Behavior Buzzzzzz with 2 Amys
We're your sassy hosts, Dr. Amy L. Pike and Dr. Amy Learn, A.K.A...THE AMYS! As Board Certified Veterinary Behaviorists, we understand the challenges of pet guardianship. Every day we diagnose and treat behavior problems. And, every day we help pets and their people navigate the sea of confusing, misleading, and downright false information swirling around on the internet and social media.We provide clinical insight into underlying causes of behavior problems, make cynical sense of nonsense, disprove myths, and promote positive, trusting human/animal relationships. We're dedicated to modern, science-based intervention without the use of pain, fear, f...
Citizen Scientists - A Perfect Swarm
What if YOUR DOG could help scientists fight an invasive species? The Amys found this topic so fascinating, they’re revisiting it with two of the project’s researchers.
Join the Amys and their extraordinary guests, Dr. Sally Dickinson and Dr. Erica Feuerbacher, to discuss their fascinating work teaching dogs to detect spotted lanternflies—and how everyday dog owners can play a role in real scientific discovery through citizen science.
Dig into how dogs learn to identify the scent of these invasive insects, what it takes to turn a pet dog into...
HELTER SHELTER - The Candy Man
Who can calm a kennel with patience, skill, and care, turn a stressed-out shelter moment into something bright and fair? The Candy Man Can.
Who can sort the chaos? Who can read the room? Spot the tiny signs of worry and help shelters beat the gloom? The Candy Man Can.
Join the Amys and their legendary guest, Tom Candy, UK-based shelter behavior guru, professional myth-buster, and owner of what may be the most practical philosophy in animal welfare: the "Fuck It" approach. (Don't worry—it's more evidence-based than it sounds.)<...
The Fountain of Youth
Join the Amys and their paradigm-shifting guest, Dr. Kevin Toman—a veterinarian who has officially run out of patience for nonsense after 30+ years in the trenches. His latest obsession? Not just keeping pets alive, but keeping them thriving—longer, stronger, and with fewer unnecessary pills, protocols, and profit-driven “standards of care.” He’s traded the status quo for science, and he’s not exactly whispering about it.
Dr. Toman cuts through the BS with surgical precision…Does “more medicine” always mean better medicine? What does corporate veterinary care get wrong? Can you actually e...
The Lanternfly Hunters
"Problem-solving is hunting; it is savage pleasure and we are born to it.”
– Dr. Hannibal Lecter, Silence of the Lambs
Join the Amys for a fascinating conversation with innovative dog trainer Melissa McCue-McGrath, who’s turning canine noses into powerful conservation tools… What started as a simple passion project for a research article has grown into a mission-driven crusade against the spotted lanternfly—one of America’s most destructive invasive species.
We explore how scent detection training works, why dogs are uniquely suited for this kind of envir...
KONG®- A Legacy of Play
Join The Amys and two powerhouse team members from KONG® — a veterinarian specializing in feline medicine and a long-time professional trainer — for a deep dive into enrichment, play, and solving real-world behavior challenges. They explore how thoughtful play supports physical health, emotional wellbeing, and stronger human–animal bonds in both cats and dogs. From food puzzles and prey-sequence play to managing boredom, anxiety, and destructive behaviors, their guests share practical strategies that pet professionals and owners alike can implement immediately.
Whether you’re a veterinarian, trainer, or devoted pet parent, this conversation will reframe how you t...
Losing Lulu - The Origins of Caretaker Support
In this deeply meaningful episode, The Amys sit down with Sue Alexander, founder of Losing Lulu, to talk about one of the most painful and misunderstood decisions in companion animal care: behavioral euthanasia.
Together, we explore the emotional weight carried by families and professionals when love isn’t enough to keep everyone safe. Sue shares her behavioral euthanasia stories, and the origin story behind Losing Lulu, how the community has become a lifeline for grieving pet guardians, and why shame and silence so often surround this topic. We discuss the moral injury experienced by ve...
Lifestyle Support for Complex Pets
Some pets don’t fit neatly into a single diagnosis – and neither do their treatment plans. Join the Amys and their dynamic guests, Board-Certified Veterinary Behaviorist Dr. E’Lise Christensen and Certified Dog Behavior Consultant Ursa Acree, to discuss their innovative Complex Pets Program, which is designed to support animals with interwoven medical and behavioral needs. They discuss what makes a case “complex,” why collaborative care is essential, and how bridging behavior and medicine can change outcomes for pets and their people.
