Save A Pooch - Rescue Dog Welfare- Pet Life Radio Original
Save A Pooch is all about rescue dog welfare. With an informative yet humorous tone, the good, the bad, cute, and the ugly will be addressed. Episode topics can range from: how to improve fosters' and adopters' experience with rescues; how to improve rescues' well-being and heal their trauma; what are some of the opportunities for rescues; rescue success stories; how to spot a reputable or fake rescue organization, what determines a healthy human-animal bond and much, much more! Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/save-a-pooch-rescue-dog-welfare-pet-life-radio-original--6669238/support.
Save A Pooch - Episode 67 Four Paws, Two Feet, One Purpose: Rescue Dogs Saving Lives with Barb Ashmead and Ellen Suettler

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...
Save A Pooch - Episode 66 Finding Redemption Through Rescue with Sarah Cavallaro

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 love...
Save A Pooch - Episode 65 Breaking the Chain of Dog Fighting with Sloane Quealy-Miner

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...
Save A Pooch - Episode 64 Shelter Solutions: A Deep Dive with Animal Advocate Cara Achterberg

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...
Save A Pooch - Episode 63 Natural Connections: Beyond Words with Animal Intuitive Callie Kellem

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.
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Save A Pooch - Episode 62 Rethinking Rescue: Pets, Poverty, and Compassion

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 pe...
Save A Pooch - Episode 61 Understanding Rescue Dogs: Overcoming Triggers and Fostering Trust

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 Tr...
Save A Pooch - Episode 60 Navigating Grief with the Healing Journey of Rescue Dogs

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 NO...
Save A Pooch - Episode 59 The Beagle's Voice: Unveiling Molly's Miracle

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...
Save A Pooch - Episode 58 From Puppy Mill to Loving Home: How One Man Rescued and Rehabilitated His Best Friend

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 th...
Save A Pooch - Episode 57 Transforming Troubled Tails: A Chat with a Dog Training Expert

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 wi...
Save A Pooch - Episode 56 Transforming Dog Adoptions: Tech, Compassion, and New Horizons

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
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Save A Pooch - Episode 55 Who Are Animals, Really?

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?
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Save A Pooch - Episode 54 Aging Dogs, Aging People

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...
Save A Pooch - Episode 53 Shelter Statistics: Pre-Pandemic to Post-Pandemic

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
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Save A Pooch - Episode 52 Hands 2 Paws App: Matching You With A Dog Suitable For Your Lifestyle & An Ethical Breeder Or Rescue

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.
Save A Pooch - Episode 51 Acclaimed United Nations Photographer Encourages More Rescue Adoptions Through The Upcoming Book 'MUTTS'

This episode features United Nations photographer Olivia Pritchard and her upcoming new book “MUTTS” which aims to show people who haven't considered adopting a rescue pet or mystery mixed breed – that mutts have just as many unique, lovable, and desirable qualities as pedigree pups. Olivia will share her experience as a United Nations photographer working in combat zones as well as guidance for those thinking about adopting a shelter dog - which type might be right for their lifestyle.
EPISODE NOTES: Acclaimed United Nations Photographer Encourages More Rescue Adoptions Through The Upcoming Book 'MUTTS'
Become...
Save A Pooch - Episode 50 Keys To Decreasing 'Shelter Returns' Of Rescue Dogs And The Process Of Inner Awareness

In this episode, we will discuss how rescue dog adopters can increase their success as canine parents. Unfortunately, there are many adopters that end up returning the dog to the shelter for various reasons. In the case where the adopter just didn't feel a connection, is there a way to address that? Should the connection always be immediate or does it take time? Does the adopter first need to have self-connection before they can develop a relationship with their dog? What are the consequences if the adopter doesn't learn to connect with themselves and their new rescue dog?
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Save A Pooch - Episode 49 Creative Campaign Ideas for Rescue Organizations

