The Pawsome Companion

Grief, Love and Four Paws

In this gentle and emotionally rich episode of The Pawsome Companion, host Johanna Herrera is joined by guests who explore how dogs respond to grief — not just through training, but through instinct, connection and quiet presence.
 
Dog trainer Wendy Meek shares how support dogs are matched and trained to work with individuals navigating trauma, PTSD and loss. Her experience shines a light on the sensitivity and emotional intelligence that some dogs naturally possess, and how they can be guided to bring comfort in powerful ways.
 
Scott opens up about the bond he shared with his dog during one of the hardest chapters of his life — the loss of his father. His reflections are personal, raw and deeply moving.
 
Amy, also a dog trainer, shares how dogs have helped her clients through periods of emotional pain, grief and even end-of-life care. She reminds us that training isn’t always about teaching the dog something new. Sometimes, it’s about creating space for the dog to be exactly what the human needs.
Together, these stories paint a picture of what compassion looks like on four legs.
Produced by Wavebreaker Productions
 
#ThePawsomeCompanion #GriefLoveAndFourPaws #SupportDogs #DogTraining #DogsAndGrief #PetLossSupport #TherapyDogs #DogsOfAustralia #DogWisdom #WavebreakerProductions #AmyTheTrainer #WendyMeek #ScottAndHisDog #Channel44 #CommunityTVAustralia #HeartfeltDogStories

Dogs with Purpose: Rescue, Resilience and a Whole Lot of Heart

In this special highlights edition of The Pawsome Companion, host Johanna Herrera brings together three remarkable stories that show just how powerful the bond between dogs and humans can be.
We begin with a touching story from RSPCA South Australia. A golden retriever, rescued from the harsh conditions of a puppy farm, finds a second chance at life. His journey from fear to trust is a reminder of what can happen when a dog is finally shown care and kindness. Making the episode even more special, King, a very large and very lovely retriever joins us in the studio for a few tail wags and cuddles.
Next, Daisy from See Differently (formerly known as Guide Dogs for the Blind) walks us through the incredible process of raising and training a guide dog. It’s not just about teaching the dog, but also about preparing the person they’ll be supporting. The detail, dedication and teamwork behind it all is inspiring.
 
We also hear from Sophie, a passionate trainer who works with dogs that support people living with post-traumatic stress disorder. These dogs do so much more than follow commands. They offer calm, reassurance and an emotional connection that helps people feel safe again.
Each moment in this episode offers something special. Whether it’s a story of rescue, purpose or healing, these dogs show us just how much they give and how deeply they understand what we need.
 
Produced by Wavebreaker Productions
#ThePawsomeCompanion #RescueDogs #ServiceDogs #GuideDogs #PTSDDogs #RSPCASA #SeeDifferently #DogTraining #GoldenRetriever #DogLove #HeartwarmingStories #DogsOfAustralia #AnimalWelfare #WavebreakerProductions #CommunityTV #Channel44

From Story Dogs to Shared Joy: Natalie Bubner and the Healing Power of Reading with Dogs

In this heartwarming episode, Johanna Herrera chats with Natalie Bubner, a dedicated volunteer with Story Dogs, a program that helps children build confidence in reading by partnering them with calm, friendly dogs. Natalie shares how her own dogs became a furry classroom companion and how this work has transformed not only young readers but also her own perspective on connection and calm. With stories of laughter, gentle encouragement, and the occasional tail-wagging interruption, Natalie reveals how animals can create safe spaces for children to thrive. Whether you're an educator, parent, or dog lover, this episode will leave you smiling and inspired.
 