Dr. Christensen and Ursa share how their program creates a structured, compassionate approach fo...
A Dog Trainer Mystery - Part 2 | REMASTERED
Come for the mystery... stay for the buzzzzzz 🥂! And now... the suspenseful conclusion of this two-part series featuring world renowned animal behaviorist and author, Dr. Patricia McConnell.
CHEERS! from your favorite VBees 🐝🐝 and the team at Behavior Buzzzzzz with 2 Amys veterinary behavior podcast. Thanks for sticking with us! 🍯
Follow Dr. McConnell on Facebook & InstagramDr. McConnell's website: patriciamcconnell.comAway to Me website: patriciamcconnell.com/away-to-me/Dr. McConnell's blog: The Other End...A Dog Trainer Mystery - Part 2
Come for the mystery... stay for the buzzzzzz 🥂! And now... the suspenseful conclusion of this two-part series featuring world renowned animal behaviorist and author, Dr. Patricia McConnell.
CHEERS! from your favorite VBees 🐝🐝 and the team at Behavior Buzzzzzz with 2 Amys veterinary behavior podcast. Thanks for sticking with us! 🍯
Follow Dr. McConnell on Facebook & InstagramDr. McConnell's website: patriciamcconnell.comAway to Me website: patriciamcconnell.com/away-to-me/Dr. McConnell's blog: The Other End...A Dog Trainer Mystery - Part 1
In this two-part series, the Amys are joined by world renowned animal behaviorist and author, Dr. Patricia McConnell, to discuss her new mystery novel, Away to Me. Known for her decades of work in animal behavior and her gift for storytelling, Dr. McConnell shares how her own love of reading, and her deep understanding of behavior, relationships, and emotional nuance shapes her fiction.
We explore the inspiration behind Away to Me, the themes woven throughout the story, and how her background in behavior influences the way...
Stop Trying to Fix Your Clients
Join The Amys and their extraordinary guest, Lily Hargis, a dog trainer whose work spans both animal behavior consulting and a human medical teaching hospital, where they teach young doctors to lead with empathy in clinical practice.
The skills used to support animals and their caregivers—listening, emotional awareness, clear communication, and compassion—translate directly into human medicine. Discover how Lily’s degree in Theater led them down this uniquely important path.
Is empathy a clinical skill? Or a personality trait? How does empathy play a critical role in patient outcomes...
Behind the Scenes with a Veterinary Practice Manager
Step behind the scenes and into the heartbeat of a veterinary clinic. Join the Amys and their guest, Kanada Oliver, Practice Manager of Main Street Veterinary Hospital in Flower Mound, Texas, as they pull back the curtain on everything clients don’t see — from staff management, to emotional support for the team, and the controlled chaos of keeping a hospital running smoothly. Our guest shares candid insights, surprising stories, and practical wisdom about what it really takes to balance patient care, client expectations, and the well-being of a veterinary team.
Whet...
Signs, Signs, Everywhere are Signs
Welcome to the fascinating world of pheromones, where research and innovation have refined our understanding of chemical messaging, and revolutionized its’ impact on pet welfare. Join the Amys and their very special guest, Dr. Beth Strickler, board-certified veterinary behaviorist and proud member of the team at Signs Laboratory, a company pioneering new approaches to pheromone science. Explore the science of pheromones and how they influence emotional states in dogs, cats, and rabbits. And, step behind the scenes for a closer look at the latest biomimetic research supporting the use of these groundbreaking tools in veterinary behavior.
...
Emotional First Aid for Pet Parents
Animal well-being starts with HUMAN well-being. Parenting a reactive dog can be emotionally exhausting — not just for the dog, but for the humans who love and train them. In this episode, The Amys welcome licensed professional counselor and founder of Handlers and Humans, Jess Adam, who specializes in coaching and supporting trainers and guardians of reactive dogs. They discuss the significant stigma and emotional strain guardians often face, and, tools and strategies for promoting self-care while helping reactive dogs thrive.
It’s time to shake off the stigma, grab a cockt...
Frenchies are F'd
French Bulldogs may be one of the most popular dog breeds in the world, but behind their big eyes and compact bodies lies a heartbreaking reality. Join The Amys and their groundbreaking guest, Dr. Julia Tomlinson, for a controversial conversation about how these dogs are being bred for looks over health—and the devastating consequences that follow. From chronic breathing issues to spinal deformities, skin problems, and the emotional toll of living in discomfort, we explore why the very traits that make Frenchies so trendy, are also making them suffer.
