Naomi to get a second set of eyes on one of your current cat-dog cases with a Pet Pro Strategy Session!


And if you love the podcast and want to support me as I continue to create new episodes, join the other cat-and-dog people in the Podcast Supporters space inside the Cat and Dog Coexistence Club! Go to praiseworthypets.com/support-the-podcast to learn more ❤️


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23 Nov 2021Was This A Mistake? with Katherine Davidson00:54:35

This week, Naomi speaks with Katherine Davidson about not only managing a cat and dog household but what happens when you add a baby into the mix.

Key Moments

[01:36] Would You Rather

[03:26] Cast of Characters

[06:24] Older dogs and kitten interactions - easier or harder?

[07:34] First introductions

[10:01] Differences between foster cat interactions with dogs and new kitten

[11:39] Prepared management

[12:30] Transitioning from separate rooms

[15:06] Why it's important to continue management

[16:06] Cat's interactions with visiting dogs

[19:15] Older dog and a kitten vs older cat and a puppy

[21:50] Tips for introducing puppies to cats

[23:54] Creating safe spaces for every animal in the household

[25:55] Multispecies households with a human baby in the mix

[28:54] Having less time to train with a baby in the house

[33:01] Struggles with guilt over less time for animals

[35:57] Support for those struggling with pets and babies

[41:58] Thinking of your welfare as well as your animals'

[44:23] Cute pet stories

[47:59] Advice for multispecies households

Key Links

Katherine's website: doginspired.ca

Katherine's IG: @doginspired.ca

The Cat and Dog Coexistence Club

The PETS Process Guide

12 Jul 2022How to Build a Scaredy Cat's Confidence00:21:15

What do you do when your puppy just wants to play and your cats are so terrified they hightail it under the bed? It only takes a few unwanted games of chase to instill enough fear to make keeping your pets in the same space difficult - as Teri found out with Moose, Pumpkin, and Tofu.

With the household divided between Moose’s separation anxiety and the cat’s fear, being able to spend quality time with everyone seems impossible.

In this Dog and Cat Chat, Naomi guides Teri through ways to build the cats confidence and ability to move around the space so they can start combining their household again.

Time Stamps:

[00:23] Introducing Pumpkin and Tofu the frightened cats, Moose the puppy with severe separation anxiety

[02:41] Examining current management strategies and talking about some new options

[06:49] Moose’s current on-leash interactions with the cats in their upstairs space

[08:05] Ways to build the cats’ confidence upstairs when Moose is around

[15:21] Planning interactions and creating a sense of safety for the cats

[18:10] Summarizing the action plan

If you want to join me on the podcast for a Dog and Cat Chat, head on over to praiseworthypets.com/chat to book in a session!

15 Feb 2022How to Bring Cats into a Dog Household Safely - with Kayla Fratt01:06:18

Introducing a new pet into your household can bring a whole lot of uncertainty and disruption. How you manage those initial introductions is crucial if you want a peaceful home for everyone.

Kayla Fratt, certified dog and cat behavior consultant, has plenty of experience introducing cats and dogs to each other.

She knows what to watch out for, how to set everyone up for success, and most importantly, keep everyone safe.

In this episode, she shares her experience with multi-animal households and her best advice for others in the same boat.

Key Moments

[5:54] Kayla shares her history with border collies and foster cats

[8:59] How Kayla introduces cats to herding dogs

[12:02] The setup Kayla recommends for introducing new cats to dogs

[14:06] Why it’s important to avoid things that set off collie herding behavior

[17:03] How Barley the dog dealt with being overwhelmed by kittens

[20:32] Why younger kittens are easier to introduce to dogs

[23:34] Why Kayla always starts with a safety assessment with clients

[30:00] Kayla’s management plan for keeping cats and dogs separate

[37:37] Managing barrier frustration between cats and dogs

[43:05] Kayla describes a client’s cat and reactive dog introduction

[52:32] How to find a balance between letting animals work things out themselves and intervening when necessary

[56:00] Why younger animals need help to recognize body language

Key Links


18 Jan 2022How to Introduce Your New Cat to Your Dog - with Dr. Valli Fraser-Celin00:55:46

What do you do when you want to add a new cat into a house with a resident dog?

All pets are different, but for most of them, a little adjustment period is needed. How you introduce them is crucial if you want to see them getting along.

In a recent coaching call with fellow pet professional, Dr. Valli Fraser-Celin, Naomi took her through some simple steps to take to introduce her new cat, Peaches, to her dog, Husk.

Valli has always been a dog person, studying African Wild Dogs for her PhD and a career in dog population management. But cats have not been in her repertoire. She wanted some guidance on the best ways to slowly introduce her new feline family member to the household.

Naomi gives some simple tips to keep both pets happy and relaxed during this big adjustment period, as well as some management and enrichment advice.

