The Foster Files - Stories about Animal Rescue and Welfare

Most animal shelters are fighting impossible odds — but what if the key to saving more lives isn’t just more resources, but a radical rethinking of how we see and manage pet populations? Steven Martinez, Executive Director of the York County SPCA, reveals the groundbreaking strategies that transformed their save rate from 53% to a staggering 95%. Discover how a data-driven approach, community programs like shelter, neuter, return (SNR), and innovative partnerships are not just saving animals — they’re reshaping animal welfare in Pennsylvania and beyond.

York County SPCA | Giving Animals A New Leash On Life

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Join Kelly and Michael as they share the emotional journey that transformed doubts into unwavering love and reveal the hidden joys that come with adopting a dog with behavioral scars. Perfect for pet lovers, rescue advocates, and anyone curious about the true meaning of commitment. Get ready to be moved and to rethink what you believed about animal rescue and love.

Foster Spotlight: Wagtopia: Adopt Dogs, Cats, Register Pet Microchip, Geo Tags

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Losing a beloved pet can feel devastating — and yet, for one woman, it became the catalyst to save even more lives. Susan never imagined she’d open her heart again so soon, but after Schuyler's sudden passing, she found an unexpected purpose in fostering. In this heartfelt episode, Susan shares her raw journey from grief to growth, revealing how fostering helped her heal her own broken heart, one dog at a time.

Foster Spotlight: Wagtopia: Adopt Dogs, Cats, Register Pet Microchip, Geo Tags

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This week's episode is a conversation Kelly had on the podcast, Beyond Compassion Fatigue: Make Your Passion for Helping Animals Sustainable with Jennifer Blough. This time she's the one being interviewed about the way she and her husband approach fostering, setting boundaries, and maintaining her sanity in animal welfare. You can find Jennifer's podcast and website below! 

Beyond Compassion Fatigue: Make Your Passion for Helping Animals Sustainable! - Podcast - Apple Podcasts

Home | Jennifer Blough

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Kelly dives into the rapid temperature rise inside vehicles—just five minutes in an 85-degree day can turn a car into an oven dangerous enough to cause heatstroke or death. She reveals how even tinted windows and open vents do little to slow the deadly heat. But more than that, she unpacks the specifics of Pennsylvania’s Libre’s Law, explaining crucial regulations that every animal advocate must understand—like how long a dog can be tethered outside in extreme weather, or what actions are legally protected if you see a suffering animal.

PA Humane Officer Search Tool: PA...

This solo episode uncovers the often-overlooked impacts of foster language on morale, public perception, and animal welfare. Kelly shares powerful insights from her own experiences and discusses common phrases like "keeping them" or "giving them up" that may reinforce guilt and confusion. You'll discover practical alternatives—like asking “what's the best home for this animal?”—that foster clearer, more positive conversations around adoption.

Foster Spotlight: Wagtopia: Adopt Dogs, Cats, Register Pet Microchip, Geo Tags

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The tragic death of a carriage horse in Central Park has ignited a fire under the fight to end NYC's horse-drawn industry—and the stakes couldn’t be higher. With footage of the heartbreaking incident circulating widely, the urgent question is: how many more lives must be lost before decisive action is taken?

In this gripping episode, Kelly sits down with Julie Cappiello, president of Voters for Animal Rights, to unpack the harrowing realities behind the carriage horse industry in New York City. Just days after a horse collapsed and died from ingesting poisonous plants in C...

Most animal shelters are caught in a cycle of tragedy and miscommunication—until now. Tawny Hammond, Director of No Kill Advancement at Best Friends Animal Society, unveils a revolutionary approach that’s transforming shelters into lifesaving havens. With her unique background in public service and community wellness, Tawny shares how shifting the narrative around "no kill" and embracing compassionate, community-centered strategies can finally end the needless killing of hundreds of thousands of pets each year.