What should <...
The Write Stuff
Have you read any good books lately? We have! Join the Amys and the authors of their favorite new book, Dog Parenting: An Illustrated Guide to Understanding, Training and Bonding with Your Best Friend – Beth Mullen, Tara Murtagh, and (spoiler alert) Dr. Amy L. Pike! This book breaks down dog training into small, easily digestible pieces, intended to build and maintain strong, trusting relationships.
Have you ever wondered how your dog sees the world? Have you ever wished you could read their body language and interpret their behavior? This warm-hearted boo...
Killing 2 Amys with 1 Stone
Turns out calling someone “bird brained” isn’t an insult at all... Join the Amys and their exotic guest, Certified Parrot Behavior Consultant, founder of Parrot SOS, and ultimate wingwoman, Robin Horemans, as they swoop into the fascinating (and sometimes frustrating) world of parrot behavior. Parrots possess an extremely high degree of cognitive and emotional intelligence, which can get them into trouble. From screaming and biting, to feather-plucking and household chaos, we explore the most common behavior challenges faced by captive parrots and the families who love them.
Is it e...
The Amys Pee'd Their Pants (with laughter)
The crazy train is pullin' into Urination Station. Can you guess who's on board? It's the Amys, of course! You've officially entered cat territory, and if kitty elimination questions are littering your brain (or your abode), this is the stop for you. In this episode the Amys guide you through all the marks and misses of the most common behavioral concern among cat owners (just bee prepared to laugh until you pee your pants).
It's that time again... so grab a cocktail, and get up to speed on the latest buzzzzzz, courtesy of your...
Dogs, Data & The Dating Game : Adoption Advice from a Canine Scientist
Bachelor #1 likes long walks on the beach, snuggling by the fire, and is a massive foodie. Bachelor #2 loves to travel and is always planning his next big adventure. He spends Saturdays at the lake, Sundays at the brewery, and enjoys hosting big gatherings for his huge family and wide circle of friends. Bachelor #3 works 14-hour days from the comfort of his pristine, midtown penthouse. He enjoys sailing, polo, and summers on the Cape. He collects rare wine, fine art, and limited-edition Aston Martins...
Which canine is the perfect companion for each of these eligible...
One FLU Over the Cuckoo's Nest
In this episode, the Amys take on RFK Jr and the Trump administration. Ok, not really... But we are talking about Avian Flu and how this administration’s policies regarding science are leaving a fowl taste in the mouths of experts.
Join the Amys and their expert guest Dr. Kate Allison, internationally renowned for her work in public health and zoonotic disease, for a feather-ruffling discussion about the right wing's defunding of testing and research grants necessary to prevent another pandemic.
What spreads faster - Avian Flu or misinformation? Grab a...
Talk Dirty to Me
Are you sick of people not understanding gay rights or transgender peoples? Animals don't care! The Amys understand that love is love no matter who you are. Join us in celebrating pride month with our sexpert Dr. Kara Kolster, studier of the creation of the beast, as we discuss the animal kingdom's secret and not-so-taboo sexual encounters.
Normal, natural, and free from judgement wins the day! It sounds like human society just needs to move from Puritanical to Prideful. 🏳️🌈
Grab a cocktail, and get up to speed on the latest buzzzzzz, c...
Science DOES Matter!
Dr. Kristina Spaulding returns to flip the script on the Amys! Research Bites is Dr. Spaulding’s podcast and platform for delivering applied animal behavior to non-scientists, and revealing how science and research apply to working and living with dogs in our everyday lives. Join the conversation about everything from the Mind-Body Unit, to the controversy over the game of fetch.
What if a rose was not a rose at all? How should veterinarians, trainers, and behavior consultants be working collectively toward common goals?
...
We're Off to See the Wizard!
Steve Dale has his pulse on the veterinary and training world at all times - thats why we call him the Wizard!
Join the Amys and certified Animal Behavior Consultant, pet expert, public speaker, and host of Steve Dale's Pet World, the fabulous Steve Dale, as they discuss heart disease in cats and emerging new treatments. They also delve into behavior and training - 🎶because, because, because, because... that's what the Amys do!🎶
Grab a cocktail and your ruby slippers, and get up to speed on the lat...