Key Moments

[1:53] How to start planning for a new pet’s arrival

[3:30] Why you should focus on core skills in multi-animal households

[4:53] Preparing the house for a new cat

[8:41] Creating a safe space for a new cat

[15:11] Working on reinforcement strategies

[21:07] Why you should have two layers of management

[24:56] What to do if the dog doesn’t calm down around the cat

[29:29] Taking it slow when new pets meet

[35:38] Why cats need more reinforcement

[38:54] How to avoid an escaped cat

[46:11] Keeping distance at feeding time

[47:41] Enrichment activities during feeding time

Key Links


07 Mar 2023How to introduce a puppy to a (blind) cat - with Sammy Hyde01:09:40

When introducing two animals, how do you know when to move onto the next step? What are potential red flags that tell you to slow down?

In this chat with fellow pet professional Sammy Hyde, we talk all about her blind cat Murdoch, the "king of the household." We broke down the ways Murdoch made it clear that he didn't want to live with another cat, and how things progressed differently when new puppy Freja came into their home.

What you'll hear in this episode:

  • why you have to be an objective observer of your pets’ behavior when they AREN’T with the other animal
  • what makes the direction of behavior change, and not the speed, the most important aspect of a training plan
  • why the animals showing a lot of interest in each other (even if it seems friendly) isn't the green light for them have free access to each other
  • how you decide which animal to call away when they need space from each other

Want to dive a bit deeper?

Check out this episode's show notes for Sammy's full bio and contact info, pictures of Freja and Murdoch, bonus content, and the resources we mentioned - praiseworthypets.com/podcast-shownotes/63

If you're a pet professional...

Get in touch with Naomi to talk about one of your current cat-dog cases - I'm here to help!

And if you love the podcast and want to support me as I continue to create new episodes, join the other cat-and-dog people in the Podcast Supporters space inside the Cat and Dog Coexistence Club! Go to praiseworthypets.com/support-the-podcast to learn more ❤️

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If you enjoyed this episode, please help me spread the word to other cat-and-dog people! You can:


07 Sep 2021Enrichment: What, why and how00:11:43

Enrichment: What, Why and How

Our pets might be domesticated but that doesn’t mean they’re perfect happy living in an environment catered just to their human’s needs! This week, Naomi talks enrichment. What is it and how can we use it to help minimize unwanted pet behaviors?

In this episode we discuss:

        

What is enrichment?

o  A shorthand for designing an enriching environment or providing enriching activities.

o  Giving an animal the opportunity to behave the way they would in the wild.

  • Eg. Zebras given the environment and things to do “zebra things”

o Enrichment is essential for any captive animal

  •   Essential for their welfare
  • Greatly affects their behavior towards your home and any other beings living there·        

What happens to animals in an environment not enriched?

o It’s akin to solitary confinement

  • Basic physical needs are met 
  • They get access to sufficient calories and hydration on a schedule not determined by them  
  • They have a place to sleep and eliminate but without any personal choice

o There is a reason solitary confinement is a brutal punishment

  • Just getting your basic physical needs met is not enough
  • Having no behavior choice in accessing those needs is stressful
  • Talking to self because no one else to talk to
  • Pacing because nowhere else to walk
  • Increased aggression
  • Captive animals in non-enriched environments experience similar things.

    Unenriched Environments

o Our homes are designed to enrich US.

  • Access to basic human needs
  • Human comfort
  • Human entertainment

o If our homes only enrich us, our pets are in a prison-like environment

o Unenriched environments lead to “behavioral seepage”

  • Pet’s version of muttering, pacing and snapping

o When not occupied, pet’s will seek out opportunities to express the behaviors not promoted by their environment

  •  Dog’s need to scavenge might start rummaging in trash for scraps
  • Cats’ need for nail maintenance might scratch sofa

The basics of enriching your pet’s environment.

o  Learn what your pet needs

  • give them access to their physical needs like health, hygiene, nutrition, and exercise
  • give appropriate outlets for instinctual behavior specific to their species and breed
  • allow them to exert some control over their environment, to choose the most desirable outcomes

o Allow them the freedom to safely choose how to access these needs

Three-step plan for enriching your pet’s environment.

o  Watch your pets

  • Write down their behavior for three days
  • Take notes but don’t interfere with their behavior unless they are doing something dangerous
  • Give them a choice between two acceptable behavior instead of multiple “iffy” options
  • Take notes of any “misbehavior”

o Choose one behavior that you are always asking your pet to stop, are redirecting or punishing. These are behaviors your animal needs to perform in a more appropriate way.

  • Set up the environment to provide alternatives.

o  Monitor the new activity/environment. Change if necessary.

Who’s in this episode?

Naomi Rotenberg

https://www.instagram.com/praiseworthypets

11 Jan 2022How to Help Your Pets Move Forward After an Incident - Coaching Call00:34:00

What do you do when your cat and dog have had a fight? How do you help everyone feel safe again?

This week, Naomi chats with Em and Lindsey, members of The Cat and Dog Coexistence Club, about the aftermath of a recent incident between their cat, Fenton, and their dog, Bambi. 

Em and Lindsey went out for a few minutes and returned home to their pets no longer separated (and a very stressed Bambi).

Naomi gives some pointers on avoiding this and building up Bambi’s confidence while keeping Fenton entertained and calm.

