Gundogs and Guard dogs

Join Sue as she reflects on over 40 years in the veterinary world—a career shaped by curiosity, conscience, and a determination to look beyond convention. A wake-up call during her dermatology studies sent her exploring alternative modalities in canine health and wellbeing, opening the door to a journey through homeopathy, acupuncture, laser therapy, and more. From “the nibs, the nabs, the mibs, the mabs” to the rise of biologics, Sue breaks down what these treatments are, why they matter, and how they fit into today’s evolving vet landscape. She also takes a candid look at how corporate structures are influencing the profession—asking whether financial pressures are overshadowing what’s best for animal health—and why fewer young vets seem willing (or able) to explore integrative therapies. Other topics include: • How highly processed “junk food” contributes to chronic disease • Why monthly wellness schemes might not deliver true wellness • The concerns around lifetime pharmaceuticals • mRNA and genetic-code vaccines—innovation or uncertainty? • Environmental toxins, flea and worm treatments, household products, and their cumulative effects • What really makes a dog “senior”? • And ultimately, why supporting the gut and the microbiome might be the key to lifelong vitality At the heart of it all lies a simple message: helping our dogs thrive may be more common sense than rocket science. SUE ARMSTRONG MA VetMB VetFFHom CertIAVH MRCVS RsHom (Director Sue Armstrong Consultancy Ltd) Sue Armstrong qualified from Cambridge Veterinary School, England in 1984 and worked first in Oxford and then in a partnership in Leeds for twelve years. She set up Balanced Being based in Wetherby in 2003, which was one of the first practices in the UK to offer truly integrative healthcare for animals with homeopathy as its core philosophy underpinning the individualised therapeutic approach when using all modalities including conventional mainstream veterinary medicine and surgery, homeopathy, acupuncture, laser therapy, nutraceuticals and nutritional therapy. Sue sold Balanced Being in February 2018 and now runs a referral only veterinary clinic in Thirsk, UK; Sue Armstrong Consultancy Ltd. Sue lectures extensively internationally and has presented in Australia, Canada, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Ireland, Japan, Latvia, Switzerland and the USA. Sue has published the Little Book of Thinking Dog and The Veterinary Homeopathy Oncology Series: Cancer in Animals. She is a contributor to the books Foundations of Health and Social Care (Adams, 2007) and Canine Nutrigenomics: The New Science of Feeding Your Dog for Optimum Health (Dodds, 2015). Sue is passionate about sharing the experience she has of working in a truly integrative way for most of her veterinary career. ---- oOo ---- Lez and Ross have both been in the industry professionally for well over 20 years and each has been involved with dogs for over 40 years. Whilst sensibly they have stayed away from the ‘limelight’ regarding TV offers, they have regularly been on national and local radio, spoken at national events at NDWA, CFBA, and Kennel Club / Crufts events as well as bespoke speaking engagements for the Dog Safety Education Executive (DogSEE). Ross wrote for Dogs Monthly Magazine for over 12 years and Lez was the first lady feature writer for a national Shooting Magazine (both Sporting Gun and Sporting Shooter). They were also 'study buddies' and were the first in the UK to achieve a Masters Degree (Professional Practice) in Canine Behaviour and Psychology in 2011. They work well together and apart, support and work with dog rescue organisations and train professional dog trainers and behaviourists. Different as chalk and cheese, but maybe not as different as they like to think. Intrigued? want to know more? then check out our websites...www.rossmccarthy.com ~ www.lezgraham.com

Whacky hippy shit… ✌️Anything slightly cheery? How was it five minutes ago that it was the millennium?! Lez with a baby in a buggy 👶. Ross dancing in Soho (he still does that!🙈) Twenty-six years later, this duo look awful and feel even worse as they enter the New Year.An overview of Christmas…Lez got to play charades 🎭 ...Ross managed to swerve it. Turkey is done to the extreme, obviously.A weather conversation follows, (obvs!) a Billy Connolly quote and a completely pointless story, leads on to a few tips on waterproof clothing from the Scottish expert 🧥.A chat about the upcoming Guild of Dog Trainers and Cambridge Institute of Dog Behaviour & Training networking event.A quick review of the Kennel Club Canine Athletes event and the Crufts Career Zone lectures where this duo got sold out and had to do duplicates! The same jokes 😂, the confusion of the repeats 🤔, and not knowing which audience had already heard what. It doesn’t take much to throw these two a bit of a curveball! 😂This past reflection leads to a moment of sadness with the recent death of Sarah Fisher, and a tribute to her work with animals. The upshot is this: if you want to collaborate with someone, do it before life runs out of time.Getting ready for Crufts and the onward 2026 events…full steam ahead. All very exciting... just need to get through today first.Not the most inspirational welcome to 2026...hopefully they can only go up from here and I’m sure that they hope most of you are listening and not watching! Happy New Year to anyone that listens to this drivel 🥂. ---- oOo ---- Lez and Ross have both been in the industry professionally for well over 20 years and each has been involved with dogs for over 40 years. Whilst sensibly they have stayed away from the ‘limelight’ regarding TV offers, they have regularly been on national and local radio, spoken at national events at NDWA, CFBA, and Kennel Club / Crufts events as well as bespoke speaking engagements for the Dog Safety Education Executive (DogSEE). Ross wrote for Dogs Monthly Magazine for over 12 years and Lez was the first lady feature writer for a national Shooting Magazine (both Sporting Gun and Sporting Shooter). They were also 'study buddies' and were the first in the UK to achieve a Masters Degree (Professional Practice) in Canine Behaviour and Psychology in 2011. They work well together and apart, support and work with dog rescue organisations and train professional dog trainers and behaviourists. Different as chalk and cheese, but maybe not as different as they like to think. Intrigued? want to know more? then check out our websites...www.rossmccarthy.com ~ www.lezgraham.com

