Episodes

  • S1 E6 Shannon Arnie, Tasmania, Echo & Inyx
    Jan 19 2025
    Welcome to Season 1, Episode 6 of the Sodapup Enrichment Lab podcast. Our guest this week is Shannon Arnie from Tasmania. She is the creator behind the instagram account @echo.and.inyx. Shannon is a wealth of knowledge about food based enrichment. Come listen to her enrichment journey with her Tasmanian Smithfield hearding dog, Echo. Keywords pet enrichment, raw feeding, dog nutrition, cat nutrition, Tasmania, botanicals for pets, fresh feeding, animal health, pet care, sustainable feeding, pet enrichment, flower-based nutrition, creative pet food, family involvement, feeding schedules, pet treats, community support, animal nutrition, holistic pet care, pet wellness Summary In this conversation, Chris Chandler speaks with Shannon Arney, a pet enrichment enthusiast from Tasmania, about her unique approach to feeding and caring for her pets. They discuss the importance of food-based enrichment for dogs and cats, the variety of foods Shannon provides, and her insights into pet nutrition. Shannon shares her journey of learning about raw and fresh feeding and the role of botanicals in enhancing her pets' diets. The conversation highlights sustainable feeding practices and the joy of providing a diverse and nutritious diet for pets. In this conversation, Shannon shares her journey of creating enriching meals for her pets, including the use of botanicals she grows and produces. She discusses the therapeutic benefits of food preparation for her anxiety, the involvement of her children in pet care, and the importance of community support in pet nutrition. The conversation also covers feeding schedules, treat options, and the various forms of enrichment beyond food, emphasizing that pet care can be both creative and fulfilling. Takeaways Shannon lives in Tasmania with her family and pets. Food-based enrichment enhances pet well-being. Scatter feeding mimics natural foraging behavior in animals. Shannon feeds her pets a variety of unique foods. Wallaby and possum are common in Shannon's pet diet. Dogs thrive on a diet rich in meat and organs. Shannon emphasizes the importance of learning about pet nutrition. “Fresh feeding” can be a way for pet guardians to feed unprocessed foods to their pets without using raw food. Botanicals can enhance the sensory experience for pets. Shannon's business offers organic botanicals for pets. Using flowers for pet enrichment can be beautiful and nutritious. Creative food preparation can serve as a therapeutic outlet. Involving family in pet care enhances the experience for everyone. Feeding schedules can be flexible and tailored to each pet's needs. Treats can be homemade and nutritious, like fish fudge. Pets enjoy a variety of flavors and textures in their meals. Enrichment doesn't have to be visually appealing to be effective. Community support is vital for sharing ideas and inspiration. Simple ingredients can create enriching experiences for pets. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Shannon and Her Pets 02:17 The Importance of Food-Based Enrichment 05:04 Unique Feeding Practices in Tasmania 09:41 Nutritional Insights for Dogs and Cats 12:40 Learning About Pet Nutrition 16:52 The Role of Botanicals in Pet Diets 23:42 The Art of Flower-Based Pet Enrichment 27:00 Creative Food Enrichment for Pets 32:02 Involving Family in Pet Nutrition 35:00 Feeding Schedules and Treats 37:55 Enrichment Beyond Food 39:46 Community and Inspiration in Pet Enrichment Where to find Shannon Instagram @echo.and.iynx Dogs In The Meadow https://dogsinthemeadow.com.au/ All the images in the YouTube episode of the podcast are courtesy of Shannon. Resources https://rawfedandnerdy.com/ https://perfectlyrawsome.com/ https://www.facebook.com/groups/rawandfresh/?ref=share&mibextid=adzO7l - this is an Australian based Facebook group which has some good information https://dogsfirst.ie/ - Dr Conor Brady's page Sardine fudge (as mentioned in podcast by Shannon): Small tin of sardines in springwater Egg A few tablespoons of a flour of choice (I tend to use oat), this is optional and makes it more of a pancake type of texture over omelette if it's left out. Mix together, and cook - either in the microwave for a few minutes until done, or in the oven. Always check with your vet about foods that are safe/unsafe for your pets.
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    45 mins
  • S1 E5 Sodapup Enrichment Lab: Liyisa Li, Sydney Australia
    Dec 30 2024

    This episode of the Sodapup Enrichment Lab features Liyisa Li, the creator behind the instagram Lil.Appa. Give it a watch or listen to see the amazing enrichment Liyisa is doing with her Samoyed, Appa.

