The Pet Connection

In celebration of Foster a Pet Month, this special episode of Big Blend Radio's "Pet Connection" podcast is part of our "Getting to Know You" series spotlighting the people behind our shows and celebrating the launch of BigBlendMediaHouse.com. This episode features co-host Angela Laws, Head of Charitable Partnerships and External Engagement at TrustedHousesitters, who shares her inspiring journey...

It's a big milestone on this share episode of Big Blend Radio's "ABCs of Horses" Podcast, where producer Lisa D. Smith and world champion horse trainer Christy Wood made it all the way to Z! And Z is for Zoomies, that joyful, full-speed burst of energy every horse owner loves to watch. Christy breaks down what zoomies really mean, how to tell the difference between a happy horse blowing off steam...

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 Phel...

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 o...

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, ” spotlighting a sa...

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 yea...

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 veter...

In this shared episode of Big Blend Radio’s “ABC's of Horses” equestrian podcast, Christy Wood explores mare reproductive health, focusing on the anatomy and care of the uterus and why it matters for overall equine wellness. Christy explains common reproductive considerations for mares, including cycle inconsistencies, behavioral changes, and the importance of regular grooming and hands-on inspect...

In celebration of National Cat Lovers Month, Big Blend Radio’s Pet Connection show explores the powerful role pets play in creativity, storytelling, and everyday life with author D.R. Ransdell. Drawing inspiration from her cats and canine companions, Ransdell shares how animals influence her writing, travel experiences, and artistic perspective. Co-host Angela Laws of TrustedHousesitters.com joins...

Big Blend Radio’s "Pet Connection" show explores the magic of children’s literature, therapy dogs, and holiday traditions in New York City with special guest Andy Honda, MD, author of the "Koa’s Ruff Life" series. Andy shares how her real-life therapy dog, Koa, inspires her heartwarming stories—especially the newest book, "Koa’s Ruff Life: Christmas Time in New York City." From Fifth Avenue’s icon...

In this heartfelt and shared episode of Big Blend Radio’s “ABC's of Horses” equestrian podcast, Christy Wood celebrates the wisdom, experience, and enduring spirit of senior horses. These gentle teachers play an invaluable role in guiding young horses and riders alike, offering lessons in patience, resilience, and trust. Christy shares personal stories and insights into the care, health, and longe...

In observance of Adopt a Shelter Dog Month (and other pet-related holidays this month), this episode of Big Blend Radio’s "Pet Connection" show highlights the mission, history, and impact of the Helen Woodward Animal Center in San Diego, California. Co-host Angela Laws joins Michael Makie from the Center to discuss animal welfare, education, and the life-changing benefits of pet companionship thro...

In celebration of National Pet Sitter Education Month, this episode of Big Blend Radio’s “Pet Connection” show dives into the world of pet sitting with co-host Angela Laws of TrustedHousesitters. This inspiring conversation highlights the lifestyle, responsibilities, and education required for pet sitters, and how the experience can transform both lives and careers. Learn how to: - Build trust and...

Celebrate National Dog Month with this expert conversation on how to keep your pet healthy, happy, and safe during the "Dog Days of Summer." In this episode, we're joined by veteran pet sitter and co-host Angela Laws from TrustedHousesitters and Kris Kiser, President & CEO of the TurfMutt Foundation. We cover essential pet care during the summer heat, with a special focus on dogs, and offer cr...

Join Nancy and Lisa, your hosts of Big Blend Radio's "Pet Connection" show, as they celebrate a remarkable milestone: five incredible years of full-time pet sitting and travel with TrustedHousesitters! In this special anniversary episode, we dive into the joys and unique experiences of pet sitting. The conversations highlight the vital role of community and clear communication in building trust an...

Get ready for summer fun with your pet companions on this episode of Big Blend Radio’s “Pet Connection” Show! Hosts Nancy J. Reid and Lisa D. Smith, along with cohost Angela Laws from TrustedHousesitters, share essential pet care tips to help keep animals safe, cool, and comfortable during the hot weather. The conversation covers everything from hydration and heat protection to backyard safety and...

In this heartwarming episode of Big Blend Radio's "Pet Connection" Show, we highlight inspiring rescue and adoption stories involving dogs, cats, horses — and even wildlife! You'll also get practical tips on how to bond with rescued animals and give them the loving care they deserve. 🎙️ ON THIS EPISODE: * Lisa Smith – The "daughter" half of Big Blend Radio & Magazine’s mother-daughter duo, Lis...

From a whinny to a nicker, this shared episode of Big Blend Radio’s “ABC’s of Horses” equestrian podcast with Christy Wood explores "horse noises," the fascinating world of horse vocalizations and what they mean. Learn how to interpret different horse sounds, including variations in intensity and frequency. Is your horse expressing comfort, excitement, anxiety, or even attraction? Whether it's a c...

This episode of Big Blend Radio's "Pet Connection" Show focuses on life after loss for both pets and their humans.   ON THIS EPISODE: - Angela Laws, veteran pet sitter, grief counselor, and community manager at https://www.trustedhousesitters.com/ - Lea Brovedani, a certified end-of-life doula, also known as a death midwife. Listen to her "Soul Journey Doula" podcast series: https://youtube.com/pl...

It's all about Understanding and Caring for Mares on this episode of Big Blend Radio's "ABC's of Horses" equestrian podcast with Christy Wood.  Hear about attitude and disposition, emotions, performance, breeding and pregnancy, hormonal health, foaling and gestation, and so much more. Christy Wood is a World Champion horse trainer, also exhibiting in jumping and trail. She is a winner in extreme t...

Celebrate National Backyard Day (March 19)  and the Start of Spring with this episode of Big Blend Radio's "Pet Connection" Show that focuses on ways to create a backyard that is pet-friendly. Hear about toxic plants, fencing tips, and basic needs like shade and water, and more.  Big Blend Radio's PET CONNECTION Show is hosted by veteran pet sitters Nancy J Reid & Lisa Smith, the mother-daught...

It's all about Lunging Your Horse on this episode of Big Blend Radio's "ABC's of Horses" equestrian podcast with Christy Wood. Hear about what lunging is and why it is important, lunging positions, and the best gear and equipment for lunging. Christy Wood is a World Champion horse trainer, also exhibiting in jumping and trail. She is a winner in extreme trail obstacle challenges, and is a carded h...

On this episode of Big Blend Radio's "Pet Connection" Show, Mark Rowlands talks about his new book, "The Word of Dog: What Our Canine Companions Can Teach Us About Living a Good Life" (Liveright; Jan 28, 2025). Here, Rowlands shows us we could do a lot better than we’re doing simply by listening to the unspoken wisdom our dogs reveal to us every day of their happy, uncomplicated lives. Rowlands is...

It's all about Kicking and Communication on this episode of Big Blend Radio's "ABC's of Horses" equestrian podcast with Christy Wood. Hear what makes horses kick, how to maneuver around a horse so you do not get kicked, and how to communicate whether on the ground or on horseback.  Christy Wood is a World Champion horse trainer, also exhibiting in jumping and trail. She is a winner in extreme trai...

Celebrate National Walk Your Dog Month (January) with this episode of Big Blend Radio's "Pet Connection" Show that focuses on the benefits of walking your dog (for humans and their pup pals), and safety tips.  Big Blend Radio's PET CONNECTION Show is hosted by veteran pet sitters Nancy J Reid & Lisa Smith, the mother-daughter team behind Big Blend Radio & Magazines, and cohosted by Angela...