Never Just A Dog

As the creator of Puppy Tales Photography and founder of the Australian Dog of the Year Awards, Kerry has met thousands of dogs and their people, documenting the quiet, powerful bond we share with them. But while travelling and telling those stories, she experienced her own heartbreak—losing her beloved dogs, Keiko and Summer. Learn more about Kerry below Puppy Tales Connect with your host John Li...

For many Australians, Toby the Wonder Dog was a television star — the clever, charismatic dog millions watched on Totally Wild and Harry's Practice . But behind the fame was a much more personal story. In this episode, John Littlefair speaks with Dr Katrina Warren about the life she shared with Toby — and the difficult chapter that followed when she lost him. Katrina reflects on what it was like s...

In this episode of Never Just A Dog , John Littlefair speaks with Dave Bartley , an officer with Merseyside Police (UK) , about the loss of his working dog, Ghost , who was killed in the line of duty. Ghost wasn’t a pet — he was a partner. Trained to run toward danger, Ghost served alongside Dave until his death during operational duty. Rather than letting Ghost’s loss fade, Dave carried his grief...

This short trailer is a breath before the climb, a moment on the roadside to remember why these stories will always matter.  Because it will never, ever be 'just a dog'. I'm your host, John Littlefair, and welcome to our shared world. OFFICIAL WEBSITE LINK Connect with your podcast host, John, below john@johnlittlefair.com.au

Todd Ingraham’s courage and spirit touched thousands through his marathon running, his work with his police dog Chase, and his battle with Motor Neurone Disease. After his passing, his wife, Tina, sat down with your host John Littlefair, to reflect on Todd’s life, the love they shared, and the impact he continues to have. This is a tribute to the man whose story inspired so many, told by Tina Ingr...

In this episode, we visit Meaford, Ontario — home to Beautiful Joe Park. It’s more than green space. It’s a tribute to a real dog whose story changed how people think about animals. Back in the 1800s, a dog named Beautiful Joe was rescued from abuse. His story, written by Margaret Marshall Saunders, became one of the first books to give a voice to animals. The novel "Beautiful Joe" has sold over 7...

 In this heartfelt episode, your host John Littlefair chats with Todd Ingraham, an elite athlete and former WA Police canine handler, who has conquered some of the world's toughest marathons. However, nothing could have prepared Todd for his most challenging battle yet — Motor Neurone Disease (MND).   Todd opens up about his transition from the marathon track to living with MND, and the unbreakabl...

In this episode of Never Just A Dog , John Littlefair explores the extraordinary bond between humans and dogs, from their ancient beginnings as wolves beside our fires to the deep, wordless understanding we share today. Why do they choose us? Why do they stay, love, and trust us unconditionally? Through early literature, ancient carvings, and stories passed down through generations, we uncover how...

In this episode, your host John Littlefair chats with Health & Community Psychologist, Mindset Coach, Author, and Media Commentator Dr. Marny Lishman Marny’s a nationally recognized mental health expert with years of experience, having run a successful private practice in Western Australia. She’s worked with organizations, schools, and individuals, helping them build resilience and psychologic...

In our previous episode, your host John Littlefair sat down with Gail Anthea Brown, a writer from Scotland’s northern Highlands, who shared the story of her beloved dog, Brody. Brody was a vital part of Gail’s family—a friend, inspiration, and a true source of joy. In Part Two, we join Gail as she opens up about the difficult path of grief after Brody’s passing. She shares the challenges of moving...

In this episode, your host John Littlefair chats with Gail Anthea Brown, a writer from Caithness in the Northern Highlands of Scotland. Gail’s work, rich in folklore and personal storytelling, is deeply inspired by her experiences, including the journey with her dog Brody, a beloved member of her family. Brody brought joy, loyalty, and inspiration into Gail's life, shaping her writing and infusing...

In this episode, your host John Littlefair chats with award-winning writer and podcaster Clarissa Moll. We dive into Clarissa's own story, including the loss of her husband in a tragic hiking accident back in 2019, and how that experience has shaped her work in guiding others through grief.   Alongside her daughter Fiona, Clarissa has co-authored the soon to be released 'Hurt Help Hope, a real con...

One of the greatest human tragedies is the sudden unexpected death of a child. When that death remains unexplained, it is even more devastating for the parents, the family, and society at large.  In our previous episode, we had the honor of hearing Brad’s heart-wrenching story about the sudden and unexpected loss of his daughter Grace.  Brad shared the profound impact this loss has had on his life...

