Therapy Dogs Australia Podcast

Hosted by Samantha King

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Aug 2026

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About the show

For anyone working or interested in animal-assisted services, particularly with therapy dogs, this is the podcast for you! Samantha King is a Psychologist, accredited dog trainer and industry expert in the field of Animal Assisted Therapy with over 10 years of experience. Sam and co-host Max (Therapy Dogs Australia head of creativity) chat amongst themselves and to guests to highlight some of the challenges and golden moments experienced by those working in the industry. We regularly have animal assisted therapists and professional dog trainers on to share their knowledge with us, and you. Our goal is to provide a free resource for professional development and our input on the professional standards related to involving animals in therapy and educational settings.

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60 recent

August 11, 20261 hr 16 min

S5:E12 Kiki's Puppies Are Heading To Their New Homes: The Final Week

S5:E12 Kiki's Puppies Are Heading To Their New Homes: The Final Week Sam and Max are back with an update from the whelping box as Kiki’s three Anatolian Shepherd puppies prepare to head off to their new homes. At seven and a half weeks old, the puppies have grown quickly, and Sam shares what these final weeks have looked like, from weaning and teething to managing rough play, introductions to the other dogs, and the realities of raising a litter while working from home. Plus, Sam shares more about life with Anatolian Shepherds, including guarding behaviours, managing arousal between dogs, and the role Kiki plays in protecting their property and livestock from local dingoes. A very real look at the final days of raising a litter and getting puppies ready for their next chapter. Request A Topic Or Join Us On The Therapy Dogs Australia Podcast Here: https://form.jotform.com/253357419361056 SUBSCRIBE! Interested in Animal-Assisted Therapy / Animal-Assisted Services and studying with Therapy Dogs Australia? Visit our website www.therapydog.com.au for more information or get in touch with us today by emailing info@therapydog.com.au and one of the Therapy Dogs Australia team will be there to help! Raise your future therapy dog with us! Join our Juniors Mentoring program (puppy & adolescent programs available) and set you and your dog up for success by training the right foundations early, more info here: https://therapydog.com.au/juniors-mentoring-program Follow Us! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/therapy_dogs_australia/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/therapydogsaus/ Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@TherapyDogsAustralia/featured LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/therapy-dogs-australia/ #therapydog #therapydogsaustralia #animalassistedtherapy #animalassistedservices Music License: COZB9W9ISMSBGUGA

June 30, 20261 hr 8 min

S5:E11 Kiki's First Litter: Puppy Temperaments, Growth & Early Care

S5:E11 Kiki's First Litter: Puppy Temperaments, Growth & Early Care In this episode, Sam shares an update from the whelping box as Kiki settles into motherhood with her three Anatolian Shepherd puppies. She takes listeners behind the scenes of the first few weeks of life, discussing puppy growth, emerging temperaments, daily care, health monitoring, and the realities of responsible breeding. Sam also shares the importance of carefully matching puppies to the right homes and the many decisions that help give each puppy the best possible start. A fascinating behind-the-scenes episode for anyone interested in puppy development, ethical breeding, and what really goes into raising a healthy litter. The episode also includes an update on Sam’s dog Kiki as she prepares for her upcoming litter, offering a behind-the-scenes look at breeding, pregnancy, and puppy raising. Request A Topic Or Join Us On The Therapy Dogs Australia Podcast Here: https://form.jotform.com/253357419361056 SUBSCRIBE! Interested in Animal-Assisted Therapy / Animal-Assisted Services and studying with Therapy Dogs Australia? Visit our website www.therapydog.com.au for more information or get in touch with us today by emailing info@therapydog.com.au and one of the Therapy Dogs Australia team will be there to help! Raise your future therapy dog with us! Join our Juniors Mentoring program (puppy & adolescent programs available) and set you and your dog up for success by training the right foundations early, more info here: https://therapydog.com.au/juniors-mentoring-program Follow Us! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/therapy_dogs_australia/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/therapydogsaus/ Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@TherapyDogsAustralia/featured LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/therapy-dogs-australia/ #therapydog #therapydogsaustralia #animalassistedtherapy #animalassistedservices Music License: 6DFH18BT6AISRHDE

May 19, 20261 hr 7 min

S5:E9 School Leadership with a Therapy Dog (Guest: Elly Patterson)

