Series 10 – Episode 5

Join dog trainer and dog behaviourist Lara Shannon, with veterinarian Dr Melissa Meehan and expert guests, for practical dog and cat training, nutrition and health advice that supports pets through every life stage.

Episode 5 of Series 10 of Pooches at Play focuses on senior dog anxiety, puppy training and feeding, pet insurance, high-shedding dog grooming, assistance dog skill training, and how dogs are helping bring joy to children facing serious illness.

In this episode you’ll learn about:

• How Make-A-Wish helps dreams come true for sick children – the powerful role pets and positive experiences can play in supporting families, with Make-A-Wish Australia.
• Why senior dogs can become more anxious – how ageing, health changes and cognitive decline affect behaviour, plus ways to support older dogs emotionally.
• Choosing the right puppy school – what to look for in a quality training program, red flags to avoid, and how early education shapes long-term behaviour.
• Puppy feeding tips – integrative veterinarian Dr Nicole Rous explains how to feed puppies for healthy growth, digestion and development.
• How to choose the right pet insurance – key factors to consider, common exclusions, and how insurance can support long-term veterinary care.
• Labrador Retriever grooming tips – how to manage heavy shedding breeds, reduce hair around the home, and support healthy skin and coat.
• Training assistance dog skills – how Petstock Foundation supports assistance dog training to help people live more independently.
• Webbox cat treats – understanding treat choices for cats and how treats fit into a balanced feline diet with Webbox.