One of the greatest human tragedies is the sudden unexpected death of a child. When that death remains unexplained, it is even more devastating for the parents, the family, and society at large. On this episode, your host John Littlefair chats with Brad Polain, who, along with his wife Felicity, tragically lost their daughter Grace to Sudden Unexpected Death of a Child (SUDC). In this episode, Bra...

In this episode your host John Littlefair chats with Anne Marie Farage-Smith.  Anne Marie Farage-Smith is a lifelong animal lover and an advocate for all animals. She holds a Master of Science degree in mental health counselling from St. John Fisher University and a Master of Science degree in education from Nazareth University and is a Pet Loss Grief Counselling Trained Professional. As a license...

In this episode your host John Littlefair chats with Eliza-Rose Kan, a registered Music Therapist.   Eliza’s passion for both music and healing has led her on an incredible journey. Join us as Eliza shares her inspiring path to becoming a music therapist and the transformative power of music in the realm of therapy.   To get in touch with your host John Littlefair   john@johnlittlefair.com.au   Or...

Join John and Talya on this introspective journey as they pay tribute to George's enduring legacy, offering insights into the profound connections we forge with our animal companions and the significance of holding their memories close to our hearts, even years after they've passed away. And a special thank you to the supporting cast, in no particular order, Meg, Mog, The Fish, and the two crazy c...

In this episode, your host John Littlefair chats with New York Times Best-Selling Author and International Speaker, Michael Hingson. Michael's life journey is nothing short of awe-inspiring. Blind since birth, he faced one of the darkest days in modern history, the 9-11 attacks, and emerged not only as a survivor but a testament to the incredible bond between humans and animals. His guide dog Rose...

In this special bonus episode the host and creator of Never Just A Dog, John Littlefair, reflects on his journey over the last three years. This episode is dedicated to the amazing guests who are Talya, Jess, Rosa, Warren, Jessy, Katie, Tyler, Brayden, Sarah, Pascale, Gretta, Mikayla, Shan, Paige and Beau, Chris, Lillian, David, Shay, Victoria, Beth, Simon, Mathilde, Michel, Erum, Luke, Ivana, Kit...

In this episode, your host John Littlefair chats with Anji Rajbhandari who is the creator of the Youtube channel called Zazu Talks. Originally born in Nepal and now residing in California her family has embraced the rich Nepalese Hindu tradition of Kukur Tihar, a day dedicated to celebrating the bond between humans and their dogs. https://johnlittlefair.com.au/  

In this episode, your host John Littlefair chats with Andrew Phan, a survivor of Testicular Cancer. In this candid conversation, Andrew opens up in a brave and vulnerable way.  He shares the unfiltered truth about his challenging journey with Chemotherapy, the physical and emotional toll it took on him, and the daunting uncertainty that came with it. Andrew also talks about his involvement with MH...

In this episode of Never Just A Dog, your host John Littlefair engages in a captivating conversation with Mary-Frances O'Connor, an Associate Professor at the University of Arizona and an eminent figure in Grief Research and Neuroscience.   Mary-Frances is the brilliant mind behind 'The Grieving Brain', a book that has touched the lives of many by shedding light on the intricate relationship betwe...

In this episode, your host John Littlefair chats with Dylan Wilson. Dylan's journey through the world of animal care and conservation has left a lasting impact on wildlife and people. From his time at Taronga Zoo where he worked with marine mammals and led mesmerising after-hours tours, to fulfilling his dream of working at Australia Zoo alongside the Irwin family, Dylan's journey is extraordinary...

In this episode, your host John Littlefair chats with Australian Rules Football Cult Hero Mark Zanotti. In a rare and exclusive interview, Mark shares his incredible football journey and his passion for creating music. Mark's partner is bravely battling a significant life-threatening illness and in this conversation, he opens up about the impact it has had on their lives.  Below is the link to pur...

In this episode your host John Littlefair chats with Veterinary Nurse Kate Doyle. Kate shares the journey to becoming a Veterinary Nurse and her passion for Animal Rescue.  Kate's story is both inspirational and deeply heartfelt. This episode is dedicated to Moon, Cheech and a 'Super Pup' called Moe. https://johnlittlefair.com.au/