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    30 mins
  • S1 E5: Sodapup Enrichment Lab: Liyisa Li, Sydney, Australia
    Dec 30 2024

    This podcast episode features Liyisa Li, the creator behind the IG account Lil.Appa which features extraordinarily beautiful imagery of Appa's enrichment meals.

    Keywords

    dog enrichment, pet care, dog training, healthy treats, pet community, Instagram dog, dog photography, pet nutrition, dog behavior, enrichment tools

    Summary

    In this conversation, Liyisa shares her journey of enriching her dog Appa's life through creative and engaging food preparation. She discusses the importance of local sourcing for treats, the role of enrichment in training, and how it has fostered a sense of community among dog owners. Liyisa emphasizes the joy of watching Appa use his brain to solve food puzzles and the satisfaction she derives from creating visually appealing meals for him. The conversation highlights the balance between fun and functionality in pet care, showcasing how enrichment can enhance the bond between dogs and their owners.

    Find Liyisa and Appa at linktr.ee/lil.appa.

    All the images in the YouTube episode of the podcast are courtesy of Liyisa Li.

    Takeaways

    Enrichment is crucial for keeping dogs mentally stimulated.

    Local sourcing of treats enhances the quality of pet care.

    Using kitchen scraps can be a sustainable way to enrich a dog's diet–although please consult your vet or other resources since not all human foods are safe for dogs.

    Enrichment tools can aid in training and reduce anxiety in dogs.

    Community sharing on platforms like Instagram fosters connections among pet owners.

    Bulk preparation of meals can save time during busy weeks.

    Observing a dog's problem-solving skills can be rewarding for owners.

    Understanding a dog's preferences can help tailor enrichment activities.

    Enrichment can prevent destructive behaviors in dogs.

    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction to Liyisa and Appa

    01:58 The Journey into Enrichment

    04:52 Unique Treats and Local Sourcing

    09:57 Preparation and Creative Presentation

    14:54 The Role of Enrichment in Training

    20:00 Community and Sharing Experiences

    24:46 Final Thoughts on Enrichment

    Keep your dogs safe!

    Always check with your vet about foods that are safe/unsafe for dogs.

    https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/animal-poison-control/people-foods-avoid-feeding-your-pets

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    30 mins
  • S1 E4 Sodapup Enrichment Lab, Adam Baker Discusses Holiday Enrichment Products
    Dec 4 2024

    Unleashing Holiday Cheer for Pets

    In this episode of the Soda Pup Enrichment Lab podcast, host Chris Chandler and guest Adam Baker discuss exciting new holiday products for pets, including treat dispensers, slow feeder bowls, and innovative Jelly Shots, gelatin treats for dogs. They explore the benefits of food enrichment for dogs, emphasizing the importance of mental stimulation and healthy eating habits. The conversation highlights various seasonal products designed to enhance the feeding experience for pets, encouraging creativity and fun during the holidays.

    Takeaways

    An enriched pet is a happy pet.

    The new red Honey Pot is a popular item.

    Slow feeder bowls help dogs eat at a healthier pace.

    Dogs prefer to use their brains to get food.

    The Gnome treat dispenser is versatile and cute.

    Jelly Shots, a gelatin snack, are a fun treat for dogs.

    Different dogs have different food drives and frustration tolerance which should inform your choice of enrichment activities for them.

    Seasonal products can be used year-round.

    Using various bowls keeps feeding interesting for dogs.

    Soda Pup offers a wide range of holiday-themed products.