Promoting Animal Welfare & Pet Adoption | Best Friends Animal Society

Tawny Hammond, Director of No-Kill Advancement | Best Friends Animal Society

Ta...

Recorded at the "Paws and Pints" event in Oakmont, Pennsylvania, it features interviews with representatives from various rescue organizations, including Humane Animal Rescue of Pittsburgh, Biggie's Bullies, Animal Protectors of Allegheny Valley, and Cross Your Paws. The episode highlights the stories of adoptable dogs and the efforts of these organizations to find them loving homes. Kelly emphasizes the importance of fostering and volunteering, encouraging listeners to get involved in animal welfare. The episode also includes information on how to connect with the featured organizations and support their missions.

Humane Animal Rescue - Care They Need. Love They...

Most of us are unknowingly supporting a billion-dollar industry that's devastating the planet, exploiting countless animals, and harming human health — but Cameron Harsh reveals how a shift in awareness and action can tip the scales toward compassion and sustainability.

In this eye-opening episode, Cameron, Interim Executive Director of World Animal Protection, pulls back the curtain on the dark realities of factory farming, wildlife trade, and captive animal entertainment. From the cruel confinement of factory-farmed animals to the horrific trade of wild species like pangolins and bears, he explains why these industries persist despite decades of ac...

When it comes to protecting animals, having the right legal foundation can be the game-changer your organization needs—but most nonprofits are flying blind when it comes to navigating regulations, governance, and funding challenges. Jaclyn Leeds, Executive Director of the Animal Defense Partnership, reveals how free legal services are empowering hundreds of animal nonprofits across the United States to operate smarter, stronger, and more impactful. Discover how this unique, donor-funded organization provides transactional legal advice—covering governance, intellectual property, employment, and compliance—fueling mission success without the complexity of litigation or hefty law firm fees.

https://www.animal...

Nick Pisciottano is a dedicated Pennsylvania state senator and animal advocate committed to bipartisan progress on animal welfare. His insights illuminate the often-hidden legislative process, empowering everyday advocates to be part of meaningful change.

Perfect for animal rescuers, pet lovers, or anyone frustrated by the slow pace of reform—this episode shows you how your voice matters more than ever. Don’t wait for change to happen—be the change.

About - Senator Nick Pisciottano

Foster Spotlight: Wagtopia: Adopt Dogs, Cats, Register Pet Microchip, Geo Tags

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Most people don’t realize that investing in prevention and retention can drastically reduce the number of animals entering shelters—and save lives. Kimmi Rasky shares her inspiring journey from fostering to building innovative programs that focus on keeping pets out of shelters altogether. If you’ve ever wondered how focusing on prevention, like accessible spay/neuter initiatives and community training, can transform animal welfare, this episode reveals the powerful strategies behind it.

Foster Spotlight: Wagtopia: Adopt Dogs, Cats, Register Pet Microchip, Geo Tags

Rescue Revival: Home

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Join Kelly as she explores the fascinating world of gray wolves and wolf dogs at the Wolf Sanctuary of PA. Michelle Vanderneut shares incredible stories about wolf reintroduction, the importance of respecting their wild instincts, and the challenges of managing a sanctuary dedicated solely to rescue and conservation. You'll learn how wolves influence ecosystems — from controlling overpopulating prey to fostering biodiversity — and why they deserve our understanding, not fear.

A Treasure Awaits at Wolf Sanctuary of PA - Come Visit Us!

Adopt a Wolf from the Wolf Sanctuary of PA - Help Us Help Them

Most pet owners underestimate how quickly an incident can escalate when safety isn't a top priority. In this episode of The Foster Files, Kelly exposes the unseen risks that can turn a routine walk or playtime into tragedy—and what every animal lover needs to know to protect their furry friends.

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Most kids are bored easily—and that's a problem for dogs and responsible pet ownership. But what if a subscription box could transform the way children connect with their furry friends?