Key Moments

[1:08] The incident and what followed

[9:06] What to do after a cat vs. dog incident

[10:06] Fortifying management between pets

[12:12] Using baby-proofing supplies as part of an effective management setup

[13:38] Enrichment opportunities for both cats and dogs

[19:08] Rebuilding a dog’s confidence

[19:57] Training your pet to avoid no-go areas

[25:12] Addressing your own feelings about your pets after an incident

Key Links

The "T" DIY to make a baby gate less jump-able

Follow Naomi on Instagram

Get on the waitlist for the MERITS Method courses

10 May 2022Moving in together... Roommate Edition!00:17:55

In this Dog and Cat chat, I speak with McKenzie Cameron about integrating her dog Frankie with the new addition to her household, Bijou the cat. But there’s a twist! It’s not McKenzie who’s adopting Bijou - it’s her roommate.

Key Moments

[00:46] Introduction to the Cast of Characters: Frankie the dog and Bijou the cat

[02:20] Bijou’s transition from outdoor cat to indoor cat

[03:17] Bijou’s anxiety with anyone standing close to her

[04:35] Current management/setups

[06:00] Recommendations for alternative first management/setups

[07:02] Progression based on interactive tendencies

[07:32] Setup allowing Bijou to watch Frankie doing Frankie things

[08:35] Getting to know Bijou’s behaviors

[09:38] Training Frankie to relax in a space, move about a space and be redirected away from an interaction.

[11:11] When to reduce the amount of space during setups

[11:43] What to do when dog is hyper aroused at the smell of cat food

[14:30] Incorporating suggestions into existing routine

If you want to be awesome like McKenzie and do a Dog and Cat Chat with me on the podcast, make sure to:

1. follow me on Instagram @praiseworthypets

and

2. CLICK HERE to schedule a time

01 Feb 2022You Need to Train the Cat, Too! - with Julie Posluns00:51:48

If you have a cat and a dog, should you try to train the cat? Can you even train cats?

You sure can! And training both the cat and the dog can often make a huge difference in the quality of your pets’ relationship.

This week I spoke with Julie Posluns, Applied Animal Behaviorist and owner of Cat School. Julie shared key concepts about training cats, how to train two at the same time, and how to fit cat training around your other pets.

Key Moments

[3:24] An introduction to Julie’s pets

[10:00] Why house setup is so important in multi-animal households

[15:10] How Julie pivoted her career from dog walking to cat training

[19:33] Why Julie likes to focus on enrichment, not just problem-solving behaviors

[22:11] How Julie likes to start cat training working through food motivation

[25:24] Why Julie recommends target stick training

[27:27] How to deliver treats to cats in the safest and most effective way

[32:45] Julie’s suggestions for two-cat households

[36:00] Enrichment tools that help with cat training 

[39:04] What to do if your cat and dog don’t get along

[42:35] How to set up your house if you’re bringing a cat home to your dog

[46:41] Why you should be proactive with multi-animal households

Key Links


18 Oct 2022The Training Starts As Soon As You Walk In The Door - with Josh and Mandy Boutelle00:45:50

What are the first things you should do when you bring a kitten home to live with your adolescent dog? In this chat with fellow pet professionals Josh and Mandy Boutelle, we talk about how they helped their new kitten, Fig, quickly settle into life with their exuberant dog, Fern.

What you'll hear in this episode:

  • how they started creating positive experiences for the pets as soon as Fig came home
  • why they waited a week before posting online that Fig had joined their family
  • what signs indicated that Fern might be able to coexist with a cat
  • why they didn't keep Fig and Fern separated for long
  • why kittens and potted houseplants don't mix

Want to dive a bit deeper?

Check out this episode's show notes for Mandy and Josh's full bios and contact info, pictures of Fig and Fern, bonus content, and the resources we mentioned - praiseworthypets.com/podcast-shownotes/53

If you're a pet professional...

Get in touch with Naomi to get a second set of eyes on one of your current cat-dog cases with a Pet Pro Strategy Session!

And if you love the podcast and want to support me as I continue to create new episodes, join the other cat-and-dog people in the Podcast Supporters space inside the Cat and Dog Coexistence Club! Go to praiseworthypets.com/support-the-podcast to learn more ❤️

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If you enjoyed this episode, please help me spread the word to other cat-and-dog people! You can:


20 Jun 2022The Cats Just Want Their Space! - Dog and Cat Chat with Yasmin00:16:28

Sometimes you just don't know what to do when your cats and dogs don't get along.

Feeling stuck isn't uncommon, but that doesn’t stop it from being frustrating!

Sometimes it takes a second set of eyes to look at what’s going on and identify find those areas where a little change could make all the difference.

Yasmin’s two old lady cats, Zelda and Pangea, are struggling with the young canine member of the family, Fenna. Fenna chases the cats the moment they even try to find a bit of space from her.

What can Yasmin do to calm Fenna down enough for Zelda and Pangea to tolerate her company? Naomi helps her identify a few next steps in this Dog and Cat Chat.

Time Stamps:

[00:29] Introduction and Cast of Characters: Zelda and Pangea the elderly cats and Fenna the young dog

[01:03] Getting the lay of the land - the current behaviors, the physical management and any sticky spots.

[06:02] Talking management: It’s not just baby gates and leashes!