    Sound Bites

    "We have a red honey pot!"

    "The gnome is super cute!"

    "We have jelly shots for dogs!"

    "Fill up those stockings!”

    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction to Soda Pup Enrichment Lab

    02:03 Holiday Product Preview

    05:56 The Benefits of Slow Feeder Bowls

    09:59 Innovative Treat Dispensers

    14:00 Jelly Shots and Lick Mats

    17:51 Exploring Seasonal Products

    21:59 Conclusion and Holiday Wishes

    Links to products

    Honey Pot eCup

    https://sodapup.com/products/large-honey-pot-durable-pup-x-rubber-treat-dispenser-enrichment-toy?_pos=1&_sid=7af1c8d71&_ss=r

    Santa Slow Feeder eBowl

    https://sodapup.com/products/santa-design-ebowl-enrichment-slow-feeder-bowl-for-dogs?_pos=1&_sid=c08f536d0&_ss=r

    Pine Tree Slow Feeder eBowl

    https://sodapup.com/products/tree-design-ebowl-enrichment-slow-feeder-bowl-for-dogs?_pos=3&_sid=0a81af987&_ss=r

    Gnome Treat/Food eDispenser and Chew Toy, rubber

    https://sodapup.com/products/gnome?_pos=1&_sid=63cad84a7&_ss=r

    Snowman Treat eDispenser and Chew Toy, rubber

    https://sodapup.com/products/mkb-snowman-durable-rubber-chew-toy-treat-dispenser-large-red?_pos=1&_sid=de7bb84d5&_ss=r

    Christmas Tree Treat eDispenser and Chew Toy, rubber

    https://sodapup.com/products/mkb-christmas-tree-durable-rubber-chew-toy-treat-dispenser-large-green?_pos=1&_sid=3fd8e8860&_ss=r

    Gift Box Treat eDispenser and Chew Toy, rubber

    https://sodapup.com/products/sp-gift-box-durable-rubber-chew-toy-treat-dispenser-red?_pos=1&_sid=0bb794e6d&_ss=r

    Candy Cane Chew Toy, nylon

    https://sodapup.com/products/sp-candy-cane-chew-toy-red?_pos=1&_sid=4581cf55c&_ss=r

    Christmas Tree Chew Toy, nylon

    https://sodapup.com/products/mkb-christmas-tree-ultra-durable-nylon-dog-chew-toy-for-aggressive-chewers-green?_pos=4&_sid=3fd8e8860&_ss=r

    Snowflake eChew, nylon

    https://sodapup.com/products/sp-snowflake-ultra-durable-nylon-dog-chew-toy-for-aggressive-chewers-white?_pos=3&_sid=8b31422ca&_ss=r

    Snowman Chew Toy, nylon

    https://sodapup.com/products/mkb-snowman-ultra-durable-nylon-dog-chew-toy-for-aggressive-chewers-white?_pos=2&_sid=8b31422ca&_ss=r

    Keywords

    Soda Pup, pet enrichment, holiday products, dog toys, slow feeder bowls, treat dispensers, jelly shots, lick mats, pet care, dog health

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    23 mins
  • S1 E3 Sodapup Enrichment Lab Podcast: Sanne Romijn - Netherlands
    Nov 21 2024

    Keywords

    dog enrichment, pet photography, Labrador care, dog nutrition, creative dog meals, enrichment ideas, dog care tips, pet lifestyle, dog training, dog owner advice, Sodapup, lick mats

    Summary

    In this episode of the Enrichment Lab, host Chris Chandler welcomes Sanne Romijn, a dog enrichment content creator, dog photographer, blogger, and R+ (positive reinforcement) trainer from the Netherlands. They discuss Sanne's journey into dog enrichment, the importance of offering variety in dog meals, and how to creatively engage dogs through food. Sanne also talks about how providing these activities for her dogs enhances her own creativity. The conversation emphasizes that enrichment doesn't have to be complicated and encourages dog owners to find joy in the process of caring for their pets.