Another Reloaded episode to help keep our listeners sane over Christmas, and one you need to make time for. Originally released as “Joint Rot,” we’re bringing it back because its message is too important to miss. Canine arthritis wasn’t on Ross’s radar in London, while Lez in Scotland had a bit more familiarity, but their conversation with Hannah changed everything. Her veterinary career led her to specialise in chronic pain and to create Canine Arthritis Management (CAM), a project that grew from a personal mission into a thriving team and support network. One crucial reminder from this episode: arthritis is not just “a touch of arthritis” — it is chronic pain. It deserves serious attention and proper management. Hannah’s work highlights how complementary therapies can enhance traditional veterinary care and why the profession must do better for dogs living with long-term pain. This isn’t just vital for dog owners. It’s essential listening for trainers and behaviourists who want to improve the care we provide to our canine clients.

Another Reloaded episode to help keep our listeners sane over Christmas… or, let’s be honest, possibly the opposite. WTF is a Gonk? A question nobody asked, yet here we are. This episode was originally released on a Bank Holiday just after Boxing Day 2020, continuing our journey through that wonderfully weird moment in history. The team at GaGD hope you’re having a fantastic Christmas break, and we sincerely wish every one of you a happy and successful 2026. Thanks for sticking with us—please keep doing so, we need the company 😅

Another Reloaded episode to help keep our listeners sane (or not) over Christmas. First released during Christmas 2020, this one is a real snapshot in time—one of the strangest Christmases in living memory. And although it genuinely sounds like Ross is recording from the bathroom, we knew it deserved a reload, not just for the sheer weirdness of those days but because it was our very first episode. Take it as a reminder to be grateful for our freedom, and to love the people you’re with—even if they occasionally test your festive spirit.

In this deeply affecting Reloaded Episode, Lez and Ross revisit their conversation with Julie Shelton from Appledown Dog Rescue. Originally recorded in August 2024 and titled “Take a Breath,” it’s an episode that truly asks you to pause before listening. The reality of dog rescue in the UK, both then and now, is nothing short of devastating, and the emotional toll is clear throughout the conversation. Julie speaks with a honesty and compassion that stays with you long after the episode ends. She, and the many people like her working quietly and tirelessly in rescue centres across the country, are the reason so many dogs are still here today. Their courage, their resilience, and their refusal to give up on the animals in front of them is nothing less than extraordinary. This episode is a reminder of the heartbreak, the hope, and the humanity behind every dog that finds safety.

Ho Ho Ho! The Gundogs & Guard Dogs team wishes you all a very Merry Christmas! In this festive episode, our chaotic duo takes a nostalgic wander back to the first Covid lockdown, all in preparation for the Reloaded episodes dropping over the Christmas break. From the initial terror to “Eat Out to Help Out” to “Get back inside immediately!”, they relive the madness… including the era of masked smiles, with Lez accidentally terrifying local children while trying to smile and Ross not bothering to try at all. They chat about the joys, and the not-so-joyous bits, of a big family Christmas. It’s always lovely to get home, unless “home” is anywhere near Lez, whose extreme festive cooking with Bailey’s cake, cherries, and marzipan is enough to frighten even the hardiest soul. Ross remains eternally grateful for the safe distance provided by living in London rather than Scotland. This is our final episode of 2025, but fear not, the ridiculous pair will be back in early January, and we’ve already lined up some incredible guests for 2026, with a few interviews recorded and ready to go. We also take a quick look back at 2025 and some of the wonderful people we’ve been privileged to speak with. Over the next couple of weeks, you can catch our Reloaded episodes, or dive back into the full catalogue whenever you fancy. Thank you to every one of our listeners, we truly appreciate you. Wishing you all a wonderful Christmas, and we can’t wait to head into 2026 with this brilliant tribe. We’ll be back on 9th January, in our usual delightfully dreary style! ---- oOo ---- Lez and Ross have both been in the industry professionally for well over 20 years and each has been involved with dogs for over 40 years. Whilst sensibly they have stayed away from the ‘limelight’ regarding TV offers, they have regularly been on national and local radio, spoken at national events at NDWA, CFBA, and Kennel Club / Crufts events as well as bespoke speaking engagements for the Dog Safety Education Executive (DogSEE). Ross wrote for Dogs Monthly Magazine for over 12 years and Lez was the first lady feature writer for a national Shooting Magazine (both Sporting Gun and Sporting Shooter). They were also 'study buddies' and were the first in the UK to achieve a Masters Degree (Professional Practice) in Canine Behaviour and Psychology in 2011. They work well together and apart, support and work with dog rescue organisations and train professional dog trainers and behaviourists. Different as chalk and cheese, but maybe not as different as they like to think. Intrigued? want to know more? then check out our websites...www.rossmccarthy.com ~ www.lezgraham.com

