In this conversation, Mariska Nell interviews Jennifer Muldowney, known as the Glam Reaper, who specializes in funeral planning and pet loss grief. Jennifer shares her journey into the funeral space, the importance of advocating for pet loss, and the emotional complexities surrounding grief. They discuss the societal hierarchy of grief, the need for safe spaces for grieving individuals, and how to involve pets in memorials. Jennifer also addresses the difficult decisions surrounding euthanasia and offers insights on memorializing pets. The conversation concludes with thoughts on when to consider getting another pet and the importance of honoring the memory of lost companions.

Jennifer Muldowney — better known as The Glam Reaper — is an Irish award-winning memorial planner, celebrant, and TEDx speaker who’s redefining how we talk about loss. After experiencing personal grief herself, Jennifer combined her background in event planning with a deep passion for supporting others, creating ceremonies that are as unique as the lives they honor. She’s the author of Say Farewell Your Way, the voice behind The Glam Reaper Podcast, and an advocate for mental health within the funeral profession. Alongside her work with Muldowney Memorials and Funeral Professionals Peer Support, Jennifer helps families and pet parents alike find comfort, healing, and even moments of lightness during life’s hardest goodbyes.

• Jennifer Muldowney is known as the Glam Reaper, specializing in funeral planning.
• She advocates for recognizing pet loss as a significant grief experience.
• Grief is often judged by a hierarchy, which can invalidate pet loss.
• Creating safe spaces for grieving individuals is essential.
• Involving pets in memorials can help in the grieving process.
• Euthanasia decisions are complex and should be approached with care.
• Memorializing pets can take many forms, including ceremonies and keepsakes.
• There is no right or wrong way to grieve or memorialize a pet.
• The love for a pet does not replace but expands with new companions.
• It's important to check local laws regarding pet burials and memorials.

Jennifer's website, Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn

The Glam Reaper podcast

TedX Talk

Jon Steward's video

[00:00]- Intro

[03:03]- The Journey into Funeral Planning

[05:52]- Advocating for Pet Loss Grief

[09:10]- Understanding Grief Hierarchies

[11:48]- Creating Safe Spaces for Grief

[14:43]- Involving Pets in the Grieving Process

[19:55]- Incorporating Pets in Farewells

[22:45]- Navigating Difficult Decisions

[25:42]- Creative Memorials for Pets

[29:27]- Honoring Pets and the Grieving Process

[34:39]- The Journey of Love and Loss

In this episode, Dr. Sarah Ramsey shares her extensive experience in veterinary medicine, discussing the importance of specialized care for pets, emergency preparedness, and essential first aid skills for pet owners. She emphasizes the need for proper veterinary care, including routine check-ups and vaccinations, while also providing practical advice on creating emergency kits and knowing when to seek professional help. Dr. Ramsey's insights aim to empower pet owners to take proactive steps in ensuring their pets' health and safety.

Dr. Sarah Ramsey, originally from West Sussex in the UK, graduated from The Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies in Edinburgh in 2006 and also holds a degree in Parasitology from Glasgow University. She has practiced acupuncture since 2007, is a member of the ABVA, and earned her Certificate in Small Animal Medicine from the University of Liverpool in 2016, later achieving Advanced Veterinary Practitioner status in 2022. With a special interest in feline medicine, oncology, pain management, and end-of-life care, Dr. Sarah has held senior roles including Clinical Director of a two-site practice in the UK and Head of Medicine at a London small animal hospital. She relocated to the UAE in 2021 with her husband, two children, and a growing rescue family of cats, alongside her Bedlington Whippet, Snowy, and a tortoise named Taco. Beyond veterinary medicine, she is a passionate runner, ultramarathon finisher, yoga practitioner, and stand-up paddleboarder, with recent adventures in aerial gymnastics and a goal of completing a triathlon within the next year.