    Find Sanne Romijn–Dog Mom, Dog Photographer, Blogger, R+ Dog Trainer and Behaviorist

    linktr.ee/dogblognl

    Website: dog-blog.nl

    IG: @dogblognl

    All the images in the YouTube episode of the podcast are courtesy of Sanne.

    Takeaways

    Enrichment can be simple and doesn't have to be elaborate.

    Dogs enjoy the process of enrichment regardless of presentation.

    Variety in food is key to keeping dogs engaged.

    Using seasonal ingredients can enhance dog meals.

    Photography can be a fun way to document dog enrichment activities.

    Patience and creativity are essential in dog photography.

    Dogs have individual preferences for food and treats.

    Engaging dogs in natural behaviors is enriching for them.

    Enrichment can be a shared joy between dogs and their owners.

    It's important to ensure dogs receive balanced nutrition.

    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction to Enrichment and Guest Background

    09:52 Creating Engaging Meals for Dogs

    16:01 Understanding Dog Nutrition and Preferences

    26:01 Final Thoughts on Enrichment and Personal Reflections

    Additional information:

    More information about PMOC as mentioned in the episode: https://vcahospitals.com/know-your-pet/proopiomelanocortin-pomc-gene-mutation

    Always check with your vet about foods that are safe/unsafe for dogs.

    https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/animal-poison-control/people-foods-avoid-feeding-your-pets

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    29 mins
  • S1 E3 Sodapup Enrichment Lab: Sanne Romijn Netherlands
    Nov 20 2024

    Keywords

    dog enrichment, pet photography, Labrador care, dog nutrition, creative dog meals, enrichment ideas, dog care tips, pet lifestyle, dog training, dog owner advice, Sodapup, lick mats

    Summary

    In this episode of the Enrichment Lab, host Chris Chandler welcomes Sanne Romijn, a dog enrichment content creator, dog photographer, blogger, and R+ (positive reinforcement) trainer from the Netherlands. They discuss Sanne's journey into dog enrichment, the importance of offering variety in dog meals, and how to creatively engage dogs through food. Sanne also talks about how providing these activities for her dogs enhances her own creativity. The conversation emphasizes that enrichment doesn't have to be complicated and encourages dog owners to find joy in the process of caring for their pets.

    Find Sanne Romijn–Dog Mom, Dog Photographer, Blogger, R+ Dog Trainer and Behaviorist

    linktr.ee/dogblognl

    Website: dog-blog.nl

    IG: @dogblognl

    All the images in the YouTube episode of the podcast are courtesy of Sanne.

    Takeaways

    Enrichment can be simple and doesn't have to be elaborate.

    Dogs enjoy the process of enrichment regardless of presentation.

    Variety in food is key to keeping dogs engaged.

    Using seasonal ingredients can enhance dog meals.

    Photography can be a fun way to document dog enrichment activities.

    Patience and creativity are essential in dog photography.

    Dogs have individual preferences for food and treats.

    Engaging dogs in natural behaviors is enriching for them.

    Enrichment can be a shared joy between dogs and their owners.

    It's important to ensure dogs receive balanced nutrition.

    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction to Enrichment and Guest Background

    09:52 Creating Engaging Meals for Dogs

    16:01 Understanding Dog Nutrition and Preferences

    26:01 Final Thoughts on Enrichment and Personal Reflections

    Additional information:

    More information about PMOC as mentioned in the episode: https://vcahospitals.com/know-your-pet/proopiomelanocortin-pomc-gene-mutation

    Always check with your vet about foods that are safe/unsafe for dogs.

    https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/animal-poison-control/people-foods-avoid-feeding-your-pets

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    29 mins
  • S1 E2 Sodapup Enrichment Lab, Meghan Wolfgram, Founder & CEO of Swift Paws
    Oct 30 2024