[07:32] Setups for a space-reducing dog and space-seeking cats

[11:34] Tracking progress: knowing what to look for in your pets behavior during setups and when to change things up

[13:31] Doing setups with a very timid cat

Want to do a Dog and Cat Chat with me on the podcast?

  1. Follow me on Instagram @praiseworthypets
  2. Go to praiseworthypets.com/chat to schedule

Looking for more in-depth help with your cats and dogs?

Go to praiseworthypets.com/contact to start the process!

31 May 2022The Dog Puts the Cat's Head In His MOUTH! (Dog and Cat Chat with Josie)00:33:03

Naomi chats with Josie in this Dog and Cat Chat about her adolescent dog Kinai and his wildly different interactions with her two cats. How much of this behavior can be attributed to general environmental stress or something else entirely?

Time Stamps:

[00:31] Introduction

[01:13] The cast of characters: the dogs (Nimeria and Kinai)

[01:37] Background of relationship between Kinai and the cats

[02:06] The cast of characters: the cats (Anya and Prudence)

[02:48] Background of reactive interactions between Kinai and Anya

[03:59] Background of Kinai’s high prey drive towards Prudence

[04:30] Kinai inconsistently redirecting reactive behavior onto Prudence

[05:47] Why saying a dog is “good with cats” or vice versa is misleading

[06:40] Current history of Kinai’s reactivity to environmental contrasts and changes, surprises and strange animals

[08:22] Changes in behavior after neutering/during adolescence

[10:10] Trigger stacking effects on reactivity

[10:43] The cat’s response to Kinai’s reactive behavior

[11:21] Disentangling multiple cases within the same group of animals

[12:10] Stressors that can affect behavior indirectly

[14:30] Developing a plan for Kinai’s reactivity to stressors

[14:36] Decrease environmental stresses

[15:12] Record keeping - behavior tracking

[15:36] Developing a plan for Kinai’s anxiety with Anya

[16:22] Developing a plan for Kinai’s interactions with Prudence

[17:41] Some behaviors aren’t as scary as they look

[18:38] Record what the difference in behavior when humans are present and not

[20:26] The importance of who is initiating interactions/contact

[23:02] Working on Kinai’s redirection cues

[24:37] The importance of video footage of behaviors

[25:37] Adjusting your environment

[29:06] Benefits of relaxation protocols/training

----------

05 Apr 2022Setting Up Your Setups - Coaching Call with Lindsey and Em00:22:45

The journey towards coexistence doesn’t stop when your dog and cat are no longer on opposing sides of an active warzone. When all the hard work training is finally paying off and you can see the changes it’s making to your household, what comes next?

Setups!

In this coaching call I helped Lindsey and Em, members of the Cat and Dog Coexistence Club, come up with some starting setups to reinforce the training they’ve been working on.

Key Moments

[00:25] Introducing the cast of characters

[01:00] Evening behaviors: Resting in the living room

[01:48] Taking the next steps to further relaxation

[02:46] Using ritualistic behavior as a foundation for new setups

[03:22] Hands-off enrichment based movement around a space

[04:30] Stations

[06:08] Food-related problems: Lower appetite

[07:05] Combining food-based stations with non food-based stations

[09:35] The first setup

[12:06] Setup prep work during relaxation protocol training

[13:44] Adjusting and managing when pets get over threshold

[15:40] Current interactions between cat and dog

[17:50] Using enrichment activities to redirect/channel behavior appropriately

[18:35] Letting interactions evolve naturally but in controlled situations

[19:55] Reward/encourage disengagements

01 Jun 2022YOUR Journey to Coexistence00:06:28

It's an almost universal roadmap to coexistence:

  1. management
  2. enrichment
  3. setups

But what should you actually DO within this general process to help YOUR specific animals learn to live together peacefully? What steps will take you from point A to point B?

Sometimes you need someone to show you the way.

Want more in-depth personalized guidance and support from Naomi? Itching to get your cat(s) and dog(s) moving on the path towards coexistence?

Take this quiz to determine what phase of the journey you and your pets are currently in, and which training programs would be best to get you where you want to go!

08 Feb 2022How to Build a Safe & Stress-Free Multi-Species Household - with Emily Fitzpatrick00:57:56

Living in a multi-species house can be as challenging as it is rewarding. With so many personalities, needs, and quirks to contend with, keeping everyone happy can feel like a full-time job!

Emily Fitzpatrick, certified dog trainer and founder of Misunderstood Mutt, is someone who knows this all too well.

She joined me on this episode of It’s Training Cats and Dogs to talk about how her two dogs, Remi and Goose, and her cat, Potato, all get along, as well as some tips for keeping everyone safe and happy.

Key Moments

[3:48] How Emily met Goose

[6:05] How Goose met his new best friend, Remi

[7:59] Goose and Remi’s reactions to meeting Potato the cat

[11:37] How Emily set up the home to keep everyone safe

[13:07] How animals react in times of stress

[19:31] How Emily manages everyone’s anxiety

[22:12] Potato’s litterbox issues and figuring out triggers

[28:35] Why capturing behaviors on camera can help you understand the cause

[31:37] How an aggressive dog affected everyone’s quality of life

[43:06] Managing Remi and Potato’s conflict

[45:14] Why conflict is to be expected between pets (and people)

[46:00] Why self-regulation is key to managing conflict

[52:26] How Potato got her name

Key Links


02 May 2022Treat Options for your Non-food Motivated Pet00:15:37

Naomi takes a deep dive into food-based reinforcement and what you can do when your pet just doesn’t seem interested in any treats you’re offering.

