The Pet Connection

Helen Sanders CatPAWS: Transforming Feral Cats Through TNR & Rescue

In celebration of National Pet Month, this episode of Big Blend Radio’s “Pet Connection” podcast explores the lifesaving work of Helen Sanders Cat Protection & Welfare Society, a Southern California nonprofit dedicated to rescuing, protecting, and advocating for cats.  Along with producer and host Lisa D. Smith, co-host Angela Laws of TrustedHousesitters.com welcomes special guest Deborah Phelan-Magaldi, co-founder of Helen Sanders CatPAWS for an inspiring conversation about TNR (Trap, Neuter, Return), fostering, rescue partnerships, and community involvement in feline welfare. The discussion highlights the importance of managing feral and community cat populations through compassionate care, veterinary partnerships, and public education. Deborah also shares the remarkable story of Benny, a rescue cat who overcame trauma and now serves as an ambassador for resilience and healing. 🐾 Learn more about Helen Sanders CatPAWS: https://helensanderscatpaws.com/ [https://helensanderscatpaws.com/]  🐾 Learn about TrustedHousesitters: https://www.trustedhousesitters.com/ [https://www.trustedhousesitters.com/]  🎧 Listen to more “Pet Connection” episodes: https://pet-connection.podbean.com [https://pet-connection.podbean.com]

Pet Poison Prevention: Common Household Hazards & Life Saving Tips

In this essential Big Blend Radio "Pet Connection" episode for Pet Poison Prevention Month, we sit down with co-host Angela Laws from TrustedHouseSitters.com, to uncover the hidden hazards lurking in our homes and gardens.  From common kitchen staples like chocolate to beautiful but deadly lilies, Angela shares expert insights on how to pet-proof your environment. Whether you are a long-time pet owner or a dedicated pet sitter, this conversation provides the practical tools and awareness needed to prevent emergencies and keep our furry friends thriving. Read more from the Trustedhousesitters.com Blog: https://www.trustedhousesitters.com/blog/search/?q=poison [https://www.trustedhousesitters.com/blog/search/?q=poison]

Wheelchair Mafia: Travel, Photography & Rescuing Disabled Dogs

This shared episode of Big Blend Radio’s “Pet Connection” podcast explores the power of travel, photography, and compassion for animals, featuring co-host Angela Laws of TrustedHousesitters and special guest Cade Martin — commercial photographer and world traveler. Cade shares how a family trip to Thailand unexpectedly led to his heartwarming mini-documentary “Wheelchair Mafia, [https://www.cademartin.com/exploration-wheelchair-mafia]” spotlighting a sanctuary that rescues and rehabilitates disabled dogs. The conversation dives into the emotional impact of animal rescue, the cultural insights gained through travel, and how storytelling through photography can inspire kindness and global awareness. Listeners will also hear about the vital work of The Man That Rescues Dogs Foundation and how communities and volunteers help give vulnerable animals a second chance at life. 🔗 Learn more: • Cade Martin [https://www.cademartin.com] • The Man That Rescues Dogs Foundation [https://tmtrd.org/] • TrustedHousesitters [https://www.trustedhousesitters.com/?irclickid=02DSn1SPuxycUpo3w-yXOQx7UkuxZ1z3P3dbUA0&irgwc=1&afsrc=1&utm_source=impact&utm_medium=affiliate&utm_content=10078-CNT] • The Steppes of Henry Foundation [https://theglobalhenry.org/] 🐾 Listen to more “Pet Connection [https://pet-connection.podbean.com]” episodes.

Backyarding in 2026: Landscapes for People, Pets & the Planet

In this episode of Big Blend Radio’s "Garden Gossip" Podcast, we chat with Kris Kiser, President & CEO of the TurfMutt Foundation, about 2026 Backyarding Trends and how outdoor spaces are evolving into purpose-driven, high-performance landscapes. The TurfMutt Foundation, which advocates for the care and use of backyards, parks, schoolyards, and other green spaces, predicts 2026 will be the year of intentional design, year-round use, and pet-friendly landscapes. The era of the purely aesthetic lawn is over—today’s yards are strategic investments that support wellness, biodiversity, community connection, and everyday living. Kris discusses the rise of the 365-day landscape, right-sized outdoor zones, precision tech-guided gardening, dog-friendly “barkitecture,” pocket forests, and the growing “prosumer” mindset in outdoor tools.  We also explore native plants, coexisting with wildlife, the role of parks and community green spaces, and how backyarding supports family bonding and quality of life. Learn more about Turf Mutt Foundation: https://www.turfmutt.com/ [https://www.turfmutt.com/]  As part of our "Get a Balanced Life" programming, this episode is also featured on our "Nature Connection," "Pet Connection," "Big Daily Blend," and "Quality of Life" podcast channels. Explore the Big Blend Radio Network: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork [https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork]

Puppy Care & Training: Building the Foundation for a Happy Dog

In recognition of Train Your Dog Month and Hug a Puppy Day, this episode of Big Blend Radio’s “Pet Connection” Podcast focuses on puppy care, training, and responsible ownership, featuring hosts Lisa Smith (Big Blend Radio) and Angela Laws of TrustedHousesitters. The conversation explores what puppies need to thrive, from early training and socialization to clear communication, grooming, and veterinary care. Lisa and Angela discuss the importance of understanding breed traits, choosing ethical breeders or adopting from shelters, and the long-term commitment required when bringing a puppy home. The episode also addresses the dangers of backyard breeding, the rise of pandemic puppy adoption, and how positive training builds trust, confidence, and lifelong bonds. With personal stories and practical tips, this episode offers both a heartwarming and practical guide for new and future puppy parents. 🐾 See the Trustedhousesitters.com Blog for more Puppy Care & Training Tips: https://www.trustedhousesitters.com/blog/search/?q=puppies [https://www.trustedhousesitters.com/blog/search/?q=puppies]  🐾 Learn more about responsible pet care and travel solutions: https://www.trustedhousesitters.com/ [https://www.trustedhousesitters.com/]  🎧 Listen to more “Pet Connection” episodes: https://pet-connection.podbean.com [https://pet-connection.podbean.com]  🎙️ This show is also featured on Big Blend Radio’s “Big Daily Blend” podcast channel.