Welcome to

Beverly Isla on Pet Life Radio


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! 

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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Show Notes

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 pets.

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Show Notes

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.

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Show Notes

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.

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Show Notes

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 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.

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Show Notes

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 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.  

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Show Notes

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 will leave you inspired and ready to rescue, rehabilitate, and train.

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Show Notes

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.

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Show Notes

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.  

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Show Notes

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 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.


Show Notes

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? 


Show Notes

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. 


Show Notes

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.


Show Notes

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? 

Our guest, Michael Overlie, will share his insights on that process and how it can significantly reduce adopters returning the dog to a shelter. He will cover how the adopters' inner awareness plays a role in the process. Lastly, Michael will share his experience on how canines can help their human with their self-growth. 


Show Notes

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.


Show Notes

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.  


Show Notes

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. 


Show Notes

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. 


Show Notes

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. 


Show Notes

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. 


Show Notes

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. 


Show Notes

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. 


Show Notes

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. 


Show Notes

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 future decisions.


Show Notes

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 tune in a deeper level, she has helped people from around the world get answers to their most-pressing questions. 


Show Notes

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 will also feature a new app called Dig, a Dog Person's Dating App- ideal for those looking for a dog-loving partner. 


Show Notes

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.  


Show Notes

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. 


Show Notes

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.

Our second guest in today's episode, Jim Scano, founder of Dog Rescue Shirt Club, has actually worked with Agape Rescue, and continues to help other rescue organizations raise funds.


Show Notes

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. 


Show Notes

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. They have been able merge the two causes of helping senior rescues and people in Pacific Grove, California. 


Show Notes

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. 


Show Notes

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.  


Show Notes

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 a dog foster mom. 


Show Notes

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. 


Show Notes

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 animals with special needs as well as Stephani Rizo, who runs the Miracle Foundation of San Diego and seek out those with special needs to rehabilitate and re-home them


Show Notes

Episode 27 - Justice For Rescue Dogs

The role that justice plays for rescue dogs can be touchy subject for many animal lovers. For some, there just isn't enough of it to make a difference to dogs in need. For others, justice is the saving grace to making an impact on their lives. Of course, there are several factors involved to determine whether justice is, in fact, even playing a role. Today's episode we have our special guests to discuss how laws can help or not help rescue dogs.


Show Notes

Episode 26 - One Initiative At A Time

This show is dedicated to 2 new initiatives to help rescue shelters and rescue dogs. The first guest is Judi Cogen, author of Puppy Conversations as well as the daily blog DearKidLoveMom. The second guest is Anthony DiPaolo, president and founder of Modern Puppies. Their recent launches particularly have a focus in helping rescue shelters with funding plus more. It's great to see Judi and Anthony pay it forward to our fellow canines in need. 


Show Notes

Episode 25 - Grieving Our Canine Friends

This show is dedicated to those who have experienced the loss of their canine pets, particularly those who have cared for and taken rescue dogs under their wing. It is a topic that can be difficult to come face to face with; unfortunately, all pet parents do have to face it at some point. Today's guests are Wendy Van De Poll, founder of Center For Pet Loss Grief, she holds numerous credentials in the healing arts, coaching, author, animal communications to name a few. Our other guest is Brenda Harney, co-founder and VP of Tiny Paws Dog Rescue and who has had the wonderful experience of fostering over 700 dogs in the past 16 years. 


Show Notes

Episode 24 - Heaven on Earth For Rescue Dogs

Caring for and housing rescue dogs is a world in itself; but once rescue dogs get adopted, improving or maintaining their behavior is a whole other world. Today's guests cover both arenas to make sure rescue dogs are not only as happy as they can be but as polished as they can be once adopted. Our first guest Lya, who owns and runs the non profit organization in Costa Rica called Territorio De Zaguates, also known as Land of the Strays. Our second guest, Jeff Reid, has been rehabilitating rescue dogs for over 10 years and runs Rescue Me Canine Training based in BC Canada. 