Enter Pup O'Clock, a revolutionary program that turns responsibility into an engaging, educational adventure for kids aged K-8. Founder Brian Manni reveals how his innovative boxes combine fun, learning, and community impact—empowering children to nurture empathy, discipline, and canine skills through themed activities, trading cards, and real-world lessons. Unlike typical toy boxes, Pup O'Clock is mission-driven, working with shelters, schools, and local businesses to lower pet...

Suzanne Gonzalez, president and co-founder of PAVFA, uncovers the nonprofit's innovative approach to reforming animal welfare through policy and politics. She shares how they’re leveraging bipartisan efforts, educational webinars, and direct engagement with voters to influence legislation like Victoria’s Law and the banning of wildlife killing contests. You'll learn about the strategic questions they ask candidates, such as their stance on puppy mills and pet store bans, and how these insights empower voters to make informed decisions. The episode explores the hurdles and pushback they encounter—from industry lobbying to entrenched hunting traditions—and reveals the surprising data tha...

Reptiles are more than just misunderstood creatures — they’re fascinating, social, and full of mysteries waiting to be uncovered. Jesse Rothacker of Forgotten Friend Reptile Sanctuary shares stories that will change how you see these often-misjudged animals — from a giant alligator surprisingly befriending his tank mates, to the secret social lives of snakes and lizards, and how reptiles actually connect in ways you never imagined.

If you’ve ever been curious about the true nature of reptiles or felt uneasy about keeping them as pets, this episode will inspire you to give reptiles a real c...

Most of us overlook the emotional complexity behind veterinary care—and that sacrosanct image of vets as heroes masks the human, loving, sometimes imperfect beings they truly are. Patti Eddington, a veterinarian’s wife and author of Don't Look in the Freezer, pulls back the curtain to reveal the raw, honest truth about life in animal rescue, the cost of caring, and the unbreakable human-animal bond.

Patti Eddington – Author

Don't Look in the Freezer: The Very Strange Life of a Veterinarian's Wife: Eddington, Patti: 9798896361305: Amazon.com: Books

Foster Spotlight: Molly — Pound Buddies

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This week the organization I work with lost an important member to suicide. This episode about Compassion Fatigue with Jennifer Blough is a great listen and can help you learn the tools you need to protect yourself in this hard and demanding work. Take care of yourself as you take care of animals.  

Jennifer Blough | Compassion Fatigue Help for Animal Welfare Professionals

To Save a Starfish: A Compassion Fatigue Workbook for the Animal Welfare Warrior: Blough LPC, Jennifer A.: 9798377446132: Amazon.com: Books

Foster Spotlight: Max Wagtopia: Adopt Dogs, Cats, Register Pet Microchip, Geo T...

Most animal advocates focus solely on habitats and laws — but understanding how political change happens can turn passion into real victories.
In this episode, Ali Feldman Taylor, founder of Voters for Animal Rights, reveals the secret strategies behind passing impactful legislation with limited resources—and how anyone can become a powerful advocate for animal welfare. From her journey working on city bans for horse carriages to fighting against factory octopus farms, Ali shares actionable tips on influencing politicians, preparing your community, and making a difference even when resources are tight.

Home - Voters For Animal Rights

In this heartfelt episode, Kelly is joined by Kayla Powers, a passionate animal foster in Asheville, North Carolina, who shares her journey, honest insights into rescue life, and practical tips for fostering and advocating for animals. They explore the emotional highs and lows of rescue work, the importance of protecting mental health, and how to foster a positive, supportive community.

ADOPT A DOG - Rusty's Legacy

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Most of what threatens sea turtles today comes down to human impact — but what if your small daily choices could make a BIG difference? In this eye-opening episode, Bette Zirkelbach, General Manager of the Turtle Hospital in the Florida Keys, reveals how everyday actions can protect one of the oldest and most beloved animals on Earth. From cutting plastic waste to understanding critical legislation, discover tangible ways to turn your concern into real conservation.