Key Moments

[00:44] The two kinds of non-reinforcing food reinforcement events

[01:19] How to handle these two types of events

  • [01:23] Handling disgust
  • [01:55] Handling a lack of interest

[02:43] Why food reinforcement is an important tool in your training arsenal

[03:28] Turning your pet’s response to treats from meh to hells yeah!

  • [03:33] Adjusting some motivating operations
  • [03:56] A warning against severe caloric restrictions
  • [05:20] How and why food provision methods and timing can affect the effectiveness of food as reinforcement
  • [05:50] How to switch up caloric intake safely and time training accordingly

[06:18] Other ways to increase the value of food treats

  • [06:25] Adjusting the food itself
  • [07:27] Change the method of food delivery
  • [07:57] Consistency
  • [08:13] Training environment
  • [09:21] Trust

[09:57] Finding the right treat/delivery option

  • [10:08] No-pressure food tests
  • [11:20] Experimenting with food delivery options

[11:57] Teach your pet to put it all together

  • [12:15] Use the events they get peppy for as reinforcement for taking food
  • [14:25] Document different food tests to find out what works the best

Resources

Get access to The BIG LIST of food treats (for cats and dogs)

31 Aug 2021Introducing a Puppy to Resident Cats with Olivia Healy00:55:03

What happens when you introduce your two resident cats to the new puppy in your life? How can you keep everyone safe and happy while making sure you’ve time for all the furry members of your family? In our very first episode, Naomi talks to Olivia Healy, a trainer in California who has two high-maintenance cats, about her recent experiences temporarily housing puppies.

In this episode we discuss:

Fostering

  • An introduction to kitten behavior at 2 or 3-7 weeks
  • Fostering can give you an insight into how your resident animals can cope (if management and introductions are done correctly)
  • Why you should be upfront with the shelter or rescue
  • Bringing in a trainer to guide the process
  • Getting to know different personalities and breeds
  • How each new foster will teach you something

Enrichment for active cats

  • How a lack of enrichment for active cats can lead to aggression.
  • How do you figure out what the right enrichment activities are?
  • What is the right amount of enrichment for your cats?
  • How quickly can a lack of enrichment effect behavior?
  • Right away
  • A build up over time
  • Working up to enrichment side by side by using a physical and visual barrier
  • Graduating to a physical but no visual barrier
  • Why Olivia recommends not free feeding.
  • mealtimes for wet food with dry food in puzzles around if they are feeling peckish

Things to consider when adding a dog to a house with resident cats

  • Space to separate and manage
  • Stress and safety
  • Trust in you and your environment
  • Knowing when it’s too much for either animal
  • Having enough time to focus on each animal
  • What are the animals that you already have?
  • Having contingency plans.
  • Puppy vs. older dog?

Developing your own skills

  • Reading body language
  • Clicker mechanics

Teaching the cats skills

  • Why teaching ahead of time is preferable
  • Finding food motivators and practicing reinforcement strategies
  • Targeting and station
  • Directing without physical touch
  • Station (portable)
  • Look At That
  • Creating predictability in schedule and actions

Who's in this episode?

Host - Naomi Rotenberg

https://www.instagram.com/praiseworthypets

https://www.praiseworthypets.com/

Olivia Healy

https://www.instagram.com/clickerkittens

https://www.praiseworthypets.com/    

Resource Links

Canine Enrichment

for the Real World: Making It a Part of Your Dog's Daily Life


Cats vs. Dogs: The

Efficacy of Feliway FriendsTM and AdaptilTM Products in Multispecies Homes

24 Jan 2023My cat won’t come downstairs because she’s so scared of the dog!00:36:01

What do you do when when your resident animal is super stressed by their new housemate? Like so stressed that they don't feel safe enough to do the things they used enjoy? And what if the animals were initially "fine" together?

In this Dog and Cat Chat, Alicia and I brainstormed about how she could help her cat Cleo feel confident enough to come downstairs when Maisy (the dog) is around.

What you'll hear in this episode:

  • why you need to give your pets safe spaces and teach them how to get there
  • how to help a cat come down the stairs and up to their elevated safe spaces (without touching the floor)
  • when you might want to keep an eye out for your new pet's behavior to potentially change towards their housemates
  • and what does food motivation have to do with all of this?

Want to dive a bit deeper?

Find links to the resources I discussed in this episode and some bonus content in the full show notes: praiseworthypets.com/podcast-shownotes/61

Sign up for your own Dog and Cat Chat!

Go to praiseworthypets.com/chat to book your own free mini-coaching session.