Show Notes

Episode 23 - Cannabis For Pets

With medical marijuana making headway into North America's medical system, the research into pet benefits is also coming into full spectrum. This show features the work of Drs. Sarah Brandon and Greg Copas who are considered leaders in the research and product effectiveness for animal cannabis science. Their latest formulation Canna Companion is the world's premier site for cannabis/hemp education and products for the pet world. We will go over not only how it can benefit issues common to rescue dogs but pets in general. 


Show Notes

Episode 22 - Paying It Forward For Our Pets

With more organizations paying it forward, more corporations have been tag teaming with charities. One particular duo, Bayer Animal Health and Adopt-a-Pet.com, shines a deacon of light for rescue shelters with their campaign called Share For Shelters. This initiative encourages pet owners to upload photos, with each photo leading to a product donation that goes to rescue shelters. With Bayer's mission to keep your pets healthy and Adopt-a-Pet.com's mission to help find rescue dogs homes, this dynamic alliance contributes to animal welfare in a significant way. Our guests today are Lauren Dorsch, representative of Bayer Animal Health and Dana Puglisi from Adopt-a-Pet.com, the largest non-profit pet adoption website.


Show Notes

Episode 21 - Rescue Dogs Become An Ambassador For Canine Rescues

The myth that rescue dogs are broken or second hand quality is exactly that. A myth. Truth is, rescue dogs can be one of the most loyal companions given the patience and understanding. This episode will feature 3 special rescue dogs and their stories of getting out of the shelter and becoming an ambassador for canine rescues.

Our guests today are Joey, the proud forever parent of Mervin the Chihuahua, who's gained quite a following on social media; Courtney who adopted the social media icon Tuna, and lastly we have Lori, forever momma of Beau who was once a special foster dog for me.


Show Notes

Episode 20 - MyRescue.dog and RARE Celebrate Their Mission In Helping Rescue Dogs

This show is dedicated to 2 organizations that recently launched their mission in helping rescue dogs. It's great to see more groups coming together for this purpose. There are several ways organizations can address the issue of animals in need, whether it be directly rescuing them from inhumane conditions to providing support to the groups that do, or just as importantly, raising awareness to the public. Our first guest is Jeff Davidoff, Chief Marketing Officer of Donut. Donut has partnered with the Petfinder Foundation to create MyRescue.dog, a new platform to help homeless dogs by funding shelters. Our second guest is Trisha Crowley, founder of Rural Animal Rescue Effort (RARE) based in Columbia, Tennessee who's focus is to help animals in the rural areas where there is lack of support. 


Show Notes

Episode 19 - Money and Pets: How Deep Does Your Wallet Really Have To Be?

This episode we'll be talking about the realities of having a pet, particularly the costs and expenses involved in owning a dog. As rescues organizations take on more surrendered dogs, it's worthwhile to discuss one of the main reasons why dogs are given up. From unexpected vet bills, to unforeseen family circumstances that makes it difficult for owners to continue the costs.  Our guests today will talk to us about this topic in detail and help us better understand whats involved. Our first guest is renowned pet expert Charlotte Reed and our second guest is Rhyss Miller of Fairy Tale Endings, a non for profit organization. 


Show Notes

Episode 18 - First Aid for Pets

Ever thought CPR can work for your pets? Knowing First Aid for humans is almost a necessity as it can save lives in the most unexpected events. But for those households with pets, not knowing first aid techniques on them can mean a hefty vet bill or possibly even worse. This show will explore the topic of First Aid for pets and how we can use some practical tools should you come across an unexpected incident. Our guests today will be Lisa Wagner, owner of Walks 'N' Wags Pet First Aid and Dr. Deborah Mandell, emergency service veterinarian and American Red Cross Pet Care Advisor. 


Show Notes

Episode 17 - Disaster Relief Dogs To The Rescue

Many people around the world wish they can save more dogs in need. But do we realize to what extent some dogs actually rescue us? This episode will uncover the one job that service dogs do that can make or break human lives. Disaster-relief dogs. Our guests today will be Wilma Melville, founder of Search Dog Foundation and Ann Wichmann, founding member of Search and Rescue Dog of the United States (SARDUS), also a FEMA handler. Both Wilma and Ann have done tremendous work training and handling dogs that have been first responders of several natural disasters including the Sept.11 disaster at the World Trade Centers, earthquakes, missing persons, and much more. This show our guests will walk us through some of things that happen behind the scenes that we may not be aware of. 