Thank goodness, Gundogs are off the menu, Guard Dogs are in. Charles Wall from A1K9 joins the team today. From a dog-mad little kid, the “dog boy” many of us once were, to carving out a career with personal protection dogs, his story echoes the journeys of so many dog lovers.From a hobby to a business, from Exchange and Mart to Koehler dog training books to wrapping newspaper around your arm, this is how we grow. Are some of the old books still the best, or are we forever trying to reinvent the wheel?What is a personal protection dog? The martial artist of the dog world?What separates sport dogs, security dogs, and dogs trained specifically for family and home protection?We explore what truly makes a personal protection dog, the importance of breed lines, and whether a Malinois can work as a protection dog in a family home. Surprisingly, yes… but where they originate is critical. Maybe Dutch really is better than Belgian.There is a bit of a rant about how, in the UK, we continue to get things wrong in almost every aspect of dog breeding and training.Who gets a personal protection dog?How is the changing face of crime influencing this? The team delicately swerves the topic of illegal immigration, but it is still a wake-up call.Scary times.Government statistics might suggest crime is declining, but we all know that may not be the case. Prescribed use of force and the wider security industry come into the conversation too.And once again, the Dangerous Dogs Act 1991 appears, opening a frightening hornets’ nest of what future legislation might bring.It seems easy to sort out this mess, yet incredibly difficult and exhausting at the same time. ---- oOo ---- Lez and Ross have both been in the industry professionally for well over 20 years and each has been involved with dogs for over 40 years. Whilst sensibly they have stayed away from the ‘limelight’ regarding TV offers, they have regularly been on national and local radio, spoken at national events at NDWA, CFBA, and Kennel Club / Crufts events as well as bespoke speaking engagements for the Dog Safety Education Executive (DogSEE). Ross wrote for Dogs Monthly Magazine for over 12 years and Lez was the first lady feature writer for a national Shooting Magazine (both Sporting Gun and Sporting Shooter). They were also 'study buddies' and were the first in the UK to achieve a Masters Degree (Professional Practice) in Canine Behaviour and Psychology in 2011. They work well together and apart, support and work with dog rescue organisations and train professional dog trainers and behaviourists. Different as chalk and cheese, but maybe not as different as they like to think. Intrigued? want to know more? then check out our websites...www.rossmccarthy.com ~ www.lezgraham.com

Today’s special guest is…oh...not here! Just the two of them then…probably one of the most boring conversations you can ever overhear! Splinters in your bum…or just telling the truth?! Diwali, Halloween, Guy Fawkes…the Fireworks never stop! It’s not just dogs…it's horses and all animals who suffer! Cobwebs and severed heads! The cheer continues with swerving trick and treat and now the Scottish element has an abundance of Malteasers to get rid of! The drivel continues and for anyone still awake, a flash of some new boots, a possible piercing new car and dog crates. An award or two thrown in plus… A bit of rudeness, a bit of awkwardness, a look at prices and the cost of living. Caterpillar cakes and £2 for an egg! Banana on a pizza? Trout on a BBQ Bagels & peanut butter - trout – Getting older or die – these two will never be on the same page! A brief dog chat…cockers and Gundog training… rehoming vs discarding… Onwards and upwards, and thank gawd these two have some fabulous guests coming up! ---- oOo ---- Lez and Ross have both been in the industry professionally for well over 20 years and each has been involved with dogs for over 40 years. Whilst sensibly they have stayed away from the ‘limelight’ regarding TV offers, they have regularly been on national and local radio, spoken at national events at NDWA, CFBA, and Kennel Club / Crufts events as well as bespoke speaking engagements for the Dog Safety Education Executive (DogSEE). Ross wrote for Dogs Monthly Magazine for over 12 years and Lez was the first lady feature writer for a national Shooting Magazine (both Sporting Gun and Sporting Shooter). They were also 'study buddies' and were the first in the UK to achieve a Masters Degree (Professional Practice) in Canine Behaviour and Psychology in 2011. They work well together and apart, support and work with dog rescue organisations and train professional dog trainers and behaviourists. Different as chalk and cheese, but maybe not as different as they like to think. Intrigued? want to know more? then check out our websites...www.rossmccarthy.com ~ www.lezgraham.com

