The Fur Real Podcast with Mark A Kyle

In this episode, Mark sits down with Dr. Heather Berst of Zoetis to discuss Breed Explorer — a tool designed to help people find the right pet for their lifestyle, personality, living situation, and activity level.Not every pet is the right fit for every home, and this conversation explores why making the right match matters for both humans and dogs. Apartment dwellers, active outdoor families, first-time pet owners, seniors with limited mobility, and people with large yards all have very different needs — and pets do too. Heather explains how Breed Explorer helps guide potential owners toward breeds that better fit their daily lives, energy levels, and long-term expectations.The episode also dives into breed-specific health concerns, behavioral tendencies, exercise requirements, and what owners should know at different stages of a pet’s life. Whether you’re thinking about getting your first pet or looking for the right companion for your current lifestyle, this episode offers practical insight into building healthier, happier, and more successful relationships between pets and humans.www.zoetispetcare.com www.furrealpodcast.comFB @Zoetis Petcare FB @Mark A Kyleig @Zoetispetcare ig @thefurrealpodcast ig @markakyletik tok @zoetispetcare tik tok @thefurrealpodcastSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Blair Braverman is a musher, adventurer, and celebrated author who has found her greatest teachers on four legs. From long distant racing treks including the Iditarod across 1,000 miles of Alaskan wilderness to the quiet moments between a musher and her dogs, Blair's life is a masterclass in love, resilience, and what it means to keep moving forward. In this conversation, we explore the personalities of her dogs, the brutal beauty of life on the trail, and the profound wisdom that only a pack of sled dogs can teach you. She's a woman with an old soul — and her dogs have much to do with it. ig@ blair_braverman ig@thefurrealpodcast ig@ markakylefb@ Balir Braverman fb@ Mark A Kyletik tok @blairbraverman tik tok @thefurrealpodcastwww.furrealpodcast.comhttps://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/what-to-carry-what-to-burn/id1896260781https://www.amazon.com/Dogs-Trail-Year-Blair-Braverman/dp/0063066262https://www.nytimes.com/2026/03/18/magazine/sled-dogs-pack-racing-mushing.htmlSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Heather Gibson of Big Hearted Breeders joins for a thoughtful conversation that challenges the idea that it has to be adopt or shop. From ethical breeding to rescue, we explore how both paths can coexist when the focus stays where it belongs: on the dogs.We also dive into the powerful role dogs play in our lives—how they support, heal, and connect us in ways that go far beyond companionship.At the end of the day, it’s not about sides—it’s about doing right by dogs and the people who love them.Ig@ bigheartedbreeders Ig@ thefurrealpodcast ig@markakylefb@ Big Hearted Breeders fb@ Mark A Kyletik tok@ Big Hearted Breeders tik tok @The Fur Real Podcastwww.bigheartedbreeders.com www.furrealpodcast.comSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

What if the most powerful weapon against landmines and disease weighed less than three pounds and ran on banana rewards? Meet the HeroRATs.This week, Mark sits down with Christophe Cox — CEO and co-founder of APOPO — to tell the remarkable story of how a wild idea born in Belgium became one of the most innovative humanitarian organizations on the planet. From the organization's scrappy origins to deploying specially trained African giant pouched rats across minefields in Cambodia, Angola, and Mozambique, Christophe shares what it really takes to clear land that's been terrorizing communities for decades.But landmines are just the beginning. These extraordinary animals are also sniffing out tuberculosis in clinics across Africa — catching cases that traditional testing misses — and now being trained for search and rescue and wildlife trafficking detection.It's inspiring, it's eye-opening, and yes, it will make you see rats in a completely different light.ig@ apopo ig@ herorats ig@thefurrealpodcast ig@markakylefb@ apopo fb@ Mark A Kyletik tok@herorats tik tok@ thefurrealpodcast www.apopo.org www.furrealpodcast.comSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

