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⚠️ Content Warning: This episode contains discussion of domestic abuse, coercive control, trauma, and animal abuse. Listener discretion is advised.

In this powerful and thought-provoking episode of We Love Dogs, I’m joined by Maya Badham, founder of Loop Safeguarding and a specialist in animal-inclusive safeguarding.

Together, Cheryl and Maya explore the often-overlooked connection between dogs, animal welfare, and domestic abuse. Maya shares her expertise on how animals can become part of coercive and controlling relationships, the links between animal abuse and interpersonal violence, and why understanding these connections is so important for dog owners, trainers, behaviourists, and animal professionals.

We discuss how a dog’s behaviour can sometimes reflect the environment they’re living in, the signs that may be missed, and the role that awareness and education can play in safeguarding both people and animals.

This episode contains discussion of domestic abuse, coercive control, trauma, and animal harm. While some listeners may find these topics difficult, they are important conversations that deserve greater awareness and understanding.

If you are affected by anything discussed in this episode, support is available through the National Domestic Abuse Helpline, available 24 hours a day on 0808 2000 247.

This is an honest, compassionate, and eye-opening conversation about a side of the dog world that many people never see—but one that has the potential to make a real difference.

To find out more about Maya’s work, visit Loop Safeguarding and follow Maya on social media.

Thank you for listening to We Love Dogs.

National Domestic Abuse Helpline, available 24 hours a day on 0808 2000 247.

Want to connect with Maya? Details below:

Website & Mailing List: www.loop-safeguarding.org

Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/LoopSafeguarding/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mayabadham/

For questions or to work with Cheryl, you can reach her via:
Website: Chel's Tails | Dog Walking and Training
Email: cherylmarney@outlook.com
Facebook: Facebook
Instagram: Instagram
TikTok:@chelstails

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In episode 36 of We Love Dogs, Cheryl is joined by Danny Nelis-Rouse, co-owner of Tug-E-Nuff — the dog training brand known worldwide for its interactive tug toys and play-based training philosophy.

In this conversation, Cheryl and Danny explore why so many dogs disengage during training, “play drive,” and how interactive play can completely transform focus, recall, confidence, and behaviour.

Danny shares the story of how Tug-E-Nuff grew from a homemade toy designed for one dog into a global brand used by trainers and dog owners around the world. We also dive into practical advice for owners whose dogs ignore toys, struggle with motivation, or become frustrated during training sessions.

We discuss:

• Why play is such a powerful training tool

• Common mistakes owners make during play

• How toys can improve recall and engagement

• The role enrichment plays in preventing behaviour problems

• Insights from Tug-E-Nuff’s latest Play Survey and what it revealed about modern dog ownership

Whether you’ve got a puppy, rescue dog, working dog, or family pet, this episode is packed with practical tips and fascinating insights into building a better relationship with your dog through play.

Want to connect with Danny? Details below:

Tug-E-Nuff | Award Winning Dog Tug Toys | Play - Train - Bond

Facebook

Email: hello@tug-e-nuff.co.uk

(1) Instagram

For questions or to work with Cheryl, you can reach her via:
Website: Chel's Tails | Dog Walking and Training
Email: cherylmarney@outlook.com
Facebook: Facebook
Instagram: Instagram
TikTok:@chelstails

Send us Fan Mail

In episode 35 of We Love Dogs, Cheryl is joined by highly experienced dog trainer Kamal Fernandez, who many of you will know from the Channel 4 programme The Dog Academy.

Cheryl and Kamal talk all about obedience training, what it actually means, and how Kamal uses reward-based, force-free methods to build reliable behaviour and strong relationships with dogs.

Kamal explains what his training sessions look like in practice, how he teaches behaviours like heelwork, the importance of focus and engagement, and why training should be enjoyable for both dogs and their handlers.

We also discuss rewards, play, building reliability, common mistakes owners make, what to do when things don’t go to plan, and where people should start if they want to improve obedience with their own dog.

A relaxed and insightful conversation packed with practical advice for dog owners and anyone interested in modern dog training.

Want to connect with Kamal? Details below:

(2) Facebook

Home - kamalfernandezonlinetraining.com

Email: kamalfernandez@me.com

For questions or to work with Cheryl, you can reach her via:
Website: Chel's Tails | Dog Walking and Training
Email: cherylmarney@outlook.com
Facebook: Facebook
Instagram: Instagram
TikTok:@chelstails