And if you love the podcast and want to support me as I continue to create new episodes, join the other cat-and-dog people in the Podcast Supporters space inside the Cat and Dog Coexistence Club! Go to praiseworthypets.com/support-the-podcast to learn more ❤️


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If you enjoyed this episode, please help me spread the word to other cat-and-dog people! You can:


01 Nov 2021Lost in Translation - Part Two - with Lauren Rubin00:29:54

In part two of my chat with Lauren Rubin, we talk more about the differences in dog and cat body language, the importance of management, and just how important support is in your coexistence journey.

Key Moments

[03:13] The difference between cat and dog body language

[05:29] Cat testing

[08:35] Coexistence doesn't mean unsupervised

[09:32] Rehoming is sometimes necessary

[12:05] Don't ever let them just work it out

[14:37] Space issues

[18:56] What to do before bringing a new pet into your existing setup

[21:24] Physical and behavior management prep

[24:46] Cat and dog body language is different part 2

[27:56] You're not alone in your struggles

Key Links

Part One

The PETS Process Guide

Cat Tail Twitching

Cat Tail Swish/Thump

16 May 2023Finding Balance in Our Lives with Pets - with Marissa Martino00:51:07

How can the human side of pet training - understanding and addressing our emotions and mental state - contribute to a stronger bond with our animals and more effective training process?

In this chat with fellow pet professional Marissa Martino, we talk about...

  • why it's not just about teaching behaviors and working through training plans
  • how her dog Peru met the love of her life, a cat named Harold
  • what parallels there are between your work with your pet and your work with yourself
  • why "self care" most likely isn't the way to go

Timestamps:

0:00:00 - Pet Relationship Feelings and Stories

Marissa and I play two truths and a lie... I lose (shocker)

0:05:00 - From the Shelter to A Home

Marissa and I discuss strategies for helping clients adopt dogs with a history of living with cats, shelter evaluations, and their ability to predict behavior.

0:13:05 - Introducing a Dog to a Cat

We discussed introducing cats and dogs, active management, safety, and the joy of watching them become friends.

0:29:53 - Hold Space in Pet Training

Clients learn to accept their situation, set boundaries, measure success, and celebrate attempts to transform with their animal.

0:39:23 - Resourcing Yourself vs. Self-Care (and Fun!)

Marissa and I discuss resourcing ourselves, shifting mindset, and strengthening relationships with animals.


Want to dive a bit deeper?

Check out this episode's show notes for Marissa's full bio and contact info, as well as pictures of Peru and Harold - praiseworthypets.com/podcast-shownotes/65


If you're a pet professional...

Check out my mentorship and consulting options - I can be a second set of eyes on one of your current cat-dog clients... or you can shadow some of my cases!


And if you love the podcast and want to support me as I continue to create new episodes, join the other cat-and-dog people in the Podcast Supporters space inside the Cat and Dog Coexistence Club! Go to praiseworthypets.com/support-the-podcast to learn more ❤️


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29 Aug 2021It's Training Cats and Dogs!00:00:57

It's the podcast for cat-AND-dog-people. Every week, pet trainer Naomi Rotenberg brings you insights into how to manage your multi-species household and help your pets safely coexist.

09 Aug 2022Are my cat and dog ready to spend more time together?00:17:46

When your pets are “absolutely apart” and only seeing each other during short, micromanaged setups, you might be thinking:

  • Am I being paranoid about my pets' safety?
  • Am I the barrier to their coexistence?
  • Am I being too impatient if I just want to "let them work it out"?

These worries are super common and all boil down to this main question: how do I know if my cat and dog are ready to spend more time together?

In this episode of It’s Training Cats and Dogs, Naomi laid out the main things to think about when making the decision to attempt some more extended interactions.

What you'll hear in this episode:

  • when your pets might be ready to level up
  • how to create a comprehensive plan for their first extended interactions
  • why this prep will make the whole thing go smoother

Want to dive a bit deeper?

Check out this episode's show notes: praiseworthypets.com/podcast-shownotes/47

What phase of coexistence are your pets currently in? (free quiz)

Get in touch with Naomi to discuss whether the Cat and Dog Coexistence Club and private coaching is a good fit for you and your pets!

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25 Oct 2022To calm the dog down? Or to boost the cats' confidence? That is the question.00:18:45

When you've got an intense, chase-y dog and some scared cats, how do you prioritize your training projects? In this Dog and Cat Chat, I explain why (in Jenna's case), I suggested that she focus on addressing the cats' skittishness first before tackling her dog's intense reactions to seeing the cats move.

What you'll hear in this episode:

  • why two kittens might be better than one
  • how to make seeing the other animal less of an event (when they are absolutely apart)
  • how to help nervous cats explore their territory (and why it was priority #1 for Jenna)

Want to dive a bit deeper?

Find links to the resources I discussed in this episode and some bonus content in the full show notes: praiseworthypets.com/podcast-shownotes/54

Sign up for your own Dog and Cat Chat!

Go to praiseworthypets.com/chat to book your own this free mini-coaching session.