Tails of Tethered Cord Syndrome : A Medical Mystery
Is your pet a medical or behavioral mystery? Searching for the veterinary version of Dr. House can be frustrating. Join the Amys as they discuss Malus - a very special Terrier with a medical mystery. Without his mom Katrina pushing for a diagnosis, Malus' behavior would never have improved. Learn more about this mysterious disorder - Tethered Cord Syndrome - which can only be diagnosed and treated by a few veterinarians in the world!
Grab a cocktail, and get up to speed on the latest buzzzzzz, courtesy of your favorite VBees 🐝🐝, on the latest episod...
Tails of Tethered Cord Syndrome : A Medical Mystery
Is your pet a medical or behavioral mystery? Searching for the veterinary version of Dr. House can be frustrating. Join the Amys as they discuss Malus - a very special Terrier with a medical mystery. Without his mom Katrina pushing for a diagnosis, Malus' behavior would never have improved. Learn more about this mysterious disorder - Tethered Cord Syndrome - which can only be diagnosed and treated by a few veterinarians in the world!
Grab a cocktail, and get up to speed on the latest buzzzzzz, courtesy of your favorite VBees 🐝🐝, on the latest episod...
Wag More, Bark Less
Ever wonder if your dogs and cats are happy? What constitutes happiness for our companion animals? Join the Amys and their esteemed guest, award-winning author and creator of Companion Animal Psychology, Dr. Zazie Todd, as they discuss the science of our pet's happiness. Dr. Todd remains a major voice and driving force behind the worldwide humane dog training movement and has dedicated her career to animal welfare and improving the human-animal bond.
Are YOU the secret to your pet's happiness? How can you help break down barriers and encourage the...
I Like Big Brains and I Cannot Lie!
Do you like BIG, JUICY, SEXY BRAINS as much as we do? (We're not talking about zombies again...) We're talking about something so much cooler – neuroscience! Join the Amys and their favorite neuroscientist, Dr. Marsha Penner, owner of Learning to Dog Training & Enrichment in Durham, North Carolina, for a mind-tingling discussion about the brain and its critical periods of development.
What are the different parts of the brain and what do they do? When is the best time to learn a new language or musical instrument? Do gambling rats play th...
Stressed The F Out!
Have you ever been stressed out? Were you experiencing eustress, distress, or toxic stress? Do you know what factors in your life have directly affected your stress threshold? Join the Amys and their bee-guiling guest, Dr. Kristina Spaulding - the stress expert - and founder of Science Matters Academy of Animal Behavior, as they discuss all the F words that have to do with stress and how it affects our bodies. They touch on the important areas of the brain that deal with stress and some strategies for better coping.
...
Vet Med For Idiots By Idiots - Part 1
Have you ever wondered what happens when the world turns upside down? Do you know Angela Bassett? Does she run a Board and Train? Join The Amys and their idiotic guests Cory & Kent, co-hosts of the Vet Med For Idiots By Idiots podcast, for an obnoxiously long discussion on the history of veterinary behavior and dog-human interactions. Do you know how to properly mark your territory? Or what a wagging tail REALLY means? We cover how to use your polite manners around every dog, how to teach a basic cue, and, we reveal whether the Amys ever make...
Dark Sarcasm in the Classroom
You can't have any pudding if you don't eat your meat! If you want to have any pudding, join the Amys and their esteemed guest, Jean Donaldson, world-renowned dog trainer, author, and founder of The Academy for Dog Trainers, for a conversation about the state of the training world and how training trainers is serious business.
Grab a 🥄 spoon and a cocktail, and get up to speed on the latest buzzzzzz, courtesy of your favorite VBees 🐝🐝, on the latest episode of Behavior Buzzzzzz with 2 Amys veterinary behavior podcast.
Follow T...Taming the SAVAGE BEAST!
Join the Amys and their guest, Luke Hollenbeck, certified cat behavior consultant and all-around amazing human, to learn more about enriching our feline family member’s lives. Luke’s enthusiasm for all things CAT is infectious - you will leave this episode wanting to craft homemade enrichment items and spend more quality time with your kitties! Luke introduces us to the 5 pillars of a healthy feline environment, and, a must-have book for cat owners and their consultants.
Grab a cocktail or a cup of herbal tea, and get up to speed on the latest buzz...
Cruise Director on the River Styx
Join the Amys as they embark on a journey down the River Styx with their cruise director, and death doula, Kate LaSala, Owner, Rescued By Training, LLC. The Amys discover what a death doula is, and how certified doulas help families navigate difficult end-of-life decisions. Kate also provides her unique perspective on the often “taboo” subject of behavioral euthanasia. Will the Amys encounter Cerberus on their journey? Grab a cocktail, and get up to speed on the latest buzzzzzz, courtesy of your favorite VBees 🐝🐝, on the latest episode of Behavior Buzzzzzz with 2 Amys veterinary behavior p...