    Summary

    In this episode of the Soda Pup Enrichment Lab podcast, host Chris Chandler speaks with Meghan Wolfgram, founder and CEO of SwiftPaws, about the importance of pet enrichment. They discuss various methods of enrichment, including food-based techniques and the concept of layering activities to enhance a pet's daily experience. Megan shares her journey into the world of pet enrichment, her experiences with her own dogs, and the significance of understanding the predatory cycle in engaging pets effectively. The conversation emphasizes the need for mental and physical stimulation in pets' lives and offers practical tips for pet owners. In this conversation, Chris and Meghan delve into the importance of enrichment for pets, discussing various tools and methods to enhance a dog's life. Meghan shares her journey in creating SwiftPaws and the development of lure coursing as a sport accessible to all breeds. The discussion emphasizes the joy of discovering new activities with pets and the significance of understanding individual dog needs, especially for anxious dogs. The conversation wraps up with personal reflections on dog breeds and the happiness that comes from enriching a pet's life.

    Takeaways

    Enrichment is essential for a pet's mental and physical well-being.

    Food-based enrichment can take many forms and should be tailored to individual pets.

    Layering activities can help pets engage in a more fulfilling way.

    Anticipation and novelty can enhance a pet's experience.

    Understanding the predatory cycle can inform enrichment strategies.

    Routine feeding can be enhanced with training and enrichment activities.

    Chewing is a natural behavior that can help dogs relax.

    Different pets have different preferences for enrichment activities.

    Engaging pets in play can lead to a more satisfying life.

    Pet owners should explore various enrichment tools and techniques. Enrichment is essential for a pet's happiness.

    DIY activities can be just as effective as products.

    Understanding your dog's preferences is key.

    Lure coursing can be adapted for all breeds.

    Start small when introducing new activities.

    Different dogs require different approaches to enrichment.

    Food-based enrichment can be simple and homemade.

    Engaging dogs in play can convert prey drive to play drive.

    Observation of your pet's behavior is crucial.

    Creating joyful experiences strengthens the bond with your pet.

    Chapters

    00:00 Welcome to the Soda Pup Enrichment Lab Podcast

    01:01 Introducing Megan Wolfgram and SwiftPaws

    04:42 Understanding Pet Enrichment

    06:51 Meghan's Journey into Enrichment

    08:50 Food-Based Enrichment Techniques

    15:21 The Concept of Layering in Enrichment

    19:19 Engaging Pets in the Predatory Cycle

    22:23 Understanding Enrichment Tools for Pets

    28:13 The Journey of SwiftPaws and Lure Coursing

    35:03 Creating Joyful Experiences for Dogs

    38:10 Personal Reflections on Dog Breeds

    Study--pets and animals prefer earned rewards:

    https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24096703/

    Predatory cycle:

    Here’s a good one that discusses predatory behavior and feeding cats:

    https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7415653/

    And here's a very recent one about predatory sequence in dogs that also references a bunch of earlier research: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0168159124002508

    Sodapup products in SwiftPaws store including products mentioned on podcast: https://swiftpaws.com/collections/chew

    Contact Meghan Wolfgram, SwiftPaws

    Facebook (Business Page): @SwiftPaws

    Facebook (Meghan's Entrepreneur Page): @MeghanWolfgramCEO

    LinkedIn: SwiftPaws

    Instagram: @swiftpaws_official

    Pinterest: @swiftpaws_official

    TikTok: @swiftpaws

    Twitter: @_swiftpaws

    Youtube: @swiftpaws

    Keywords

    pet enrichment, SwiftPaws, dog training, food-based enrichment, mental stimulation, layering activities, predatory cycle, dog sports, pet wellness, enrichment products, pet enrichment, dog training, SwiftPaws, lure coursing, DIY pet activities, dog treats, pet care, dog behavior, pet products, canine enrichment, Sodapup

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    40 mins
  • S1 E2 Sodapup Enrichment Lab, Meghan Wolfgram, Founder & CEO of Swift Paws.
    Oct 30 2024

    Season 1 Episode 2 of the Sodapup Enrichment Lab Podcast welcomes Meghan Wolfgram, the Founder and CEO of Swift Paws.

