Never Just A Dog

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 saying goodbye to a dog who had been both her companion and television partner, and how life changes when a dog who had shaped so many year...

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 further. His journey took him to Beautiful Joe Park in Meaford, Canada, a place dedicated to remembering service animals. What he saw there became the ca...

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 Ingraham.

Connect with your host John Littlefair via email below

john@johnlittlefair.com.au

Official Never Just A Dog W...

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 million copies worldwide. It was first published in 1893 and became the first Canadian book to sell over a million copies.  

Today, the...

 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 unbreakable bond he shares with his black Labrador and police partner, Chase. This story is about resilience, love, and determination.

Todd's wife, Tina, has transformed her heartbreak into a missi...

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 dogs have always been woven into human history—not just as companions, but as loyal partners in life.

Join John as he traces the origins of this timeless connection and the devotion th...

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 psychological flexibility in today’s fast-paced world.

As a regular commentator on TODAY EXTRA, SUNRISE, Nine News Perth, and a columnist for Body + Soul, Marny’s advice is trusted by thousands. She’s also the author of Burnout to Brilliant and Crisis...

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 forward while holding onto cherished memories, and how her journey has taken a new turn with the recent arrival of Reeva, a rehomed dog. Ree...

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 her stories with warmth and authenticity.

 Brody’s passing has left a profound absence, yet his memory continues to resonate in Gail’s work. With a background in Psychology, Mental Health, and Cre...

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 conversation about teen grief and life after loss'.

You can pre-order/purchase Clarissa's book through the link below

 Purchase Here

You can host the...

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 and the ways he’s found to cope and honor Grace’s memory.

In this episode, we continue our exploration of this deeply emotional journey with Brad’s w...

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, Brad will share his story, the profound impact of this loss on their lives, and how he has found ways to cope and honor Grace's memory.

'A personal mention...

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 licensed mental health counsellor and educator in private practice, she has offered clinical guidance to many individuals and groups experiencing grief and loss. She is the founder of the Rochester Center f...

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

Original music be Eliza-Rose Kan 

Never Just A Dog Website Link

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 comedians Angus and Hamish.  

Connect with John directly via email:

john@johnlittlefair.com.au

Website

https://johnlittlefair.com.au/about/

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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 Roselle played a pivotal role in this story of teamwork, resilience, and the indomitable will to not just live but thrive. All of this is beautifully chronicled in his Best-Selling book Thunder Dog.<...

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, Carolyn, Sonya, Kate, Mark, Dylan, Mary-Frances, Andrew and Anji. 

In this episode, John mentions the incredible work of Mary-Frances O'Connor, PhD.  Find out more by visiting her website below.

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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 MHT (Men Healthier Together) and to find out more about this organisation visit the link below.

https://healthiermen.com.au/

Andrew also mentions the Mandurah Boat, Caravan, 4W...

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 between love, loss, and science.

The website link is below to learn more about Mary-Frances O'Connor and purchase her book 'The Grieving Brain'.

https://maryfrancesoconnor.org/book

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.

Dylan's dedication to the welfare of animals led him to work with Giraffes and Rhinos at Perth Zoo before transitioning to a unique aspect of animal care that he...

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 purchase Mark's song 'She is Love'. 

https://markzanotti.bandcamp.com/track/she-is-love

By purchasing this song you not only get to listen to beautiful music bu...

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/

In this episode your host John Littlefair chats with Jirrbal Rainforest Aboriginal woman Sonya Takau.

Sonya talks about using her Aboriginal identity and voice to advocate for the protection and care of the cultural significant totem, the Dingo.

Learn more about Dingo Culture by clicking the link below.

https://www.dingoculture.com/

In this episode your host John Littlefair chats with Carolyn Rubcich.

Carolyn shares her hearfelt journey of life, loss and love.  