Adoptions – The Turtle Hospital. Rescue, Rehab, Release.

https://conserveturtles.org/turtle/molly/

The Turtle Hospital Store

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Pets for Vets Founder and CEO, Clarissa Black, tells Kelly about the important work they're doing to connect shelter pets and veterans across the country. Through intentional training they help veterans form a SuperBond with their pets so they can support each other for life.

Pets For Vets

Clarissa Black

Foster Spotlight: Gucci – Foothills Animal Shelter

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In this episode of The Foster Files, host Kelly speaks with Debbie Bauer, a holistic behavior and wellness coach specializing in blind and deaf dogs. They discuss Debbie's journey into dog training, the unique challenges faced by blind and deaf dogs, and effective training methods. 

Dog Trainer | Your Inner Dog

ARMA’s Aussies | Aussie Rescue of the Mid-Atlantic

Emmie - Adoptable Pet | Petfinder | Petfinder

Poe - Adoptable Pet | Petfinder | Petfinder

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In this short, solo episode Kelly talks about the common objections rescue and shelter volunteers get when encouraging adoption and what resources they can point to in order to overcome them.

Adopt a Dog, Cat, or Other Pet Near You Today | Petfinder | Petfinder

Foster Spotlight: Kiki - Adoptable Pet | Petfinder | Petfinder

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In this episode of The Foster Files Kelly talks to Licensed Professional Counselor and Author, Jennifer Blough about compassion fatigue in animal rescue and animal welfare. 

Jennifer Blough | Compassion Fatigue Help for Animal Welfare Professionals

To Save a Starfish: A Compassion Fatigue Workbook for the Animal Welfare Warrior: Blough LPC, Jennifer A.: 9798377446132: Amazon.com: Books

Foster Spotlight: Max Wagtopia: Adopt Dogs, Cats, Register Pet Microchip, Geo Tags

Episode on YouTube https://youtu.be/bPOCqW5NsD8

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Has anyone every told you that no matter how much they walk their dog it's still crazy? Have you spent hours playing fetch, just to have your dog still be wild when you get inside? Brandon from Run Buddy Austin explains to Kelly just how important their dog gyms are for the dogs of the Phoenix and Austin areas. In addition to partnering with animal rescues to exercise shelter dogs, they're committed to spreading the Run Buddy Gospel to improve the lives of dogs everywhere!

RunBuddyMobile.com | We Run Dogs

Animal Details - Beaux

Ever wonder what to do if you find an injured squirrel or abandoned baby bunnies? Katie from Humane Animal Rescue of Pittsburgh's Wildlife Sanctuary gives us all the advice we need to save animals in need!

Wildlife - Humane Animal Rescue

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Humane Animal Rescue has been a staple of both animal and community support in Pittsburgh for over 100 years. Director of Marketing, Michele, takes time out of her busy day to talk to Kelly about the resources and support that HARP provides both the animals, and people, of Pittsburgh.

Foster Spotlight: General Tso - Humane Animal Rescue

Humane Animal Rescue - Care They Need. Love They Deserve.

Housing Resources - Humane Animal Rescue

Ellie's Pet Pantry - Humane Animal Rescue

Humane Health Coalition - Humane Animal Rescue

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With over 140,000 followers on Instagram, Cameron is the designated Dangler in Chief of the does.it.dangle account. On staff at Austin Pets Alive he works with behavior case dogs daily in an attempt to get them adopted into loving homes. He wears his heart on his sleeve as he talks about his love for animals, The Doc, and the work he gets to do, even when it's difficult. 

Foster Spotlight: Austin Pets Alive! | Harley

Instagram - @playfetch.with.harley

Dangler in Chief (@does.it.dangle) • Instagram photos and videos

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The founder of the largest Equine Rescue in the Northeast, Rosemary Farm Sancturary, talks to Kelly about the cruelty of horse auctions, why not every horse is meant to be ridden, and what it really means to love horses. By the end of this episode you'll be looking for a horse to sponsor or for a stay at their on-farm Airbnb!