What if your pet could live not just longer—but better?In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Kevin Toman, a veterinarian focused on longevity and proactive care, to explore what it really takes to extend the life—and quality of life—of our animals. From nutrition and early prevention to emerging science and overlooked habits, this conversation breaks down how small, intentional changes can have a massive impact over time.We dive into the difference between lifespan and healthspan, the biggest mistakes pet owners make without realizing it, and what the future of veterinary medicine could look like as longevity becomes the new frontier.Whether you have a young pet or a senior companion, this episode offers practical insights and eye-opening perspectives on how to give them more healthy years by your side.www.helpingpetslivelonger www.furrealpodcast.comig@longevityvet ig@thefurrealpodcast ig@markakylefb@Mark A Kyletik tok @thefurrealpodcastSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Spotted hyenas are often cast as villains—scavengers with eerie laughs and ruthless reputations. But the truth is far more fascinating.In this episode, Dr. Kay Holekamp, one of the world’s leading experts on spotted hyenas, breaks down the science, behavior, and social complexity of one of Africa’s most misunderstood predators. From their powerful matriarchal societies to their intelligence, hunting skills, and unique vocalizations, hyenas challenge almost everything we think we know about them.We dive into the myths vs. reality, what their “laugh” actually means, and why they play a critical role in maintaining balance in the wild. Dr. Holekamp also shares insights from decades of field research, offering a rare look into hyena clans and their intricate social lives.This is a story about perception, science, and giving one of nature’s most unfairly judged animals the respect it deserves.www.thefurrealpodcast www.holekamplab.orgig @thefurrealpodcast ig @markakylefb @markakyletik tok @thefurrealpodcastHelpful linkwww.youtube.com/watch?v=S-b5Ue7V-DMSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Rabbits are often seen as simple, low-maintenance pets—but the truth is far more complex. In this episode, Paige Parsons of Rabbit.org joins the conversation to share what it really means to care for these intelligent, sensitive animals.From the surprising depth of their personalities to the level of commitment they require, this episode explores why rabbits are so often misunderstood. We also dive into the seasonal surge in rabbit adoptions and the difficult reality many face when that initial excitement fades.It’s a conversation that balances both sides—highlighting rabbits as incredible companions, while addressing the responsibility that comes with bringing one home.If you’ve ever thought about getting a rabbit—or already have one—this episode will change the way you see them.www.rabbit.org www.furrealpodcast.orgig @frabbitdotorg ig@thefurrealpodcast ig@markakylefb @Rabbit.org Foundation fb @markakyletik tok @thefurrealpodcastBasica Care Guide https://rabbit.org/care/how-to-care-for-a-pet-rabbit-a-primer/Rabbits and Children https://rabbit.org/care/rabbits-and-children-kids-baby/Local US Rescues https://rabbit.org/rescue/rabbit-rescue-groups/Rabbit Bahavior https://rabbit.org/behavior/reading-your-rabbits-behavior/Diet Guite https://rabbit.org/care/food-diet/See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this episode, I sit down with Sinead Imbaro, a highly experienced K9 trainer and canine search specialist with over two decades of work in detection, tracking, and search and rescue.Sinead shares her journey working alongside elite dogs in some of the most demanding environments—from disaster response to high-level operational deployments. At the center of it all is K9 Magnus Ares, a remarkable working dog whose skill, discipline, and drive represent the very best of what these teams can achieve.We explore what it really takes to train and handle a working dog at this level, the intense bond between handler and K9, and the realities—both physical and emotional—of life in the field.This episode offers a rare, behind-the-scenes look at the dedication, precision, and trust that define these extraordinary canine teams.www.ttk9.com www.furrealpodcast.comfb @sineadimbaro fb @k9protected fb @Mark A Kyleig @sineadimbaro ig @thefurrealpodcast ig @markakyletik tok @K9protected tik tok @thefurrealpodcasthttps://www.newyorker.com/news/dispatch/sifting-silently-through-surfsides-rubbleSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Live from SoHo House Austin during SXSW, this conversation with filmmaker and author Turk Pipkin explores the wild through a deeply human lens. From the vibrant ecosystems of flamingos to the extraordinary migration of monarch butterflies and the powerful presence of mountain gorillas, Turk shares stories from behind the camera and across the globe.Through his films, he captures not just animals, but the environments, people, and moments that connect us all. This live recording offers a rare look into the storytelling, challenges, and purpose behind documenting some of the world’s most remarkable species.www.nobelity.org www.furrealpodcast.comyou tube @nobelityproject you tube @thefurrealpodcastfb @turkpipkin fb @markakyleig @turkpipkin ig @thefurrealpodcast ig @markakyletik tok @thefurrealpodcastSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Virginia Mule' to discuss the mission behind Emancipet and its groundbreaking