S5:E9 School Leadership with a Therapy Dog (Guest: Elly Patterson) In this episode, Sam chats with Deputy Principal Elly Patterson about introducing her therapy dog Elphie into a school environment and the thoughtful planning behind building a successful therapy dog program. Elly shares how Elphie supports both students and staff through emotional regulation, transitions, connection, and wellbeing, while also discussing the importance of clear boundaries, documentation, and protocols in educational settings. A practical and insightful conversation for anyone interested in therapy dog work in schools. Request A Topic Or Join Us On The Therapy Dogs Australia Podcast Here: https://form.jotform.com/253357419361056 SUBSCRIBE! Interested in Animal-Assisted Therapy / Animal-Assisted Services and studying with Therapy Dogs Australia? Visit our website www.therapydog.com.au for more information or get in touch with us today by emailing info@therapydog.com.au and one of the Therapy Dogs Australia team will be there to help! Raise your future therapy dog with us! Join our Juniors Mentoring program (puppy & adolescent programs available) and set you and your dog up for success by training the right foundations early, more info here: https://therapydog.com.au/juniors-mentoring-program Follow Us! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/therapy_dogs_australia/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/therapydogsaus/ Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@TherapyDogsAustralia/featured LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/therapy-dogs-australia/ #therapydog #therapydogsaustralia #animalassistedtherapy #animalassistedservices Music License: 1ANLAK4JIIFGVB7B

May 5, 20262 hr 4 min

S5:E8 Burnout, Boundaries & Better Leadership (Guest: Chelsea Beegling)

S5:E8 Burnout, Boundaries & Better Leadership (Guest: Chelsea Beegling) In this episode, Sam is joined by psychologist and business owner Chelsea Beegling to explore the realities of stepping into leadership, often without formal training. They discuss burnout, boundaries, and the transition from technical roles into leadership, as well as the unique challenges faced by women in business, particularly in health and education sectors. Chelsea shares insights from her work in leadership coaching, grounded in psychological science, including the importance of self-awareness, identity, and creating sustainable “growing conditions” for success. The conversation also touches on the complexities of running an animal-assisted therapy business, balancing work and life, and building a career that truly aligns with your values. Get in touch with Chelsea: www.elevareum.com Insta: @elevareumofficial Tik Tok: @elevareum Request A Topic Or Join Us On The Therapy Dogs Australia Podcast Here: https://form.jotform.com/253357419361056 SUBSCRIBE! Interested in Animal-Assisted Therapy / Animal-Assisted Services and studying with Therapy Dogs Australia? Visit our website www.therapydog.com.au for more information or get in touch with us today by emailing info@therapydog.com.au and one of the Therapy Dogs Australia team will be there to help! Raise your future therapy dog with us! Join our Juniors Mentoring program (puppy & adolescent programs available) and set you and your dog up for success by training the right foundations early, more info here: https://therapydog.com.au/juniors-mentoring-program Follow Us! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/therapy_dogs_australia/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/therapydogsaus/ Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@TherapyDogsAustralia/featured LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/therapy-dogs-australia/ #therapydog #therapydogsaustralia #animalassistedtherapy #animalassistedservices Music License: 567MKNG3Z2JKT5GI

April 21, 20262 hr 10 min

S5:E7 Puppy Board & Trains: What You Need to Know (Guest: Sue Chipperton)

S5:E7 Puppy Board & Trains: What You Need to Know (Guest: Sue Chipperton) In this episode, we’re joined by experienced Hawaii-based Professional studio animal trainer Sue Chipperton to unpack the often debated topic of puppy board-and-train programs. We explore common misconceptions, from bonding concerns to ethical questions, and what actually makes a high-quality program. Sue shares insights from her 30+ years in the dog training industry, including how structured early training, safe socialisation, and clear communication with owners can set puppies up for success. A balanced and practical conversation to help handlers make informed decisions about their puppy's training journey. Please remember to subscribe, follow and like this podcast if you enjoy it, a good review will help us a lot too. You can keep up with Sue via her Instagram: @tailsticks Request A Topic Or Join Us On The Therapy Dogs Australia Podcast Here: https://form.jotform.com/253357419361056 SUBSCRIBE! Interested in Animal-Assisted Therapy / Animal-Assisted Services and studying with Therapy Dogs Australia? Visit our website www.therapydog.com.au for more information or get in touch with us today by emailing info@therapydog.com.au and one of the Therapy Dogs Australia team will be there to help! Raise your future therapy dog with us! Join our Juniors Mentoring program (puppy & adolescent programs available) and set you and your dog up for success by training the right foundations early, more info here: https://therapydog.com.au/juniors-mentoring-program Follow Us! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/therapy_dogs_australia/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/therapydogsaus/ Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@TherapyDogsAustralia/featured LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/therapy-dogs-australia/ #therapydog #therapydogsaustralia #animalassistedtherapy #animalassistedservices Music License: U3NBCUQFQKGUKCRX