Show Notes

Episode 16 - The Science Behind Canine Behavior And How It Can Help Rescue Dogs

This show will focus on the scientific approach of canine behavior and the work of renowned veterinarian Dr. Nicholas Dodman. He authors many scientific journals & best selling books; a professor at the Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine at Tufts University; a specialist in pharmacologic control in animal behavior and chief scientific officer at the Center for Canine Behavior Studies. He is also a regular expert on radio and television for his work, including 20/20, Oprah, The Today Show, Good Morning America and many more. His current research is underway and can play a tremendous role in helping rescue dogs find compatible adopters. 


Show Notes

Episode 15 - How Kids Can Help Rescue Dogs

Today's show is dedicated to highlighting how kids can help rescue dogs and how parents can support this initiative. The more kids understand the concerns around homeless dogs and other domestic animals, they may want to help their cause and be more compassionate to animals. This was the case with 9 year old Selena Schulz who helps various animal shelters with monetary and supply donations. The 'Lucky Kids Club' created by Lucky Dog Animal Rescue also has a mission to educate, involve and share their experience with kids. As the next generation of dog parents, the more children gets hands on experience with helping rescues, the more they can pass animal compassion to one another. 


Show Notes

Episode 14 - Dog Walkers: Luxury or Necessity?

This show features 3 special dog walkers: Robin Romine from Chicago, Kara Kleindienst from Manhattan, and Melanie McKee from Toronto, who all contribute to the quality of a dog's life. They ensure canines go home not only happy but healthy dogs. West Town Walkers from Chicago takes pride in supporting rescue organizations with their fundraising efforts, The Barking Meter is New York's and San Francisco's elite dog walking services and Happy Dogs Waggin' Tails is Toronto's go-to dog walker. We may take for granted the services of a dog walker but as we'll discuss, finding the right person can make all the difference to a dog's well-being, including rescue dogs that may need re-socializing or dogs with anxiety. We will also cover the do's and don'ts of bringing your dog to a park with dog walkers.


Show Notes

Episode 13 - Canines Serving People In Need

Who says our canine friends can't have jobs? This show is dedicated to the canine service organizations and their dogs that help fulfill the circle of the human canine bond. These talented dogs play special roles from being service dogs, therapy dogs, search and rescue, or law enforcement dogs. The Planet Dog Foundation's executive director Kristen Smith will discuss some of these programs that help people in need and how Planet Dog can help canine organizations meet their goals. 


Show Notes

Episode 12 - How To Prevent or Address Dog Bites

Ever get bitten by a dog and now can't stand being near them? Ever had your dog bite someone and had to consider taking it to the pound? Today's show is about educating the public on dog bite prevention and how this can contribute to less dogs being taken to the pound. Our guests that will shed some light on this topic are: Teresa Lewin, an animal behavior specialist of over 20 years and co-founder of Doggone Safe and recording artist & song writer Kaylin Roberson, also spokesperson for DogGone Safe. 


Show Notes

Episode 11 - Two Rescue Dogs Voice Their Opinion

This episode is dedicated to rescue dogs who want to speak.  Literally. Renowned animal communicator Sheila Trecartin is here with us today to do something very special for a couple rescue dogs and their 'now forever' parents. She will relay what our 4 legged friends want to say. Sheila practices several holistic modalities but being a bridge between animal and human is considered her specialty. Having turned skeptics into believers, her work has been featured on television and radio. 


Show Notes

Episode 10 - Can Comedy Really Be A Part Of Rescue Dogs?

With the topic of rescue dogs and the unfortunate events that come with having an overpopulation of stray or neglected dogs, there's enough to make this world depressed. But for Harris Bloom and James Uloth, they combine comedy and cause! This episode will feature their causes and how they combine humor in the topic of stray dogs.


Show Notes

Episode 9 - Who is Part of your Dog's Healthcare Team?