And if you love the podcast and want to support me as I continue to create new episodes, join the other cat-and-dog people in the Podcast Supporters space inside the Cat and Dog Coexistence Club! Go to praiseworthypets.com/support-the-podcast to learn more ❤️

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14 Jun 2022Kids, and dogs, and cats... oh my! - with Jen Shyrock00:51:55

Overseeing a multi-species household can be as challenging as it is rewarding. Cats and dogs, pets and children, different breeds and different ages - with all the combinations comes a variety of behaviors and personalities. So, how can you find coexistence between so many moving parts?

Jen Shyrock of Family Paws has hands-on experience living in a household of cats, dogs and kids (and even a couple of guinea pigs!). She shares her thoughts on teaching kids to interact with pets from a young age, considering the needs of everyone in your family, and the importance of respect when it comes to any interaction - human and animal alike.

Key Moments

[00:33] Introducing Jen Shyrock via Two Truths and a Lie

[03:37] Cast of Characters: The dogs - Oliver, Sadie and Rudy. The cats - Jagger, Rocky, Harrison, Zoe and Nora.

[05:22] Jen’s integration process: How it began and where it is now

[08:19] Navigating the variety and the importance of monitoring any shifts of relationship dynamics in a multi-species household

[11:55] Preparing your animal to transition from separation to integration

[16:39] It’s not just dogs who can be pushy and not just cats who like their space

[20:27] Working with a highly-reactive, easily over-aroused cat

[23:03] General management and carrier training for cats

[27:27] Teaching kids how to be part of a multi-species household

[30:34] Prepping your cat for the arrival of a new baby

[34:06] Cat enrichment

[40:50] The dangers of pet social media on animal behavior and child/pet interactions

[43:33] Challenge, tips and tricks for pet/kid households

If you have any suggestions on who you'd love to hear me chat with next, head on over to my instagram and drop me a DM!

Resources We Mentioned:

The Purrfect Fence

Enrichment for dogs: @bindisbucketlist and @petharmonytraining

Enrichment for cats: @twosphynxboys and @chirpycats (and @cat.school who was a guest on the podcast back in episode 20)

Jen’s Contact Info:

familypaws.com

jen@familypaws.com

Naomi’s Contact Info:

Instagram: @praiseworthypets

Website: praiseworthypets.com

01 Nov 2022How the hell do I...help my cat and dog get along?00:42:07

What is involved in taking cats and dogs who can't even look at each other to being able to spend time together as housemates?

In this episode, Naomi walks through the general process she uses to help her clients' cats and dogs learn to coexist.

What you'll hear in this episode:

  • why helping each animal feel safe is always the first step
  • what types of behaviors both your cats and dogs need to know
  • why you can't "just train the dog to leave the cat alone"

Want to dive a bit deeper?

Find links to all the resources I discussed in this episode and some bonus content in the full show notes: praiseworthypets.com/podcast-shownotes/55

And if you love the podcast and want to support me as I continue to create new episodes, join the other cat-and-dog people in the Podcast Supporters space inside the Cat and Dog Coexistence Club! Go to praiseworthypets.com/support-the-podcast to learn more ❤️


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P.S. Here's Kerry's website - kerrypinnisicounseling.com (but she wants me to make sure you know that she isn't currently taking new clients for ongoing therapy, but if you are already in long term individual therapy and would like to work with her for EMDR or Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy, you can reach her through the website)

01 Mar 2022Why a Strong Management Plan is Vital in Multi-Species Homes00:55:13

If you have a busy household full of cats, dogs, and other animals, keeping everyone safe and happy can feel a little stressful if you’re not prepared.

The trick is to come up with a solid management plan, something that this It’s Training Cats and Dogs guest knows all too well.

Tori Ganino, a Certified Professional Dog Trainer and Certified Dog Behavior Consultant, joins the show to share her tips for success on integrating cats and dogs into a multi-species household. Tori works with clients through her company, Calling All Dogs, and shares some of the advice she gives to clients in this episode.

Key Moments

[5:00] Tori’s current cast of characters

[6:35] How Si and Jeter first met

[8:09] Tori’s management tactics for Si and Jeter

[13:29] Why Tori introduced Nimbus to the family

[16:23] The management plan for Nimbus

[19:04] How Tori managed meetings between Si and Nimbus

[22:25] Making the leap from regimented exposures to playtime

[27:08] Tori’s plan of action for introducing Fisher the puppy

[31:33] How to balance enrichment for four different pets

[32:28] Why you should “catch them being good”

[36:18] Fisher’s training and enrichment plan

[40:00] Why harnesses, leashes and mats are the best training tools

[45:27] Why setting up a management plan is Tori’s top tip for multi-species households

[48:15] Why you should be careful about picking your trainer

[50:22] How to watch out for your pet’s happiness and quality of life

Key Links


12 Apr 2022Starting Off On The Right Paw - Dog and Cat Chat with Yvonne00:33:44

There’s a lot to consider when you’re first starting your pet’s journey to coexistence. It’s easy to get lulled into a false sense of security if problems don’t immediately arise. But rather than wait for things to go wrong, start things off on the right paw!

Yvonne joined me for a Dog and Cat Chat - my new 30 minute free coaching sessions - to find out the best ways to start integrating her new cat Lizzy with the household’s resident Bull Terrier, Sunny.

Key Moments

[01:01] Cast of characters

[02:13] Should I foster a cat? Introducing a cat into a household with a dog and small children.