work to make veterinary care accessible and affordable for more pets and families.Millions of pets across the United States go without basic veterinary care each year, not because their families don’t love them—but because the cost of care can be out of reach. Emancipet is tackling this challenge head-on by rethinking how veterinary services can be delivered, offering affordable clinics and innovative solutions that help keep pets healthy and with the families who love them.Dr. Mule' shares how Emancipet’s model is expanding access to veterinary care, the challenges facing pet owners and veterinarians today, and why affordable care is one of the most important issues in modern animal welfare.This episode explores how compassion, innovation, and community partnerships are helping reshape the future of veterinary medicine—and ensuring that more pets receive the care they deserve.www.emancipet.org www.furrealpodcast.comfb@ Emancipet Veterinary Clinics fb@Mark A Kyleig@emancipet ig@thefurrealpodcast ig@markakyletik tok @emancipet tik tok @thefurrealpodcastSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Why do dogs age so much faster than we do—and can science change that?The Dog Aging Project is one of the most ambitious studies ever conducted on canine health and longevity. By following tens of thousands of dogs across the United States, researchers are uncovering how genetics, environment, diet, and lifestyle influence how our dogs age.Dr. Brynn Franks joins the conversation to explore what scientists are learning about the biology of aging in dogs, why some dogs live longer and healthier lives than others, and how this research could transform veterinary medicine in the future.But the project is about more than science. Because dogs share our homes, our habits, and even many of our diseases, studying their lives may also help unlock clues about human aging.What are the biggest factors that shape how dogs age? Can interventions extend a dog’s healthy lifespan? And what might our dogs teach us about longevity itself?This episode explores the fascinating science behind aging—and how our closest animal companions may help reveal the secrets of living longer, healthier lives.www.dogaginproject.org www.furrealpodcast.com https://redcap.dogagingproject.org/surveys/?s=97XLNFARXHDHWJHEfb @The Dog Aging Priject fb @Mark A Kyleig@dogagingproject ig@thefurrealpodcast ig@markakyletik tok @dogagingproject tik tok @thefurrealpodcastSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

What did it mean to care for an animal in the Middle Ages?Long before modern veterinary medicine, medieval people developed detailed systems for healing horses, hounds, livestock, and even household pets. Treatments ranged from practical wound care and herbal remedies to bloodletting, lunar timing, and deeply held spiritual beliefs about the body.Medieval historian Kathleen Walker-Meikle explores how animals were understood, valued, and treated in a world where science, faith, folklore, and lived experience were inseparable. From war horses essential to power and survival, to beloved companion animals inside the home, care was not just medical — it was cultural.How did people decide when to treat an animal? What role did astrology and religion play? Were medieval healers more sophisticated than we assume?This episode uncovers a surprisingly complex world of animal medicine — where healing meant far more than technique, and where belief shaped the care animals received.www.furrealpodcast.com ig@thefurrealpodcast ig@markakyle fb@mark a kyle tik tok@thefurrealpodcastBooks:Kathleen Walker-Meikle, Medieval Pets (Boydell and Brewer, 2012; paperback 2019)Ibid, Dogs in Medieval Manuscripts (London: British Library Publications, 2020)Ibid, Cats in Medieval Manuscripts (London: British Library Publications, 2019)Ibid, The Horse Book: Horses of Historical Distinction (London: Bloomsbury, 2017);Ibid, The Cat Book: Cats of Historical Distinction (London: Bloomsbury, 2015)Ibid, The Dog Book: Dogs of Historical Distinction (London: Bloomsbury, 2014)See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

They tower above the African savannah — silent, watchful, and impossible to ignore. Giraffes are the tallest animals on Earth, yet their conservation story is far more complex than most people realize. While some populations have declined sharply, others are stabilizing and even growing. So what’s really happening with the world’s most iconic giants?In this episode, we explore the full giraffe story with Stephanie Fennessy, co-founder of the Giraffe Conservation Foundation, the only organization in the world dedicated solely to the conservation and management of giraffes in the wild.From habitat loss and human expansion to groundbreaking translocations and science-driven population management, this conversation dives into what it truly takes to protect the world’s tallest land mammal. We unpack the surprising complexity