Whether you’re using Librella, considering it, or just want to do what’s best for your dogs, this episode is essential listening. 👀💥The fabulous Andrew Armitage from Greenside Regenerative Therapies joins us for an eye-opening deep dive into the truth about Librella 💉🐾Strap yourself in folks... ---- oOo ----Lez and Ross have both been in the industry professionally for well over 20 years and each has been involved with dogs for over 40 years. Whilst sensibly they have stayed away from the ‘limelight’ regarding TV offers, they have regularly been on national and local radio, spoken at national events at NDWA, CFBA, and Kennel Club / Crufts events as well as bespoke speaking engagements for the Dog Safety Education Executive (DogSEE). Ross wrote for Dogs Monthly Magazine for over 12 years and Lez was the first lady feature writer for a national Shooting Magazine (both Sporting Gun and Sporting Shooter). They were also 'study buddies' and were the first in the UK to achieve a Masters Degree (Professional Practice) in Canine Behaviour and Psychology in 2011. They work well together and apart, support and work with dog rescue organisations and train professional dog trainers and behaviourists. Different as chalk and cheese, but maybe not as different as they like to think. Intrigued? want to know more? then check out our websites...www.rossmccarthy.com ~ www.lezgraham.com

In this gloriously moany episode, we dive headfirst into the murky waters of what it really means to be qualified in the dog world. Are you genuinely trained and educated—or just good at looking the part online? We kick off with a wildly unscientific theory from the Scottish side about why time speeds up as you age (spoiler: the Londoner calls BS). From there, it’s a nostalgic detour into school days: teachers lighting up, sneaky cigarette passes, and Ross getting a ruler wrapped round his head. Classic. Then we’re onto the good stuff: skiving, consequence-free parenting, consequence-free dog training, and one bizarre but surprisingly helpful PSA about what happens if your car breaks down with dogs inside. From the Dandie Dinmont (the only dog breed named after a fictional character!) to cockers, Malamutes, Ridgebacks, and the eternal Norfolk vs Norwich terrier debate—we’re digging deep into breed-specific behaviour. We even throw in a dermoid sinus just to keep things weird. Eventually, inevitably, we land on qualifications. Ofqual’s gutting the dog training and behaviour framework, the industry remains unregulated, and everyone’s got an opinion. So we’ve got one question: are you qualified—or do you just have a qualification? Rants, facts, laughs, and a few bonkers tangents. Welcome to another episode where we say what dog pros are thinking—but rarely say out loud. Share the love. Share the rant. Swerve the nonsense. And always do the best you can—for the dogs. ---- oOo ---- Lez and Ross have both been in the industry professionally for well over 20 years and each has been involved with dogs for over 40 years. Whilst sensibly they have stayed away from the ‘limelight’ regarding TV offers, they have regularly been on national and local radio, spoken at national events at NDWA, CFBA, and Kennel Club / Crufts events as well as bespoke speaking engagements for the Dog Safety Education Executive (DogSEE). Ross wrote for Dogs Monthly Magazine for over 12 years and Lez was the first lady feature writer for a national Shooting Magazine (both Sporting Gun and Sporting Shooter). They were also 'study buddies' and were the first in the UK to achieve a Masters Degree (Professional Practice) in Canine Behaviour and Psychology in 2011. They work well together and apart, support and work with dog rescue organisations and train professional dog trainers and behaviourists. Different as chalk and cheese, but maybe not as different as they like to think. Intrigued? want to know more? then check out our websites... www.rossmccarthy.com ~ www.lezgraham.com And if you'd rather watch than listen, you can catch Gundogs and Guard Dogs on Youtube https://www.youtube.com/@gundogguarddog

