Save A Pooch - Rescue Dog Welfare- Pet Life Radio Original

When a dog's behavior changes or a problem won't go away, most of us ask the same question: how do I stop this? Certified Holistic Pet Health Coach Debi McKee suggests starting with a different one: what might this dog be trying to tell me? In this episode, Debi explains why health and behavior are more connected than many dog parents realize. She describes how stress, pain, digestion, sleep, routine, and environment can all affect how a dog feels and acts. She also talks about adopted dogs, who often arrive with an unknown history and then face new food, people, routines, and expectations all at once. Listeners will learn how stress can show up in less obvious ways, like changes in appetite, sleep, energy, focus, and reactivity. Debi explains why no single food, supplement, or training technique has all the answers. She also shows how looking for patterns can tell you much more than focusing on one behavior by itself: what changed, what happened before the problem started, and what keeps repeating. It's a practical, curiosity-first conversation for anyone who has ever wondered why their dog does what they do.

EPISODE NOTES: What Is Your Rescue Dog Trying to Tell You?

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/save-a-pooch-rescue-dog-welfare-pet-life-radio-original--6669238/support.

In this episode of Save A Pooch, we're joined by Anjie Robinson, President and founder of the Muttstock Board of Directors. Muttstock is best known for its festival, but the real work happens year-round through FLIPP, one of the organization's core programs, which focuses on keeping pets and their guardians safe and together. One facet of this is non-surgical population birth control: implants and injectables that offer a non-invasive, cost-effective alternative to traditional large-scale spay/neuter efforts. This approach eases pressure on overcrowded rescues and reduces the harm that comes when communities are left to handle overpopulation on their own.

This episode discusses how the program works, why it also includes vaccination, deworming, and microchipping, and how lowering testosterone levels can reduce aggression and community safety incidents. It also explores how FLIPP builds ethical, collaborative partnerships between animal rescues, underserved communities, inner-city and housing-insecure individuals, First Nations, and Métis Settlements. These partnerships aim to replace mistrust and unethical culling practices with humane, community-driven solutions. It's a conversation about rethinking animal welfare as something built with communities, not imposed on them.

EPISODE NOTES: Beyond the Festival: How Muttstock Is Rethinking Pet Guardianship

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/save-a-pooch-rescue-dog-welfare-pet-life-radio-original--6669238/support.

In this episode of Save A Pooch, we're joined by Rachel Horton, Director of Saginaw County Animal Care & Control (SCACC) in Michigan. This conversation digs into how a municipal shelter can pivot from reactive enforcement to proactive care. Rachel Horton walks us through SCACC's playbook: early-intervention that keeps pets with their families, community pet-food pantries and access-to-care partnerships, volunteer activation that multiplies impact, and real safeguards for staff against compassion fatigue. We'll also discuss tricky topics—what "live release" does and doesn't measure, why poverty drives pet relinquishment, and how to build trust with residents who are wary of "animal control."

EPISODE NOTES: From Animal Control to Community Care with Rachel Horton

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/save-a-pooch-rescue-dog-welfare-pet-life-radio-original--6669238/support.

In this episode of Save A Pooch, we're joined by Linda Velwest, author of City Rescue Pets: Second Chances for Love and Hope and founder of CityRescuePets.com. Linda shares her family's years-long journey fostering cats and dogs in Jersey City—from classroom pets to "foster fails" to the day she decided to adopt not one, but two rescue pigs. We'll explore the realities of animal rescue work, the lessons learned through trial and error, the heartbreaks that don't always end happily, and why she believes even small acts of kindness can transform lives on both ends of the leash. Whether you're considering fostering, adopting a rescue pet, or just love animals, this is a conversation about compassion, responsibility, and second chances.

EPISODE NOTES: From Foster Fails to Forever Pigs: One Family's Journey Through Animal Rescue

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/save-a-pooch-rescue-dog-welfare-pet-life-radio-original--6669238/support.