With rescue organizations constantly facing funding challenges, coming up with campaign ideas can be difficult. For City Dogs & City Kitties Rescue, creativity doesn't run short. In fact, they successfully completed a #BettyWhiteChallenge with tremendous support. CDCK also partnered with local Washington DC artists with a win-win campaign. In this episode, co-founder Darren Binder will discuss the start of CDCK as well as how they operate their campaigns with a creative flair.
EPISODE NOTES: Creative Campaign Ideas for Rescue Organizations
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Save A Pooch - Episode 48 New Docuseries Paws For Love Raises Awareness On Support Dogs

This episode is about shining a light on the fact that rescue dogs not only need us; we also need rescuing with the help of support dogs. With enough education and awareness, this mutual relationship can help us and dogs thrive as we were meant to! “Paws for Love” is a show premiered on DOGTV, that follows Nashville couple Sean and Christina Conlon — and their golden retriever therapy dog Nash — who sold 90 percent of their possessions to begin a quest to travel around America helping others through therapy dogs.
EPISODE NOTES: New Docuseries Paws For Love Raises A...
Save A Pooch - Episode 47 No Dogs Left Behind

In this episode we will be talking with 'No Dogs Left Behind' Founder Jeffery Beri and Vice President & CEO of USA Operations Jackie Finnegan about their mission and how they are addressing the suspension of the importation of dogs into the United States from 113 countries. They have recently announced its first expansion and presence in Canada with the opening of its first Safe House in Toronto for dogs rescued from the illegal dog meat trade.
EPISODE NOTES: No Dogs Left Behind
Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/save-a-pooch-rescue-dog-welfare-pet-life-radio-original--6669238/support.
Save A Pooch - Episode 46 Caring For Disabled Dogs

How can we care for permanently disabled dogs? This topic is an important one to discuss because many injured or disabled dogs are given up by owners to the shelters because they cannot care for them. At the same token, many injured dogs (especially with permanent physical disabilities) have a harder time being adopted. In this episode, Sharon Seltzer, co-founder of Heaven Can Wait Animal Society and founder of Dog Wheelchair LIFE will be sharing with us her expertise and experience in this area of canine care.
EPISODE NOTES: Caring For Disabled Dogs
Become...
Save A Pooch - Episode 45 Two Rescue Dogs Make Final Four in Reality Series 'The Pack' on Amazon Prime

'The Pack' is a television series where 12 dogs and their owners travel the world and compete in fun team challenges for the chance to win the grand prize of $500,000 as well as an additional $250,000 towards the charity of their choice. In this episode, two of the four final contestants, Kentucky and Lucy share their experiences with their rescue dogs Derby and Duchess while filming the television series. Nicole, one of the show's dog trainers, also shares her experience being part of the show and ensuring all of the dogs are safe and happy.
EPISODE NOTES: Two...
Save A Pooch - Episode 44 Creating An Environment Your Rescue Dog Will Love You For

People as well as pets, are strongly influenced by the home environment. What if you can create a space that can positively influence your rescue dog? In this episode, we will talk about how the home environment and ambiance has a strong influence on your rescue dog's quality of life and what you can do about it. Today's guest Sam Wike, is a retired police officer and K9 explosive detection dog handler and is currently a professional dog trainer with plenty of experience with shelter dogs.
EPISODE NOTES: Creating An Environment Your Rescue Dog Will Love...
Save A Pooch - Episode 43 A 30,000 Foot View on Pet Rescue, with Pet Rescue Pilots

With the Covid-19 pandemic still having a hold on our daily lives, from workplaces to entertainment, the future of almost every industry will likely have to evolve. Including the pet rescue arena. What challenges do organizations and rescuers face? What solutions are available to accommodate the changing landscape? In today's episode, founder of Pet Rescue Pilots, Julian Javor will share his insights on what the new normal will look like for the rescue dog and pet rescue industry and what are the challenges and solutions.
EPISODE NOTES: A 30,000 Foot View on Pet Rescue, with Pet Rescue...
Save A Pooch - Episode 42 Covid 19: Can Your Dog Have It?