Ever wished there was more that could be done to help your pet's illness or injury?  We will discuss an out of the box method some veterinarians use to help treat & rehabilitate animals. This special group of people are called holistic veterinarians. Although not considered conventional, these veterinarians take on methods such as: Chinese Medicine, Acupuncture, Herbal medicine and Homeopathic medicine alongside their Western medical approach. Dr. Charles Loops, a veterinarian of 32 years, will share his experience of treating animals with homeopathy.


Show Notes

Episode 8 - How to Foster Dogs

Fostering dogs has been growing traction as more rescue organizations are created to help address homeless dogs. But can anyone just foster dogs? Are there challenges to volunteering as a foster parent? This week will address the answers that many potential fosters may be questioning before signing up with a rescue organization. Renowned author Pat Miller's 'How To Foster A Dog' is a must have book for those looking to foster and she will share her insights in this episode. 


Show Notes

Episode 7 - The Puppy Mill Project - Don't Shop, Adopt

This week's episode will highlight an important event that addresses puppy mills. Our guest today is Cari Meyers, Founder & President of The Puppy Mill Project and Co-Founder of the National Puppy Mill Project. Puppy Mills has been widely scrutinized as adding to the problem of dog overpopulation, but how much do we really know? Cari Meyers has achieved great strides in educating and influencing the public as well as the law in puppy mill operations. In this episode, Cari will discuss some of the things the public may not be aware of and how we can contribute to putting a stop to unethical practices.


Show Notes

Episode 6 - Rescue Dogs Can Be A Star In Their Own Right!

This episode will feature two special guests who contribute to the cause of rescue dogs by having them on center stage in a positive way. Carole Feeny, the co-founder of the Blue Collar Project, has a mission to celebrate rescue dogs & increase adoptions. Diane Rose-Solomon is an author of a picture book series to educate children on animal homelessness, basic animal care and much more. Both wonderful ladies believe in creating a positive outlook to the cause in order to encourage the public. 


Show Notes

Episode 5 - A Cure For Overpopulation... Is It Possible?

This episode will feature the 'Father of the Modern Day Animal Rights Movement' in the United States, Alex Pacheco. With an overpopulation of stray dogs, many organizations are doing their best to address the epidemic. Some take the initiatives of community building and education but for Alex, he's on the brink of something different. Sterilization of female dogs without surgery.  


Show Notes

Episode 4 - You Are What You Eat.. Do You Know What Your Dog Is?

This episode will feature renowned pet nutritionist and blogger Rodney Habib who will discuss your pet's well-being. Particularly, he will address what food items is best for rescue dog handlers to give rescue dogs. Fact is, food donations aren't always the best quality for rescue dogs so what are the cost-effective alternatives? Most importantly, Rodney Habib will discuss how a change in diet can improve mental & emotional behaviors that challenge rescue dogs. 


Show Notes

Episode 3 - No Sleeping Allowed! The No-Kill Movement is Underway!

This episode will feature the father of the 'no-kill' movement in animal shelter and rescues, Rich Avanzino. With euthanasia being a prominent method in many shelters and pounds, the road to a complete no-kill movement still has its bumps. What will it take to get there? Is it even possible? Do we have the right regulations and policies in place? Rich Avanzino will discuss all of that and his experience in bringing the San Francisco SPCA the first to offer a no-kill policy for all their shelter animals.


Show Notes

Episode 2 - Knock Knock, Your Dog Has Something To Say

This episode brings to surface what many may consider impossible. Can we really communicate with our pets let alone animals in general? Renowned animal communicator Claudia Hehr discusses why we can all do it. She also explores what rescue dogs really want from us and how we can improve our connection with them.


Show Notes

Episode 1 - Espionage Rescue Dogs: Watch Out James Bond

This show will discuss a very unique way for dogs, including rescue dogs, to contribute to the community. Most assisted canine therapy dogs venture into visiting nursing homes, children with needs organizations, or educational institutions. But for Anthony Silva, he takes them down the 007 route. These dogs get to become law enforcement agents to sniff out the very things we run away from including: narcotics, bombs, even bed bugs. Let's listen to the stories of our 007 canine friends and what we don't see in everyday life! 


Show Notes