• Dr. Sarah Ramsey has nearly 30 years of experience in veterinary medicine.
• Understanding veterinary specializations helps in choosing the right care for pets.
• Emergency kits for pets should include saline, gauze, and vet wrap.
• Basic first aid skills can save a pet's life in emergencies.
• Knowing when to seek veterinary care is crucial for pet health.
• Routine veterinary check-ups are essential for early detection of health issues.
• Vaccination schedules may vary by region and should be discussed with a vet.
• Pet owners should be aware of their pets' specific health needs and risks.
• Regular blood work can help monitor chronic conditions in pets.
• Creating a customized emergency kit for pets is important for preparedness.

At-Home Emergency Kit

• Gloves (latex or nitrile) – to keep your hands clean and safe.
• Saline pods/pipettes – safe for cleaning wounds and eyes.
• Sterile gauze – apply pressure and stop bleeding.
• Vet wrap (self-adhering bandage) – to secure gauze/dressings (sticks to itself, not fur).
• Muzzle or strong tape for a makeshift muzzle – for safety if your pet is in pain.
• Tick hook – safe removal of ticks without leaving parts behind.
• Tweezers – for removing thorns, splinters, or foreign bodies.
• Cotton buds – useful for cleaning small areas, like removing grass seeds.
• Styptic powder - to stop bleeding from nails, ears, or tails.
• Elizabethan collar (cone) – to prevent licking/ingesting toxins or cleaning wounds.

On-the-Go / Walk & Travel Kit (Mini Version)

• Saline pod – for quick wound or eye cleaning.
• Sterile gauze – for immediate coverage of cuts or stings.
• Vet wrap – to hold gauze in place.
• Muzzle tape – lightweight safety option.
• Antihistamines (chlorphenamine / “Piriton”) – especially if your dog has known allergies (4mg tablet for medium/large dogs, ½ tablet for small...

In this episode of Tails and Tones, host Mariska discusses the importance of planning for your dog's future, particularly in selecting a godparent who can care for your pet if something happens to you. She emphasizes the need for responsible planning, including financial considerations and ensuring the chosen godparent shares your values and love for dogs. The episode also features heartwarming stories from the pet community and encourages listeners to celebrate their pets and the bonds they share.

• Have you ever wondered who would care for your pup?
• Choosing a godparent for your pup is responsible.
• Life happens, accidents happen, illness happens.
• We can still be there for them.
• Does this person have the time, energy, and finances?
• Look for someone who truly loves dogs.
• Make it a joyful moment.
• This is not about being morbid.
• You're giving your pup the gift of security.

Fetch or Forget - FURminator

Where Tails meet hearts - Elko's journey on Away on Earth

Paw-lebrity of the Week - Billy the Kid

[00:00]-Intro

[13:19]- Choosing the Right Godparent

[14:12]- Fetch or Forget - FURminator

[20:45]- Where Tails meet hearts - Elko's journey on Away on Earth

[23:07]- Paw-lebrity of the Week - Billy the Kid

In this episode of Tails and Tones, host Mariska Nell speaks with Yvonne Senden, the founder of Doggie Adventures, about her journey in creating a dog-friendly community in the UAE. They discuss the challenges of dog ownership in the region, the importance of public etiquette, and the exciting initiatives like Leash Explorer and WoofStock that promote responsible pet ownership and community engagement. Yvonne shares her insights on how to make the UAE more dog-friendly and the responsibilities that come with being a dog owner.

Doggie Adventures (Website, Instagram, Youtube)

Leash Explorer (Website, Instagram)

WoofStock (Website, Instagram)

• Doggie Adventures was founded to create a better life for dogs in the UAE.
• Public etiquette is crucial for responsible dog ownership.
• Leash Explorer offers exciting adventures for dogs and their owners.
• WoofStock is a festival dedicated to dogs and their well-being.
• Community engagement is key to making the UAE more dog-friendly.
• Dog owners must respect public spaces and other people's comfort.
• Education about dog behavior is essential for both owners and the community.
• Creating a directory of dog-friendly places helps pet owners navigate the UAE.
• Yvonne emphasizes the importance of responsible pet ownership.
• Future initiatives aim to enhance the dog-friendly community in the UAE.