In this episode, we sit down with Jacquie Law from Dogs4Wildlife — a woman whose journey into conservation and canine training is nothing short of inspiring.We start with a bit of background on Jacquie and her work alongside partner Darren at Extremus Dog Training, before diving into the incredible world of anti-poaching dogs in Africa — all of which began with just one Belgian Malinois puppy.🐾 From early neurological stimulation to ensure pups are fit for protection and detection work, to the unique role of the native Africanis dog (yes, we had to Google it too!) — this episode explores how the right dogs, in the right hands, are changing the conservation landscape.Jacquie also shares upcoming collaborations in African dog rescue, supporting not only animals but the wider communities where these programs operate.But it’s not all feel-good stories. We confront the brutal reality of poaching — from tragic snare traps to the stark contrast between subsistence survival and the multimillion-pound illegal wildlife trade. As Jacquie puts it: “When you become aware of one issue, a ripple of others follows.”🦏 We touch on the controversial topic of rhino dehorning, the development of female-only ranger teams (and their incredible impact), and how being vegan might be influencing change in unexpected ways.Also featured:A shout-out to Rachel Bean RVN for delivering vital Canine First Aid training in the fieldThe ongoing education of new dog handlers and the art of reading canine body languageA nod to UK Police Dogs and a quick detour into the world of the Bavarian Mountain HoundUltimately, this episode is about collaboration, compassion, and commitment. There’s no room for egos in conservation — only teamwork, education, and action. Funding is always needed, so if you’re moved by this conversation, please consider donating to Dogs4Wildlife and be part of the solution.🎧 Tune in and discover how one puppy helped kickstart a movement that’s saving lives — both human and animal.https://www.dogs4wildlife.org/ ining, and keeping it real.Dog talk without the sugar-coating — Labradors, weird childhoods, flexi-leads, and the truth about training. The Mic Martin Takeover pulls no punches.Laughter, dog hair, and brutal honesty — Mic Martin storms the mic to tackle training myths, canine chaos, and why pink jumpers might be a problem.---- oOo ---- Lez and Ross have both been in the industry professionally for well over 20 years and each has been involved with dogs for over 40 years. Whilst sensibly they have stayed away from the ‘limelight’ regarding TV offers, they have regularly been on national and local radio, spoken at national events at NDWA, CFBA, and Kennel Club / Crufts events as well as bespoke speaking engagements for the Dog Safety Education Executive (DogSEE). Ross wrote for Dogs Monthly Magazine for over 12 years and Lez was the first lady feature writer for a national Shooting Magazine (both Sporting Gun and Sporting Shooter). They were also 'study buddies' and were the first in the UK to achieve a Masters Degree (Professional Practice) in Canine Behaviour and Psychology in 2011. They work well together and apart, support and work with dog rescue organisations and train professional dog trainers and behaviourists. Different as chalk and cheese, but maybe not as different as they like to think. Intrigued? want to know more? then check out our websites... www.rossmccarthy.com ~ www.lezgraham.com And if you'd rather watch than listen, you can catch Gundogs and Guard Dogs on Youtube https://www.youtube.com/@gundogguarddog

This episode is all about the Guard Dogs – with a nod to the Gundogs – and a brief detour into the life of a proud pheasant plucker! After the obligatory weather chat and a vague mention of upcoming podcasts (as usual, confusion reigns), we try to figure out whether the Beagles were in New Zealand or Hong Kong. From Borzoi to Landseers doing competitive obedience - we question whether watching Border Collies in dog sport is more exciting than watching paint dry. The jury’s out. We get serious with a discussion on Osteosarcoma, including an update on little Aiidh the Rottweiler, and all the heartbreak and hard decisions that come with being a responsible dog owner. Then it's on to Leucillin for tails and fannies – naturally – which leads into another rant about dog owners in public places. In Dog Law Corner: this week’s top tip – just stay home and don’t let anyone in. Simple. There’s a Bitework for Behaviourists update too – covering the mysterious and very niche role of the decoy/helper in training. We chat about security dogs, protection dogs, and IGP – that’s Internationale Gebrauchshund Prüfung if you’re feeling continental. Want to know how to trigger aggression? Or, more importantly, how not to? We’ve got you.Plus: • Why we can happily watch 12 serial murders before bed but can’t cope when the dog dies in a film. • The return of the kitchen window vest, a squinty dummy, and a rebrand that may or may not be going to plan • And a typically unfiltered look at the state of the UK… dog-wise, mostly. Finally… it’s all about the breed specifics! - --- oOo ---- Lez and Ross have both been in the industry professionally for well over 20 years and each has been involved with dogs for over 40 years. Whilst sensibly they have stayed away from the ‘limelight’ regarding TV offers, they have regularly been on national and local radio, spoken at national events at NDWA, CFBA, and Kennel Club / Crufts events as well as bespoke speaking engagements for the Dog Safety Education Executive (DogSEE). Ross wrote for Dogs Monthly Magazine for over 12 years and Lez was the first lady feature writer for a national Shooting Magazine (both Sporting Gun and Sporting Shooter). They were also 'study buddies' and were the first in the UK to achieve a Masters Degree (Professional Practice) in Canine Behaviour and Psychology in 2011. They work well together and apart, support and work with dog rescue organisations and train professional dog trainers and behaviourists. Different as chalk and cheese, but maybe not as different as they like to think.Intrigued? want to know more? then check out our websites... www.rossmccarthy.com ~ www.lezgraham.com And if you'd rather listen than watch, you can catch Gundogs and Guard Dogs on Youtube https://www.youtube.com/@gundogguarddog

