Caitlin Cohn on Cooperative Care, Consent, and Cats [Episode 64]

In this heartfelt episode of the Making Ripples podcast, we welcome the thoughtful and dedicated Caitlin Cohn - professional dog trainer, cooperative care advocate, and proud human to Elvis the Maine Coon. Caitlin shares her journey from horses to dogs to cats, and how each species has shaped her perspective on training, autonomy, and the human-animal bond. From her early experiences working at liberty with horses, to volunteering at a therapeutic riding center and training assistance dogs, Caitlin reflects on the pivotal moments that led her to positive reinforcement and force-free methods. Together, we explore: ✅ What Caitlin learned moving from natural horsemanship into clicker training ✅ How her first dog, Emma, set her on the path to professional training ✅ Lessons Elvis the cat has taught her about informed consent, autonomy, and micro-sessions ✅ Cooperative care breakthroughs, from nail trims to dental care ✅ A powerful case study: helping Elvis overcome thunderstorm anxiety through systematic desensitization and creative counterconditioning ✅ Why honoring choice and communication creates deeper, more rewarding partnerships This episode is a celebration of curiosity, compassion, and the courage to listen deeply to the animals we share our lives with. Caitlin's story is an inspiring reminder that when we train smarter - not harder - we create ripples of joy, harmony, and healing.