 
#StoryDogs #NatalieBubner #ThePawsomeCompanion #DogLoversAustralia #ReadingToDogs #AnimalAssistedTherapy #DogsInEducation #ChildDevelopment #PetPodcastAustralia #WavebreakerProductions #AustralianPodcasts #RoseHipVital #DogWellbeing #PodcastWithPurpose
 
Story Dogs: https://www.storydogs.org.au
Produced by: Wavebreaker Productions
 
SPONSORED BY: Rose-Hip Vital
https://rosehipvital.com.au
Instagram: @rosehipvital
Facebook: @RosehipvitalCanine
YouTube: Rose-Hip Vital
 
DON'T FORGET DISCOUNT CODE 'PAWSOME' AT THE CHECKOUT FOR A 50% DISCOUNT AND FREE SHIPPING

Speaking Their Language: Annie Bourke on Animal Communication and Spirit Connection

In this heartfelt episode of The Pawsome Companion, Johanna Herrera sits down with internationally acclaimed animal communicator and medium, Annie Bourke. Based in Queensland, Annie shares how she helps people connect with their animals both living and passed through her work at Cosmic High Intuitive. As the bestselling author of The Bridge to Animal Consciousness, Annie brings a unique blend of compassion and clarity to every encounter, reminding us that animals are intelligent, emotional beings with voices of their own.
 
From helping farm animals and household pets to supporting wildlife in zoos, Annie's insights are transformative and deeply moving. This episode is a powerful reminder that connection doesn't end with words and that our pets are often trying to tell us more than we realise.
 
#AnnieBourke #AnimalCommunication #PetPodcastAustralia #AnimalSpirits #PetMedium #ThePawsomeCompanion #HealingWithAnimals #ConsciousPetCare #EmotionalIntelligenceOfAnimals #WavebreakerProductions #PetLoversAustralia #AustralianPetPodcast #RoseHipVital #NaturalPetHealth #PodcastAustralia
 
Produced by Wavebreaker Productions
Sponsored by Rose-Hip Vital
Instagram: @rosehipvital
Facebook: Rose-Hip Vital
YouTube: Rose-Hip Vital
 
DON'T FORGET DISCOUNT CODE 'PAWSOME' AT THE CHECKOUT FOR A 50% DISCOUNT AND FREE SHIPPING

From Rescue to Radiance: Vanessa’s Devotion to Dogs

Vanessa’s world revolves around dogs those she’s rescued, rehabilitated, and loved with her whole heart. In this episode of The Pawsome Companion, we sit down with the woman behind one of South Australia’s most heartfelt dog rescue stories. From facing behavioural challenges to celebrating second chances, Vanessa brings a raw and honest perspective to what it truly takes to care for dogs who’ve been through the wringer. Whether you're a long-time pet owner or considering adoption, her insights are bound to stay with you long after the episode ends
 
Produced by: Wavebreaker Productions
Sponsored by Rose-Hip Vital:
Instagram: @rosehipvital
Facebook: @Rosehipvitalcanine
YouTube: Rose-Hip Vital
Website: www.rosehipvital.com.au
DON'T FORGET DISCOUNT CODE 'PAWSOME' AT THE CHECKOUT FOR A 50% DISCOUNT AND FREE SHIPPING

Joint Health, Happy Tails: The Natural Supplement Helping Aussie Pets Thrive

In this episode of The Pawsome Companion, Johanna Herrera is joined by Justin Diamond from Rose-Hip Vital – a trusted name in natural joint health supplements for pets. Justin shares the inspiring journey of Rose-Hip Vital, the science behind its anti-inflammatory properties, and how it’s giving thousands of Australian dogs a new lease on life.
 
From limps and lethargy to bounding back into zoomies, discover how this plant-based supplement is improving the quality of life for our four-legged companions.
 
Whether your dog is slowing down with age or facing mobility challenges, this episode is packed with practical insight and heartfelt stories for pet owners who’ll do whatever it takes.
 
Learn how a natural solution is becoming a game-changer in canine wellbeing – and how it could help your best mate too.
 
