Practical Pet Chat Podcast By Lorin Grow Robert Semrow cover art

Practical Pet Chat

Practical Pet Chat

By: Lorin Grow Robert Semrow
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Hosted by seasoned, award-winning pet industry professionals, Lorin Grow and Robert Semrow. Practical Pet Chat is the ultimate podcast for pet lovers, industry professionals, and anyone who’s passionate about enhancing the lives of pets. Whether you’re a dedicated pet owner, a veterinarian, a pet trainer, or simply someone who cares about animals, this podcast brings you insightful discussions, expert advice, and real-world solutions. From tips on pet care and behavior to the latest trends in the pet industry, Practical Pet Chat is your go-to source for everything related to making pets’ lives better, healthier, and happier. Tune in for engaging conversations that are both informative and practical, helping you make the most out of your relationship with your furry friends!All rights reserved. Social Sciences
Episodes
  • Practical Pet Chat - Episode 9 - Hey Pup, You Be You!

    Practical Pet Chat - Episode 9 - Hey Pup, You Be You!
    Mar 21 2026
    On this episode of Practical Pet Chat, Lorin and Rob explore the idea of “Hey Pup, You Be You.” It’s a simple phrase, but it opens up a thoughtful conversation about the expectations we place on our pets and how those expectations can shape the way we interact with them. As pet parents, we often approach our time with our animals with a goal in mind—how they should behave, how quickly they should respond, or how a particular interaction should go. Whether it’s during walks, playtime, training, or everyday moments at home, we sometimes forget that our pets are individuals with their own personalities, preferences, and ways of communicating. Lorin and Rob discuss how the time we spend with our pets should ideally be a mutually beneficial experience, one where we allow our animals the space to express who they are rather than constantly guiding them toward a specific reaction or pattern of behavior. Our pets are always communicating with us—through their actions, their energy, their engagement, or even their hesitation. Those responses, whether good, bad, or seemingly indifferent, are often telling us something deeper about what they are feeling or experiencing in that moment. The conversation also touches on the balance many pet parents wrestle with: Are we sometimes taking things too far in how we interpret or manage our pets’ behavior, or are we simply evolving toward a deeper level of respect, love, and appreciation for them as companions? In many cases, the line can be thin. Throughout the episode, Lorin and Rob explore how learning to step back, observe, and occasionally let our pets simply “be themselves” can strengthen the bond we share with them. As long as our actions are supportive, safe, and not harmful to the pet, sometimes the best thing we can do is allow for a little more understanding, a little more patience—and then simply move forward together. All of this and more on this thoughtful episode of Practical Pet Chat, where the message might just be: Hey pup… you be you.
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    17 mins
  • Practical Pet Chat - Episode 8 - The Habits of our Pets

    Practical Pet Chat - Episode 8 - The Habits of our Pets
    Mar 15 2026
    On this episode of Practical Pet Chat, Lorin and Rob dive into one of the most fascinating parts of living with animals—the habits of our pets. From the behaviors we see every day to the unusual and sometimes downright quirky things our pets do, this episode explores how much of what we experience with our pets is actually the result of an ongoing two-way conversation. Pets are incredible observers. They are constantly watching us and learning from everything we do—our routines, our tone of voice, our body language, our moods, and even the subtle shifts in our energy. While we may think we are simply going about our day, our pets are paying attention to every detail and using those cues to interpret the world around them. Lorin and Rob discuss how pets translate these observations into their own responses and communication with us. Over time, our animals develop a deep understanding of our patterns and signals, often responding before we even realize we have communicated something. In many ways, our pets are not just reacting to commands—they are responding to a complex mix of cues that we give unconsciously every day. The conversation also explores the idea that being a great pet parent isn’t just about training—it’s about awareness. Learning to observe your pet’s mannerisms, habits, and behavioral shifts can reveal important information about their emotions, needs, and even their health. Sometimes the smallest cues—a glance, a pause, a posture change, or a different tone in a bark—can tell a much bigger story. Rob shares a technique he calls the “Thank You Method,” a simple but powerful approach he uses to acknowledge the natural protective instincts of dogs. Rather than discouraging a dog’s instinct to alert or protect, the method recognizes the behavior, communicates appreciation, and then calmly reassures the dog that the situation is handled. This approach helps maintain a dog’s confidence while reinforcing calm leadership from the human side of the relationship. Throughout the episode, Lorin and Rob share stories, observations, and insights about how paying closer attention to our pets can strengthen the bond we share with them. When we slow down and truly observe the way our pets communicate, we begin to see a richer, more nuanced relationship—one built on mutual awareness, trust, and understanding. Sometimes the biggest lessons our pets teach us come from the smallest moments. And when we learn to notice those moments, it can make a meaningful difference in our pets’ lives—and in our own. All of this and much more on this episode of Practical Pet Chat.
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    14 mins
  • Practical Pet Chat - Episode 7 - Pet Dental Health Month - The Impacts To Our Pets Health Care

    Practical Pet Chat - Episode 7 - Pet Dental Health Month - The Impacts To Our Pets Health Care
    Mar 5 2026
    On this episode of Practical Pet Chat, Rob and Lorin open wide and dive deep into one of the most underestimated — yet critically important — pillars of pet health: dental care. It’s easy to dismiss “doggy breath” as normal or assume a little tartar isn’t a big deal. But in this episode, they unpack the real consequences of neglected oral health — and why what’s happening in your pet’s mouth doesn’t stay in the mouth. From gum disease and tooth fractures to bacteria entering the bloodstream and affecting the heart, liver, and kidneys, they explain how dental disease can quietly shorten your pet’s lifespan and diminish their quality of life. Lorin shares practical guidance on: The stages of periodontal disease and how early it starts Subtle signs of dental pain most pet parents miss What’s truly effective at home (and what’s marketing hype) How often professional cleanings are needed — and why anesthesia isn’t the villain people think it is Rob brings the real-life perspective, including the unforgettable story of Bella’s “branch incident” — when an enthusiastic game of fetch turned into a full-tree commitment and a dental emergency no one saw coming. It’s funny (now), relatable, and a powerful reminder that sometimes the smallest moments lead to the biggest lessons. They also tackle common myths: “Dry kibble cleans teeth.” “If they’re eating, they’re fine.” “Dentals are optional.” Plus, they share realistic, doable tips for busy pet parents — from brushing techniques and dental wipes to chews, toys, and how to build habits your pet will actually tolerate. As always, the conversation blends education with humor, practical advice with real stories, and a reminder that prevention is always kinder — and often less expensive — than treatment. Healthy teeth. Healthier pets. A few laughs along the way. All of this and more on Practical Pet Chat.
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    18 mins
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