April 7, 20261 hr 25 min

S5:E6 Navigating Consent and Image Sharing in Schools in the Age of AI (Guest: Christine Waters)

S5:E6 Navigating Consent and Image Sharing in Schools in the Age of AI (Guest: Christine Waters) In this episode, Christine Waters joins us again as we explore the growing complexities of consent and image sharing in school settings, particularly as AI continues to evolve. We unpack what media consent actually covers, where the boundaries lie when sharing images beyond school platforms, and why additional permissions are often required, even for non-identifying photos. An important conversation for anyone working with children, highlighting the ethical and legal responsibilities of protecting privacy in a rapidly changing digital world. Please remember to subscribe, follow and like this podcast if you enjoy it, a good review will help us a lot too. You can keep up with Christine and Benny on Instagram: @bennytheteddy__ Request A Topic Or Join Us On The Therapy Dogs Australia Podcast Here: https://form.jotform.com/253357419361056 SUBSCRIBE! Interested in Animal-Assisted Therapy / Animal-Assisted Services and studying with Therapy Dogs Australia? Visit our website www.therapydog.com.au for more information or get in touch with us today by emailing info@therapydog.com.au and one of the Therapy Dogs Australia team will be there to help! Raise your future therapy dog with us! Join our Juniors Mentoring program (puppy & adolescent programs available) and set you and your dog up for success by training the right foundations early, more info here: https://therapydog.com.au/juniors-mentoring-program Follow Us! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/therapy_dogs_australia/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/therapydogsaus/ Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@TherapyDogsAustralia/featured LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/therapy-dogs-australia/ #therapydog #therapydogsaustralia #animalassistedtherapy #animalassistedservices Music License: LWZWI1QZOPUAB4KI

March 24, 20261 hr 30 min

S5:E5 Safety, Standards & Speaking Up With Therapy Dogs (Guest: Christine Waters)

S5:E5 Safety, Standards & Speaking Up With Therapy Dogs (Guest: Christine Waters) In this episode, we’re joined by Christine Waters, a primary school chaplain and therapy dog handler, who shares her experience navigating a challenging situation involving another therapy dog in a school setting. Christine reflects on observing concerning behaviour, the steps taken to address risk, and the importance of accountability, training, and clear processes when issues arise. The conversation highlights the real-world complexities of working in shared environments, and the responsibility handlers carry to ensure safety for everyone involved. An honest and important discussion about maintaining standards, advocating for best practice, and protecting the integrity of therapy dog programs. Please remember to subscribe, follow and like this podcast if you enjoy it, a good review will help us a lot too. You can keep up with Christine and Benny on Instagram: @bennytheteddy__ Request A Topic Or Join Us On The Therapy Dogs Australia Podcast Here: https://form.jotform.com/253357419361056 SUBSCRIBE! Interested in Animal-Assisted Therapy / Animal-Assisted Services and studying with Therapy Dogs Australia? Visit our website www.therapydog.com.au for more information or get in touch with us today by emailing info@therapydog.com.au and one of the Therapy Dogs Australia team will be there to help! Raise your future therapy dog with us! Join our Juniors Mentoring program (puppy & adolescent programs available) and set you and your dog up for success by training the right foundations early, more info here: https://therapydog.com.au/juniors-mentoring-program Follow Us! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/therapy_dogs_australia/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/therapydogsaus/ Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@TherapyDogsAustralia/featured LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/therapy-dogs-australia/ #therapydog #therapydogsaustralia #animalassistedtherapy #animalassistedservices Music License: 3ZAXXINIAOK5BJ8K

March 10, 20261 hr 30 min

S5:E4 From Puppy School To Professional Therapy Dog & Handler Team (Guest: Melissa Ashford)

S5:E4 From Puppy School To Professional Therapy Dog & Handler Team (Guest: Melissa Ashford) In this episode, we chat with Mel, founder of Pynmanto in Far North Queensland, about her journey with Pascal, a mini Labradoodle who started as a “wet weather backup” and has now become a therapy dog supporting teen mental health. Mel shares how she trained Pascal through puppy and adolescent programs with Therapy Dogs Australia, the importance of boundaries and animal advocacy, and what it looks like to bring a therapy dog into real-world clinical settings. Please remember to subscribe, follow and like this podcast if you enjoy it, a good review will help us a lot too. You can follow Mel & Pascal on facebook: @pynmanto Request A Topic Or Join Us On The Therapy Dogs Australia Podcast Here: https://form.jotform.com/253357419361056 SUBSCRIBE! Interested in Animal-Assisted Therapy / Animal-Assisted Services and studying with Therapy Dogs Australia? Visit our website www.therapydog.com.au for more information or get in touch with us today by emailing info@therapydog.com.au and one of the Therapy Dogs Australia team will be there to help! Raise your future therapy dog with us! Join our Juniors Mentoring program (puppy & adolescent programs available) and set you and your dog up for success by training the right foundations early, more info here: https://therapydog.com.au/juniors-mentoring-program Follow Us! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/therapy_dogs_australia/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/therapydogsaus/ Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@TherapyDogsAustralia/featured LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/therapy-dogs-australia/ #therapydog #therapydogsaustralia #animalassistedtherapy #animalassistedservices Music License: QUK5XPPS9BACORUS

