The Science of Reducing Anxiety in Shelter Animals

The Science of Reducing Anxiety in Shelter Animals

Author: Janet Marlow August 12, 2025 Duration: 8:59

Welcome to We’re All Ears, the podcast where we explore the intersection of science, sound, and animal well-being.
I’m Janet Marlow, sound behaviorist and founder of Pet Acoustics. Over the years, I’ve worked with shelters, veterinary clinics, and pet parents to bring calm and comfort to animals through sound and environmental design. Today, we’re talking about reducing anxious behaviors in shelter animals and we’re going to back it up with real science.
If you’ve walked into a shelter and seen dogs pacing, barking nonstop, or cats hiding in the backs of cages, you’ve seen stress at work. The good news is science shows us there’s a lot we can do to change that. And yes, the tools can be as simple as how we manage sound, light, and daily routines.



In Pet Acoustics: We're All Ears!, host Janet Marlow explores the intricate relationship between animals and the soundscapes they inhabit. As a Sound Behaviorist and founder of Pet Acoustics, Janet guides listeners through a nuanced auditory journey, revealing how creatures great and small perceive frequencies and noises invisible to human ears. This podcast isn't just about cute pets; it's a deep dive into the science of hearing, behavior, and emotional well-being. You'll discover how everyday sounds-from household appliances to city traffic-can trigger profound reactions in animals, influencing their stress levels, moods, and even their health. Each episode is built on the premise that by understanding the acoustic world from an animal's perspective, we can forge deeper, more harmonious bonds with our companions. Whether you're a pet owner, an animal lover, or simply curious about the hidden sensory experiences of other species, this series offers a unique blend of research, practical advice, and captivating stories. Tune in to hear conversations that will change how you listen to the world alongside your furry, feathered, or scaled friends.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 43

Pet Acoustics: We're All Ears!
Podcast Episodes
Do Cats Get Separation Anxiety? [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 5:24
Welcome to We’re All Ears, the podcast for nurturing calm, happy lives for your pets. I’m your host, Janet Marlow, sound behaviorist and founder of Pet Acoustics. Today we’re diving into a surprising question: Do cats ge…
Is My Dog Resting… or Quietly Stressed? [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 6:28
Welcome to We’re All Ears, the podcast that listens deeply — for you and your pets. I’m Janet Marlow, founder of Pet Acoustics, and today we’re diving into a question many pet parents never think to ask: Is your dog trul…
Paws, Playlists, and Peace: Crafting Your Pet’s Sound Lifestyle [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 4:11
Welcome to We're All Ears—where we listen to what your pets wish they could tell you. I’m Janet Marlow, sound behaviorist, founder of Pet Acoustics, and today we’re tackling a question you might not have thought about: S…
From Gods to Space: The Untold History of Cats [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 6:34
Welcome to We’re All Ears, the podcast where we explore the fascinating connection between sound, behavior, and animal wellness. I’m your host, Janet Marlow—sound behaviorist, composer, and founder of Pet Acoustics.Today…
Fireworks Freakouts: Don’t Let Your Pet Panic [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 5:33
Today’s episode is titled “Fireworks Freakouts: Don’t Let Your Pet Panic” — because if you're a pet parent, you know the Fourth of July, New Year’s Eve, or even random fireworks displays can turn a peaceful evening into…
Calmer Cats, Better Care: Feline Solutions for Vets and Groomers [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 4:19
If you’ve ever struggled with a fearful, vocal, or aggressive cat in your exam room or grooming station—you’re not alone. In fact, 60% of cat owners delay vet visits due to how distressed their cat becomes. And as you kn…