Straight Up Dog Talk

05/15/2025

Got to check out the grand opening of Downtown Dogs Canine Social Club—a brand-new doggy daycare made specifically for pups (and their people) living right here in the heart of downtown.They’re creating a much-needed space for dogs to play, learn, and socialize safely in an urban environment—and I was so happy to see two local rescue groups there too, complete with adoptable puppies (yes, I almost left with one).It’s always a joy to support small businesses doing big things for their local dog community.Follow along for more behind-the-scenes visits to pet-friendly small businesses—both locally and across the U.S. as we hit the road for the RV tour! Emily Breslin

05/14/2025

🐾 What makes a small rescue so powerful?

In Episode 74, Em chats with Crystal from Dogs Forever—a no-kill, volunteer-run shelter doing BIG things for dogs in Cedar Rapids.

They talk about what makes Dogs Forever different, how being small creates deeper care, and what to know before fostering or adopting.

🎧 Don’t miss this heartwarming convo about second chances, community, and the love behind rescue.



https://straightupdogtalk.com/streaming-platforms

04/30/2025

Now Streaming!

https://straightupdogtalk.com/streaming-platforms

04/25/2025

🎙️ Friendly reminder!
Straight Up Dog Talk has officially moved to a new hosting platform—and we’re still streaming everywhere you love to listen!

🐾 You can catch every episode on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music, YouTube, and more.

👉 Find all the listening options here:
https://straightupdogtalk.com/streaming-platforms

💛 Thank you for being part of this community—and for growing with us as we move into this next chapter.
We can’t wait to bring you more episodes, plus video interviews and the upcoming RV tour! 🚌✨

The only show where honesty, empathy, and education meet—no topic is off-limits.

04/23/2025

Just your friendly reminder that the podcast is now being hosted and distributed through Spotify! It will no longer post here automatically! I know that’s a bummer but it’s making editing and so many other things easier.

Need a way to listen? Follow the link to my website and listen directly on the page or search Straight Up Dog Talk on any of your favorite streaming platforms!

Today’s episode is with !

https://straightupdogtalk.com/fuel-the-mission-%26-listen

04/21/2025

Still riding the high from the Eastern Iowa Pet Expo andfeeling so grateful for the incredible community that showed up and showed out!

This video features quick clips from the Straight Up Dog Talk livestream—just a taste of the amazing businesses and rescues that joined us on-air yesterday.

I’ve tried posting this a few times on Facebook, but for some reason, the video hasn’t been processing correctly. So I’ve uploaded the full video recap to YouTube, and you can watch it there! Here’s think link:

https://youtu.be/5214UYCqI0c?si=BH1JlMOPiXNNVvxA

I’m beyond thankful to everyone who sat down for an interview, shared their story, and brought such great energy to the booth. These are exactly the kinds of events we hope to keep highlighting once the RV is on the road. This expo felt like the perfect kickoff for what’s to come—and we’re so excited to keep filming behind-the-scenes content and livestream episodes at future events!

Huge shoutout to all the amazing participants and attendees:

Boujee Bijou, Animal Welfare Friends, Damsel in Defense, Blooming by Connie, Golden Retriever Rescue of Iowa, Kennedy Crafting Company, Kyle Solomon Photography, La Bella Pet Salon, Matty's Hot Pepper Infusion , Hackles & Hide K9 Academy, Customs by Jenn, Creative Laser Creation, Living Characters Balloons, Designs by Deborah, Kristen’s Crafts, Sweet Creations by Jen, Pawsitive Vibez, Mr. Sushi, Dr. Christine Woodward VIPsvet, Holly’s Hobby, Wilderness Oddities, K9COLA Citizens for Off-Leash Areas, Oak Valley Products, Moments Hospice, Kaylee’s Clay Co, Van’s Cozy Canines, Whiskers Crafty Mom, WAM BAM Creations, Rockstar Cocker Rescue, Laketastic Creations, Dogs Forever, Cheshire Moon Farms, Mabel and Pearl Tea Company, Cabin Corner Gifts, Beautiful Imperfections, Boardrow Photography, Homemade For You, Familiar Cat Café, Backyard Blends, Avon with Lani Burton, Wammi’s Wild Designs, Meow and Co., SAINT Cat Rescue, Deck Diaries, Mels Custom Creation, Razzle Dazzle Creations by Rissa, Mabel & Pearl Tea Co. and Nana’s Crochet.

I’ll be tagging as many of you as Facebook allows in this post and will include the rest in the comments!

Please like, share, and follow—and when you share it, encourage your followers to do the same.
It helps support the podcast and gives more visibility to all of the incredible small businesses, rescues, and creators that showed up and gave their time.

Thank you for making this such a fun, heartwarming, and meaningful event!

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Still riding the high from the Eastern Iowa Pet Expo and feeling so grateful for the incredible community that showed up and showed out!This video features q...

