Episodes

  • Save A Pooch - Episode 67 Four Paws, Two Feet, One Purpose: Rescue Dogs Saving Lives with Barb Ashmead and Ellen Suettler

    Save A Pooch - Episode 67 Four Paws, Two Feet, One Purpose: Rescue Dogs Saving Lives with Barb Ashmead and Ellen Suettler
    Jul 16 2025
    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

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    27 mins
  • Save A Pooch - Episode 66 Finding Redemption Through Rescue with Sarah Cavallaro

    Save A Pooch - Episode 66 Finding Redemption Through Rescue with Sarah Cavallaro
    May 2 2025
    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.
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    23 mins
  • Save A Pooch - Episode 65 Breaking the Chain of Dog Fighting with Sloane Quealy-Miner

    Save A Pooch - Episode 65 Breaking the Chain of Dog Fighting with Sloane Quealy-Miner
    Apr 24 2025
    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.
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    31 mins
  • Save A Pooch - Episode 64 Shelter Solutions: A Deep Dive with Animal Advocate Cara Achterberg

    Save A Pooch - Episode 64 Shelter Solutions: A Deep Dive with Animal Advocate Cara Achterberg
    Feb 21 2025
    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.
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    29 mins
  • Save A Pooch - Episode 63 Natural Connections: Beyond Words with Animal Intuitive Callie Kellem

    Save A Pooch - Episode 63 Natural Connections: Beyond Words with Animal Intuitive Callie Kellem
    Oct 31 2024
    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.
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    30 mins
  • Save A Pooch - Episode 62 Rethinking Rescue: Pets, Poverty, and Compassion

    Save A Pooch - Episode 62 Rethinking Rescue: Pets, Poverty, and Compassion
    Jun 27 2024
    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.
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    29 mins
  • Save A Pooch - Episode 61 Understanding Rescue Dogs: Overcoming Triggers and Fostering Trust

    Save A Pooch - Episode 61 Understanding Rescue Dogs: Overcoming Triggers and Fostering Trust
    Apr 26 2024
    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.
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    33 mins
  • Save A Pooch - Episode 60 Navigating Grief with the Healing Journey of Rescue Dogs

    Save A Pooch - Episode 60 Navigating Grief with the Healing Journey of Rescue Dogs
    Mar 13 2024
    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.
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    28 mins