In this episode, we’re joined by Barb Ashmead, Founder/ Executive Director and Ellen Suettler, Assistant Executive Director of Operation Freedom Paws Canada, an organization that pairs both rescue dogs and people with disabilities, including veterans and first responders, by training them together as service dog teams. Barb and Ellen share how the healing goes both ways: dogs once overlooked in shelters are given a renewed purpose, and the humans they partner with find a life-changing companion. We’ll dive into how this unique training model works, what makes these partnerships so effective, and why purpose (on both ends of the leash) can be the key to healing trauma. From PTSD recovery to canine transformation, this is a story of second chances, devotion, and the incredible power of the human-animal bond.

EPISODE NOTES: Four Paws, Two Feet, One Purpose: Rescue Dogs Saving Lives with Barb Ashmead and Ellen Suettler

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/save-a-pooch-rescue-dog-welfare-pet-life-radio-original--6669238/support.

In this episode of Save A Pooch, we welcome Sarah Cavallaro, award-winning author of Dogs Have Angels Too. Sarah shares the deeply moving story behind her novel, which follows a woman’s emotional journey from career burnout and homelessness to personal healing—thanks to the transformative power of shelter dogs. We explore themes of resilience, the human-animal bond, and the often-overlooked crisis of homelessness among older women. Sarah also opens up about how real-life rescue experiences shaped the story, and what we can all do to support both animals and the people who care for them. Whether you're a dog lover, fiction fan, or advocate for second chances, this episode will leave you inspired.

EPISODE NOTES: Finding Redemption Through Rescue with Sarah Cavallaro

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/save-a-pooch-rescue-dog-welfare-pet-life-radio-original--6669238/support.

This episode features Sloane Quealy-Miner, President and Co-Founder of Zion's Mission Animal Rescue in New York City. She shares the dark world of dog fighting and its implications for community safety and animal welfare. Sloane will also discuss her expertise on recognizing signs of dog fighting, understanding its connection to other forms of violence, and the challenging but rewarding work of rehabilitating survivors. Learn about the vital role of community education, effective legislation, and how everyday citizens can help combat this cruel practice. Whether you're an animal advocate, community leader, or concerned citizen, this episode provides essential insights into fighting animal cruelty and creating safer communities for both pets and people.

EPISODE NOTES: Breaking the Chain of Dog Fighting with Sloane Quealy-Miner

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/save-a-pooch-rescue-dog-welfare-pet-life-radio-original--6669238/support.

This episode features Cara Achterberg, co-founder of Who Will Let the Dogs Out and author of "Who Will Let the Dogs Out: Stories and Solutions for Shelters and Rescues." Drawing from her experience visiting over 150 shelters in 13 states, Cara shares critical insights into America's shelter crisis and offers practical solutions for change. From heart-wrenching stories of overwhelmed Southern shelters to inspiring tales of innovative rescue approaches, this episode explores the complex challenges facing our nation's homeless dogs and the heroes fighting for them. Learn about the truth behind "no-kill" shelters, the impact of the pandemic on animal welfare, and how communities can work together to create lasting change. Whether you're involved in animal rescue or simply care about making a difference, this conversation will help you understand animal sheltering in America and inspire you to be part of the solution.

EPISODE NOTES: Shelter Solutions: A Deep Dive with Animal Advocate Cara Achterberg

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/save-a-pooch-rescue-dog-welfare-pet-life-radio-original--6669238/support.

This episode will explore animal communications with Callie Kellem, an intuitive animal facilitator at Lightbody Academy. Callie shares her journey of discovering her ability to connect with animals, including the heartwarming story of reuniting a lost dog with its owner. Learn how deepening our connection with animals can help us reconnect with nature and ourselves, as well as gain insights into how you can enhance your own relationship with the animal kingdom. Callie will share the unspoken wisdom animals offer and how it can transform our understanding of the world around us as well as within us.