of giraffe species, the realities of conservation across multiple African countries, and the hopeful signs emerging from long-term, strategic protection efforts.This isn’t just a story about vulnerability. It’s a story about protecting gentle giants — and what it means to stand tall for a species’ future.www.giraffeconservation.org www.thefurrealpodcastfb@ Giraffe Conservation Protection fb@ Mark A Kye fb@ The Fur Real Podcastig@ giraffe_conservation ig@markakyle ig@thefurrealpodcastYou Tube@ giraffeconservationfoundation You Tube @thefurrealpodcastSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Dingos have been called pests. Predators. Even villains.But what if we’ve been telling the wrong story?In this episode, Kylie Cairns takes us deep into the Australian outback to uncover the truth about one of the world’s most misunderstood canines. Are dingos wild dogs? A separate species? A missing evolutionary link? And what role do they really play in balancing fragile ecosystems?We explore the science behind their intelligence, the controversy surrounding their protection, and the powerful bond that can exist between humans and truly wild animals. From ancient DNA to modern conservation battles, this conversation challenges what we think we know about “man’s best friend.”Dingos aren’t just survivors of the harsh Australian landscape — they’re architects of it.Wild. Wise. And far more complex than most of us realize.www.dingofoundation.org www.thefurrealpodcastig@ dr_cairns ig@ thefurrealpodcast ig@ markakylefb@ Dingo Genetics Research fb@ Mark A Kyletik tok@ thefurrealpodcastemail k.cairns@unsw.edu.au mkyle@furrealpodcastRecent articles...https://theconversation.com/dingoes-are-not-domestic-dogs-new-evidence-shows-these-native-canines-are-on-their-own-evolutionary-path-262938https://theconversation.com/impacts-of-colonisation-on-dingoes-are-written-in-their-bones-new-research-finds-270082https://theconversation.com/the-boss-of-country-not-wild-dogs-to-kill-living-with-dingoes-can-unite-communities-214212https://theconversation.com/new-dna-testing-shatters-wild-dog-myth-most-dingoes-are-pure-206397See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

What if intelligence isn’t what we’ve always assumed it is?In this episode, corvid researcher Kaeli Swift invites us to reconsider how intelligence is defined by exploring the inner lives of crows and their relatives. Drawing from her groundbreaking work on crow funerals—where crows gather silently around their dead to observe, learn, and assess danger—she reveals how these birds use memory, reasoning, and social awareness in ways that don’t fit traditional human benchmarks, yet are deeply sophisticated.From recognizing individual human faces to communicating risk across generations, crows demonstrate intelligence shaped by survival, community, and experience rather than language or tools. This conversation challenges the idea that intelligence must look human to be meaningful—and asks what we might learn if we paid closer attention to the forms of intelligence we’ve been overlooking all along.www.furrealpodcast.com blog corvidresarch.blogig@ corvidresearch ig@thefurrealpodcast ig@markakylefb@ corvidresearch fb@ mark a kyletiktok@ corvidresearch tik@ thefurrealpodcastSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

What began as playful Super Bowl counter-programming has grown into one of the most successful adoption platforms in television history. Now in its 22nd year, the Puppy Bowl has helped prove that joy, storytelling, and animal rescue can coexist — and work.In this episode, we go inside the Puppy Bowl with Dan Schachner, the longtime “Rufferee” who has been part of the event’s evolution into a cultural phenomenon. Dan shares how the Puppy Bowl actually comes together behind the scenes, how puppies are selected from shelters and rescues, and why adoption has always been the true goal.A remarkable 100% of the dogs featured on the Puppy Bowl have been adopted, and Dan opens up about what that impact really looks like — from unforgettable on-set moments to the quieter success stories viewers never see. We also talk about what’s new this year, the growing focus on senior and special-needs dogs, and how fostering and adoption have shaped Dan’s own life.It’s funny, heartfelt, and a reminder that sometimes the most joyful things on TV can also change lives.www.furrealpodcast.com www.danschachner.com www.discovery.comig@ danschachner ig@ animalplanet ig@ thefurrealpodcast ig@ markakylefb @ Puppy Bowl fb@ Animal Planet fb@ Mark A Kyle tik tok @thefurrealpodcastSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Snow leopards are among the most elusive animals on Earth—so rarely seen they’re known as the ghosts of the mountains.In this episode, Mark is joined by Dr. Koustubh Sharma, a leading snow leopard researcher, to explore the hidden world of these remarkable big cats and the fragile high-altitude ecosystems