With the coronavirus pandemic rippling throughout the world, uncertainty and change has become the new norm. But what does that mean for our beloved pets? What does that mean for the dogs housed in shelters or foster homes? Are you afraid that your dog can be a carrier? As much as humans are affected, our canine friends surely are involved as well. This show we will talk with Dr. Adam Christman, Co-Chief of Staff Brick Town Veterinary Hospital in New Jersey to get clarity around this issue.
EPISODE NOTES: Covid 19: Can Your Dog Have It?
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Save A Pooch - Episode 41 The Revolving Rescue Dog Door

With the holiday season coming, many dogs are given as surprise gifts. With adopting a dog becoming more common, rescue dogs enter homes during the holiday spirit but then are returned to the shelter after the phase is over. Whether this happens over a holiday or not, unfortunately, rescue dogs do go through the revolving door in many cases. This episode with Katie Blakely, Pet First Insurance CEO, will cover how to prevent a 'gift return' and how to avoid setbacks that commonly occur in the first few weeks of getting a dog.
EPISODE NOTES: The...
Save A Pooch - Episode 40 Animal Compassion And The Next Generation

All around the world, we see headlines and petitions that animals need to be treated in a more humane way. There seems to be endless scenarios of trying to 'put out the fires.' It's great to see groups of people come together for this purpose. One important factor to consider that would positively influence the future in this area is educating children on animal compassion and helping them be more aware. This approach may not have a significant impact in our immediate situations but over time, it is the generation of children and young adults that will make our...
Save A Pooch - Episode 39 How To Deal With Losing A Rescue Dog As A Volunteer

Dealing with the loss of a pet is a difficult process for people involved. This show will address rescue dogs in particularly, and volunteers that in a role of foster parent, rescue organization or anyone who’s taking care of a rescue dog. For those handling rescue dogs that are waiting to be adopted, unfortunately, sometimes, those dogs pass before they ever do get adopted. What are the main messages these dogs have for us?
Today’s guest is an internationally renowned animal communicator, Sheila Trecartin who has helped so many people deal with pet loss. Being able to t...
Save A Pooch - Episode 38 How Rescue Dogs Affect Relationships

This fun show will discuss the dynamics that happen for any couple that's gotten a new rescue dog together; in addition to the dynamics involved if you were single, have a dog and then got into a relationship. Perhaps you've noticed a change in behaviour or personality in your dog. This episode will cover answers to what kind of rescue dogs work well for first time couples? What if my rescue doesn’t like my new partner due to trauma related to past owners? Do I really have to choose between my significant other or my rescue dog? This episode wi...
Save A Pooch - Episode 37 Caring For Visually-Impaired Dogs With Ease

Dogs with special needs are often surrendered or seen as not adoptable because it requires time and attention that many cannot afford. This episode will dispel the myths around having a special needs dog, and how they are very much adoptable. Today's guest is Cathy Symons, an author, a veterinary technician, and certified canine rehabilitation practitioner from Massachusetts who is an advocate for blind and visually impaired dogs.
More details on this episode MP3 Podcast - Caring For Visually-Impaired Dogs With Ease on Pet Life Radio
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Save A Pooch - Episode 36 Does Your Dog Suffer From Allergies?

Did you know allergies affect dogs just as much as humans? In today’s show, holistic veterinarian Dr. Deva Khalsa will delve in her specialization of allergies and how rescue dogs are affected by it and how it is addressed by mainstream veterinarian practice. In this episode, you’ll learn what signs to look for and how to properly address allergies in your dog, rescue dog or not.
More details on this episode MP3 Podcast - Does Your Dog Suffer From Allergies on Pet Life Radio
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Save A Pooch - Episode 35 Myth Buster: Shelter Dogs Are Broken