EPISODE NOTES: Natural Connections: Beyond Words with Animal Intuitive Callie Kellem

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/save-a-pooch-rescue-dog-welfare-pet-life-radio-original--6669238/support.

In this episode, we're talking with journalist Carol Mithers about her upcoming book, RETHINKING RESCUE: Dog Lady and the Story of America’s Forgotten People and Pets. This book takes a heartfelt look at the special bonds between pets and their owners, even when those owners are struggling with poverty, addiction, or homelessness.

One often overlooked topic is how poverty directly impacts a person's ability to care for their pets, highlighting the need to address the social issue of poverty itself. By understanding these connections, we can work toward more comprehensive solutions that support both people and their pets.

EPISODE NOTES: Rethinking Rescue: Pets, Poverty, and Compassion

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/save-a-pooch-rescue-dog-welfare-pet-life-radio-original--6669238/support.

In this episode, we’ll talk about the world of rescue dogs with Debby, a passionate advocate for rescue dog rehabilitation. Her journey began in the mid-1970s when she noticed the increasing number of terrified pups entering homes. Through her experiences, she shares valuable insights on identifying rescue dogs' triggers, understanding their impact on adoptive families, and providing effective strategies to help these dogs overcome their fears. This episode discusses Debby's journey, with her transformative relationship with Nora, a fear-biter she adopted, and the profound lessons they learned together.

EPISODE NOTES: Understanding Rescue Dogs: Overcoming Triggers and Fostering Trust

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/save-a-pooch-rescue-dog-welfare-pet-life-radio-original--6669238/support.

In today’s episode, we're joined by Anne Abel, author of newly released book, Mattie, Milo, and Me. Anne shares the touching stories of how her rescue dogs, Mattie and Milo, helped her navigate grief and depression. We discuss the complexities of adopting pets with undisclosed behavioral issues, highlighting the compassion and commitment required. Additionally, we tackle the debate: does someone with grief need time to recover before getting another dog, or does a new furry companion aid in healing? Join us for a heartfelt exploration of resilience, love, and the transformative power of canine companionship.

EPISODE NOTES: Navigating Grief with the Healing Journey of Rescue Dogs

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/save-a-pooch-rescue-dog-welfare-pet-life-radio-original--6669238/support.

In this episode, W.B. Murph, the creative mind behind the children's book, "Molly's Miracle: A Chosen Dog, Not a Broken Dog." W.B. Murph, a former veterinary nurse, shares the remarkable journey of Molly, a lovable Beagle whose experiences mirror the harsh reality of animal neglect. Together with his real-life silly Beagle companion, Murph crafted a narrative that goes beyond the pages, encouraging young readers to embrace love and care despite perceived flaws, fears, and failures. The author discusses the inspiration behind this touching story that explores the depths of compassion, second chances, and the profound bond between humans and their furry friends. This episode explores the creative process behind this heartfelt children's book and how Molly's journey serves as an inspiration for readers of all ages.

EPISODE NOTES: The Beagle's Voice: Unveiling Molly's Miracle

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/save-a-pooch-rescue-dog-welfare-pet-life-radio-original--6669238/support.

In this episode, we delve into the touching story of Freddie: The Rescue Dog Who Rescued Me with its author, Grant Hayter-Menzies. While Grant is renowned for his historical works, his latest book shifts the focus to a more contemporary and deeply personal subject – his cherished rescue dog, Freddie who has crossed the rainbow bridge in 2021.

In this episode, Grant shares the invaluable insights, steps, and tools they used to facilitate Freddie's acclimatization to overcome his fears and alleviate his general anxiety in the world. As we celebrate Freddie's life, Grant's tips and experiences offer a guide for those who wish to follow in his footsteps. His new book not only pays tribute to a remarkable rescue dog but offers comfort to others who resonate with loving and losing a pet, gone through a medical journey with a pet, or adopted an animal with a history of abuse. Freddie may have rescued Grant, but his legacy now extends to countless others through the lessons he imparts.

