Grey Muzzle Diaries

Episode 14: Jason Grom & Sammy

In this episode of Grey Muzzle Diaries, we talk with Jason Grom about his remarkable 17-year-old rescue dog, Sammy, a Shepherd Lab and German Shorthaired mix. Jason shares Sammy's journey from being a foster dog to becoming a cherished member of the family, and the challenges and joys of caring for a senior dog. With her daily walks and unique routines, Sammy’s story highlights the resilience and companionship that senior dogs bring into our lives. Join us as Jason reflects on the valuable lessons Sammy has taught him about patience, living in the moment, and the deep bond we form with our pets in their later years. To learn more about Sammy, you can visit Jason’s Facebook page: Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61565530483125&mibextid=kFxxJD]. You can also check out Jason's book, Sammy the Foster Failure Finds a Home: Amazon Link [https://www.amazon.com/Sammy-Foster-Failure-Finds-Home/dp/B0DHVLFS1M/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?crid=3I2AD5SYZR0A0&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.OGSLdcOBlZV8ZwOkZutc4-KwZ_nw-0zEsT0X3JAVG-7GjHj071QN20LucGBJIEps.dS8JIEugXXJOQVCbbzLom6LIzc7u7mvSeWVsFpFuIkQ&dib_tag=se&keywords=sammy+the+foster+failure&qid=1727648630&sprefix=%2Caps%2C110&sr=8-1]. Lastly, a huge thank you to the rescue organization, Last Hope, which brought Sammy into Jason’s life. You can learn more about them here: Last Hope [https://last-hope.org/about].

Episode 13: Jennifer Brown & Autumn

In this episode of the Grey Muzzle Diaries, Jennifer Brown reflects on the life and legacy of her beloved 12-year-old Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever, Autumn, who recently passed away. From rescue to navigating health challenges like heartworm, hip dysplasia, and cutaneous T-cell lymphoma, Autumn’s journey was one of incredible resilience. Jennifer shares the invaluable lessons learned through caring for a senior dog and the deep bond formed through years of devotion and care. Tune in to hear about the wisdom and strength that Autumn brought into Jennifer’s life.

Episode 12: Kate LaSala, Mr. Barbo & Boo

For this episode of Grey Muzzle Diaries, the guest is Kate LaSala, a highly credentialed dog trainer and grief doula who shares her experience with her senior dogs, BooBoo and Barbo. The discussion dives into her emotional journey through losing both dogs, the lessons she's learned as a trainer and doula, and the profound connection that forms between humans and their senior dogs. Kate discusses the importance of recognizing behavioral changes in aging dogs, the impact of grief, and how caring for seniors brings a unique bond. She also offers practical advice on planning for a pet’s end-of-life care and navigating the complexities of grief, ensuring a peaceful and compassionate process. Throughout the conversation, Kate provides valuable insights on canine care, particularly in managing pain and anxiety in senior dogs, and how she helps clients make difficult decisions, such as behavioral euthanasia. Her stories emphasize the importance of understanding grief, honoring the lives of pets, and supporting others through their losses. We have some fantastic resources for this episode, thanks to Kate, which include: Kate's Grief Resources post [ ⁠https://rescuedbytraining.com/2022/03/28/griefresources/⁠] At-Home Euthanasia and Vet Directory [https://rescuedbytraining.com/2024/09/16/at-home-euthanasia/] Caring For Senior Dogs Resources [https://rescuedbytraining.com/2023/10/09/senior-dog-resources/] Kate's Grief Journey 6 Months In [https://rescuedbytraining.com/2024/10/14/my-grief-journey-six-months-in/] Advance Care Directive (free download) [https://rescuedbytraining.com/2024/05/06/advance-care-directive/] Kate's Doula Services page [https://rescuedbytraining.com/death-doula/]

Episode 11: Jessica Siegfried & BeefyBull

In this heartfelt episode of Grey Muzzle Diaries, Lindsay Griffiths chats with Jessica Siegfried, a passionate dog mom and solopreneur, as she shares the story of her beloved dog, Bull. From navigating surgeries and medical challenges like mast cell cancer and glaucoma to finding humor in everyday moments, Jessica offers valuable insights into the complexities of caring for a senior dog. Learn about practical tips for managing health, the importance of patience, and why it’s okay to love an older dog. Whether you’re a new senior dog parent or a seasoned pro, this episode is packed with empathy, advice, and encouragement for anyone sharing their life with a furry companion in their golden years. Tune in now to hear about Bull’s incredible journey and Jessica’s reflections on balancing care for her dog with her own well-being. Some resources mentioned in this episode are Jess' company, Pittie Chicks [https://pittiechicks.threadless.com/], and you can also connect with her on Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/pittiechicks/] or Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/PittieChicks/]. Jess also mentioned Live Like Roo [https://www.livelikeroo.org/], an organization that provides financial assistance to families whose pets are facing a cancer diagnosis.

Episode 10: Melani Nardone, Alice & Bubs - Part Three

In the final part of our three-part series with Melani Nardone, we dive into the complexities of raising and managing multiple dogs, particularly senior dogs with behavioral challenges. Melani shares her experience with her two dogs, Bubs and Alice, discussing how their individual personalities and needs shape their care routines, especially in an urban environment. From navigating leash reactivity to understanding the emotional complexities of aging dogs, this conversation sheds light on the emotional bonds we share with our pets and the lessons we can learn from them. We also explore the heartbreak of senior dog abandonment and the vital importance of patience, empathy, and long-term investment in caring for our canine companions. This episode offers valuable insights for anyone managing aging dogs or interested in the deep connection between humans and their pets.