Patricia McConnell PhD and her first novel Away to Me

Patricia McConnell PhD and her first novel Away to Me

Author: Zazie Todd PhD and Kristi Benson CTC February 3, 2026 Duration: 29:41
Leave us a voicemail! Away to Me is Patricia McConnell PhD's first mystery novel, and it's gorgeous. Zazie and Kristi chat with Patricia to learn more about the book and why she decided to write fiction set in the dog world. We talk about: What made Patricia decide to write a mystery novelThe main character, Maddie McGowanWhether it was fun to be writing dogs as charactersHow she wrote about the dogs as real characters & without turning the interactions into negative/aversive ones. T...

Ever wondered what your pet is really thinking, or how the latest animal behaviour research might change your approach to a common challenge? That’s the kind of ground covered in The Pawsitive Post in Conversation. Hosts Zazie Todd and Kristi Benson bring their combined expertise-rooted in science and practical, hands-on training-into a series of discussions that feel more like a thoughtful chat with knowledgeable friends than a formal lecture. You’ll hear them unpack the nuances of dog and cat behaviour, offering actionable advice that always aligns with kind, reward-based methods. The conversation often extends beyond training tips to explore the fascinating science behind our pets' actions, helping to build deeper, more empathetic relationships. As avid readers, Zazie and Kristi also regularly share insights from the books on their nightstands, from animal-focused titles to broader works that inform their perspective. This Canadian-made podcast is a resource for anyone-whether you’re a parent teaching kids about animal kindness, a new pet owner, or a seasoned enthusiast-looking to cultivate a more thoughtful and harmonious life with their dog or cat. It’s a space where curiosity meets compassion, and where every episode aims to leave you with a clearer understanding of your companion animal.
Author: Language: en-ca Episodes: 57

The Pawsitive Post in Conversation by Companion Animal Psychology
Podcast Episodes
How to help your dog behave with guests with Jeff Millman [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 31:24
Leave us a voicemail! How can you help your dog to like it--and behave well--when visitors come to your home? Zazie and Kristi are joined by dog trainer Jeff Millman, author of Triggers and Reactions: A Guide to Fixing Y…
How to help dogs and cats get along with each other [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 32:20
Leave us a voicemail! Zazie and Kristi talk about how to help dogs and cats get along, and why it all starts with thinking about the cat's feeling of safety. We talk about: the need to manage introductions between dogs a…
Everything you need to know about cat carriers with Dr. Mansum Yau [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 27:27
Leave us a voicemail! What's the best kind of carrier to choose for your cat? We get a veterinarian's perspective from Dr. Mansum Yau, author of The Ins and Outs of Cat Carriers: A Veterinarian's Guide to Cat Carriers. W…
Caring for dogs vs caring for cats [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 40:22
Leave us a voicemail! How is caring for a dog different than caring for a cat, and what is the same? We talk about what dogs and cats need for a happy life with us. We talk about: Training dogs and training cats (and why…
How to help dogs with separation anxiety with Malena DeMartini [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 32:06
Leave us a voicemail! If your dog has separation anxiety, what can you do to help them, how can you cope with not leaving your dog alone for longer than they can handle, and why is it so important? We're joined by separa…
Dog bites: Ask Me Anything with Carri Westgarth PhD [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 55:38
Leave us a voicemail! Zazie and Kristi are joined by Prof. Carri Westgarth to answer your questions about dog bites, how to avoid getting bitten by a dog, and what to do if you have been bitten by a dog. We talked about:…
Why you and your dog will love nose work with Bonnie Hartney [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 40:42
Leave us a voicemail! We learn what canine scent work is, why it's so good for dogs, and how to get started--and progress--in this activity with Certified Nose Work Instructor Bonnie Hartney of Ocean Park Dog Training. W…