Off Duty

Inside Animal Welfare: Life as an ISPCA Inspector with Alice Lacey

In this episode of Off Duty, we sit down with Alice Lacey, Senior Animal Welfare Inspector with the ISPCA, to explore the realities of working on the front line of animal welfare in Ireland. Alice shares her journey from volunteering to becoming an inspector, and gives an honest insight into the emotional, challenging, and deeply rewarding nature of her work. From dealing with neglect cases and navigating difficult conversations with owners, to giving evidence in court and rescuing animals in distress, no two days are ever the same. We discuss: * What animal welfare inspectors really do (and common misconceptions) * The balance between education, enforcement, and empathy * The emotional toll of the job and managing compassion fatigue * Why most cases are neglect—not intentional cruelty * The importance of microchipping, traceability, and responsible ownership * Current welfare concerns including overbreeding, biosecurity, and feral cat populations Alice also shares powerful personal stories—from rescuing animals in heartbreaking situations to adopting her own dog through welfare work—and what keeps her motivated despite the challenges. This episode is a reminder that small actions—education, early intervention, and responsible ownership—can make a huge difference to animal welfare. 📞 If you have concerns about animal welfare, reports can be made to the ISPCA National Animal Cruelty Helpline.

Bonus Episode: Your Strangles Questions Answered

With an increase in strangles cases and a lot of misinformation circulating on social media, we’re bringing you a short bonus episode of Off Duty to answer your questions. We managed to catch Off Duty co-host and equine vet Sabrina in the middle of a busy schedule to respond to real questions sent in by horse owners who are trying to do the right thing and want clear, factual advice. This listener-led Q&A covers how strangles spreads, early signs to watch for, managing risk when competing or travelling, vaccination considerations, and what to do if your horse or yard is affected. The aim isn’t to create panic, but to cut through the noise, address misinformation, and help owners make sensible, informed decisions. If you’re concerned about your own horse, always contact your own vet or Dooneen Vets for advice. We hope to return to this topic in a future full episode, looking more broadly at equine infectious diseases and how to create an effective infectious disease plan for your yard.

“Just Go to Catherine” – Understanding Dog Behaviour Properly

If you’ve ever heard us say “Just email Catherine” — this is why. Catherine Griffin from Snout & About joins us to break down what behaviour actually means, why it’s not the same as training, and why so many cases have pain or emotional distress at the root. We talk: * Puppy foundations * Overstimulation & modern dog lifestyles * Why muzzles shouldn’t carry stigma * The importance of early intervention * And how behaviour work starts long before you ever “train” a dog This is a collaborative, evidence-based approach to behaviour — and honestly, it changed how we think in clinic. Thanks to Chanelle Pharma for supporting this episode. Part 1 of a multi-part series. If you would like to contact Catherine  www.snoutandabout.ie

How to Pass Your Pony Club D+ Test | Stable Management & Riding Guide (Part 1)

Are you preparing for your Pony Club D+ Test? Wondering what examiners look for in stable management, riding and horse care? In this episode of Off Duty, we share a practical, step-by-step guide to passing the Pony Club D Plus Test — covering everything candidates must know before progressing to the C Test. This episode is ideal for Pony Club members, parents supporting riders, and instructors revising D+ stable management topics. In Part 1 we cover: * ✅ D+ Test format and requirements * ✅ What to wear for the Pony Club D+ exam * ✅ Riding expectations, including jumping (up to 65cm) and riding on undulating ground * ✅ Basic needs of a pony living in a field * ✅ Daily health checks and field safety * ✅ How to put on a saddle and bridle correctly * ✅ Correct tack fitting (noseband & throatlash rules) * ✅ How to clean and care for tack properly * ✅ How to safely catch and turn out a pony * ✅ How to lead and trot up a pony in hand * ✅ Safe tying techniques (and why baler twine matters) Whether you're sitting your D+ this season or helping your child prepare, this episode gives you clear, practical guidance to build confidence before test day. 🎧 Follow Off Duty so you don’t miss Part 2 — where we’ll cover grooming kits, picking out feet, colours and markings, rugs, turnout, and performing a proper pony health check.

The Completely Unofficial Blagger’s Guide to the Pony Club C Test: Stable Management (Episode 1)

In this episode, Sabrina Barnwell is joined by Vincent O’Hara as they work through Stable Management for the C Test, starting with one of the most important foundations of horsemanship: remembering that your pony is an animal, not a machine. We cover: * Pony welfare and behaviour (including the famous three F’s: freedom, forage & friends) * Why kindness, patience and understanding matter more than force * Keeping ponies at grass – advantages, disadvantages and daily checks * The five key things to consider when choosing a field * Safe fencing, shelter and water * Poisonous plants every Pony Club member should know (including newer risks like sycamore) * Field care, worm control and good management habits This series is designed to be accessible, practical and friendly – perfect for Pony Club members preparing for their C Test, parents trying to understand the syllabus, or anyone who wants a solid grounding in good horsemanship.