Episode
Jill Hedgecock - Fiction That Heals, Teaches & Celebrates Dogs
- Podcast
- Soul Touched by Dogs
- Published
- Oct 12, 2025
- Duration seconds
- 2099
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Summary
What happens when a lifelong animal lover and environmental scientist weaves her passions into stories where dogs see ghosts, save the day, and change lives? In this episode, award-winning author Jill Hedgecock joins us to talk about her Shadow series — suspenseful, heart-filled novels that entertain while quietly teaching readers about compassion, responsible dog stewardship, and the beauty of the human–animal bond. From champion agility runs and nose-work discoveries to celebrating a famous Doberman named Ruby who inspired an entire book series — Jill’s world is where storytelling, science, and canine love meet. 💡 Key Takeaways The truth behind “owning” dogs — why Jill uses the word stewardship instead, and what it changes in the way we see our dogs. How stories can de-stigmatize misunderstood breeds — and the powerful legacy of Ruby the Doberman, social-media star turned literary heroine. The surprising reason agility and nose work are about the handler, not the dog — and what it reveals about trust and communication. How a simple story choice can spark awareness about serious issues like DCM in large breeds or the environmental impact of pesticides on bees. The one thing all great “dog books” really teach us: how to be better humans. 🐕 Favorite Quote “Agility is the best because the dogs are off leash. They can do whatever they want—and they choose to try to please you.” — Jill Hedgecock 00:00 Introduction to the Podcast 00:24 Meet Jill: A Lifelong Dog Lover 00:41 Jill's Journey with Dogs and Agility 02:21 Writing Books with Dogs as Main Characters 02:52 The First Book: Between Shadows' Eyes 06:11 The Second Book: From Shadow's Perspective 08:18 The Third Book: Exploring Family and Loss 09:15 Raising Awareness About DCM in Dogs 11:29 Jill's Writing Journey and Insp…