From Labrador love stories to kennel grit — Mic Martin crashes in for a wild, honest ride through the world of dogs, training, and keeping it real.Dog talk without the sugar-coating — Labradors, weird childhoods, flexi-leads, and the truth about training. The Mic Martin Takeover pulls no punches.Laughter, dog hair, and brutal honesty — Mic Martin storms the mic to tackle training myths, canine chaos, and why pink jumpers might be a problem.---- oOo ---- Lez and Ross have both been in the industry professionally for well over 20 years and each has been involved with dogs for over 40 years. Whilst sensibly they have stayed away from the ‘limelight’ regarding TV offers, they have regularly been on national and local radio, spoken at national events at NDWA, CFBA, and Kennel Club / Crufts events as well as bespoke speaking engagements for the Dog Safety Education Executive (DogSEE). Ross wrote for Dogs Monthly Magazine for over 12 years and Lez was the first lady feature writer for a national Shooting Magazine (both Sporting Gun and Sporting Shooter). They were also 'study buddies' and were the first in the UK to achieve a Masters Degree (Professional Practice) in Canine Behaviour and Psychology in 2011. They work well together and apart, support and work with dog rescue organisations and train professional dog trainers and behaviourists. Different as chalk and cheese, but maybe not as different as they like to think. Intrigued? want to know more? then check out our websites... www.rossmccarthy.com ~ www.lezgraham.com And if you'd rather watch than listen, you can catch Gundogs and Guard Dogs on Youtube https://www.youtube.com/@gundogguarddog

It’s a latte, darling… It’s humid. It’s hot. And the language barrier is still going strong. From the manor born to the downstairs toilet – it’s another chaotic episode reminding us how the other half live, why you should never eat with clients, and why breaking your own rules is always a terrible idea. A “sensible” chat (sort of) about dog safety, just to remind you to keep your wits about you – UK dog law is still dreadful, and honestly, just give kids a wide berth. We ask the big questions: Who’s to blame when demerara hits you in the head? And does it matter if you’re an oldie? We attempt a review of Seasons 4 and 5, though it gets a bit messy (thanks to the Scottish contingent, obviously). Plus, a look back at some amazing guests we’ve had, a tease of those coming up, and a few standout episodes you absolutely shouldn’t miss. Lez brings up the CLA Game Fair – again – and no, she’s still not being paid for all this free marketing. There’s also some confusion about how many sides a coin has, a metaphorical carrot and stick moment, and thankfully, the Londoner manages to drag us out of the mess. We’ve covered everything from stem cell therapy and arthritis management to dog breeding, rescue, and much more – with loads more to come next season. Enjoy your summer break – and the Gundogs & Guard Dogs team will see you (and bore you) again in September! ---- oOo ---- Lez and Ross have both been in the industry professionally for well over 20 years and each has been involved with dogs for over 40 years. Whilst sensibly they have stayed away from the ‘limelight’ regarding TV offers, they have regularly been on national and local radio, spoken at national events at NDWA, CFBA, and Kennel Club / Crufts events as well as bespoke speaking engagements for the Dog Safety Education Executive (DogSEE). Ross wrote for Dogs Monthly Magazine for over 12 years and Lez was the first lady feature writer for a national Shooting Magazine (both Sporting Gun and Sporting Shooter). They were also 'study buddies' and were the first in the UK to achieve a Masters Degree (Professional Practice) in Canine Behaviour and Psychology in 2011. They work well together and apart, support and work with dog rescue organisations and train professional dog trainers and behaviourists. Different as chalk and cheese, but maybe not as different as they like to think. Intrigued? want to know more? then check out our websites... www.rossmccarthy.com ~ www.lezgraham.com And if you'd rather watch than listen, you can catch Gundogs and Guard Dogs on Youtube https://www.youtube.com/@gundogguarddog