Are Shelter/rescue dogs broken? This stigma has plagued so many dogs that are in need of homes. In today's episode, executive director of the Agape Rescue, Tanya Willis, will discuss why 'being broken' is not the case. In fact, with the help of more foster care through rescue organizations, rescue dogs can have that chance to live as much a normal life as any other dogs who's had one positive home all their life.
Our second guest in today's episode, Jim Scano, founder of Dog Rescue Shirt Club, has actually worked with Agape Rescue, and continues to...
Save A Pooch - Episode 34 From Shelter Dog To Superdog

Service Dogs Inc celebrates their 30th anniversary not only helping rescue dogs but also individuals in need of service dogs. In fact, this organization puts rescue dogs into training to become service dogs! How is that possible? Founder and president of Service Dogs Inc. Sheri Sholtes shares her journey in this episode.
More details on this episode MP3 Podcast - From Shelter Dog To Superdog on Pet Life Radio
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Save A Pooch - Episode 33 Peace of Mind Dog Rescue: Helping Senior Dogs and Senior People

With senior individuals being a vulnerable and under-served population, senior rescue dogs are even more vulnerable. On one hand, senior dogs in shelters are more likely to be euthanized, on another, dogs owned by senior people are more likely to be left behind because they are no longer able to be taken care of.
The organization called Peace of Mind Dog Rescue has taken the initiative to not only advocate for senior rescue dogs in shelters but to also provide dog services to senior people to ensure they can keep their dogs with them as long as possible...
Save A Pooch - Episode 32 The Benefits of CBD Oil in Helping Rescue Dogs

With many tragic lives that stray dogs endure abroad, it's understandable we feel helpless and powerless to address the situations. Founder of Odessa's Essential Health For Pets and has experienced extraordinary dog rescues from China and has helped them recover from their pain and reduce their anxiety. In this episode, Odessa Gunn will talk to us about how she does it.
More details on this episode MP3 Podcast - The Benefits of CBD Oil in Helping Rescue Dogs on Pet Life Radio
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Save A Pooch - Episode 31 Rescue Dogs Turned Into Therapy Dogs

Can rescue dogs become therapy dogs? Rescue dogs being given another chance at a forever home is one thing, training them to become therapy dogs is another. Vancouver ecoVillage's Therapy Dog program contributes to both causes of helping dogs in need as well as humans in need. This will be discussed in today's show with Paula and Quille sharing their stories and and bringing awareness to both causes that is greatly needed.
More details on this episode MP3 Podcast - Rescue Dogs Turned Into Therapy Dogs on Pet Life Radio
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Save A Pooch - Episode 30 Why Dogs Go Missing and What Pet Owners Can Do

As some pet owners may know, having their dog go missing is a gut wrenching feeling that causes panic. Luckily, some are found in a reasonable amount of time. Others, unfortunately, are not. This show will highlight what pet owners can do to prevent their dog from going missing and the best tactics to find their dog should they go missing. These lessons are also beneficial to avoid owned dogs having to go to a shelter or pound. Our guest today is Amy Mall, she has worked in government and the non-profit sector, has volunteered in dog rescue and as...
Save A Pooch - Episode 29 How Rescue Dogs Can Rescue Us

The bond between canine and veterans or soldiers can really only be understood between the pair. That relationship can really make or break the spirit of those serving abroad. This demonstrates that rescue dogs really can play a role in rescuing humans as well. Nowzad Charity and Pets For Vets New Brunswick are two organizations that help make that possible. From rescuing dogs, to reuniting them with veterans, to transforming them into service dogs, the end result are happier canines that get a second chance.
More details on this episode MP3 Podcast - How Rescue Dogs Can Rescue...
Save A Pooch - Episode 28 Special Needs Canines

Dogs who need extra care and attention compared to other canines are deemed having special needs. Whether it be a condition from birth or a condition developed later in the dog's life, sadly, it comes with a stigma that they are too broken to keep. For this reason, in many shelters, dogs with special needs are sometimes last to find new homes.
We have two amazing guests with us to share their knowledge and stories on the topic of dogs with special needs. Elaine Reiter is with the organization Wildside Limited who takes a stand in caring for...