[02:49] Lizzy’s behavior after being introduced into the household

[04:13] The current state of affairs: The setup in the home

[06:13] Territory plans for Lizzy in the future

[07:09] House layout challenges

[07:48] Expanding territory: initial management ideas

[09:27] Current enrichment for Sunny

[11:30] Meeting individual enrichment needs before bringing two animals together

[12:22] Enrichment ideas for an excitable dog to get those zoomies in

[12:42] Recent adventures with using a flirt pole for enrichment

[13:40] Close play vs distanced play

[13:52] Using play to introduce new skills

[14:00] Knowing when to stop high intensity play

[14:40] Introducing a drop cue for energy regulation

[15:25] Enrichment ideas for Lizzy

[15:50] Why a cat might not be interested in toys

[16:43] Food stations

[17:15] Sunny’s stair behaviors and the adventure with guinea pigs

[19:54] Sunny’s adventures with Lizzy escaping to the second floor

[21:12] Finding threshold distance for beginning setups

[21:27] Initial setups: ideas for starting out

[22:10] Sunny the space reducing pup

[22:25] Lizzy the space seeking kitty?

[23:00] Progressive steps: Setup two

[25:16] Lizzy’s goals for the very first steps

[25:28] Sunny’s goals for the very first steps

[25:51] Establishing two levels of management

[28:02] Expectation management

[29:19] Training eating behaviors

Resources

Outward Hound Tail Teaser

Squishy Face Studio Flirt Pole

Frisco Silicone Treat Lick Mat

Lickimat Classic

30 Aug 2022The Why of "It's Training Cats and Dogs"00:18:15

This baby podcast is now 50 episodes old 🤯 That's kind of a big deal!

Let's celebrate with some of my super deep (and also a bit silly) musings about:

  • how this podcast came to be
  • why I'm doing this whole thing in the first place
  • what's next in the world of "It's Training Cats and Dogs" aka even more awesome-ness
  • when the podcast will be back - and how it will be even better than ever!

Want to dive a bit deeper?

Sign up to be a podcast supporter here!


P.S. Whether you've been here since episode 1 or if this is your first foray into the coolest podcast out there - thank you so much for listening!

It's been a wild ride so far, and I can't wait to keep bringing you informative, motivating, and funny content every week!


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26 Oct 2021Lost in Translation - Part One - with Lauren Rubin00:44:25

In part one of my chat with Lauren Rubin, we talk about the challenges of dog and cat coexistence when they don't understand each other's body language and how sometimes you just need to keep your pets seperated.

Key Moments

[01:13] Two Truths and a Lie

[03:18] Cast of Characters

[08:27] Trainers make mistakes too

[10:40] Integration and management with introducing established dog to puppy

[15:18] Practicing small stress behaviors

[16:41] Alternative behavior

[17:33] Differential reinforcement: Introducing dog to cat

[20:02] Keeping animals permanently separated

[24:50] Accidentally reinforcing unwanted behavior

[27:49] Breaking down predictable interactions

[31:01] Management is not sexy but it is necessary

[34:45] Dogs and cats speak different body languages

[36:08] Case study - A failed case of coexistence

Key Links

The PETS Process Guide

16 Nov 2021Stop your dog from fixating on your cat - Coaching Call00:17:51

This week, Naomi gives you a peek behind the curtain at the Cat and Dog Coexistence Club for a private office hours session with one of its members as they discuss Bridget's dog Bella who is hyper-fixated on her cat Walter.

Key Moments

[01:01] Different types of attention

[02:18] Predatory sequence in dogs

[04:28] Ways to train in the orient stage

[05:14] Two ways to "unstick" a dog

[06:46] Finding the sweet spot to do training

[07:56] Miscalibrations are understandable

[09:20] Practicing while Eyeing bakes tension into the behavior

[09:46] Working on a true relax in place behavior

[11:23] Why routine in management is so good

[12:45] Training the cat as well for enrichment

[13:41] Training cats makes them more relaxed

[14:00] Progress

[15:08] Relax on the Mat protocol

[16:46] Body language is a great starting point

Key Links

The Cat and Dog Coexistence Club

The PETS Process Guide

16 Aug 2022“Dog-Like” Cats and “Cat-Like” Dogs - with Matt Schimsky01:11:12

If someone says their cat acts "like a dog"... do you know exactly what they mean? Is having a "dog-like" cat considered ::better:: than having a cat-like cat?

In this chat with fellow trainer Matt Schimsky, we talk about society's stereotypes about cats vs. dogs (and why they affect our relationships and willingness to train with our animals).

What you'll hear in this episode:

  • why Matt didn't like cats (until he lived with them)
  • how his experience with "dog-like" cats has affected the way he train
  • what crucial step you need to include in your pets' exercise and enrichment routine (that you're probably missing right now)

Want to dive a bit deeper?

Check out this episode's show notes for Matt's full bio (and pictures of Howl) - praiseworthypets.com/podcast-shownotes/48

If you're a pet professional... Get in touch with Naomi to get a second set of eyes on one of your current cat-dog cases with a Pet Pro Strategy Session!

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