    Summary

    In this episode of the Soda Pup Enrichment Lab podcast, host Chris Chandler speaks with Meghan Wolfgram, founder and CEO of SwiftPaws, about the importance of pet enrichment. They discuss various methods of enrichment, including food-based techniques and the concept of layering activities to enhance a pet's daily experience. Megan shares her journey into the world of pet enrichment, her experiences with her own dogs, and the significance of understanding the predatory cycle in engaging pets effectively. The conversation emphasizes the need for mental and physical stimulation in pets' lives and offers practical tips for pet owners. In this conversation, Chris and Meghan delve into the importance of enrichment for pets, discussing various tools and methods to enhance a dog's life. Meghan shares her journey in creating SwiftPaws and the development of lure coursing as a sport accessible to all breeds. The discussion emphasizes the joy of discovering new activities with pets and the significance of understanding individual dog needs, especially for anxious dogs. The conversation wraps up with personal reflections on dog breeds and the happiness that comes from enriching a pet's life.

    Takeaways

    Enrichment is essential for a pet's mental and physical well-being.

    Food-based enrichment can take many forms and should be tailored to individual pets.

    Layering activities can help pets engage in a more fulfilling way.

    Anticipation and novelty can enhance a pet's experience.

    Understanding the predatory cycle can inform enrichment strategies.

    Routine feeding can be enhanced with training and enrichment activities.

    Chewing is a natural behavior that can help dogs relax.

    Different pets have different preferences for enrichment activities.

    Engaging pets in play can lead to a more satisfying life.

    Pet owners should explore various enrichment tools and techniques. Enrichment is essential for a pet's happiness.

    DIY activities can be just as effective as products.

    Understanding your dog's preferences is key.

    Lure coursing can be adapted for all breeds.

    Start small when introducing new activities.

    Different dogs require different approaches to enrichment.

    Food-based enrichment can be simple and homemade.

    Engaging dogs in play can convert prey drive to play drive.

    Observation of your pet's behavior is crucial.

    Creating joyful experiences strengthens the bond with your pet.

    Chapters

    00:00 Welcome to the Soda Pup Enrichment Lab Podcast

    01:01 Introducing Megan Wolfgram and SwiftPaws

    04:42 Understanding Pet Enrichment

    06:51 Meghan's Journey into Enrichment

    08:50 Food-Based Enrichment Techniques

    15:21 The Concept of Layering in Enrichment

    19:19 Engaging Pets in the Predatory Cycle

    22:23 Understanding Enrichment Tools for Pets

    28:13 The Journey of SwiftPaws and Lure Coursing

    35:03 Creating Joyful Experiences for Dogs

    38:10 Personal Reflections on Dog Breeds

    Study--pets and animals prefer earned rewards:

    https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24096703/

    Predatory cycle:

    Here’s a good one that discusses predatory behavior and feeding cats:

    https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7415653/

    And here's a very recent one about predatory sequence in dogs that also references a bunch of earlier research: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0168159124002508

    Sodapup products in SwiftPaws store including products mentioned on podcast: https://swiftpaws.com/collections/chew

    Contact Meghan Wolfgram, SwiftPaws

    Facebook (Business Page): @SwiftPaws

    Facebook (Meghan's Entrepreneur Page): @MeghanWolfgramCEO

    LinkedIn: SwiftPaws

    Instagram: @swiftpaws_offcial

    Pinterest: @swiftpaws_official

    TikTok: @swiftpaws

    Twitter: @_swiftpaws

    Youtube: @swiftpaws

    Keywords

    pet enrichment, SwiftPaws, dog training, food-based enrichment, mental stimulation, layering activities, predatory cycle, dog sports, pet wellness, enrichment products, pet enrichment, dog training, SwiftPaws, lure coursing, DIY pet activities, dog treats, pet care, dog behavior, pet products, canine enrichment, Sodapup

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    40 mins