EPISODE NOTES: From Puppy Mill to Loving Home: How One Man Rescued and Rehabilitated His Best Friend

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/save-a-pooch-rescue-dog-welfare-pet-life-radio-original--6669238/support.

In this episode, we sit down with a professional dog trainer and CEO of Dog Training Elite, Mark Mestas, to talk about ways to reduce the number of dogs surrendered to shelters due to behavioral issues. Today’s show explores the transformative power of effective training for dogs which can make all the difference to their future. Discover expert tips, heartwarming success stories, and invaluable insights into how you can make a difference in the lives of your canine friends through the art of positive training. Whether you're a dog lover, aspiring pet owner, or rescue dog volunteer, this episode will leave you inspired and ready to rescue, rehabilitate, and train.

EPISODE NOTES: Transforming Troubled Tails: A Chat with a Dog Training Expert

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/save-a-pooch-rescue-dog-welfare-pet-life-radio-original--6669238/support.

In this episode, we explore the powerful synergy between technology and compassion in revolutionizing dog adoptions. Join us as we talk to Rescue Spot founder Nicole Patrick about how social media, apps and other out-of-box strategies are transforming shelter-to-home connections for dogs in need. Explore avenues beyond traditional volunteering, discover ways to make a difference, and learn about launching foster-based rescues. Tune in to discover the evolving landscape of dog adoption and find inspiration to take action in your own unique way.

EPISODE NOTES: Transforming Dog Adoptions: Tech, Compassion, and New Horizons

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/save-a-pooch-rescue-dog-welfare-pet-life-radio-original--6669238/support.

In this episode, renowned animal communicator Claudia Hehr will share her insights on who animals really are. Not what, but who. Her expertise & passion in animal communications has opened up another lens into the animal kingdom and will share with us how animals see the world. As we also open up our perspective, this may influence the dynamics between human and animal in the hopes that animal cruelty and neglect can decrease.

EPISODE NOTES: Who Are Animals, Really?

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/save-a-pooch-rescue-dog-welfare-pet-life-radio-original--6669238/support.

Losing your 4-legged best friend can be one of the most difficult things to experience. Because of their shorter life span than humans, that is often the case. However, it can go the other way around. The dog may also lose their human through illness or death and their lives drastically change to a whole different environment. Unfortunately, it is likely a shelter if family members are unable to care for the dog. Organizations like ElderDog not only have a mission of re-homing dogs in these cases, but they also support elders in taking care of their dogs so they are not put in a position to let their dog go. Our guest for this episode is Dr. Ardra Cole, Executive Director of ElderDog Canada, a national charity dedicated to ageing people and ageing dogs.

EPISODE NOTES: Aging Dogs, Aging People

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/save-a-pooch-rescue-dog-welfare-pet-life-radio-original--6669238/support.

In this episode, special guest Stephanie Filer, executive director of Shelter Animals Count: The National Database, will discuss the statistics of shelter admissions over the past few years. Currently, shelter intakes are up across the board and as a result, there is a crisis within many shelters. Have adoptions increased or decreased during the pandemic? Why are the shelters especially overwhelmed at this time?

EPISODE NOTES: Shelter Statistics: Pre-Pandemic to Post-Pandemic

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/save-a-pooch-rescue-dog-welfare-pet-life-radio-original--6669238/support.

Today's guest is Elizabeth Menegon, founder of Hands 2 Paws, a matching app that helps people with the 2 most important questions when looking for a dog. This episode will discuss the importance of not only choosing a dog based on your lifestyle but choosing ethical breeders if you go that route, so that health issues with the dogs are minimized.

EPISODE NOTES: Hands 2 Paws App: Matching You With A Dog Suitable For Your Lifestyle & An Ethical Breeder Or Rescue

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/save-a-pooch-rescue-dog-welfare-pet-life-radio-original--6669238/support.