[00:00]- Introduction to Yvonne and Doggie Adventures

[03:23]- The Journey of Doggie Adventures

[06:04]- Challenges of Dog Ownership in the UAE

[08:50]- Public Etiquette and Responsibility of Dog Owners

[11:26]- Community Engagement and Advocacy for Dog-Friendly Spaces

[14:19]- Navigating Dog Etiquette in Public Spaces

[19:36]- Consultations and Community Engagement

[20:22]- Introducing Leash Explorer

[21:51]- The Annual Challenge and Activities

[23:17]- Inclusivity in Dog Activities

[25:29]- Planning Hikes for All Dogs

[27:27]- Creating Wolf Stock: A Dog Festival

[31:48]- Making Communities Dog-Friendly

[35:46]- Future Plans and Community Feedback

[38:16]- The Power of One: Inspiring Change Through Love

[39:07]- Creating Welcoming Spaces for Dogs and Humans

In this episode of Tails and Tones, host Mariska Nell discusses the essential steps in choosing the right veterinarian for your dog. She shares her personal experiences and insights on what to consider, including the dog's specific needs, location, vet costs, emergency preparedness, and the importance of effective communication with your vet. The episode emphasizes the significance of trust and partnership in ensuring your pet's health and happiness.

• Choosing the right vet is crucial for your dog's health.
• Research and recommendations are key in finding a vet.
• Consider your dog's specific needs when selecting a vet.
• Location and accessibility can impact your choice of vet.
• Vet care can be expensive; know the costs upfront.
• Emergency preparedness is vital for pet owners.
• A good vet should communicate clearly and listen to concerns.
• Trust and partnership with your vet are essential.
• Always ask for estimates on veterinary services.
• Your dog relies on you to be their voice.

How to choose your vet - checklist

Where Tails meet hearts - 1510 Foundation (Meemaw's story)

Paw-lebrity of the Week - Leo (Dad Charles Leclerc, Mom Alexandra Malena Saint Mleux)

[00:00]- Choosing the Right Vet for Your Dog

[10:23]- Understanding Vet Costs and Insurance

[13:49]- Emergency Preparedness and Specialist Care

[17:44]- Where Tails meet hearts - 1510 Foundation (Meemaw's story)

[19:12]- Paw-lebrity of the Week - Leo (Dad Charles Leclerc, Mom Alexandra Malena Saint Mleux)

[23:16]- Recap and Key Takeaways

In this episode of Tales and Tones, host Mariska Nall explores the important decision of whether to adopt or shop for a dog. She emphasizes the value of adoption, sharing personal stories and statistics about the current state of dog shelters. The conversation delves into the challenges of adopting dogs, including potential trauma and the thorough application process. Mariska also discusses the pros and cons of purchasing from reputable breeders versus puppy mills, highlighting the ethical considerations involved. Ultimately, she encourages listeners to approach dog ownership with intention and commitment, regardless of their choice.

• Adoption is a personal journey and should be approached with empathy.
• Dogs are a long-term commitment, not a temporary decision.
• Shelters often face overcrowding, leading to difficult choices for animals.
• Adopting a dog can save a life and provide a second chance.
• Adoption fees can vary, and sometimes adopting can be more cost-effective.
• Some adopted dogs may come with trauma and require patience.
• Reputable breeders prioritize health and ethics over profit.
• Puppy mills often operate under cruel conditions, treating dogs poorly.
• Choosing the right dog involves matching energy levels and lifestyle needs.
• Regardless of the choice, responsible pet ownership is crucial.