they call home.Dr. Sharma takes listeners deep into the remote mountain ranges of Central and South Asia, explaining how snow leopards survive in extreme environments, why studying them is so difficult, and how cutting-edge science is helping researchers track and protect a species that spends most of its life unseen. The conversation also examines the delicate balance between snow leopards and the human communities who share their habitat—and why conservation success depends on protecting both.Equal parts science, storytelling, and awe, this episode reveals why snow leopards matter far beyond the mountains—and what their survival tells us about the health of some of the world’s most important ecosystems.www.snowleopard.org www.furrealpodcast.comig@ snowlleopardtrust ig@ thefurrealpodcast ig@ markakylefb@ Snow Leopard Trust fb@markakyletik tok@ The Fur Real PodcastSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Dogs experience the world through scent in ways humans can barely imagine.In this episode, I sit down with Maria Ikenberry, founder of Eyes Ears Nose and Paws, to explore how specially trained dogs use their extraordinary noses—and their training—to support people with medical needs. We talk about how dogs can alert to seizures and other medical events through scent, as well as how they’re trained to provide practical assistance, such as retrieving phones or keys when someone is unable to do so.We also dive into a lesser-known but deeply meaningful part of this work: the role of incarcerated trainers who help prepare these dogs for service. It’s a powerful story of second chances at both ends of the leash (ABEL) —where dogs find purpose through meaningful work, and people find responsibility, dignity, and hope through training them.From the science of scent to the life-changing impact of medical assistance dogs, this conversation reveals why a dog’s nose remains one of the most remarkable tools we have—and how its influence reaches far beyond the dogs themselves.www.eenp.org www.furrealpodcast.comig@eyesearsnoseandpaws ig@thefurrealpodcast ig@markakylefb@ Eyes Ears Nose and Paws fb@ Mark A Kyletik tok@ The Fur Real PodcastSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Often called The Panda Bears of the Sea, the Vaquita is the most endangered marine mammal on Earth—and is on the brink of extinction.In this episode, marine biologist Dr. Lorenzo Rojas-Bracho, one of the world’s leading experts on vaquitas, takes us inside the urgent fight to save this elusive porpoise found only in the northern Gulf of California. We explore why the vaquita population collapsed so rapidly, the role of illegal gillnet fishing, and the high-stakes conservation efforts happening right now to prevent the species from disappearing forever.Dr. Rojas-Bracho also clears up common myths, explains why saving the vaquita is far more complex than it seems, and shares what gives him hope—even when the odds feel overwhelming.This is a powerful, emotional look at conservation under pressure, the unintended consequences of human activity, and why the fate of one small marine mammal matters far beyond the sea it inhabits.www.furrealpodcast.comIg@ thefurrealpodcast ig@markakylefb@ Mark A Kyletik tok@ The Fur Real PodcastSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this episode, we explore the missing links in modern pet health—the gaps many pet owners don’t realize exist until their dog or cat isn’t getting better.Joining the conversation is Dr. Katie Woodley, founder of The Natural Pet Doctor, a holistic veterinarian who blends conventional medical training with evidence-based natural therapies. Dr. Woodley shares why so many pets struggle with chronic issues, how symptom-focused care can fall short, and what a more complete, whole-body approach to healing really looks like.We dive into nutrition, inflammation, gut health, supplements, diagnostics, and the role pet parents play in advocating for smarter care. This episode isn’t about choosing natural vs. traditional—it’s about understanding how the two can work together to help pets truly thrive.Whether your pet is dealing with ongoing health challenges or you simply want to be more proactive about their long-term wellness, this conversation offers practical insight, clarity, and a fresh way of thinking about modern veterinary care.www.thenaturalpetdoctor.com www.furrealpodcast.comig@thenaturalpetdoctor ig@thefurrealpodcast ig@markakylefb@ The Natural Pet Doctor fb@ Mark A Kyletik tok @ thefurrealpodcastLinks from the episodeEnviromental Working Group https://www.ewg.org/Skin Deep Database https://www.ewg.org/skindeep/Peptide Blog/Video https://thenaturalpetdoctor.mykajabi.com/blog/peptide-therapy-in-petsHTMA in Pets https://thenaturalpetdoctor.mykajabi.com/blog/htma-testing-for-pets-the-root-cause-test-that-reveals-hidden-mineral-imbalancesProspect Pet https://prospectpet.com/See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.