Canines and Humans - More Alike Than Different

Today's Pawsome Human: Peggy Hoyt - Wishful Thinking isn't Planning

Author

Anke Herrmann
March 03, 2025

The other day I published a post on LinkedIn called A Dog’s Lesson in Marketing.

An everyday moment with my dog Leo carried a lesson anyone in business is well advised not to forget.

But it’s just one of many lessons we can learn from our dogs … there is a reason we call them our “wisest teachers”.

When a therapist friend of mine talks about her work with kids and grownups who struggle to fit into society due to extreme hypersensitivity issues, it sounds like she’s reading from a dog training book (and vice versa :-)

Not surprising, really. After all, dogs are extremely sensitive compared to us .. hearing, smell …

And .. dogs and humans have very similar social and emotional brains, which means we experience similar issues, including the physical and emotional effects of trauma.

Dr. Laura Donaldson unpacks the science behind all this in her article for Happy Healthy Dog.

The Neurobiology of Trauma: Why It Is Important & What You Need to

By Dr. Laura Donaldson, PhD, CDBC, KPA CTP; Certified Trauma Professional. Did you know that dogs and humans have remarkably similar social and emotional brains? Neuroscientist and physician Gregory

happyhealthydog.org/2025/02/05/the-neurobiology-of-trauma-why-it-is-important-what-you-need-to-know

This week’s Pawsome Human: Peggy Hoyt - Wishful Thinking isn't Planning

Thanks to Kathy Boyle for introducing me to today’s Pawsome Human Peggy Hoyt.

She covers a topic I think we ignore way too often.

We worry so much about how we’ll carry the pain of our dogs passing the bridge that we forget to plan for the case where we are the ones leaving first …

Peggy is an estate planning attorney and animal lover with homes in Virginia and Florida.

She talks about the importance of creating a pet trust to ensure that pets are cared for in the event of the owner's death or disability.

She passionately shares her own experiences with her numerous pets and her motivation to write a book about pet trusts. Peggy emphasizes the need for assigning both short-term and long-term caregivers, preferably including trustworthy individuals and organizations, to safeguard pets' future well-being.

She points out how important it is to appropriately fund the trust and consider the legal framework in your jurisdiction.

Our discussion concludes with practical advice on building relationships with potential caregivers and exploring animal-related organizations as viable options. This eye-opening conversation urges pet owners to plan well in advance and ensure continuity of care for their beloved animals.

Grab a cuppa and join us (and yes, please like and subscribe to help the baby YouTube channel grow 🙏)

To find out more and connect with Peggy:

Bio: Peggy is a lifelong animal advocate, pet mom, author, and attorney. She is a founding partner of The Law Offices of Hoyt & Bryan, a Central Florida estate planning and elder law firm. She and her law partner hold the distinction of being the only Florida law firm with two members who are dual certified by the Florida Bar in Wills, Trusts, and Estates and in Elder Law.

Peggy is the founder of Animal Care Trust USA, Inc., a national nonprofit, whose mission is to keep loved pets in loving homes by educating pet parents about the importance of protecting their pets with a Pet Trust. The organization also provides Pet Trust and Pet Trustee services. You can learn more about her charitable work at Act4Pets.org. She is the host of the weekly Pawcast All My Children Wear Fur Coats and author of the book of the same name. The podcast is available on Buzzsprout and wherever you get your favorite podcasts. Her books are available on Amazon.com.

In addition to practicing law, Peggy has written numerous books that include niche estate planning topics and gratitude marketing. Her newest book, 101 Ways to F$$k Up Your Estate is an Amazon bestseller in seven categories.

Peggy enjoys spending time with her husband, Joe, eight dogs, a cat, and four horses.

If you prefer to listen ... subscribe to the PODCAST

It’s on Apple podcasts and everywhere else, so you can access it from your favourite podcast app.

If you enjoy listening, please consider leaving a rating and review so other dog lovers can find the show and join the doggie fun.

If you’re not using Apple podcasts, GoodPods is a great app that makes that easy.

This week’s product pick:

"Every Dog is a Therapy Dog" T-Shirt

Some dogs have official titles, but every dog has the power to heal hearts, lift spirits, and turn a tough day into a tail-wagging, belly-rubbing, smile-filled moment. This high-quality cotton tee celebrates the true magic of dogs, their unconditional love and unmatched ability to make life better.

Soft, breathable, and perfect for everyday wear, it’s the ideal shirt for dog lovers who know the best therapy comes with four paws and a wagging tail. Whether you're out for a walk, lounging at home, or grabbing coffee with fellow dog enthusiasts, this tee shares the truth we all know: dogs make everything better.

Why You’ll Love It:

Heartfelt & Honest – A message every dog lover will nod along to.
Soft & Breathable – Made from premium cotton for all-day comfort.
Perfect for Any Occasion – From park strolls to casual hangouts.
Unisex Fit – A classic cut that looks great on every dog lover.

Soft, breathable, and perfect for everyday wear, it’s the ideal shirt for dog lovers who know the best therapy comes with four paws and a wagging tail. Whether you're out for a walk, lounging at home, or grabbing coffee with fellow dog enthusiasts, this tee shares the truth we all know: dogs make everything better.

Wear it proudly, spark smiles, and remind the world that no matter the breed, size, or quirks … every dog is a therapy dog. 🐶💖

Crafted with premium quality cotton, this tee ensures that every design shines brightly. The shoulders are expertly taped to provide an impeccable upper-body fit. With no side seams, the tee boasts a seamless and uninterrupted flow, adding to its clean and polished appearance. The collar features ribbed knitting, enhancing its elasticity for a comfortable and flexible fit.

Grab yours here (different colors available)

FREE worldwide shipping for ALL products.

15% off your first order (enter coupon code STBD15 during checkout) as an exclusive thank you for being a Soul Touched by Dogs subscriber.

Since we’re an international bunch with me in Spain and you most likely in the US, UK or somewhere else, I chose a supplier that produces in different places around the world so you won’t have to wait weeks to receive your order.

And yes, 25% of the profits will be donated to a Pawsome human or non-profit (details to be announced).

If you're not on Instagram, simply close the signup/login box .. you'll still be able to watch the reel .. it’s hilarious 🤣🤣

Are you a canine professional?

A trainer, coach, behaviorist, nutritionist, holistic vet, or other canine expert with a holistic, kindness-first approach?

Would you like to be a guest on the podcast? Do you know someone you think would make a great guest?

Is your business ready for an online revenue stream that has you covered when you can’t or don’t want to offer 1:1 or in-person consults?

And as always ..

If you know another Soul Touched by Dogs, please send them to https://soultouchedbydogs.com 🙏🙏🐾🐾

Until next week,

Anke