Joint Rot - What’s in a name? Disappointing Conversations…Is human behavioural change even possible. Ball thrower Bollocks You are not stopping… you are changing. Not the end of the road, just a change of direction. After a giggly start at our guest’s expense, we dive into an overview of Hannah’s veterinary career – a path that led her to specialise in chronic pain management for our companion animals and to the subsequent development of Canine Arthritis Management (CAM). Her solo journey, alongside her dog, quickly evolved into something much bigger – now involving a growing team and a wide support network. An interest in complementary therapies and how they can work alongside veterinary medicine spurred Hannah on to ensure that veterinary professionals do better when it comes to managing chronic pain in dogs. Hannah very much lives in the real world and recognises that people may have a budget… or, in some cases, no budget at all. With this in mind, she brings different perspectives and aims to raise awareness of osteoarthritis through education – ultimately to reduce suffering in dogs. We explore the difficulty of spotting subtle signs of pain, and the challenges in reaching a diagnosis. We also ask why arthritis isn’t always taken as seriously as other long-term conditions. When poorly managed, this can be a terminal disease – perhaps ‘joint rot’ is a more appropriate name? So, what is arthritis? What causes it, what makes it worse, and what can we do to manage it? Ethical and welfare considerations are, of course, always at the forefront of decision-making. As we often do, we wander into a discussion about what people should be doing better when it comes to breeding or selecting dogs – stopping physiological suffering at the source. Perhaps it all comes down to where people want to invest their time and energy? We even dared to mention joint care supplements – which led to a fascinating discussion. Maybe your money is better spent on a rug for the laminate floor?! There are some brilliant resources on the CAM website – especially tips on how to refer clients to the vet with observations from a trained eye – so get involved and support the movement. https://caninearthritis.co.uk/ https://www.facebook.com/CAMarthritis https://www.instagram.com/canine_arthritis/ ---- oOo ---- Lez and Ross have both been in the industry professionally for well over 20 years and each has been involved with dogs for over 40 years. Whilst sensibly they have stayed away from the ‘limelight’ regarding TV offers, they have regularly been on national and local radio, spoken at national events at NDWA, CFBA, and Kennel Club / Crufts events as well as bespoke speaking engagements for the Dog Safety Education Executive (DogSEE). Ross wrote for Dogs Monthly Magazine for over 12 years and Lez was the first lady feature writer for a national Shooting Magazine (both Sporting Gun and Sporting Shooter). They were also 'study buddies' and were the first in the UK to achieve a Masters Degree (Professional Practice) in Canine Behaviour and Psychology in 2011. They work well together and apart, support and work with dog rescue organisations and train professional dog trainers and behaviourists. Different as chalk and cheese, but maybe not as different as they like to think. Intrigued? want to know more? then check out our websites... www.rossmccarthy.com ~ www.lezgraham.com And if you'd rather watch than listen, you can catch Gundogs and Guard Dogs on Youtube https://www.youtube.com/@gundogguarddog

Killing them with kindness Got any tips? In this episode, things kick off the usual way: a bit of a ramble, no real structure, and plenty of honest chat, laced with sarcasm (Scottish) and snark (London). There’s no guest this time, which means the nonsense levels are dangerously high—but somehow, it works. After book awards, CIDBT Fast-Track students they move on to the kind of conversations the industry usually avoids. There’s a glimpse into what’s coming next season: proper guests, serious topics…the best season yet!! But for now, it’s just two behaviour professionals, fed up with the same old patterns. Thirty years on, and still people are getting it wrong. Kindness, it turns out, can be fatal. If the dog ends up worse off or dead, is that kind? Social media gets a bashing (as it should). So do predictable cases: guarding cockapoos, rehoming that’s barely an option anymore, the legal and moral mess that dogs and their people are left to navigate. And yes, scrotums come up again—don’t ask. There’s also a strange detour into black-and-white rabies films that traumatised a generation (well, half of them—one was too young to remember, or possibly not even born). Vaccines, eyebrow ticks, Brucella, and a whole lot of professional firefighting. One of them’s not quite functioning. The other’s battling an itchy ear. Somehow, they hold it together long enough to call time before it all falls apart. It’s mostly nonsense, a few proper insights, and more than a few laughs. Next time? A guest to keep things (marginally) on track. 🎧 Shoutout to Paul Quinlan at The Traditional Leather Lead Co—makers of proper kit for dogs… and maybe podcast hosts too. ---- oOo ---- Lez and Ross have both been in the industry professionally for well over 20 years and each has been involved with dogs for over 40 years. Whilst sensibly they have stayed away from the ‘limelight’ regarding TV offers, they have regularly been on national and local radio, spoken at national events at NDWA, CFBA, and Kennel Club / Crufts events as well as bespoke speaking engagements for the Dog Safety Education Executive (DogSEE). Ross wrote for Dogs Monthly Magazine for over 12 years and Lez was the first lady feature writer for a national Shooting Magazine (both Sporting Gun and Sporting Shooter). They were also 'study buddies' and were the first in the UK to achieve a Masters Degree (Professional Practice) in Canine Behaviour and Psychology in 2011. They work well together and apart, support and work with dog rescue organisations and train professional dog trainers and behaviourists. Different as chalk and cheese, but maybe not as different as they like to think. Intrigued? want to know more? then check out our websites... www.rossmccarthy.com ~ www.lezgraham.com And if you'd rather watch than listen, you can catch Gundogs and Guard Dogs on Youtube https://www.youtube.com/@gundogguarddog