04/21/2025

Hey Straight Up Dog Talk Fam!

We’ve officially switched podcast platforms!
I’m now hosting the show through Spotify for Podcasters, which gives me more creative control and supports the next chapter of the podcast—including the upcoming RV journey and video episodes coming soon!

Here’s what that means for you:
Episodes will no longer auto-publish to this page like they did with Podbean—but don’t worry! You can still listen on Spotify, Apple, YouTube, Amazon, iHeartRadio, or wherever you love to tune in.

Use this link to listen on your favorite platform:
https://straightupdogtalk.com/streaming-platforms

This switch also makes it easier for us to start adding video to future episodes, so you’ll be able to watch, listen, and connect with the stories in a whole new way.

Thanks for being part of this journey and continuing to support Straight Up Dog Talk. Your listens, shares, and encouragement help keep this mission moving—literally!

The ONLY Dog Podcast where Dog Parents, Guardians, & Professionals get real, educate & advocate for both sides of the leash!

04/16/2025

⚖️ Do you know your state’s laws when it comes to dogs? Many pet parents don’t—and some of these laws are surprising, heartbreaking, and even dangerous for our furry companions.
In this eye-opening episode, Em sits down with Lauren from Choose Wisely Training to discuss the huge differences in dog laws across the U.S. Some protect our pets, while others… not so much. From breed-specific legislation to leash laws and legal loopholes that put dogs at risk, this conversation is a must-listen for every responsible pet parent.
💡 Why this matters:✔️ Understanding your state’s laws can help you protect your dog✔️ Some laws are outdated and harmful to pets✔️ Awareness is the first step to advocating for change
🐾 Don’t wait until it’s too late—know your pet’s rights and how to keep them safe. Tune in for an important discussion that every pet guardian needs to hear.
Stay Connected:
💛 Follow Straight Up Dog Talk for more insights and updates on Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube.📲 Connect with Lauren from Choose Wisely Training on Instagram for more educational content on pet laws and responsible training.

04/14/2025

This Wednesday, we're excited to bring you a fresh episode. Emily from Straight Up Dog Talk Podcast joins us to reminisce about our past and discuss dreams that are currently being realized. Straight Up Dog Talk Podcast

04/09/2025

Tired of playing fetch for the millionth time and still having a dog that’s not tired?Same. That’s why I got the SwiftPaws chase toy—and it changed everything.We’ve tried flirt poles, puzzle games, and endless backyard sessions… but nothing drains Fitz’s energy quite like this. It taps into his natural chase instincts, keeps him thinking, and gives him the ultimate zoomie outlet—all without needing hours of my time.I set it up in under 15 minutes, and the battery lasts for multiple sessions. After just 10 minutes of play, he was mentally and physically exhausted. I’m talking passed-out-on-the-floor level tired.If you’ve got a dog with oodles of energy or one that gets bored easily, this is the toy for you.Use code SUDT10 to save 10% on your SwiftPaws chase toy today!Follow for more dog enrichment ideas and play-based training tips! post contains an affiliate link. If you use my code, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Thanks for supporting our enrichment-loving community!

04/09/2025

🐶 Are carbs making our dogs unhealthy? In this episode, Em sits down with Daniel Schulof, author of Dogs, Dog Food, and Dogma and founder of Keto Natural Dog Food, to break down the impact of carbohydrates on canine health and obesity.
💡 They dive deep into the role of nutrition in our dogs’ overall well-being, discussing the science behind diet, metabolism, and how certain foods affect long-term health. Plus, Em shares her personal experience feeding the Keto Natural Diet to her picky eater, Fitz, and what she learned along the way.
🎧 If you’re looking for real, science-backed insights on canine nutrition and practical tips to support your dog’s health, this episode is a must-listen!
Stay Connected:💛 Follow Straight Up Dog Talk for more insights and updates on Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube.📲 Check out Keto Natural Dog Food and Daniel’s book Dogs, Dog Food, and Dogma to learn more!

04/02/2025

✨ Have you ever wondered how Reiki can support your pet’s well-being? In this episode, Em sits down with Tatiana from Howling OM to explore the benefits of Reiki for both pets and their humans.
💡 As Reiki Masters, Em and Tatiana share their experiences as practitioners, the ways energy healing can enhance a pet’s daily life, and how mindfulness and balance play a role in strengthening the human-animal bond. Whether you're new to Reiki or already familiar with its healing properties, this episode is packed with insights into holistic wellness for you and your pets.
🎧 Tune in for a thoughtful discussion on energy, connection, and the power of healing with Reiki!
Stay Connected:💛 Follow Straight Up Dog Talk for more insights and updates on Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube.📲 Check out Howling OM to learn more about Tatiana’s work with Reiki and holistic pet wellness!
This episode is brought to you by our Partnership with Howling OM
Check out Howling OM’s Services: https://howlingom.com/
Buy 3 Sessions and Get 1 Free!