Thrilling Them Softly with Kibble
Have you ever wondered if you're feeding your dog the right things? Have you ever thought that your pet’s diet might have a significant effect on their health or behavior? Join the Amys as they set sail on their fancy yacht with Board Certified Veterinary Nutritionist Martha Cline, to discuss all the juicy details about pet food facts and fables.
Visit The Honey Pot at behaviorbuzzzzzz.com for episode references and more information about our guest, Dr. Martha Cline. Thanks, Dr. Martha!
FAKE NEWS in the World of Science
You know what they say... If it's on the internet, then it must be true! Well, sorry to bee a buzzzzzz kill, but, there’s A LOT of fake news in the world. The spread of false information has become a serious challenge to evidence-based decision-making and science communication. So, how can one attempt to cut through the noise and separate fact from fiction?
Join the Amys and their brilliant guest, Dr. Erica Feuerbacher – professor, researcher, and applied animal behavior extraordinaire – for a closer look at what makes research valuable and valid. We discuss how to critic...
Jumping Off the Rainbow Bridge
Working in the pet behavior field isn't always rainbows and unicorns. Instead, sometimes it involves the Rainbow Bridge. This topic is often misunderstood and stigmatized as the dark side of behavior. However, in science and in life, it is essential we refrain from drawing conclusions or placing blame without weighing facts and exploring varying points of view. One perspective is that the practice of euthanasia is a painless and humane way of releasing a pet from their suffering when all other means have been exhausted, and can be considered a compassionate and selfless gift.
Join The...
The Art of the Science
All sentient beings can have BIG feelings. In the animal behavior field, the work is not just about the pet. Join the Amys for an enlightening discussion about helping the humans that seek help for their pets. The Amys are joined by their colleague and special guest, Dr. Rachel Malamed, DACVB, who guides us on a behind the scenes tour of the art of communication. Meet us at the intersection where the art and science of behavior merge, and learn how our relationships with pet parents serve to improve outcomes far beyond what’s attainable when focusing on th...
What's Next... Banned Books? Addressing the paucity of behavior education in veterinary schools | REMASTERED
Who is to blame for the lack of behavioral medicine in our veterinary education system? Certainly NOT the Amys! In this episode, the Amys tackle the state of veterinary behavior medicine education in North America with their colleague, Dr. Chris Pachel, DACVB. Dr. Chris educates veterinary students and veterinarians around the globe on behavior medicine, so why is there still such bad advice coming out of the mouths of our veterinarian friends and colleagues? What are we to do about that? Can trainers and clients even trust what their vet says about behavior?
Take a listen...
What's Next... Banned Books? Addressing the paucity of behavior education in veterinary schools
Who is to blame for the lack of behavioral medicine in our veterinary education system? Certainly NOT the Amys! In this episode, the Amys tackle the state of veterinary behavior medicine education in North America with their colleague, Dr. Chris Pachel, DACVB. Dr. Chris educates veterinary students and veterinarians around the globe on behavior medicine, so why is there still such bad advice coming out of the mouths of our veterinarian friends and colleagues? What are we to do about that? Can trainers and clients even trust what their vet says about behavior?
Take a listen...
The Dog Whisper of Death | REMASTERED
No toxic masculinity here! Only good old fashioned, non-confrontational, reward-based dog training. In this episode, The Amys are joined by world-renowned dog trainer and advocate, Zak George, to discuss the current state of affairs in the dog training industry. They tackle tough topics like why people are drawn to punitive methods and tools, whether the training industry should be regulated, and how to ensure dog training certification is accessible to those with limited financial means if regulation is enacted. Zak updates listeners about what he has on the horizon for the rest of 2024 and beyond!
Grab...
The Dog Whisper of Death
No toxic masculinity here! Only good old fashioned, non-confrontational, reward-based dog training. In this episode, The Amys are joined by world-renowned dog trainer and advocate, Zak George, to discuss the current state of affairs in the dog training industry. They tackle tough topics like why people are drawn to punitive methods and tools, whether the training industry should be regulated, and how to ensure dog training certification is accessible to those with limited financial means if regulation is enacted. Zak updates listeners about what he has on the horizon for the rest of 2024 and beyond!
Grab...