#JustinDiamond #RoseHipVital #DogJointHealth #NaturalPetSupplements #DogsWithArthritis #PetWellbeingAustralia #DogMobilitySupport #AntiInflammatoryForDogs #ThePawsomeCompanion #WavebreakerProductions
 
Produced by Wavebreaker Productions
 
Visit Rose-Hip Vital: www.rosehipvital.com.au
Instagram: @rosehipvital
Facebook: Rose-Hip Vital
 
DON'T FORGET DISCOUNT CODE 'PAWSOME' AT THE CHECKOUT FOR A 50% DISCOUNT AND FREE SHIPPING

Down Dogs & Doggy Drama: Travis C. Yates on Resilience, Rehab and the Power of Paws

Season 3 of The Pawsome Companion begins with a deeply personal and refreshingly funny conversation. Travis C. Yates joins host Joanna Herrera from Florida to share how one determined little dog changed the course of his life. Travis is the author of Nobody Told Me My Legs Don’t Work: Journey of a Down Dog – a book that explores disability, healing, and identity through the eyes of his dog. Together, they talk about the lessons pets teach us, how humour and hardship often go hand in hand, and why our four-legged friends have a way of making us better humans. Expect heart, laughs, and maybe a tear or two.#PawsomeCompanion #TravisCYates #DogPodcast #DownDog #DogsWithDisabilities #AuthorInterview #Season3Launch #DogLovers #ResilientPets #PodcastAustraliaProduced by Wavebreaker Productions
SPONSORED BY: Rose-Hip Vital
https://rosehipvital.com.au
Instagram: @rosehipvital
Facebook: @RosehipvitalCanine
YouTube: Rose-Hip Vital
 
DON'T FORGET DISCOUNT CODE 'PAWSOME' AT THE CHECKOUT FOR A 50% DISCOUNT AND FREE SHIPPING
 

Walking into Business: Oliver’s Journey from Pet Lover to Pet Pro

In this episode of The Pawsome Companion, we meet Oliver—an animal lover who turned his passion for dogs into a business. With the support of an employment agency, Oliver launched Walking with Dogs, a dog-walking business that’s already building a loyal client base just four months in. Oliver shares how the idea came to life, the joy of working with animals, and what it takes to run a successful pet business when you're just starting out. Whether you're a fellow pet lover, an aspiring entrepreneur, or simply love hearing uplifting stories—this one’s for you. #DogWalkingBusiness #PetEntrepreneur #WalkingWithDogs #PawsomeCompanion #PetCareStories #DogLovers #AnimalJobs #DisabilitySupport #PetBusinessJourney   Produced by ⁠Wavebreaker Productions⁠

30 Years in the Fur Lane: A Vet’s Perspective with Karen Potterton

What does three decades of veterinary experience teach you about animals, their humans, and the industry? In this episode of The Pawsome Companion, Johanna Herrera chats with Karen Potterton, lead vet at Hilton Vet Centre.
Karen reflects on her 30-year journey from Liverpool to Adelaide, shares honest insights about working with pets and their owners, and talks about the changes she's seen in veterinary care over the years. From the emotional challenges to the most rewarding parts of the job, Karen gives us a look behind the clinic doors.
Produced by Wavebreaker Productions
 
#VeterinarianLife #HiltonVetCentre #AnimalCare #VetStories #PetHealth #VeterinaryMedicine #DogLovers #CatLovers #PawsomeCompanion #PetWellbeing #BehindTheVetDoors
 

Independence on Four Paws: Aida’s Life with a Guide Dog

In this heartwarming episode of The Pawsome Companion, host Johanna Herrera sits down with Aida Laverde, a visually impaired woman whose life has been transformed through the support of her guide dog. Aida opens up about her journey from Colombia to Australia, her experiences navigating the world with vision loss, and how her guide dog provides not just mobility—but freedom, confidence, and companionship.
This episode is a powerful reminder of the life-changing bond between people and their assistance dogs.
 
Produced by Wavebreaker Productions 
 
#GuideDogs #AssistanceDogs #VisuallyImpaired #ServiceAnimals #IndependenceWithDogs #PawsomeCompanion #DisabilitySupport #BlindCommunity #DogLovers #InspiringStories