How dogs are assisting with scientific research with Kayla Fratt

How to Make Your Pet Adoption Application Stand Out

Rolls and Underbites

The Kevin and Kayla Show

Kevin's Video (the two classic Frenchie moods)

Kevin's Video (how much can happen in just a blink)

[00:00]- Introduction to Dog Adoption vs. Shopping

[02:55]- The Case for Adoption

[05:42]- Challenges of Adoption

[08:46]- Understanding Dog Shopping

[11:33]- The Dark Side of Breeding

[14:47]- Finding the Right Dog for You

[16:40]- Where Tails meet hearts - Rolls and Underbites.

[18:40]- Paw-lebrity of the Week - The Kevin and Kayla Show

In this episode of Tails and Tones, Mariska shares her personal journey as a dog parent, highlighting the challenges faced in pet care and the quest for sustainable products.

• Caring for pets can be overwhelming at times.
• Sustainable pet products are often hard to find.
• Many pet products are designed for short-term use.
• The pet industry is growing rapidly, but sustainability is lagging.
• There is a need for durable and eco-friendly pet products.
• Pet ownership statistics show a significant increase in households with pets.
• The average lifespan of a dog is much longer than the lifespan of many pet products.
• Community engagement is essential for building a successful pet brand.
• The journey of creating a pet company is filled with challenges and learning experiences.
• It's important to design products that evolve with the needs of pet parents.

Ryan Daniel Moran's Book, 12 Months to $1million

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[00:00]- Introduction to the Journey of Pet Care

[04:34]- Challenges of Pet Ownership

[09:00]- The Quest for Sustainable Pet Products

[14:10]- The Birth of a Pet Company

[18:49]- Building a Community of Dog Parents

In this episode of Tales and Tones, host Mariska discusses how to keep dogs entertained indoors, especially during extreme weather conditions. She shares personal anecdotes about responsible pet ownership and the importance of picking up after dogs. The episode highlights various indoor enrichment activities, including games like hide and seek, the toilet roll challenge, and tug of war, as well as the significance of rotating enrichment toys to keep dogs mentally stimulated. Mariska also shares heartwarming stories about dogs making a difference in their communities, emphasizing the bond between pets and their owners.

Bonus tip: You can always take you pet to the local pet shop or hardware store if they are dog friendly or a wonderful indoor snuffle too.

• Indoor enrichment is crucial for dogs during extreme weather.
• Responsible pet ownership includes cleaning up after your dog.
• Engaging games can keep dogs happy and stimulated indoors.
• Enrichment activities should be tailored to each dog's preferences.
• Rotating puzzle toys helps maintain a dog's interest and challenge.
• Tug of war is a great way to release energy indoors.
• Trick training can strengthen the bond between dog and owner.
• Heartwarming dog stories remind us of the impact pets can have.
• Finding fun activities is more important than perfection in pet care.
• Community engagement is vital for responsible pet ownership.

Fetch or Forget, Earth Rated Natural Rubber Treat Toy

Where Tails meet hearts, Kelby & Nixie (That Nepa Newfie)

Paw-lebrity of the Week, Some Frenchie Named Apollo

[00:00]- Introduction to Indoor Dog Enrichment

[03:29]- The Importance of Picking Up After Your Dog

[04:15]- Keeping Dogs Happy Indoors

[06:11]- Fun Indoor Games for Dogs

[17:23]- Enrichment Toys and Puzzle Rotation

[20:17]- Fetch or Forget, Earth Rated Natural Rubber Treat Toy

[23:03]- Tug and Chase Play

[26:55]- Trick Training Sessions

[27:53]- Where Tails meet hearts, Kelby & Nixie (That Nepa Newfie)

[29:37]- Paw-lebrity of the Week, Some Frenchie Named Apollo

[31:07]- Recap and Conclusion

*I mistakenly called Artemis a boy in this episode. Straight to doggy hell with me. Artemis, you’re a queen 👑—apologies and virtual treats incoming!