February 24, 20261 hr 55 min

S5:E3 AAI: Learning To Learn

S5:E3 AAI: Learning To Learn AAI (Animal-Assisted Intervention) Learning To Learn. In this episode, we dive into how therapy dogs can be thoughtfully integrated into clinical work with neurodivergent children and teens. From managing demand avoidance and school refusal to rebuilding confidence and engagement in learning, we share practical, session-ready intervention ideas. A practical and honest look at animal-assisted therapy in real-world settings. Please remember to subscribe, follow and like this podcast if you enjoy it, a good review will help us a lot too. We now have a Skool! The prices to join are in USD. Remember, if you have already bought the juniors program you have already been invited to join Skool. If you can't find your invite, contact us to have it re-sent. Request A Topic Or Join Us On The Therapy Dogs Australia Podcast Here: https://form.jotform.com/253357419361056 SUBSCRIBE! Interested in Animal-Assisted Therapy / Animal-Assisted Services and studying with Therapy Dogs Australia? Visit our website www.therapydog.com.au for more information or get in touch with us today by emailing info@therapydog.com.au and one of the Therapy Dogs Australia team will be there to help! Raise your future therapy dog with us! Join our Juniors Mentoring program (puppy & adolescent programs available) and set you and your dog up for success by training the right foundations early, more info here: https://therapydog.com.au/juniors-mentoring-program Follow Us! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/therapy_dogs_australia/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/therapydogsaus/ Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@TherapyDogsAustralia/featured LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/therapy-dogs-australia/ #therapydog #therapydogsaustralia #animalassistedtherapy #animalassistedservices Music License: XZKWVCQVKHLSWJ1V

February 10, 20261 hr 30 min

S5:E2 If Your Dog Is Growling...

S5:E2 If Your Therapy Dog Is Growling In this episode, Sam shares some exciting wins from the Therapy Dogs Australia community- including the impressive scores of our latest graduates and celebrating the 2026 Australia Dog Of The Year who happens to be one of our teams! We also take a deeper look at why your therapy dog or pet dog may be growling, including what it really means, why it happens, and how to respond. Whether you’re a new handler or an experienced one, this episode offers valuable reminders for reading behaviour and advocating for your dog, as well as your clients in real-world situations. Please remember to subscribe, follow and like this podcast if you enjoy it, a good review will help us a lot too. We now have a Skool! The prices to join are in USD. Remember, if you have already bought the juniors program you have already been invited to join Skool. If you can't find your invite, contact us to have it re-sent. Request A Topic Or Join Us On The Therapy Dogs Australia Podcast Here: https://form.jotform.com/253357419361056 Join Pat's Online 'Skool' Community here: https://www.skool.com/seriousdogbusiness/about?ref=ddd6fa0b6f784fe4924e5dff44923781 Pat has kindly offered our community a huge $500 off the course! Find the discount code and link below! PAT'S COURSE: https://a4rnm3xvf0.krtra.com/t/mcxyHlsIUGlF FOR $500 OFF USE CODE: TDAUS SUBSCRIBE! Interested in Animal-Assisted Therapy / Animal-Assisted Services and studying with Therapy Dogs Australia? Visit our website www.therapydog.com.au for more information or get in touch with us today by emailing info@therapydog.com.au and one of the Therapy Dogs Australia team will be there to help! Raise your future therapy dog with us! Join our Juniors Mentoring program (puppy & adolescent school) and set you and your dog up for success by training the right foundations early, more info here: https://therapydog.com.au/juniors-mentoring-program Follow Us! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/therapy_dogs_australia/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/therapydogsaus/ Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@TherapyDogsAustralia/featured LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/therapy-dogs-australia/ #therapydog #therapydogsaustralia #animalassistedtherapy #animalassistedservices Music License: QY4DTPGULEHBT4UH