To find out more about the amazing organisation that Carolyn speaks about in this episode please visit the link below.

https://www.petrescue.com.au/groups/10316/SAFE-Busselton-Saving-Animals-From-Euthanasia

In this episode your host John Littlefair chats with Wild Bee Scientist and dog lover Dr Kit Prendergast, also known as the Bee Babette.

Dr Kit shares the inspirational and deeply emotional journey with her beloved dog called Zephyr.

In this episode your host John Littlefair chats with Ivana Alfonso.

Ivana shares her inspirational and emotional journey, from fleeing the war torn country of Yugoslavia as a child, to building a new life in Australia with husband Andrew and beloved dogs Bruno and Lea.

This episode is dedicated to Vito.

https://johnlittlefair.com.au/

In this episode your host John Littlefair chats with Luke Mellor.

A heartfelt journey with his dog Milah, his wife beautiful wife Alex, children Eliza and Olly

In this episode your host John Littlefair chats with Himalayan Dog Rescuer Erum Qureshi.

Erum shares her journey from living in Mumbai, moving to the lower Himalayas where she now helps dogs and cats live better lives.  In a place where access to basic medical care for animals is tough, Erum works to get them the help they need, be it surgeries or sterilisation.  

https://johnlittlefair.com.au/

In this episode your host John Littlefair chats with Australian Veterinarian Dr Michel Doney.

Michel speaks openly about her passion for people and their pets, end of life decisions, mental health struggles and the support received from professional colleagues during times of despair.

https://johnlittlefair.com.au/

In this episode your host John Littlefair chats with award winning Hollywood movie dog trainer Mathilde de Cagny. 

Mathilde's journey is inspirational.  Born and raised in Paris, France, she moved to Los Angeles at the age of 20.  Starting as a volunteer for Birds and Animals Unlimited, she would eventually rescue a dog called Fred who was hired to play Einstein in the Back To The Future sequel.

Mathilde's most famous and extensive collaboration was with the late Moose, the Jack Russell terrier who starred for 11 years as 'Eddie' on the television show FRASIER.  

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In this episode your host John Littlefair chats with New York Times Bestselling Author Simon Garfield.

Simon shares his journey of writing the book 'Dogs Best Friend, a brief history of an unbreakable bond'. 

Simon also shares the heartbreaking loss of his beloved Labrador called 'Ludo', who features throughout this incredible book.

In this episode your host John Littlefair chats with Beth King from Kings Funerals.  

Beth talks about Womble the Australian Funeral Comfort Dog, heartbreak in losing a beloved team member and Kings Funerals involvement in the Geelong community.

https://johnlittlefair.com.au/

In this episode your host John Littlefair chats with Assistance Dog Instructor Victoria Wilkinson.

Victoria shares her inspirational journey, from Guide Dogs in London to Therapy and Autism Assistance dogs in Australia, this is her story.........

In this episode your host John Littlefair chats with Colorado artist Shay Guerrero.

Devastated by the sudden loss of her 'heart dog' Willy, Shay talks about her incredibly personal journey. 

From the depths of grief to the inspiration behind her beautiful Alebrije artwork and Mexican culture, this is her story.

In this episode, your host John Littlefair is joined by Lt. David W. Lim (ret.) of the Port Authority Police Department New York and New Jersey.

Assigned to the World Trade Centre together, on the day of 9/11 David would miraculously survive after the North Tower collapsed on top of him.  His partner and friend, PAPD K-9 Explosive Detector Dog Sirius would not survive.

This is his story.

Rest in Peace Sirius

In this episode your host John Littlefair chats with Lillian Maher from the Middle Island Project.  Lillian shares the heartfelt journey with Maremma dogs Eudy and Tula who she describes as true wildlife protecting heros.

In this episode, World Renowned LadyBug Artist Jess shares the emotional last day with her beloved dog called Roo.

In this episode your host John Littlefair chats with Chris Willingham, former US Marine and President of the US War Dogs Association.

Chris openly shares his journey with the Marines alongside his Military Working Dog called Lucca.

Please support this incredible organisation at

www.uswardogs.org