ROSEMARY FARM SANCTUARY

Staydoption™ — ROSEMARY FARM SANCTUARY

DIMITRI — ROSEMARY FARM SANCTUARY

Horses from Every Window! - Farm stays for Rent in South Kortright, New York, United States - Airbnb

Nonp...

Author and Certified Breathwork Coach, Katya Lidsky takes some time to talk to us about some of the pitfalls in wellness surrounding animal rescue. After 20 years in rescue she's come to learn that healing people is the only way we can truly help these animals. 

Katya Lidsky | Breathwork Coach for Animal Professionals & Creatives

The Trauma Stewardship Store - The Trauma Stewardship Institute

About - Jessica Dolce

A Purposeful Rescue

FOSTER SPOTLIGHT - Meet Sweet Heart A2243666 | LA Animal Services

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Animal Behavior Counselor, Lillian Akin, talks about the intricoes of a dog's behavior. Taking the time to identify what might have changed for the dog, the message the dog is trying to communicate, and how our human behaviors are contributing to it, are all critical in understand your foster or adopted dog. 

Jessica Dolce | Practice Compassionate Badassery

Amazon.com : trauma stewardship lipsky

Behavior Professionals | Ampp - Find Lillian's contact information here

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ht...

Loving our pets comes with hard choices. On today's episode Kelly & Crissy talk about some of those decisions. First, the decision that we make to welcome a new pet into our home. And second, what it means to make the decision to say goodbye. 

BluePearl Pet Hospital Pittsburgh North | Pittsburgh, PA

In-Home Pet Euthanasia in Pittsburgh | Caring Pathways

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Since Kelly will be traveling over the holiday she decided to repeat an earlier episode, What to Expect When Expecting a Foster. All new content will be headed your way next week, so be sure to listen!

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Meet Kelly Motter – CanvasRebel Magazine

Pennsylvania is joining the growing number of states attempting to pass best interest laws when it comes to animal welfare during a divorce. To hear more about the bill, and how to be a part of its' passing, give today's episode a listen and a like.

House Bill 97 - Bill Information (History) - House Bill 97; Regular Session 2025-2026 - PA General Assembly

Contact your PA Senator - Members of the Senate | 2025-2026 Session - PA State Senate

Beau's Profile - Wagtopia: Adopt Dogs, Cats, Register Pet Microchip, Geo Tags

Denver Pet Partners is an organization dedicated to strengthening the human and animal bond through their volunteer work. Rika and Laura walk us through the work they do, how important it is to the people in their community, and the steps you can take if this work speaks to you.

Littleton, CO - Hound (Unknown Type)/Pit Bull Terrier. Meet Kelly a Pet for Adoption - AdoptaPet.com

DPP Main Site – Advancing the Human-Animal Bond

Volunteer Therapy Pets & Therapy Dog Program: Pet Partners

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Dr. Hougentogler of K Vet Animal Care takes the time to talk about other ways to treat what ails your pet. From acupuncture, to physical therapy, to herbal remedies and spinal manipulation, different options could be a better path for your cat or dog. With years of experience under his belt, Dr. H is a wealth of knowledge on how to make sure your family pet is living their best and most fulfilled life. 

Wagtopia: Adopt Dogs, Cats, Register Pet Microchip, Geo Tags - Adoptable Carlos

Vet & Animal Hospital in Greensburg, PA | K...

As we approach the months filled with cabin fever, Kelly thought it would be a great time to talk about unwanted behavior from excited dogs. Lauren from Choose Wisely Dog Training offers some easy, actionable tips when your dog is jumping, barking, or humping for attention!

Wagtopia: Adopt Dogs, Cats, Register Pet Microchip, Geo Tags

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