From a childhood spark to international obedience sport, Anna Herzog shares her journey through Kennel Club and FCI Obedience. We talk clicker training, competing at Crufts, representing the UK, and the fascinating differences across countries in dog sport. A must-listen for dog lovers, handlers, and anyone curious about the world of FCI Obedience! ---- oOo ---- Lez and Ross have both been in the industry professionally for well over 20 years and each has been involved with dogs for over 40 years. Whilst sensibly they have stayed away from the ‘limelight’ regarding TV offers, they have regularly been on national and local radio, spoken at national events at NDWA, CFBA, and Kennel Club / Crufts events as well as bespoke speaking engagements for the Dog Safety Education Executive (DogSEE). Ross wrote for Dogs Monthly Magazine for over 12 years and Lez was the first lady feature writer for a national Shooting Magazine (both Sporting Gun and Sporting Shooter). They were also 'study buddies' and were the first in the UK to achieve a Masters Degree (Professional Practice) in Canine Behaviour and Psychology in 2011. They work well together and apart, support and work with dog rescue organisations and train professional dog trainers and behaviourists. Different as chalk and cheese, but maybe not as different as they like to think. Intrigued? want to know more? then check out our websites... www.rossmccarthy.com ~ www.lezgraham.com And if you'd rather watch than listen, you can catch Gundogs and Guard Dogs on Youtube https://www.youtube.com/@gundogguarddog

Ever tried bridging the gap between London and Scotland? Spoiler: the language barrier is real — but so is the love for dogs, training, and people. ❤️ We dive deep into: ✨ The real difference between qualifications and certifications ✨ Training dog owners, gundog trainers, and canine pros ✨ Why it’s all about building a family—your tribe of people and pups ✨ How every dog (and human) teaches us something new ✨ Breaking the rules to find what really works Plus, a minor water spill that somehow becomes the highlight... because that’s just how Lez rolls 😂 Ready to write your own story and ride your own wave? 🌊 Tune in, get inspired, and join the conversation!---- oOo ---- Lez and Ross have both been in the industry professionally for well over 20 years and each has been involved with dogs for over 40 years. Whilst sensibly they have stayed away from the ‘limelight’ regarding TV offers, they have regularly been on national and local radio, spoken at national events at NDWA, CFBA, and Kennel Club / Crufts events as well as bespoke speaking engagements for the Dog Safety Education Executive (DogSEE). Ross wrote for Dogs Monthly Magazine for over 12 years and Lez was the first lady feature writer for a national Shooting Magazine (both Sporting Gun and Sporting Shooter). They were also 'study buddies' and were the first in the UK to achieve a Masters Degree (Professional Practice) in Canine Behaviour and Psychology in 2011. They work well together and apart, support and work with dog rescue organisations and train professional dog trainers and behaviourists. Different as chalk and cheese, but maybe not as different as they like to think. Intrigued? want to know more? then check out our websites... www.rossmccarthy.com ~ www.lezgraham.com And if you'd rather watch than listen, you can catch Gundogs and Guard Dogs on Youtube https://www.youtube.com/@gundogguarddog

Another Gundogger, joins the podcast, making the Guard Dog contingent a bit redundant as the lovely Rebecca Walters from PupStarts breeders joins us to talk about responsible dog breeding. A history in dog rescue lead her to a unique journey to provide formal qualifications in breeding dogs. Is she promoting breeding dogs? ABSOLUTELY NOT! If you are going to breed dogs…do it properly! She’s on the same page as all of us regarding ‘adopt or shop responsibly’. Common sense in abundance…highlighting the differences between dog professionals choosing a puppy and supplying puppies to the general public... and the ages of socialisation and optimal times for homing are discussed. Reflecting on our conversations with Julie Shelton from #appledownrescue - there is a huge divide between responsible dog breeders, puppy farmers and the ‘middle ground of well-meaning people’ with little knowledge or just simply selfish! It’s all about genetics, ethics and loving dogs ---- oOo ---- Lez and Ross have both been in the industry professionally for well over 20 years and each has been involved with dogs for over 40 years. Whilst sensibly they have stayed away from the ‘limelight’ regarding TV offers, they have regularly been on national and local radio, spoken at national events at NDWA, CFBA, and Kennel Club / Crufts events as well as bespoke speaking engagements for the Dog Safety Education Executive (DogSEE). Ross wrote for Dogs Monthly Magazine for over 12 years and Lez was the first lady feature writer for a national Shooting Magazine (both Sporting Gun and Sporting Shooter). They were also 'study buddies' and were the first in the UK to achieve a Masters Degree (Professional Practice) in Canine Behaviour and Psychology in 2011. They work well together and apart, support and work with dog rescue organisations and train professional dog trainers and behaviourists. Different as chalk and cheese, but maybe not as different as they like to think. Intrigued? want to know more? then check out our websites... www.rossmccarthy.com ~ www.lezgraham.com And if you'd rather watch than listen, you can catch Gundogs and Guard Dogs on Youtube https://www.youtube.com/@gundogguarddog