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⚠️ Content Warning: This episode contains discussion of domestic abuse, coercive control, trauma, and animal abuse. Listener discretion is advised.

In this powerful and thought-provoking episode of We Love Dogs, I’m joined by Maya Badham, founder of Loop Safeguarding and a specialist in animal-inclusive safeguarding.

Together, Cheryl and Maya explore the often-overlooked connection between dogs, animal welfare, and domestic abuse. Maya shares her expertise on how animals can become part of coercive and controlling relationships, the links between animal abuse and interpersonal violence, and why understanding these connections is so important for dog owners, trainers, behaviourists, and animal professionals.

We discuss how a dog’s behaviour can sometimes reflect the environment they’re living in, the signs that may be missed, and the role that awareness and education can play in safeguarding both people and animals.

This episode contains discussion of domestic abuse, coercive control, trauma, and animal harm. While some listeners may find these topics difficult, they are important conversations that deserve greater awareness and understanding.

If you are affected by anything discussed in this episode, support is available through the National Domestic Abuse Helpline, available 24 hours a day on 0808 2000 247.

This is an honest, compassionate, and eye-opening conversation about a side of the dog world that many people never see—but one that has the potential to make a real difference.

To find out more about Maya’s work, visit Loop Safeguarding and follow Maya on social media.

Thank you for listening to We Love Dogs.

National Domestic Abuse Helpline, available 24 hours a day on 0808 2000 247.

Want to connect with Maya? Details below:

Website & Mailing List: www.loop-safeguarding.org

Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/LoopSafeguarding/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mayabadham/

For questions or to work with Cheryl, you can reach her via:
Website: Chel's Tails | Dog Walking and Training
Email: cherylmarney@outlook.com
Facebook: Facebook
Instagram: Instagram
TikTok:@chelstails